Travel Guide

Before you Start

Individual are required to fill out a Payee Setup 204 before receiving a UCSC non-payroll payment.

Ensure that all travel expenses are necessary, proper, and reasonable. Lavish or excessive travel expenses will not be reimbursed.

Paying expenses for another traveler is not allowed unless it is for a shared hotel room. Refer to Ways to pay for more information.
For trips involving more than two University business travelers, refer to Group Travel for more information.

Connexxus

Connexxus: UC's travel program combines discounts through UC-negotiated contracts with a range of booking options. Connexxus provides value, flexibility, and convenience to UC employees and assists travelers in maintaining compliance with UC policy. To establish a profile to book university business travel through Connexxus, refer to the Connexxus Section.

Transportation expenses:
Supporting cost comparison is to be used on what UC would have paid, which can be obtained by a Connexxus-related agency or Standard Commercial Air Carrier prior to or at the time of booking the trip. Will be based on the most economical mode of transportation and the most commonly traveled route consistent with the authorized purpose of the trip. Any exception must be approved by the Chancellor.
Non-business travel expenses must be separately identified.
Entertainment expenses incurred while on travel status are to be reported separately on the Entertainment Reporting Form and submitted along with a completed Post Travel Expense form.
- While on travel status the cost of meals or light refreshments and related services incurred in connection with a social or recreational activity or event supporting the University’s mission is considered entertainment.
- Include entertainment expenses in the "Miscellaneous (explain)" section on the Post Travel Expense form to ensure that meals associated with travel are accounted for separately from meals associated with providing entertainment.
- Refer to the Entertainment Event Expense Guide for additional information.
For all travel expenditures, detailed/itemized receipts are required to be submitted with the request for reimbursement. See: Receipt and documentation requirements for additional information.
- Note: Individuals are required to fill out a Payee Setup 204 before receiving a UCSC non-payroll payment.

UC Travel Center Booking Process

The UC Travel Center is a full-service travel agency that can book tickets for any airline. Bookings must be made 24 hours in advance to ensure proper ticketing.

Follow these steps to make an airline reservation through the UC Travel Center. All forms referenced are available for download from the forms tab at the top of this guide:

Complete a Travel Advance Request form. Refer to the Travel Advance Instructions on how to complete the form.
Obtain approval on the Travel Advance Request form from appropriate supervisor or other designated official. Submit a Travel Advance Request form for approval to divisional/departmental business office in accordance with departmental procedures. Contact divisional business office for further information.
A UCSC Trip Number will be provided as a reference for confirmation of travel itinerary, this number will also be used in reporting travel expenses when filling out a Post Travel Expense Report form.
To confirm the itinerary, update and/or correct it as needed. Include the UCSC Trip Number on it, and send a confirmation email back to the UC Travel Center. The UC Travel Center will not issue a ticket without a Trip #.
Note: Trip numbers must be used for one trip and cannot be reused.
The UC Travel Center will book the reservation and provide electronic ticketing information and final itinerary via email.
Print out a copy of the itinerary to bring to the airport. Printing instructions are provided with the email message.
After the reservation is made, departmental and divisional business offices are required to send a copy of the completed and approved Travel Advance Request form, along with an assigned Trip Number and FOAPAL to FAST/AP Office (fax 9-1723).

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Allowable Expenses

The following necessary, proper, and reasonable travel expenses are generally reimbursable. Refer to Detailed Reimbursable Travel Expenses at the bottom of this section for additional information.

Aircraft (Private)
Airfare costs
Automobile usage (Personal)
Baggage checking and storage fees
Bridge tolls
Business office expenses
Lodging - Reimbursement for overnight lodging will be allowed only if the traveler is at least forty miles from headquarters or home, whichever is closer
Meals and incidentals
Parking
Rail travel costs
Registration fees for conferences, conventions or meetings of professional or learned societies
Rental car
Reservation cancellation fee
Road tolls
Special fees for foreign travel
Taxi and public transportation fares
Telephone calls
Ticket replacement fee

Other Travel Related Expenses

The following business-related travel expenses are usually reimbursable:

Baggage checking or storage fees necessary for the business purpose of a trip.
Business office expenses when normal purchasing processes cannot be followed:
- Local and long distance telephone calls
- Fax and computer expenses
- Copy and word processing services
- Equipment rentals
- Overnight delivery/postage
- Purchase of materials and supplies when normal purchasing procedures cannot be followed
- Rental of a room or other facility for the transaction of official business
- Laundering, cleaning, or pressing of clothing if a trip is longer than six days
Local and long distance telephone calls. Including one reasonably brief, non-emergency, personal call home per day.
Lost ticket / Re-ticketing charges, if both of the following conditions are met:
- Occurrence is infrequent.
- There is a valid business reason.
Parking, for travel exceeding 24 hours, lower-cost, longer-term parking options should be used
Registration fees for conferences, conventions or meetings of professional or learned societies
Reservation cancellation charges, if charges are the result of circumstances beyond the traveler’s control
- Travelers who are unable to honor a reservation are responsible for canceling the reservation in compliance with the cancellation terms established by the hotel, airline, etc.
- The traveler must promptly return any refundable deposits to the University
Road and bridge tolls
Special fees for foreign travel, including the following:
- Obtaining a passport, visa, tourist card, and necessary photographs
- Certificates of birth, health, identity, and related affidavits
- Charges for required inoculations and medical evacuation insurance
- Traveler’s checks
- Currency conversion and check cashing fees
- Hiring guides, translators, and local labor
- Full collision insurance on automobiles rented in foreign countries)
Taxi and public transportation fares

Note: For foreign travelers, certain non-business expenses may be treated as taxable income to the traveler. The calculation of the taxable amount is based on multiplying total expenses by the ratio of nonbusiness travel days to the total business and nonbusiness travel days.

Reimbursement of travel expense by a non-UCSC third-party:
Ensure that any reimbursements by an outside source have been deposited to the appropriate departmental account code (FOAPAL).

Adjustments for third-party reimbursements must be reflected on the Post_Travel_Expense form.

Detailed Reimbursable Travel Expenses

Air travel costs:
Refer to the Air travel section.

Aircraft, Private:
If the traveler incurred higher than standard operating costs, the traveler may seek reimbursement by submitting a statement with the Post Travel Expense certifying that he or she incurred higher operating costs.

The actual fixed and variable costs must be specified in the statement. The traveler should refer to IRS Form 2106, Employee Business Expenses to obtain additional information on the calculation of actual vehicle operating costs.
Refer to the UC Travel Reimbursement Policy G-28, p.18, Section V.D.2.a.i. “Air Travel – Private Aircraft” for additional details.

Automobile, Personal:
Refer to the Personal Auto Usage section.

Baggage, checking and storage fees:
These fees are reimbursable only if necessary for the business purpose of a trip.

Business office expenses:
The following expenses may be reimbursed when normal UCSC purchasing processes cannot be used:

Fax and computer expenses
Copy services
Equipment rentals
Overnight delivery/postage
Purchase of materials and supplies
Rental of a room or other facility for the transaction of official business
Laundering, cleaning, or pressing of clothing if a trip is longer than six days
Word processing services

Lodging:
Refer to the Hotel Room, Lodging, Meals and Incidentals section.

Meals and incidentals:
The rates vary depending on destination and duration of travel.

Domestic Travel Reimbursement Rates:
Reimbursement rates are based on destination and duration of travel.

No exceptions may be made for the payment of expenses exceeding the limits specified below.
For travel lasting more than one year, the rate may be increased up to 150% to cover income taxes.
An overnight stay must be substantiated with an original lodging receipt or an acceptable statement explaining why lodging was not obtained, such as when lodging with a friend or relative.

Travel within continental US – CONUS travel:

Less than 24 hours without an overnight stay
- M&IE is not reimbursable under any circumstance.
- A meal expense incurred in connection with a business meeting while on travel status may be reimbursable. Refer to the Entertainment, Business Meeting, Other Events Expense Guide for more information.
Less than 24 hours with an overnight stay
- Actual M&IE up to $79.00 for the entire trip, even if it extends over two consecutive days, plus actual lodging costs.
- An "overnight stay" involves obtaining substantial sleep or rest
  - Napping or resting in a car does not constitute obtaining substantial sleep or rest.
Between one to 29 days in one location
- For travel assignments of less than 30 days within the continental United States (CONUS), the reimbursement of daily subsistence expenses shall be based on the actual amounts incurred for lodging (room rate capped at $275-excluding tax and fees) and meals and incidental expenses, (capped at maximum of $79/day).
- The M&IE cap for CONUS travel under 30 days shall not be treated as a per diem. M&IE reimbursement shall be limited to the actual reasonable costs incurred.
Thirty or more consecutive days in one location
- Reimbursement of actual subsistence expenses shall be limited to a daily amount of up to 100% of the applicable federal per diem rate.
  - Actual costs paid for lodging taxes, which are not included in CONUS per diem rates, may be reimbursed as a miscellaneous expense.
- Administration per diem rate
  - Refer to UC Travel Reimbursement Policy G-28, p.30, Section V.E.2.a.ii for instructions on calculating the daily M&IE rate.
- For travel lasting more than one year, M&IE reimbursement is taxable income, and the rate may be increased up to 150% to cover income taxes.

Travel to Alaska, Hawaii, and US possessions – OCONUS travel:

Between one to 29 days in one location
- Lodging and M&IE in accordance with the US Department of Defense Non-foreign locality per diem rates
Thirty or more consecutive days in one location
- Reimbursement up to 100% of the US Department of Defense Non-foreign locality per diem rates
- For travel lasting more than one year, expense reimbursement is taxable income, and rate may be increased up to 150% to cover income taxes.

Foreign Reimbursement Rates:
Reimbursement rates are based on the duration of travel.

Travel is less than 30 days in one location:
- Reimbursement is based on US Department of State Federal Maximum Travel Per Diem Allowance for Foreign Areas.
Travel is for 30 or more consecutive days in one location:
- Reimbursement up to 100% of the US Department of State Federal Maximum Travel Per Diem Allowance for Foreign Areas.
Indefinite Travel – more than one year in one location:
- Travel expense reimbursements are treated as taxable income to the traveler and reimbursed through the payroll system.
- Reimbursement rate may be increased up to 150% of the per diem rates to cover income taxes.

Rail or bus travel:

Rail or bus transportation may be used when required by the destination or by business necessity.
When rail or bus travel is used in lieu of air travel only the lesser of rail fare or equivalent airfare cost to the same destination will be reimbursed.

Rental cars:
Refer to the Rental car section.

Reservation cancellation charge:
Charges or lost refunds will be reimbursed only if charges are the result of circumstances beyond the traveler’s control.

Special fees for foreign travel
The following special fees and expenses related to foreign travel are generally reimbursable:

Obtaining a passport, visa, tourist card, and necessary photographs
Certificates of birth, health, identity, and related affidavits
Charges for required inoculations and medical evacuation insurance
Currency conversion and check cashing fees
Traveler’s checks
Hiring guides, translators, and local labor
Full collision insurance on automobiles rented in foreign countries

Telephone calls
Local and long distance telephone business calls are reimbursable. In addition, one reasonably brief, non-emergency, personal call home per day is reimbursable.

Ticket replacement / re-ticketing charge

Service charges may be reimbursed, provided such occurrences are infrequent.
Charges for re-ticketing, schedule changes, etc. are reimbursable if incurred for a valid business reason.

Virtual Conferences
For virtual conferences (via Zoom, etc.), the destination of travel should be considered the location that the conference was virtually attended, most likely the remote work location or office location (e.g. Santa Cruz, CA, Scotts Valley, CA, etc.). If an agenda is provided for the conference, include a copy when submitting your expense report.

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Meals and Incidental Expense Rates: Within and Outside Continental U.S.

Meals and incidentals:
The rates vary depending on destination and duration of travel.

Domestic Travel Reimbursement Rates:
Reimbursement rates are based on destination and duration of travel.

No exceptions may be made for the payment of expenses exceeding the limits specified below.
For travel lasting more than one year, the rate may be increased up to 150% to cover income taxes.
An overnight stay must be substantiated with an original lodging receipt or an acceptable statement explaining why lodging was not obtained, such as when lodging with a friend or relative.

Travel within continental US – CONUS travel:

Less than 24 hours without an overnight stay
- M&IE is not reimbursable under any circumstance.
- A meal expense incurred in connection with a business meeting while on travel status may be reimbursable. Refer to the Entertainment, Business Meeting, Other Events Expense Guide for more information.
Less than 24 hours with an overnight stay
- Actual M&IE up to $79.00 for the entire trip (effective 09/08/22), even if it extends over two consecutive days, plus actual lodging costs (the maximum daily lodging rate, excluding taxes and fees, is $275.00 in the continental U.S. effective 10/15/17). See Hotel Room Lodging and Meals for required documentation needed to support lodging costs in excess of $275.00.
- An "overnight stay" involves obtaining substantial sleep or rest
  - Napping or resting in a car does not constitute obtaining substantial sleep or rest.
Between one to 29 days in one location
- For travel assignments of less than 30 days within the continental United States (CONUS), the reimbursement of daily subsistence expenses shall be based on the actual amounts incurred for lodging (room rate capped at $275-excluding tax and fees) and meals and incidental expenses, (capped at maximum of $79/day).
- The M&IE cap for CONUS travel under 30 days shall not be treated as a per diem. M&IE reimbursement shall be limited to the actual reasonable costs incurred.
Thirty or more consecutive days in one location
- Reimbursement of actual subsistence expenses shall be limited to a daily amount of up to 100% of the applicable federal per diem rate.
  - Actual costs paid for lodging taxes, which are not included in CONUS per diem rates, may be reimbursed as a miscellaneous expense.
- Administration per diem rate
  - Refer to UC Travel Reimbursement Policy G-28, p.30, Section V.E.2.a.ii for instructions on calculating the daily M&IE rate.
- For travel lasting more than one year, M&IE reimbursement is taxable income, and the rate may be increased up to 150% to cover income taxes.

Travel to Alaska, Hawaii, and US possessions – OCONUS travel:

Between one to 29 days in one location
- Lodging and M&IE in accordance with the US Department of Defense Non-foreign locality per diem rates
Thirty or more consecutive days in one location
- Reimbursement up to 100% of the US Department of Defense Non-foreign locality per diem rates
- For travel lasting more than one year, expense reimbursement is taxable income, and rate may be increased up to 150% to cover income taxes.

Foreign Reimbursement Rates:
Reimbursement rates are based on the duration of travel.

Travel is less than 30 days in one location:
- Reimbursement is based on US Department of State Federal Maximum Travel Per Diem Allowance for Foreign Areas.
Travel is for 30 or more consecutive days in one location:
- Reimbursement up to 100% of the US Department of State Federal Maximum Travel Per Diem Allowance for Foreign Areas.
Indefinite Travel – more than one year in one location:
- Travel expense reimbursements are treated as taxable income to the traveler and reimbursed through the payroll system.
- Reimbursement rate may be increased up to 150% of the per diem rates to cover income taxes.

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Unallowed Expenses

These types of travel-related expenses are not reimbursable:

Motorcycle usage, except for a University Police employee on assignment
The cost of a “bundled” airfare and lodging package obtained through an Internet travel agency that does not provide a detailed receipt or invoice separately identifying the costs of airfare, hotel, and incidentals.
For stays of less than 30 days, lodging expenses in the continental U.S. are limited to a daily rate of $275.00, excluding taxes and mandatory fees (effective 10/15/17). See Hotel Room Lodging and Meals for required documentation needed to support lodging costs in excess of $275.00.
Entertainment expenses incurred while on travel status, which are to be reported separately on the Entertainment Reporting Addendum and submitted along with a completed Post Travel Expense Form.
Personal expenses will not be reimbursed.

Notes:

While on travel status, the cost of meals or light refreshments and related services incurred in connection with a social or recreational activity or event supporting the University’s mission is considered entertainment.
Include entertainment expenses in the "Miscellaneous (explain)" section on the Post Travel Expense to ensure that meals associated with travel are accounted for separately from meals associated with providing entertainment.
Refer to the Entertainment Event Expense Guide for additional information.

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Overview

Types of travelers for arranging and booking travel:

Individual traveler: A traveler can book flights, reserve hotels, rental cars and airport parking on-line after logging into Connexxus.

Travelers can comparison shop through Southwest, BCD and the UC Travel Center (Online GetThere) at the same time.

Connexxus Trip Comparison

San Jose to UCLA (Overnight / Non-Refundable 5/11-5/12)

Provider	Airline	Flight to #	Flight $	Hotel $	Car $	Total Trip	Rating
BCD (Connexxus)	SW	250 / 455	127.50	92.65	92.83	312.98	1
Orbitz (Connexxus)	SW	250 / 455	130.00	92.65	92.83	315.48	2
Expedia	AA	3115 / 3168	161.20	93.00	95.76	349.96	4
Priceline	AA	6500 / 3193	127.00	89.00	124.00	340.00	3
Travelocity	NA	Unavailable

San Jose to New Orleans (5 Nights / Refundable 5/10-5/15)

Provider	Airline	Flight to #	Flight Return #	Flight $	Hotel $	Car $	Total Trip	Rating
BCD (Connexxus)	SW	757 / 207	257 / 427	780.47	620.85	304.66	1,705.91	2
Orbitz (Connexxus)	SW	757 / 207	257 / 427	655.00	505.00	304.66	1,464.66	1
Expedia	Continental	1576 / 1560	4 / 421	777.40	813.20	521.80	2,112.40	4
Travelocity	Continental	1576 / 1560	4 / 421	784.39	672.37	499.76	1,956.52	3
Priceline	NA	Unavailable

Travel arrangers: May book travel on behalf of the traveler in Connexxus. Each travel arranger is identified by the traveler in Connexxus.

Each travel arranger must first sign-up to use Connexxus. Refer to the Connexxus section.
A traveler may have up to four travel arrangers.
Inbound visitors: Travel must be booked through UC Travel Center using an agent.

Group travel: For detailed group travel information refer to Group Travel section:

Group air travel may be booked through UC Travel Center using an agent.
Group air travel may be booked online through GetThere, using a trip number if all travelers are UCSC employees.
Refer to the above UC Travel Center Booking Process for instructions.

Domestic Travel
Connexxus offers UC negotiated discounts with Southwest, BCD and UC Travel Center (GetThere)

Booking fees: ( BCD | UC Travel Center Get There) Note: Southwest does not have a booking fee.

International Travel

International trip booking is available through Connexxus providers BCD or UC Travel Center, accessible through Connexxus' Premier Gateway website.
Premier Gateway's International booking options:
- Option 1: Search for the best deal and reserve the itinerary for 24 hours.
  - Call BCD or UC Travel Center for an agent to book the reserved itinerary.
- Option 2: Have an agent search for the best deal.
  - Search fee: $0 (BCD & UC Travel)
  - Agent calls BCD or UC Travel Center
  - Agency booking fees are contingent on the airline and complexity of the itinerary.

Travel Insurance

Travelers on official UC business are automatically covered under the UC travel insurance policy for domestic and international travel. Travelers on personal travel may not be covered unless travel is connected to a business trip and falls within the allotment for ‘personal deviation’ allowed under the policy.

Travel registration is automatic when booking through Connexxus using BCD and UC Travel. If you are booking travel through Southwest (SWABIZ) in Connexxus, or if you are booking outside of Connexxus, it is required that you register your travel through the UC Away travel registration system.

Note: Refer to UCSC Risk Services Travel Insurance & Resources for more information.

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Types of Travel

This information relates to special travel situations

Mixed Business and Personal Travel

Travel that involves indirect travel or interruptions not the direct result of a University business purpose should be approved in advance.
Reimbursement will not be made under any circumstance for additional or incremental expenses incurred as a result of indirect or interrupted travel for personal purposes.
A supporting airfare cost comparison for the University business portion of the trip through multiple airline offerings must be provided showing what would have been paid based on the lower of the regular coach fare available for the location of travel from all standard commercial air carriers or through a query of available options within Connexxus describing all airline offerings.

Conferences and Workshops - UCSC-Hosted

The campus division hosting the event is responsible for determining the conference and workshop expenses that will be paid directly by UCSC and those expenses that will be paid by the conference or workshop attendee:

Attendees from other UC campuses are expected to make their own travel arrangements.
Meeting rooms and catering are arranged with the use of a UCSC purchase order. Use account code 008350 for meeting room rental expenses and 001270 for catering expenses.
The following payment guidelines apply to UCSC-hosted conferences and workshops:
- For events charged to contract and grant funds: Participant Support Guidelines
- For events charged to non-contract and grant funds: Funded Activities Guidelines

Faculty on Sabbatical Leave

Travel expenses incurred by faculty members on sabbatical leave are reimbursable if the travel is undertaken to perform study or research that cannot be done elsewhere. At the discretion of the department, a faculty member may be reimbursed for additional lodging expenses incurred at the sabbatical location, less any income received by the individual for renting out his or her primary residence. Refer to the UC Travel Reimbursement Policy G-28, p. 36, Section V.H.1.b “Special Travel Situations – Faculty on Sabbatical Leave” for additional details.

Spouse / Domestic Partner of Traveler

The travel expenses of a spouse or domestic partner who accompanies a University business traveler (e.g. Chancellors, Principal Officers of The Regents, or other employees as approved by the Chancellor) are reimbursable, provided it can be established that the spouse/domestic partner's presence serves a bona fide University business purpose. Refer to the UC Travel Reimbursement Policy G-28, p. 39, Section V.H.2.f “Special Travel Situations – Spouse or Domestic Partner Travel” for additional details.

Foreign Visiting Scholars

A foreign visiting scholar who is an employee of another entity (e.g., a foreign university), or an independent contractor, may be reimbursed for substantiated travel expenses. Foreign documents (copy of I-94, visa or passport and Certificate of Academic Activity form) are required for reimbursement of travel expenses, such as payments to foreign visitors, including advances for airfare and reimbursements for travel expenses, may be restricted by the visitor's visa status or other requirements established by the U.S Citizenship and Immigration Services. Refer to the UC Travel Reimbursement Policy G-28, p. 39, Section V.H.2.e “Special Travel Situations – Foreign Visiting Scholars” for additional details. Also see the GLACIER Guide for allowable payments per visa types.

Students

University travel policy provisions apply to students incurring travel expenses directly related to the business purposes of the University. A student may be reimbursed for properly substantiated travel expenses when there is a direct connection between the expense and the business purposes of the University. Departments may also reimburse students for degree-related educational travel expenses, i.e., to attend a conference or visit a field site or laboratory facility. Travel will be considered to have a University business purpose if the travel meets any of the following:

Directly supports a faculty member's project or research program
Is an integral part of the student's degree work, or is required for attendance at student-oriented meetings, student government events, University athletic events by student athletes, etc.
Enables the student to attend a conference to present research findings for the University or to act in some other capacity on behalf of the University.

Students must complete and submit a Travel Advance Request to request advance payment of travel-related expenses. The approval of a sponsoring principal investigator, department chair, or student advisor must be obtained on the Travel Advance Request. Refer to the UC Travel Reimbursement Policy G-28, p. 37, Section V.H.1.c “Special Travel Situations – Students” for additional details.

Post-Docs and other Non-Degree Candidates

Post-doctoral fellows may be reimbursed for travel expenses if there is a University business-related reason for the travel, e.g., the individual is required to present a paper, deliver a speech or lecture, serve on a panel, etc. as an official representative of the University. Such individuals may also be reimbursed for travel related to their training, e.g., to visit a field site or an off-campus laboratory. The department must certify that the travel directly supports faculty research or other scholarly programs. Refer to the UC Travel Reimbursement Policy G-28, p. 36, Section V.H.1.d “Special Travel Situations – Post-Docs and Other Non-Degree Candidates” for additional details.

Visiting Academic Appointees

An academic appointee with a “Visiting” title who is employed full-time for at least one quarter may be reimbursed for travel and related expenses incurred by reason of his or her appointment in lieu of receiving a relocation expense reimbursement. Academic Personnel Manual Section 230, Visiting Appointments, contains information concerning allowable expenses, limitations, funding, and approval authority.
Authorized Advances
The amount of any travel cash advance cannot exceed the actual cost of transportation plus 75% of the estimated allowable subsistence and miscellaneous expenses.
Return Travel
After completion of the term of appointment, reimbursement may be made for return travel to the point of origin or another destination, whichever is shorter.

Non-U.S. Citizens

The following documentation must be on file with the FAST Office in order for a travel reimbursement to be made to a non-U.S. citizen:

Non-resident alien or B-1, B-2, WB or WT visa holder:
- Copy of visa
- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival-Departure Record

In addition, a B-1, B-2, WB or WT visa holder must provide the following:
Certification of Academic Activity Form

Visitors from Mexico or Canada without a visa must provide the following:

Copy of picture ID
Certification of Academic Activity Form

All other visa holders:

Refer to the Foreign National Visitors / Non-resident Guide for more information

Non-University Employees

Travel expenses incurred by non-University employees are reimbursable with University funds only if the travel has been approved in advance by the department that is interacting with the traveler.

Prospective Employees

One round-trip coach airfare may be reimbursed for each round of interviews of a prospective employee seeking a key position at the University. Authorization must be obtained in advance before any commitment is made to the prospective employee to reimburse travel expenses. In addition, at the Chancellor's discretion, actual travel expenses may be reimbursed for spouses or domestic partners who accompany candidates for faculty or high-level administrative positions, including Manager and Senior Professional positions, on final interviews. A prospective employee must complete and submit a Payee Setup 204 in order to be reimbursed. Refer to the UC Travel Reimbursement Policy G-28, p. 38, Section V.H.2.b “Special Travel Situations – Prospective Employees” for additional details.

Independent Consultants and Contractors

Reasonable, properly substantiated travel expenses incurred by independent contractors or consultants are expected to be included as part of the pre-negotiated fee for services covered under a UCSC purchase order contract.

Buyers should note in the PO text that the consultant/independent contractor's fee includes travel costs, or if
Travel will be billed to UCSC as a separate line item. Buyers should determine the maximum to be reimbursed and set up a separate line item for travel costs on the purchase order

Reportable 1099 travel:

The vendor's invoice should include the required original itemized receipts. Receipted travel costs are treated as reimbursements and are not subject to 1099 reporting
Unsubstantiated expenses (required receipts not included with billing) are treated as income and hence are subject to 1099 reporting

Refer to the UC Travel Reimbursement Policy G-28, p. 39, Section V.H.2.c “Special Travel Situations – Independent Consultants and Contractors” for additional details

Chartered Transportation Services

The Purchasing Office website has information about how to obtain bus charter services. Contact Procurement Services for information about how to obtain other chartered transportation services, such as airplanes and boats.

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Direct Billing Process and Direct Billable Vendors

What is Direct Billing?
Direct billing is a way for UCSC departments to pay for certain allowable travel expenses on the traveler's behalf. By utilizing direct billing, travelers can book travel without having to pay out of pocket. Not all vendors are set up to accept direct billing, so please check the procedures and lists of vendors below before planning your travel. Please see the Ways to Pay Overview for information on how to use other payment methods.

How to Direct Bill:

Conferences

Check to see if your preferred vendor has a Payee Setup 204 form on file with FAR so that payment can be made. To do so, perform a BANNER query for the vendor name, or contact your FAST assistant.
Note: If they do not have a Payee Setup 204 form on file, provide them with a link to the Payee / Vendor forms & Resources page and ask them to fill out and submit a Payee Setup 204 form to FAR. If you are looking to register for a conference that is less than 30 days away, it is recommended that you pay out of pocket and seek reimbursement, or request a cash advance.

Fill out a Travel Advance Request form and submit it indicating in Section Three your desired vendor and the amount to be paid.

Attach your completed conference registration form to your Travel Advance Form and submit it to FAST.

FAST will provide you with your trip number and the vendor will receive payment.

It is recommended that all travelers complete and submit a Post Travel Expense form within 10 days of when you return from your trip.

Airfare

Using Connexxus to direct bill your department for airfare can be completed by selecting "Book Now" located next to BCD Travel. If you have questions contact travelhelp@ucsc.edu.

Local Lodging and Shuttles

Check the list of vendors below to ensure that your desired vendor will accept direct billing.

Contact the vendor to set up a reservation and let them know that payment will be arranged through a trip number.

The payment of charges on behalf of travelers can only be for room and tax charges per UC Travel Policy (G-28 V.B.1. Prepaid Expenses and Direct Charges). The room rate cap per UC Travel Policy is up to $275 per night before taxes/fees.

Fill out a Travel Advance Request form and submit it indicating in Section Three your desired vendor and the amount to be paid.

FAST will provide you and the vendor with a trip number after your Travel Advance Form has been processed.

The vendor will directly bill Accounts Payable.

It is recommended that all travelers complete and submit a Post Travel Expense form within 10 days of when you return from your trip with the requirement of submission being 45 days.

Direct Billable Vendors:

Shuttles

Lodging

Hotels in the Santa Cruz Area

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Group Travel

Outbound Group Travel: involves three or more University employees and/or students, led by a group leader, traveling to the same destination for the same purpose.

Inbound Group Travel:involves three or more non-affiliates, led by a UCSC Recruitment/Outreach Coordinator, traveling to UCSC for the same purpose; such as participating in a student recruitment or outreach event.

The group leader, UCSC Recruitment/Outreach Coordinator is responsible for ensuring compliance with UC travel policy, accounting for group travel expenses, and the following:

Completion and submission of a Travel Advance Request prior to the trip, with the names of the travelers in the group included. The Travel Advance Request is required only if a cash advance is requested or if UC is paying expenses on behalf of the travelers, i.e., airfare or conference fees.
Arrangement of reservations for the group using UC contracts for employee group travel. Procurement Services can assist with hotel negotiations for non-contract and/or non-employee group lodging.
Submitting invoices and supporting documentation for payments to be made by UCSC on behalf of the group.
Payment of any group expenses and retaining all required itemized receipts during the trip.
Submission of a completed Post Travel Expense form and all required itemized receipts within 45 days of trip completion.
- Electronic receipts are acceptable provided that the detail contained in an electronic receipt is equivalent to the level of detail contained in an acceptable paper record. E-mailed or faxed documentation provided by an airline or travel agency for electronic ticketing expenses for airfare is acceptable for substantiating such expenses.

Refer to the UC Travel Reimbursement Policy G-28, p. 32, Section V.4. “Payment of Group Subsistence Expenses” for additional details.

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Air Travel

Considerations for Booking Air Travel

Connexxus

To take advantage of UC-negotiated airfare discounts, Connexxus is the preferred choice when booking air travel. If you book your business trip through a Connexxus agency, Business Travel Accident insurance is automatically applied.

UC Travel Center

The UC Travel center is part of the Connexxus program. To arrange travel through the UC Travel Center, use the UC booking process.

The UC Travel Center requires travel be booked at least 24 hours prior to departure.

Other Air Travel Considerations

Booking air travel 21 or more days in advance of a trip typically provides a cost savings to the University, and purchasing a ticket 50-60 days in advance usually provides additional savings.
The cost of “bundled” airfare and lodging packages obtained through an Internet travel agency will only be reimbursed if the agency provides a detailed receipt or invoice that separately identifies the costs of airfare, hotel, and incidentals.
Travelers and travel arrangers should book coach or economy class airfare (see Business/First Class exception directly below).

Business, First-class, or Higher-cost Services

The cost of business, first-class or other higher-cost services may be reimbursed under the circumstances listed below: (Documentation of such circumstances must be provided on the Post Travel form).

Business or first-class is the only service offered between two points.
The use of coach class would be more expensive or time consuming, e.g., if due to scheduling difficulties, traveling by air coach would require an unnecessary hotel expense, circuitous routing, or an unduly long layover.
An itinerary involves overnight travel without an opportunity for normal rest before the commencement of working hours.
The use of business or first-class travel is necessary to reasonably accommodate a disability or medical need. (Disability/Medical reason must be kept on file within the divisional business office and noted as 'On File' on the Post Travel form).
Priority boarding or early check-in charges are/will be reimbursed only under the same conditions that apply in the previous four conditions.

Note: Seat Upgrades and Seat Selections are not allowable.

Airport Parking

For travel exceeding 24 hours, lower-cost, longer-term parking options should be used.

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Airport Shuttle Service

Follow the links below for vendor information on how to book a reservation and obtain discounted airport shuttle service. Low-cost transportation options for travel to and from airports should be used whenever practical. Discounted prices are only available to UCSC employee business travelers:

Note: For detailed group travel information refer to Group Travel

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Hotel Room, Lodging, Meals and Incidentals

Travelers are encouraged to use UC contracted hotel agencies and to enroll in their preferred traveler's program to obtain the most economical room rate. For more information see the Hotels in the Santa Cruz Area step of the How to Buy Guide.

For stays of less than 30 days, lodging expenses in the continental U.S. are limited to a daily rate of $275.00, excluding taxes and mandatory fees (effective 10/15/17).
When the traveler is unable to secure lodging at $275 per night or less, the traveler must submit additional documentation such as price comparisons within the proximity of the meeting location that supports the higher lodging rate incurred. The price comparisons should be performed at the time of booking.
A traveler who is required to attend a conference where the prearranged conference lodging rate exceeds the $275 per night cap may stay at the conference hotel without exceptional approval or additional documentation.
Expenses more than double the per-diem rate: Additional documentation and justification supporting the higher lodging rate should be provided.
Reimbursement for overnight lodging will be allowed only if the traveler is at least forty miles from the headquarter location or home, whichever is closer.
For local lodging in the Santa Cruz Area, if a traveler (or business unit) is unable to secure lodging at $275 per night or less, additional documentation such as a price comparison in a 5-7 mile radius of the meeting location must be created showing all available rooms (through Connexxus). Once the comparatives are created, a submission of the Travel Advance Request form and backup documentation should be sent to UCSC Financial Accounting & Reporting with a description of all variables so that our policy team can help facilitate the request for an Exception to Policy for Local Lodging in the Santa Cruz Area via the Chancellor's Office.

Connexxus users: Hotel discounts of 15%-25% off best available rates from Marriott, Starwood, and Wyndham national hotel chains.

When reserving a hotel room through Connexxus, UC-negotiated prices are automatically applied.
Refer to the Connexxus section for information on how to set up a profile for hotel room reservations for official University business.

Non-Connexxus users: For University employees, refer to UC Hotel Contracts below for information about UC discount contract pricing with national hotel chains.

Only UC employees can reserve hotels under UC hotel contracts
Refer to Procurement Services How to Buy website for information regarding UCSC discount pricing with hotels and reservation details.

Refer to the Allowable Expenses section for Meals and Incidentals Reimbursement Rates in the Detailed Reimburseable Travel Expenses link.

Refer to UC Hotel Contracts below for information about UC discount hotel contract pricing. Travelers are encouraged to use UC contracted hotel agencies and to enroll in their preferred traveler's program to obtain the most economical room rate.
Rates vary depending on duration of travel.
Adjustments may be made for travel to multiple locations, partial days, or for subsistence or lodging provided without charge.
A Satisfactory written explanation must be provided to be reimbursed for any mandatory hotel charge that might be considered personal, such as valet parking or resort fees.
Lodging with a friend or relative:
- Applies to travel on official University business
- A one-time per trip, non-cash gift valued at up to $75.00 may be provided to the host.

UC Hotel Contracts

Marriot Hotel properties includes

Courtyard, Fairfield Inn, Residence Inn, Ritz-Carlton, Springhill Suites, and Towne Place Suites:

Follow these steps to book a reservation:
1. Book a reservation via the Marriott Hotels website, through Connexxus, or by calling (800) 228-9290.
2. Identify yourself as a UC employee at the time of booking and provide traveler UC e-mail address and UC Campus.
3. Be prepared to present your UCSC Identification at time of check-in.
4. Follow these steps to book a reservation online:
  - Use Corporate Rate Code UC0 in Corporate/Promo code box
  - In E-mail field, use traveler's UC address
  - In company name field, use campus (ex. UCSC)
  - Enter Marriott Rewards Number. Enroll in the Marriott Rewards Program, if you are not already a member

Starwood Hotel properties includes

Four Points by Sheraton, Le Méridien, Sheraton, St. Regis, W, and Westin:

A 20% room discount is available to UC business travelers based on the Best Available Rate with Last Room availability. "Best Available Rate" is the best unrestricted retail rate available across all GDS systems at the time of booking.
Follow these steps to book a reservation:
1. Enroll in the Starwood Preferred Guest program (SPG), if you are not already a member
2. Book a reservation via the Starwood Website or call one of the following telephone numbers:
  - Westin, Sheraton, Four Points by Sheraton and Le Méridien: (888) 625-5144.
  - St. Regis and Luxury Collection: (800) 325-3589.
  - W Hotels: (877) W-HOTELS.
3. Provide the Starwood Executive Traveler (SET) #360858 at time of booking.
4. Be prepared to present your UCSC Identification at time of check-in.

Wyndham Hotel Group properties includes

AmeriHost, Baymont, Days Inn, Howard Johnson, Knights Inn, Ramada, Super 8, Travelodge, and Wyndham:

A 15% room discount is available to UC business travelers based on Non-Last Room availability for Wyndham Hotels and Resorts, and Last Room availability for other properties.
Follow these steps to book a reservation:
1. Book a reservation by using one of the following websites or toll-free numbers (Reservations made directly with the hotel location do not qualify for the discount):
  - Baymont Inns or (866) 464-2321
  - Days Inn or (800) 441-1618
  - Howard Johnson or (800) 544-9881
  - Knights Inn or (800) 598-2132
  - Ramada or (800) 828-6644
  - Super 8 or (800) 454-3509
  - Travelodge or (800) 835-2424
  - Wingate by Wyndham or (800) 449-3716
  - Wyndham Hotels & Resorts or (800) 347-7559
2. Identify yourself as a UCSC employee at the time of booking.
3. Be prepared to present your UCSC Identification at time of check-in.
4. Click here to search Wyndham Hotels & Resorts by destination or by property.
5. Enroll in the Wyndham ByRequest program, if you are not already a member

Lodging for Unidentified Visitors

On occasions where lodging needs to be arranged in advance for a UCSC visitor, such as for a commencement speaker who has yet to be identified, an employee of the hosting division is assigned accountability for arranging lodging. The employee’s name should be used on the Travel Advance Request, which should indicate when the traveler’s name is expected to be available. The Travel Advance Request will be faxed to the lodging vendor with instructions to reserve lodging under the employee’s name. The traveler’s name must be provided to the lodging vendor and FAST Office as soon as it is available.

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Rental Car and Personal Auto Usage

The University of California (UC) has contracted rates in place with the following rental car agencies (the UC Connexxus travel portal must be used to obtain the contract rates):

Dollar Rent A Car
Enterprise Rent-A-Car
Hertz Car Rental
National Car Rental
Thrifty Car Rental

Rental car expense reimbursement will be based on the most economical mode of transportation (i.e. economy, compact, and intermediate-sized rental cars).

Note: Hand-held or uninstalled GPS devices should not be rented unless the traveler is unfamiliar with the location of travel. Use of higher cost car upgrades with installed GPS units requires exceptional approval.

Booking through Connexxus (preferred method): UC-contracted rates are available to UCSC employee when reserving a car through Connexxus. Physical damage insurance coverage is automatically included for rentals booked through Connexxus, and therefore should not be purchased separately. UC rental contracts provide for refueling charges at a negotiated rate and this option may be selected to purchase fuel in advance.
Booking directly from agencies: UCSC employees who choose to rent a vehicle directly from a UC-contracted rental car agency will not be able to leverage the contracted rental car rates. If the UCSC Travel and Entertainment Card is used to rent a vehicle from a contracted agency, physical damage insurance coverage is automatically included. UCSC employees will not be reimbursed for any insurance charges associated with vehicles rented from UC-contracted agencies.

Note: If renting a car in an area not served by a UC-contracted rental car agency, the cost of renting an economy, compact, or intermediate-sized model from a non-contracted agency will be reimbursed.

Contact travelhelp@ucsc.edu for assistance with rental car questions.

Personal Automobile Usage

Personal Automobile reimbursement is allowed from the traveler’s office location to the destination.

Mileage Rates

Mileage expenses may be allowed between the traveler's residence and the destination if business travel originates or terminates during a regularly scheduled day off.
Personal automobile must have insurance coverage. The minimum prescribed automobile liability insurance coverage is as follows:
- $50,000 for personal injury to, or death of, one person;
- $100,000 for injury to, or death of, two or more persons in one accident; and
- $50,000 for property damage.
When a personal vehicle is used in lieu of air travel to the same destination, the lesser of the following costs will be reimbursed:
- Airfare plus transportation costs to and from airport, or
- Automobile mileage cost plus the cost of meals, lodging and parking while in transit.
- A supporting airfare cost comparions for only the University business portion of the trip must be provided showing all options available which would substaintiate the lower of the regular coach fares available for the location and time of travel using standard commerical air carriers or through the campus travel program (Connexxus).

Special Situations

Private Automobile Specially Equipped for a Disability

A traveler with a physical disability who must use a specially equipped or modified automobile and incurs higher than standard operating costs may seek reimbursement by submitting a statement with the Post Travel Expense certifying that he or she incurred higher operating costs. The actual fixed and variable costs must be specified in the statement. The departmental authority that approves the travel is responsible for documenting the traveler's need to use such a vehicle. The traveler should refer to IRS Form 2106, Employee Business Expenses to obtain additional information on calculating actual vehicle operating costs.

ZipCar Usage

While the Zipcar Program is primarily intended for personal travel needs, UC staff, faculty, and student employees 18 years of age and older may also use Zipcar for university business-related trips. Use of Zipcar for UC business travel is allowed for short-term trips (up to 24 hours) that are 180 miles or less roundtrip through departmental Zipcar accounts. If your business travel needs exceed either or both of these restrictions, Zipcar should not be used. Instead, rental cars may be obtained through UC Fleet Services or the UC rental car contract agencies – National/Enterprise or Hertz. The purpose of the UC business trip must be documented at the time of your Zipcar reservation. A departmental business Zipcar account may not be used for personal travel. Only staff approved for membership by Zipcar may drive Zipcars.

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Receipt and Documentation Requirements

Retain all required itemized receipts to submit with your travel reimbursement request.

Note: Photocopies of receipts are not an acceptable substitute for original receipts.

Itemized receipts are required for reimbursement of airfare, lodging, rental cars, and/or conference fees and registration
Itemized receipts are required for a host gift greater than $25.00
Itemized receipts are required for any miscellaneous expense that is greater than $75.00
Itemized receipts are required for any special fees associated with foreign travel that is greater than $75.00
Receipts for meals and incidentals may be required by a supervisor and/or the divisional business office if the maximum reimbursable amount is routinely claimed.
Electronic receipts are acceptable as long as the detail provided is sufficient to substantiate the expense
Reimbursement of ticketless or e-ticket airfare expenses require that the traveler submit a copy of the itinerary, a written receipt obtained at the airport, or a passenger receipt coupon
A detailed lodging receipt (folio) must show itemized expenses in order to ensure that valid expenses are reimbursed. If lodging is purchased via the web, include supporting documentation obtained at the time of purchase

Meeting or Conference Supporting Documentation

To substantiate attendance at a formal meeting or conference, an agenda or documentation supporting the date and location of the event should be attached to the reimbursement request.

Lost Receipts

For any expense that is missing the required receipt, approval of the item for reimbursement must be made by one of the following campus officials authorized to approve travel policy exceptions:

Chancellor
Campus Provost/Executive Vice Chancellor
Vice Chancellors
Vice Provosts
Deans
College Provosts
Director, UCO Lick Observatory
University Librarian

Note: Divisions may implement their own internal receipt requirements including all itemized receipts for meals and incidentals, miscellaneous, and special fees associated with all travel under $75.

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Overview

There are several options available for paying for travel. Paying expenses for another traveler is not allowed unless it is for a shared hotel room. For trips involving more than two University business travelers, refer to the Group Travel section for more information.

Airfare Options

Travelers - Payment Options for Booking	Staff/Faculty	Students/Visitors
Direct Billing - Select BCD in Connexxus
Pay out of pocket *
Pay With UC Travel Card Via Connexxus *

*Can be booked through SWABIZ (Southwest).

Conference Registration

Travelers - Payment Options for Booking	Staff/Faculty	Students/Visitors
Pay Directly By UCSC Check
Pay out of pocket
Pay With UC Travel Card

Shuttle Service Options

Travelers - Payment Options for Booking	Staff/Faculty	Students/Visitors
Direct Bill UCSC Via Specific Providers
Pay Out of Pocket
Pay With UC Travel Card

Hotel Options

Travelers - Payment Options for Booking	Staff/Faculty	Students	Visitors
Book Via Connexxus - Out of Pocket
Book Via Connexxus - Use UC Travel Card
Cash Advance for Hotel Costs
Pay Out of Pocket

Rental Car Options

Travelers - Payment Options for Booking	Staff/Faculty	Students/Visitors
Book Via Connexxus - Out of Pocket
Book Via Connexxus - Use UC Travel Card
Cash Advance for Rental Car Costs
Fleet Services Reservations
Pay Out of Pocket

For questions, contact travelhelp@ucsc.edu.

UCSC Employees - Paying For Expenses Before Traveling:

Complete a Travel Advance Request form to:

Request payments be made directly to travel service suppliers, such as airfare, conference registration fees, and hotel charges in advance of travel.
Obtain a travel cash advance within 30 days of the start of travel (minimum amount: $100).
Obtain reimbursement of travel expenses paid out-of-pocket prior to travel.
Obtain a trip number for use in booking travel through Connexxus or the UC Travel Center.

UCSC Employees - Paying For Expenses Before And During Travel:

Option 1: Use UCSC Travel Card

Pay for travel expenses; UCSC will reimburse to the employee who is responsible for paying travel card bill
Obtain travel cash advance from ATMs world-wide.

A traveler obtains reimbursement for UCSC travel-related credit card charges by reporting expenses on the Post Travel Expense form. You can apply for a card by completing the UCSC Travel & Entertainment Card form: (Excel | PDF).

Option 2: Pay Out Of Pocket

A traveler obtains reimbursement for UCSC travel-related expenses paid out-of-pocket by reporting expenses on the Post Travel Expense form within 45 days of trip completion.

Non-UCSC Employees - Paying For Expenses Before Traveling:

Complete a Travel Advance Request form to request payments be made directly for hotel charges only in advance of travel.

Non-UCSC Employees - Paying For Expenses Before And During Travel:

A traveler obtains reimbursement for UCSC travel-related expenses paid out-of-pocket by reporting expenses on the Post Travel Expense form within 45 days of trip completion.

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Authorization and Approvals

Travel must be authorized by an individual's supervisor or person of higher authority who has been officially delegated with written authority to approve funding for the payment of travel expenses. The traveler must never approve their own expenses under any circumstance.

Travel Advance Request (TAR)

Prepare and submit a Travel Advance Request form to:

Obtain a trip number allowing you to arrange your trip through the UC Travel Center,
Obtain a travel cash advance, and/or
Request a payment be made by UCSC in advance of your trip to a travel service provider, such as a hotel or for a conference registration fee

Each trip number assigned is unique and serves as a code for collecting and accounting for the expenses incurred during your trip.

Approvals (TAR)
Traveler:

UCSC employee or student traveler: signature required
Visitor traveling on UCSC business: signature not required

Tier 1 Funding Authorizer:
UCSC employee with delegated authority to expend funds from the FOAPAL to be used to pay for travel expenses and responsible for certifying the business purpose of the planned trip and the validity and appropriateness of expenses expected to be incurred: signature required.

Tier 2 Funding Authorizer:
UCSC employee registered with FAST/AP having the responsibility to validate the authenticity and authority of Tier 1 Funding Authorizer TAR signatory: signature required.

Post Travel Expense (PTE)

Prepare and submit a Post Travel Expense form within 45 days of trip completion to:

Report travel expenses
Obtain reimbursement for out-of-pocket travel expenses (as applicable)
Account for the use of a travel cash advance and calculate the unused portion of the advance owed to UCSC (as applicable)

Approvals (PTE)
Traveler

UCSC employee or student traveler: signature required to certify business purpose of trip, validity of expenses, and appropriate use of funds
Visitor traveling on UCSC business: check with your department to determine if it requires a traveler signature

If traveler is unable to sign the Post Travel Expense Form, contact FAST/AP at travelhelp@ucsc.edu or the FAST/AP Help Line at (831) 459-4488.

Tier 1 Funding Authorizer:
UCSC employee with delegated authority to expend funds from the FOAPAL being used to pay for travel expenses and responsible for certifying the business purpose of the trip and the validity, appropriateness, and accuracy of expenses being reported: signature required.

Tier 2 Funding Authorizer Verifier:
UCSC employee registered with FAST/AP having the responsibility to validate the authenticity and authority of Tier 1 Funding Authorizer Post Travel Expense form signatory: signature required.

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Avoiding Tax Problems

Comply with the IRS travel expense reimbursement rule below to minimize chances of an unwelcome surprise:

Post-Trip Reporting Deadline

To avoid having tax withheld from your travel expense reimbursement or having your travel cash advance be considered taxable income, submit your Post Travel Expense report within 45 days of completing your trip.

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Post Travel Expense Report Form

All expenses incurred on a trip whether paid out-of-pocket or directly to a vendor must be accounted for on a completed, signed, and approved Post Travel Expense within 45 days of trip completion.

A cash travel advance must be accounted for on the Post Travel Expense.
- The unused portion of a cash travel advance, if any, must be returned to your divisional or department office for deposit back to the University’s bank account.
Original itemized receipts for each of the following types of expenses must accompany the Post Travel Expense to substantiate each expense’s necessity, appropriateness, and reasonableness.
1. Airfare
2. Lodging
3. Rental car
4. Conference fees and registration
5. Meals and incidentals, if the maximum amount reimbursable is routinely claimed, and the supervisor requests submission.
6. Miscellaneous expenses greater than $75.00
7. Local transportation costing $75.00 or more per instance
8. Extraordinary items, such as repair of accidental car damage, supported by appropriate justification
9. Hospitality gifts valued at $25.00 or more given to a friend or relative providing free lodging

Payment of a travel expense reimbursement request submitted after the 45-day deadline is subject to IRS tax withholding

REPORTING FREQUENT BUSINESS TRAVEL BETWEEN DISTANT UCSC FACILITIES.
Approved travel expenses incurred as a result of frequent, routine business travel between distant UCSC facilities during a calendar quarter may be submitted on a single Post Travel Expense form.

The travel purpose and the date of each trip, points of travel, and mileage must be reported on the Post Travel Expense form or on an attachment sheet.
The request must be submitted to the FAST Office within 30 calendar days after the end of the quarter in which the travel occurs. Quarters end on March 31, June 30, September 30, and December 31.
Expense reimbursement requests submitted after the 30-day deadline will be subject to tax withholding.

Lost Receipts

Obtain a duplicate receipt from the vendor
If a duplicate receipt cannot be obtained from the vendor, submit a statement with the Post Travel Expense explaining why the receipt was not provided and including a certification that the expense amount claimed is the amount actually paid to the vendor.
Depending on the expense, you may be asked to provide additional information by your divisional business office.
- Departmental account code information (FOAPAL) must be provided on the Post Travel Expense
- A conference or meeting agenda must be attached to the Post Travel Expense to substantiate the business purpose of the trip.

Speed up getting your travel reimbursement by avoiding these common Post Travel Expense oversights:

Not including a written business purpose for travel
Forgetting to submit original, itemized receipts supporting each travel expense requiring substantiation
Forgetting to forward the Post Travel Expense to the Divisional Funding Authorizer for review and approval
Forgetting to reference trip number, if applicable.
Forgetting to provide departmental account code (FOAPAL) information
A non-resident alien forgetting to submit visa documentation, including a copy of the traveler’s visa, a Form I-94 Arrival Departure Record, or a Certification of Academic Activity Form.
Forgetting to sign the forms
First-time traveler forgetting to submit a Payee Setup 204

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What is Connexxus

Connexxus is a secure Web portal for booking university business travel. It links to booking options, agent contact information, and guidance for choosing the best option for your travel situation. By booking travel through Connexxus, UC-negotiated prices with airlines, hotels, and car rental companies are automatically applied.

UCSC strongly encourages using Connexxus. The benefits of using it include:

Supporting UC in leveraging our collective travel to get the best possible value, services, and discounts
Helping travelers and administrative staff save time, cost, and gain efficiency.

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How to Become a Connexxus User

In order to access Connexxus a valid UCSC CruzID Gold Password is required.

Obtaining a CruzID Gold Password

Login to the ITS CruzID Manager website and follow the instructions on how to setup your new CruzID Gold Password: CruzID Passwords.
For more information and detailed FAQs, please visit: CruzID Account Information,
Should you have questions or problems regarding CruzID Gold Passwords, please contact the ITS Help Desk or e-mail help@ucsc.edu.

Received an "Access Denied" message when logging into Connexxus

If you receive an "Access Denied - Not identified as a registered user" message after completing the CruzID Gold password process, please contact travelhelp@ucsc.edu for assistance.
Should you have questions or problems logging into Connexxus, contact travelhelp@ucsc.edu.

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Logging into Connexxus

Click here to access Connexxus and follow the login instructions provided below.
- Note: Connexxus will open in a new browser window so you can refer back to these instructions.
You will be directed to the UC Santa Cruz CruzID Gold website.
- If you do not have a CruzID Gold Password, or you have forgotten it, please refer to the instructions on "How to become a Connexxus user."
Enter your CruzID and CruzID Gold Password
You will be directed to the Connexxus Welcome page

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Creating a Traveler Profile

Go to Connexxus (Refer to the How to Become a Connexxus User for login instructions).
Click Profile on the top bar of the welcome page.
Wait for the Connexxus Traveler Profile page to appear, then click Update Contact Info:
Complete the following fields in each section:
- General: Enter your name, home and emergency contact.
  - Department Number: Enter 0000 or your actual four digit department number for the this field. This is required to book travel through Connexxus.
  - Assigning Travel Arrangers: Booking travel on someone else's behalf is available in Connexxus. Travel arrangers will first need to sign-up to use Connexxus. Refer to "How to become a Connexxus user" for instructions.
  - After travel arrangers have been granted system access, the traveler can search and add each arranger by name.
    - To assign up to 4 travel arrangers:
      - When entering your "Traveler Profile" information enter the arranger's last name in the search field.
      - Select travel arranger's name from the drop-down list.
      - Click the Can Book and/ or Can Access check boxes to assign travel arranger's privileges.
        Can Access: Arranger can view and update your profile information.
        
        Can Book: Arranger can book travel for you.
- Preferences: Enter your air, hotel, and car preferences
- Payment: Enter your UCSC Travel & Entertainment (T&E) Card information or personal credit card under Company Card and/or Personal Card, then select how your card should be applied for travel reservations.
  - For security purposes, payment information is encrypted; only the last four digits will be shown.
- Loyalty: Enter any airline, hotel, or car loyalty program information.
  - To receive Connexxus discounts at Starwood hotels you must enroll in Starwood's preferred guest program.
- Documents: Enter your passport and visa information.
Click Save. (A message saying "Profile successfully saved" will be displayed.)
After saving your changes in your profile, click on the logout button from the top navigation. The following message saying "You have logged out" will appear. Close the profile browser window.
Manage and update your profile information in the future, as needed.

For travel service fee information refer to:

Fees: BCD and UC Travel Center (Cruz ID Gold required for access).

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How to Designate a Travel Arranger

Log into Connexxus and click "Edit Profile"
Click the blue business tab
Search for a travel arranger by last name or e-mail address

Contact travelhelp@ucsc.edu if you can't find a travelers profile.
Select the person's name from the list that appears
- If you want the arranger to book your travel, select "Can Book"
- If you want the arranger to be able to view and modify your Traveler Profile, click "Can Access"
Repeat to add another arranger. You can have up to four arrangers.
- A full itinerary from BCD Travel will be e-mailed automatically to the arranger at the top of the list. If you wish to change the order of your arrangers, you will need to delete the arrangers and enter them again in the order you wish
You must save your Profile changes by scrolling to the top or bottom of the page and clicking the save button. Closing without saving will result in a loss of all information input.

Note: Credit card numbers are not viewable by a travel arranger, but can still be used if the traveler has set one up in their profile.

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Using Connexxus for Personal Travel

UC Santa Cruz employees can use Connexxus to receive UC-negotiated rates for personal travel. Individuals may not use University issued credit cards or direct billing arrangements to pay for personal travel. UCSC employees that utilize UC travel resources for personal travel must have their own personal credit card available to pay for all expenses. Before making travel arrangements, be sure to set up a Connexxus traveler profile and review the benefits and exclusions below.

To take advantage of the rates available through Connexxus for your personal travel plans, choose one of the booking options (e.g. Southwest, BCD) and follow onscreen instructions.

Discounted rates and benefits provided through Connexxus are extended to UC employees for booking personal travel and include:

Airfare
Car rentals (includes free enrollment in rewards programs)
Hotels
Low service fees

For any questions regarding personal travel, contact the booking agency:

Southwest Airlines: (800) 435-9792
BCD: (877) 885-8632
UC Travel Center: (800) 235-8252
Amtrak: (800) 872-7245

Note: Agency fees may apply for phone transactions. Click here for details.

Benefits not extended to personal travel:

Travel insurance:

For information on coverage while on personal travel, see UC Personal Travel Program.

Car rental insurance coverage:

Coverage can be purchased through the rental agency.

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Resources, Myths and FAQs

Connexxus Resources:
Common Myths
Compare Travel Booking Options
Airfare Pricing Options
Car Rental Tips
Learn About the Benefits of Club Quarters

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q) What is Connexxus?

A) Connexxus is a secure Web portal for booking university business travel. It links to booking options, agent contact information, and guidance for choosing the best option for your travel situation. By booking travel through Connexxus, UC-negotiated prices with airlines, hotels, and car rental companies are automatically applied.

Q) Are Connexxus rates better than those I can get from booking directly or shopping online?

A) Yes. Connexxus keeps travel costs contained by providing a wide range of booking options for airfare, hotel, and car rental at discounted rates.

Q) Which Connexxus booking option should I use?

A) Each option is slightly different. If you're not sure which one to use, click Compare all booking options on the Connexxus welcome page.

Q) Am I required to use Connexxus?

A) UCSC strongly encourages the use of Connexxus. It supports UC in leveraging our collective travel to get the best possible value, services, and discounts, and it also helps travelers and administrative staff save time, cost, and gain efficiency.

Q) What if I see an access denied message when I try to log into Connexxus?

A) See "How to become a Connexxus user".

Q) Is date of birth required?

A) It's required only if passport information is entered in the profile.

Q) How often can I update the profile?

A) The traveler can update the profile anytime.

Q) What if my name in Connexxus appears different from how my name appears on my I.D.?

A) You can edit your first name and middle initial, the last name is read-only. UCSC provides last names in a specific format to meet airline ticketing requirements (no hyphens, apostrophes, spaces, or non-alpha characters). If it is different, please email travelhelp@ucsc.edu.

Q) How do I know what the booking fee is for each option?

A) In Connexxus, on the left side bar, see the Partner Programs section and click on Agency. On the Agency page that opens, a Fee Schedule link is available for each Connexxus agency.

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Review Objectives

A complete accounting of expenses is required of every trip to ensure compliance with travel policies. The objective of an expense review is as follows:

Ensure that travel expenses are:
- Necessary – expenses that are consistent with normally accepted standards of propriety
- Proper – expenses that directly relate to accomplishing the business-related purpose of the trip
- Reasonable – the most economical means of travel was used
The funding source used to pay for the trip is valid
Non-business expenses are separately identified

A Post Travel Expense form and related supporting documentation are subject to audit review by internal, Regents, and/or federal agency auditors, and are considered public records.

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Reimbursable Travel Expenses

The following necessary, proper, and reasonable travel expenses are generally reimbursable. Refer to Detailed Information Reimburseable Travel Expenses for additional information.

Aircraft (Private)
Airfare costs
Automobile usage (Personal)
Baggage checking and storage fees
Bridge tolls
Business office expenses
Lodging
Meals and incidentals
Parking
Rail travel costs
Registration fees for conferences, conventions or meetings of professional or learned societies
Rental car
Reservation cancellation fee
Road tolls
Special fees for foreign travel
Taxi and public transportation fares
Telephone calls
Ticket replacement fee

Permitted travel costs assigned to a federally sponsored agreement must meet the following criteria per Uniform Guidance. The costs must be reasonable and:

Allowable per the sponsored award agreement (i.e. related to and benefits the sponosred agreement)
Allowable per the specific terms and conditions of the particular sponosred agreement

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Authorization and Approval

The individual authorized to approve travel expenses is responsible for ensuring travel expenses are accounted for and fully compliant with UC and UCSC travel policies.

Travel expenses are reported on the Post_Travel_Expense within 45 days of trip completion.

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Expenses not Reimbursable

These types of travel-related expenses are not reimbursable.

Bicycle usage
Motorcycle usage, except for a University Police employee on assignment
The cost of a “bundled” airfare and lodging package obtained through an Internet travel agency that does not provide a detailed receipt or invoice separately identifying the costs of airfare, hotel, and incidentals.
Entertainment expenses incurred while on travel status are to be reported separately on the Entertainment Reporting Addendum form and submitted along with a completed Post Travel Expense Form.

While on travel status, cost of meals or light refreshments and related services incurred in connection with a social or recreational activity or event supporting the University’s mission is considered entertainment.
Include entertainment expenses in the "Miscellaneous (explain)" section on the Post Travel Expense Form to ensure that meals associated with travel are accounted for separately from meals associated with providing entertainment.
Refer to the Entertainment Event Expense Guide for additional information.

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Receipt and Documentation Requirements

Each trip must be accounted for on a Post_Travel_Expense. The following supporting documentation should be attached as applicable:

A trip number must be referenced on the Post_Travel_Expense if one of the following applies.
- The traveler purchased airline tickets from the UC Travel Center.
- UCSC paid for conference registration in advance.
- The traveler received a cash travel advance.
A written business purpose for travel
Meeting agenda or conference documentation to support attendance at a formal meeting or conference.
Itemized receipts are required for reimbursement of airfare, lodging, rental cars, conference fees, host gift greater than $25.00, and any miscellaneous expenses greater than $75.00.
Receipts for meals and incidentals may be requested if the maximum amount reimbursable is routinely claimed by the traveler.

Lost Receipts

Obtain a duplicate receipt from the vendor
If a duplicate receipt cannot be obtained from the vendor, submit a statement with the Post_Travel_Expense explaining why the receipt was not provided and including a certification that the expense amount claimed is the amount actually paid to the vendor.
Depending on the expense, you may be asked to provide additional information by your divisional business office.
- Departmental account code information (FOAPAL) must be provided on the Post_Travel_Expense
- A conference or meeting agenda must be attached to the Post_Travel_Expense to substantiate the business purpose of the trip.

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About the Card

The UCSC Corporate Travel & Entertainment (CTE) Card is used to pay for business-related travel and entertainment expenses incurred while conducting UCSC business. What makes this card unique is that UCSC pays the balance of this credit card each month on behalf of the cardholder.

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Card Benefits

Using the UCSC Corporate Travel & Entertainment Card (CTE) card provides an easy way to pay for business-related travel and entertainment expenses since it does not affect the spending limits on your personal credit card.

Eliminate the need to carry large sums of cash to pay for UCSC business travel expenses - VISA is accepted at more than 44 million merchants world-wide.
Monthly account balances are paid automatically by the university
Only one reconciliation is needed per month if charges appear on your US Bank statement
Eliminates waiting for reimbursements to be processed after each trip and/or event
May be used to pay for UCSC Catering Services
Arrange travel for employees and visitors reducing the amount of reimbursement requests
Faster event planning by reducing the need for most Purchase Orders
Enable the University to track travel spending information that can be used to help it negotiate lower prices for airfare, hotel and rental car rates.

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Eligibility

Current faculty and staff members who incur travel or entertainment expenses on behalf of the University are eligible to apply for the UCSC Corporate Travel & Entertainment Card.

Note: Social Security information is not collected for the CTE card and does not impact the user’s credit.

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How it Works

The UCSC Corporate Travel & Entertainment Card (CTE) can be used to pay for any UCSC travel and entertainment business expense. The CTE card can be used in the same way as any credit card except only travel and entertainment business expenses may be charged to it. For more information about incurring travel and entertainment expenses, refer to the UCSC Travel Guide and Entertainment Guide.

Pay Business Expenses: Use the CTE card to pay for reimbursable travel and entertainment business expenses.
Spending Limits: The UCSC travel and entertainment card is to be used for University business. The CTE card consists of a monthly limit and per-transaction limits determined by the department’s Tier 2 expense approver and/or the employee’s supervisor on the CTE Card User Agreement. If your business travel or event expense needs are greater than your monthly credit limit, contact the Corporate Travel and Entertainment Card Program Administrators at ctecard@ucsc.edu.
Reconciling: This is a corporately billed university issued travel card and will be paid automatically by the university. Cardholders can access and download their monthly statements on or about the 24th of each month. A cardholder then has 30 days to prepare post-travel and/or entertainment event paperwork (based on the monthly account charges).

For departments that have been transitioned to using the UCSC CruzFly system, cardholders will login to CruzFly to submit their post-travel information, receipts, and receive approval from appropriate departmental approvers. Cardholders not yet using CruzFly will complete the Travel and Entertainment Reconciliation Form, attach all receipts, their credit card account statement, and submit to the department administrative team for approval. Once approved, the department's administrative team will email all paperwork directly to ctecard@ucsc.edu or via DocuSign with a signature required from the CTE administration at fadsfar@ucsc.edu for processing. If the card is used to pay for university entertainment expenses, an approved Entertainment Reporting Addendum form must also be submitted with the completed paperwork.

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Card Account Management Tools

CorporateTravel & Entertainment cardholder can access the U.S. Bank Access Online system to set up their account credentials. Follow these steps to register your Access Online account:

Go to: https://access.usbank.com
Click on the "Register Online" link
Enter "uofca" for the company short name
Enter the first five digits of the zip or postal code that appears on your monthly billing statement.
Enter your telephone and fax number (e.g. 8311234567). Do not use dashes, hyphens, parenthesis or spaces.
Enter four zeroes “0000” if prompted to enter the last four digits of your Social Security Number
Enter a User ID. A user ID is 7 to 12 characters long, alpha and/or numeric.
Enter a Password. A password is 8 to 20 characters in length, with at least one alpha and one numeric character

Registration Lock Out: You will receive an error message if you enter invalid information. After three unsuccessful attempts, you will be locked out from self-registering. If this happens, contact U.S. Bank Customer Service at 1-877-887-9260 to get your account unlocked.

Forgot Your User ID or Password? Click on the “Forgot your Password?” link and enter the requested information on the form that will appear.

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Card Responsibilities and Restrictions

The CTE card is a corporate and the cardholder is responsible for reconciling their montly expenses within 30 days of the US Bank statement release.

If CTE expenses are not reconciled within 60 days of the statement date, the card may be suspended from further use. This suspension can be lifted once the reconciliation is submitted.

The Cardholder is responsible for promptly notifying U.S. Bank if your card is lost, stolen, damaged, if you have suspected fraudulent charges, or any disputed transactions.

Allowable Charges (Business Expenses Only)

Airfare
Airline baggage fees
Airport parking
Bridge tolls
Taxi, Uber, Lyft, etc.
Shuttle services
Train fares
Car/Van rental fees
Gas for rental cars and vans
Conference registration fees
Lodging expenses (Includes room, tax and required fees only)
Meals

The travel card may not be used to pay for the following expenses

Airlines upgrades and early check-in
Airline club fees
Gas purchased for a personal vehicle
Movies, optional resort fees and other lodging expenses of a personal nature
Personal meals (not on university travel status)
Alcohol purchased with Federal or State funds (19xxx)
Car/Van rental insurance fees

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Applying for a Card

Apply for a UCSC Corporate Travel & Entertainment (CTE) Card by performing these steps: completing the UCSC CTE Card User Agreement.

After your CTE Card User Agreement has been processed and the CTE card delivered to Accounting Services (Scotts Valley Center) from US Bank:

You will receive an email confirming receipt of the CTE card and a request of your preferred delivery method.
Your CTE card will be mailed to your home address or for campus pick up at Barn.
Activate your card by calling U.S. Bank Customer Service at 1-800-344-5696.
Set up your US Bank Access Online account.

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Closing a Card

The Cardholder is responsible for notifying the CTE card administration by emailing ctecard@ucsc.edu at least one week prior to separation of employment, or immediately upon cancellation of the card. The card must be destroyed as soon as the account is closed.

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Lost or Stolen Card

Call U.S. Bank Customer Service at 1-800-344-5696 as soon as possible to report the loss or theft of your Corporate Travel & Entertainment Card.

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UCOP Travel Reimbursement Policy Reference G-28

This policy applies to this campus business process:
UC BFB G-28, p.45, Policy and Regulations Governing Travel

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Account Codes

Account codes

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Connexxus Help

Travel Related Questions: Select the "Help" links in either BCD Travel, Southwest or UC Travel for assistance.

CruzID Gold Password Help: Contact ITS for assistance at ITS Help Desk or e-mail help@ucsc.edu.

UCSC Travel Policy Questions: Refer to the Travel Guides. For additional assistance, email travelhelp@ucsc.edu.

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Where to get Travel Help

Assistance is available for your travel expense-related questions from the Financial Administrative Services and Transactions (FAST/AP) Office.

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Travel Card Help

There are several sources available to assist you depending on the situation:

U.S. Bank Customer Service: To report fraudulent activity or a lost or stolen card, call U.S. Bank VISA customer service at 1-800-344-5696, 24 hours a day 365 days a year.
VISA Assistance Center: For emergency card replacement, medical or legal referrals, or claims processing, call 800-VISA-911 (800-847-2911).
UCSC T&E card Program Assistance: Email the Travel Card Program Administrator at finpolicy@ucsc.edu.

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Financial Affairs

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Travel Guide

Travel Advance Request (TAR)

Post Travel Expense (PTE)