Calculate Iowa’s per diem rate based on GSA guidelines to simplify your business travels.
From the insurance and financial services headquarters in Des Moines to the advanced manufacturing corridors in Cedar Rapids, Iowa is a vital hub for American business and agriculture. For any organization with employees traveling to Iowa, a clear understanding of per diem rates is crucial for efficient and compliant expense management.
Per diem, a daily allowance for lodging, meals, and incidental expenses, is the standard method for handling travel reimbursements. This guide provides a detailed look at the federal per diem rates for Iowa, clarifies important state laws, and shows how you can automate the entire process.
Per diem rates for official travel in Iowa are set by the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA). These federal rates are mandatory for federal employees and serve as a common benchmark for private sector companies looking to create an IRS-compliant reimbursement policy.
For Fiscal Year 2025 (October 1, 2024, to September 2025), key rates are broken down as follows:
Iowa's primary metro areas have their own designated Non-Standard Area (NSA) rates that are higher than the standard U.S. rate.
The first and last day of travel, the M&IE rate is $60.00 for Des Moines and $55.50 for Cedar Rapids.
For any county in Iowa not specifically listed by the GSA—such as Iowa City (Johnson County) or Davenport (Scott County)—the standard CONUS rate applies. For FY 2025, this rate is $178 ($110 for lodging and $68 for M&IE).
Find the exact per diem allowance for your trip to Iowa with our easy-to-use calculator. Select the fiscal year, choose your destination, and input your travel dates. The tool will instantly provide the correct lodging and M&IE rates based on the official GSA schedule.
While private companies often follow GSA rates as a best practice, it's important to understand that Iowa has specific laws regarding the timing of reimbursements and a distinct travel policy for its own public employees.
It's crucial to distinguish between the federal GSA system and Iowa's state policy, as they apply to different groups and have different rules.
Managing travel expenses for a workforce spread across Iowa's cities and rural areas requires a system that is both precise and easy to use. Fyle’s intelligent expense management platform eliminates manual work, ensuring your process is compliant, efficient, and fast.
Here’s how Fyle streamlines your Iowa expense management:
With Fyle, you can manage your Iowa travel expenses with confidence, providing a modern, hassle-free experience for your employees while maintaining perfect financial control.
The content on this page is for informational use. As legal standards and per diem rates are subject to change, users should verify current details with official GSA or government resources. This information does not serve as financial or legal counsel.
