New Guidance on Employee Recognition Events and Business Meals Policies

The Finance and Budget team made adjustments to employee recognition and business meals policies based on feedback from the university community.

The new guidance, effective July 1, removes the annual limit to employee recognition events and increases cost limits for business meal expenses, starting in fiscal year 2026. These changes continue to balance fiscal responsibility with operational needs, while providing greater flexibility and reducing administrative burden. 

An overview of the changes to Expenditure Policy and Procedures is below.

Policy 9.11 Employee Recognition

• Units may host multiple employee recognition events each year in alignment with their respective budget and practices. 

Policy 9.13 Business Meals

• Light refreshments cost limit: $15 per person (up from $10)
• Breakfast cost limit: $30 per person (up from $25)
• Tax and tip calculations: excluded from the limit per person
• Meals for faculty and staff recruitment: expanded criteria for attendees

For more information, please reach out through the Finance and Budget website contact form.