What this calculator does
A per diem is a daily allowance for business travel: a maximum amount for lodging and a fixed amount for meals and incidental expenses (M&IE). The U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) sets the rates for federal employees traveling in the continental United States, and many employers and organizations use them too. Pick a state and a city or county, the first night and the number of nights, and the calculator adds up the maximum lodging for each night and the M&IE for the trip.
The FY2027 rates
The rates for fiscal year 2027 apply from October 1, 2026 to September 30, 2027. The standard rate, used in most of the country, is $113 a night for lodging and $68 a day for M&IE. About 300 non-standard areas have higher lodging rates, and many of them change by month. M&IE rates in those areas are $68, $74, $80, $86 or $92 a day (GSA).
How it is worked out
Lodging = the area's rate for the month of each night, added up. M&IE = the full daily rate for each day between the first and last day of travel, plus 75% of the rate on the first and the last day. Meals provided to you, such as at a conference, are subtracted at GSA's breakdown amounts. Example: three nights in New York City from December 30, 2026: $358 + $358 + $189 for lodging (the rate drops in January) is $905. M&IE at $92 a day is 2 full days ($184) plus 2 days at $69, or $322, for a total of $1,227.
Frequently asked questions
What is the standard per diem rate for 2027?
For fiscal year 2027 (October 1, 2026 to September 30, 2027), $113 a night for lodging and $68 a day for meals and incidental expenses, $181 in all.
Why is the first and last day lower?
Federal travel rules pay 75% of the meals and incidentals rate on the day you leave and the day you return.
Are hotel taxes included?
No. The lodging rate does not include taxes; federal travelers are reimbursed for lodging taxes separately.
Does my employer have to use these rates?
No. The GSA rates are for federal travelers. Private employers can set their own travel policy, and many choose to use the federal rates.
What about Alaska, Hawaii and other countries?
Those rates are set by the Department of Defense and the Department of State. This calculator covers the 48 continental states and the District of Columbia.