As a leader in manufacturing, agriculture, and a growing hub for technology and healthcare, Wisconsin is a key destination for business travel in the Midwest. From the major metropolitan areas of Milwaukee and Madison to its famous tourist regions like the Wisconsin Dells, managing travel expenses effectively is crucial.
Per diem, a daily allowance for lodging, meals, and incidentals, provides a streamlined approach to reimbursement. This guide offers a comprehensive look at the per diem rates for Wisconsin, important state laws for employers, and how to automate the entire process for compliance and efficiency.
Wisconsin Per Diem Rates
Per diem rates for official travel in Wisconsin 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. The rates vary, with the state's largest cities having their own designated rates.
For Fiscal Year 2025 (October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2025), key rates are broken down as follows:
Major Metro Areas
Wisconsin's primary business and government centers have specific Non-Standard Area (NSA) rates.
- Milwaukee (Milwaukee County):
- M&IE: $80 per day
- Lodging: A flat rate of $140 per night.
- Madison (Dane County):
- M&IE: $80 per day
- Lodging: Seasonal, with a rate of $138 per night (Oct, May-Sep) and $110 per night (Nov-Apr).
- The first and last day of travel, the M&IE rate is $60.00.
Tourist and High-Cost Areas
It's important to note that not all major tourist destinations have their own high-cost designation.
- Wisconsin Dells / Lake Delton (Columbia County): This popular tourist area does not have a specific NSA rate and is covered by the Standard CONUS Rate.
Standard CONUS Rate
For any county in Wisconsin not specifically listed by the GSA—including major tourist destinations like Wisconsin Dells (Columbia County)—the standard CONUS rate applies. For FY 2025, this rate is $178($110 for lodging and $68 for M&IE).
Wisconsin Per Diem Rate Calculator
To find the precise per diem allowance for your trip anywhere in Wisconsin, our calculator provides instant, accurate results based on the official GSA schedule.