The B.E.S.T. Bulletin

Business Expense Survival Tips issued to date:

November 2009

Expenditure Policy Reminders

With the holiday season approaching, we thought it would be helpful to remind you of the expenditure policies that are frequently asked about during this time of year.  To view the Business Expense Manual, please go here.

Holiday Events

Holiday functions are permitted. The cost of such functions must be reasonable and may not be charged against any general fund or grant account (i.e., 1xxxx; 2xxxx, 3xxxx, 6xxxx or 7xxxx). It is permissible to include spouses or benefit eligible partners in these events.

Holiday Cards and Decorations

The purchase of holiday cards and decorations is not allowed unless it is directly related to development activities.

Gifts

Gifts (regardless of value) may NOT be purchased for students, employees or members of their immediate families, even if they are a donor.

Gifts may be purchased for donors as part of a development activity. These gifts may not be provided to employees or students. The appropriate development officer and/or Dean must approve these purchases.

It may be appropriate to purchase gifts for visitors to CMU (e.g., international visitors, volunteers, speakers). The cost of any gift must be modest (normally, less than $50 per individual).

Plaques, service awards, departmental apparel or other items that are of a marketing or departmental related nature, are not considered gifts. The intent of the purchase will be audited.

Statistics for the October Statement Period (9/25/09 to 10/24/09)

Total Spend                                         $797,483.11

Total Number of Transactions        5,102

Average Charge                                 $156.31

Open Credit                                         810

Cards with Activity                              593

  

See the other 2009 B.E.S.T. Bulletins

See the other 2008 B.E.S.T. Bulletins

See the other 2007-6 B.E.S.T. Bulletins