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Accounting Services

Lodging    

In the Contiguous United States

Map of the USA

Travelers may secure lodging when traveling on business more than 25 miles one way, from their normal work location or home, whichever is closer. The nightly lodging rate for domestic travel based on actual expenses incurred may not exceed $275 per night, excluding taxes and other related charges. University employees are always expected to seek the best value whenever they obtain lodging.

Lodging expenses must be substantiated with an itemized receipt. If the traveler is unable to provide a required itemized receipt, they must include a statement with the Travel Expense Claim explaining why an itemized receipt is not available.

Lodging rates greater than $275 per night, excluding taxes, must include a written justification with approval from the employee's Vice President.

A traveler who attends an approved conference where the prearranged conference lodging rate exceeds the $275 per night limit may stay at the conference withought additional approval.

International 

Lodging for international travel will be reimbursed up to the published Federal Government per diem rate for the specific location. Receipts are not required by Accounting Services.

*Exceptions to the California State University Travel policy and/or these procedures may be authorized in writing by the Chief Financial Officer, President, or their designee. Any delegation of such authority by the President must be made in writing.

Payment

Lodging must be paid with a personal credit card and reimbursed at the conclusion of the trip with a supporting receipt. 

Students and student groups may be eligible for a travel advance for their lodging expenses by completing and submitting a Travel Application form. 

Hotel/Motel Transient Occupancy Tax Waiver

If accepted by the hotel, this form will authorize the exemption of the hotel transient taxes levied on hotel room charges. 

Please Note: It is important to call the hotel directly before you arrive and ask what documentation they need to accept the form. 
State of CA Std.236 Form