Per diem is the preferred method of meal reimbursement for employees traveling on university business. We rely upon federal per diem rates, and we pay per diem based upon a 24-hour basis. Rates vary by city, and a particular city may have different rates based upon heavy or light tourist activity throughout the year. For reimbursement purposes, we adhere only to Meals and Incidental Expenses (M&IE). The per diem rate is meant to cover the expense for meals and incidentals such as laundry and tips.

Note: Brochures or registration summaries are required for trips where the purpose is a publicized meeting. We encourage departments to deduct the value of meals provided by the conference or meeting based upon the federal M&IE table. Recommended values are provided for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and incidentals.