Is not eating your daily food expense on business trips considered stealing?

So if you were a total big spender pig and spent more than $40 bucks a day would your fellow employee INSIST on you submitting your receipts to get reimbursed? Tell them to take a hike. The company is well aware that not everyone spends that much. That is why there is a set amount. But don't cheat yourself out of healthy meals just to pocket the money. It's not that you are stealing but it make you sound like a greedy cheapskate.

Legally, it depends on what type of reimbursement you are receiving. For example, some companies require their employees to fill out "expense reports" and provide receipt of all their purchases while traveling. Other companies (like the one I worked for) simply distribute "food stipends" at a set amount on a per meal/day basis. It is up to the employee how the funds are allocated. If you want to eat on $7, that's up to you. I was given $28 daily. Of course I didn't spend all that, but jeeze, I spent more than $7!

It is not stealing, most companies give the per-diem rate so they can do less book keeping. $40 dollars a day is not a lot, but is a fair amt. She is wrong, keep your mouth shut, and be tight. I prefer to eat good, when I go on business. I turn in receipts we don't get a set rate. I have asked for the set rate but so far, I just eat good. It is not stealing, You keep the money. If you have any questions asked your Fiance people about the company policy. But if you choose to eat cheap,that is your business, otherwise head over to Red Lobster or Ruth Criss.