Travel Expenses in 2024: A Guide to Claims and Definitions

Travel expenses cover the costs an employee is likely to incur during business travel. These can include travel fares (be it car, train, or plane), accommodation, additional meal costs and other miscellaneous expenses.

As the employer, organisations are responsible for reimbursing your employees for business travel expenses. These expenses are tax-deductible for the company.

In instances where the business activity is closer to an employee’s home than their regular office, the employee might be eligible to claim these costs as income-related expenses against their own taxes.

Remember, however, that in the UK, specific rules and criteria apply. It's crucial to retain all relevant receipts and logs.

In the UK, there aren't formal requirements concerning the format of a travel expense claim. However, having a standardised form facilitates the verification process and minimises errors.

For companies where business travel is frequent, automated expense tracking systems can streamline the process. In smaller operations, a well-designed Excel template suffices.

A travel expense report is essential when an employee travels on company business. However, not all travel is classified as 'business travel.'

For instance, an employee visiting a client within the same city isn’t necessarily on a 'business trip' and may not be eligible for all travel reimbursements.

• Meetings with clients outside the local area

• Engaging with external business partners

• Visiting other branches of the company

• Attending trade shows, courses, or conferences

To reimburse your employees, you'll need invoices, receipts or other valid proof of expense. These can include:

• Transport costs: car, train, plane, including public transport, tolls, and parking fees

• Accommodation costs

• Meal allowances

• Incidental costs: phone and internet

• Other business-related expenses

When employees travel by car, a standard mileage rate can simplify reimbursements. In the UK, the mileage rate tends to fluctuate, so ensure you're up to date. Alternatively, a detailed logbook can be used to calculate actual expenses.

For overnight stays, you generally cover the costs within a pre-agreed budget. Keep in mind, meal expenses are often capped or may require valid proof for reimbursement.

For international travel, meal and accommodation allowances vary based on the destination. Always consult the HMRC guidelines or specific country allowances when planning international business trips.

Additional costs such as parking, business-related calls, or currency exchange losses should also be considered. Always require your employees to provide receipts.

And there you have it. Managing travel expenses need not be a convoluted process. With a consistent system and clear understanding of UK regulations, you can streamline the process for both the company and your employees.

With Personio, you can rely on an all-in-one HR software solution to help centralise all of your important employee data. Ditch the spreadsheets and emails, and go with a system that houses data in a compliant fashion. Speak with one of our experts today.