Isolated Post Allowance

The Isolated Post and Government Housing Directive was designed to assist employees by offsetting some of the higher costs and to recognize the inherent disadvantages associated with living and working in isolated posts. The isolated post allowance (IPA) is comprised of four (4) different components:

  • Environment Allowance (EA);
  • Living Cost Differential (LCD);
  • Fuel and Utilities Differential (FUD); and
  • Shelter Cost Differential (SCD).

Employees living and working in qualifying locations must submit an application to receive the allowance(s) as of their effective date or relocation date. Once approved, it is not necessary to reapply on an annual basis, however, any changes that may affect an employee's existing entitlement, such as changes to marital status and/or dependents must be immediately reported via an amended application form.

Employee Responsibilities
  1. As soon as possible prior to your effective or relocation date, complete and sign Part 2 of the Isolated Posts and Government Housing (PWGSC-TPSGC 7631) application form and submit it to your Manager / Section 34 Manager for approval.
  2. If you are in a common-law relationship and wish to apply as an "Employee with Dependents," you will need to complete Appendix N – Common-Law Partner Declaration and submit it to your manager in addition to your application.
Manager / Section 34 Manager Responsibilities
  1. Complete Part 1, approve and sign authorize the Isolated Posts and Government Housing (PWGSC-TPSGC 7631) received from your employee.
  2. Open a request via the HRSC Portal:
    • Section: I am a Manager;
    • Select "Pay-Related Action";
    • Complete the Employee Information section;
    • Category: Select "Entitlements";
    • Sub-Category: Select "Isolated Post Allowance (IPA)";
    • Effective date: Date of eligibility for the IPA;
    • Additional Comments: Include all relevant information;
    • Attach the required documents
    • Submit your request

Note: There is no need to complete a Pay Action Request (PAR) form. This will be done by the Compensation Services Directorate when the request is sent to the Pay Centre for processing.

Submit a Pay Escalation Request
  • Employee responsibility

    If you are experiencing a pay issue related to the IPA, you must refer to the Pay Escalation Process  and, if deemed appropriate, submit an escalated pay issue request  using the category Inaccurate Pay, sub-category Missing / Inaccurate Isolated Post Allowance.

  • Manager / Section 34 Manager responsibility

    If an employee is on leave or has been terminated and is experiencing a pay issue related to their IPA, submit an escalated pay issue request  on their behalf using the category Inaccurate Pay, sub-category Missing / Inaccurate Isolated Post Allowance.