Important fuel-card tips Published Aug. 11, 2009 Library of Army in Europe Publications and Forms SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany -- The following information includes tips on the usage of fuel cards derived from the Library of Army in Europe Publications and Forms Web site. Ration Amounts Each vehicle registered or listed with the U.S. Forces Registry of Motor Vehicles has its own long-term ration card and ration allowance that can only be used for that vehicle. The Army and Air Forces Exchange Service automatically replenishes the ration at the beginning of each month. Unused quantities are not carried over. ● More fuel rations for long-term ration cards may be authorized for special circumstances. For more information, call DSN 386-7280 or commercial 0621-718-7280. ● Ration amounts are 100 liters per week for short-term (rental vehicle) cards. Supplemental fuel rations for short-term cards are not authorized. Paying for Fuel You can establish a pre-paid cash balance with AAFES. This cash balance applies to all cards issued to the same sponsor, so carefully manage purchases to ensure other members on the card do not exceed the available cash balance. ● At ESSO stations: The cash balance on your fuel-ration card should be equal to or more than the cost of the fuel being purchased. If you have less than $1 in your prepaid balance, no card assigned to the sponsor can be used, and you will have to pay the entire euro amount at the ESSO station with cash or a credit card. ● At AAFES stations: You may use the cash balance on your fuel-ration card. You may also pay with cash or a credit card. Authorized Liter Balance ● At ESSO stations: The station will not accept your transaction if you have pumped more fuel than authorized, and you will have to pay the entire euro amount with cash or a credit card. ● At AAFES stations: The automated fuel-card system will notify the U.S. Forces Customs when you have pumped more fuel than you are authorized. U.S. Forces Customs will immediately notify your commander or supervisor. Military police will investigate multiple violations. This will generate a police report that may lead to adverse actions, which could affect your career.