Conference and Training Travel Checklist for Accountants

As an accountant, you're likely searching for guidance on accounting expense management for under $10/user (2026) For a complete overview, see our expense management guide.

Here's what you need to know:

• Transportation Industry M&IE rates are $80 for travel within the continental United States (CONUS).
• Transportation Industry M&IE rates are $86 for travel outside CONUS.

Keep accurate records of mileage, fuel, tolls, and parking fees.

• Keep receipts for meals and entertainment expenses, and note the business purpose and the number of people present.

It's essential to keep accurate and detailed records of your business travel expenses, including dates, locations, and expenses incurred.

Required Documentation and Record-Keeping

Proper documentation is critical for deducting business travel expenses. When filing a tax return, accountants must have records to support the business use of their travel.

This rate applies to business-related meals and activities that are not related to your regular work duties.

To support the deductibility of your travel expenses, you need to have the following records:

• A receipt for your hotel stay or lodging
• A receipt for meals and snacks
• A receipt for any other business-related activities
• A detailed itinerary or schedule of your travel
• A record of the business purpose of your travel

However, this percentage may vary depending on the type of meal and other factors.

State-Specific Variations and New Localities

For Oct 1, 2026 - Sept 30, 2027, the M&IE portion for high-cost localities is $86.

New localities added to the high-cost list for Oct 1, 2026, include:

• Tucson, Arizona
• San Mateo/Foster City/Belmont, California
• Albuquerque, New Mexico
• Cody, Wyoming

Note: For Oct 1, 2025 - Sept 30, 2026, the M&IE portion for high-cost localities is $86, and for Oct 1, 2025 - Sept 30, 2026, the M&IE portion for other localities is $74.

Tax rules, limits and rates change. Confirm current figures with the IRS or your accountant before you file.