Further training in travel expense accounting

Correct travel expense accounting is not only important for keeping track of expenses and saving taxes, but also for withstanding tax audits. Employers can also benefit from tax advantages by correctly accounting for travel expenses. Incorrect accounting of business trips can lead to additional tax payments and fines. 

Further training in the settlement of travel expenses and business travel expenses

newcomers to travel expenses benefit from the Haufe Akademie's travel expenses seminars, such as "Accounting for travel expenses correctly" or "Suddenly travel expenses". Professionals who also deal with special cases can deepen and expand their specialist knowledge in the "Advanced seminar on travel expenses". Graduates of the Geprüfte:r Reisekosten-Expert:in course receive a meaningful certificate for their professional know-how. 

If you require further information, please do not hesitate to call us on 49 761 595 339-00 or send us your request by e-mail to service@haufe-akademie.de. We will then take care of your request personally.

Understand the complex legal requirements for the accounting of travel expenses or business trips. Or improve your internal travel expense accounting processes - with further training from the Haufe Akademie.

Types of travel expenses and their accounting methods 

Travel expenses are an important part of business life in Germany. When employees go on business trips, they are entitled to have their travel expenses reimbursed by their employer. In the following, we will take a closer look at the different types of travel expenses and their reimbursement methods in Germany.

1. additional meal expenses (VMA)

The meal allowance (VMA) is one of the most important components of travel expenses. It refers to the cost of meals incurred during the business trip. The VMA depends on the duration of the business trip and the travel destination. The employer reimburses a flat-rate amount per day, which depends on the duration of the absence. This amount is tax-free and does not have to be declared in the tax return.

2. accommodation costs

Accommodation costs refer to the costs of accommodation during the business trip. The employer generally reimburses these costs in full, provided they are reasonable. Reasonable costs are deemed to be the costs for an overnight stay in a hotel or guesthouse that meets an appropriate standard.

3. travel costs

Travel costs refer to the costs of travel to and from the business trip as well as travel during the business trip. A distinction is made here between the costs for public transportation (e.g. train or bus) and the costs for your own car. If you use your own car, a flat rate per kilometer (usually €0.30/km) is generally reimbursed.

4. incidental travel expenses

Incidental travel expenses include all other costs incurred during the business trip for professional reasons, such as parking fees, cab fares or communication costs. These costs can be reimbursed tax-free by the employer as incidental travel expenses in the amount proven or substantiated.

The settlement of travel expenses

Travel expenses are usually accounted for using a travel expense report form or a travel expense tool. All costs must be listed in detail. The employer checks the travel expense report and reimburses the costs incurred in an appropriate amount. The relevant receipts must also be submitted.

Summary

Travel expenses are an important part of business life in Germany. Employees who go on business trips are entitled to reimbursement of their travel expenses. This includes reimbursement of additional meal expenses, accommodation costs, travel expenses and incidental travel expenses.