GSA Standard Per Diem Rate (FY2026)
The default federal rate for the continental U.S. · Official U.S. GSA per diem
For fiscal year 2026, the GSA standard per diem rate is $178/day — a $110/night lodging cap plus $68/day for meals & incidental expenses (M&IE). It applies to travel anywhere in the continental U.S. that falls outside the 298 non-standard areas where GSA sets higher rates.
A 4-night business trip anywhere at the standard rate totals $746: $440 lodging (4 nights × $110) + $306 M&IE (5 days, first & last day at 75%).
Calculate your standard-rate trip
Standard M&IE meal breakdown
| Component | Amount / day |
|---|---|
| Breakfast | $16 |
| Lunch | $19 |
| Dinner | $28 |
| Incidental expenses | $5 |
| Full day total | $68 |
| First & last travel day (75%) | $51 |
Where does the standard rate apply?
Everywhere in the continental U.S. outside GSA's 298 listed non-standard areas. Find your state below to see which of its areas pay more — every other location in that state uses the standard $178/day.
Book within the standard lodging cap
Otto finds hotels at or under the $110/night standard lodging cap anywhere in the U.S. — and books them for you.
Standard rate FAQ
- What is the GSA standard per diem rate for 2026?
- The FY2026 standard CONUS per diem rate is $178 per day: $110/night for lodging plus $68/day for meals and incidental expenses (M&IE). It is effective October 1, 2025 through September 30, 2026.
- Where does the standard rate apply?
- Everywhere in the continental U.S. that is not one of GSA's 298 non-standard areas for FY2026. If your destination isn't listed on its state's page, it uses the standard rate.
- What is the M&IE breakdown at the standard rate?
- $68 per day: $16 breakfast, $19 lunch, $28 dinner and $5 incidentals. The first and last day of travel reimburse at 75%, or $51.
- Does the standard lodging rate change by month?
- No. The standard $110/night lodging cap is flat all year. Only non-standard areas have seasonal lodging caps that change by calendar month.
- What is the tax-free travel nurse stipend cap at the standard rate?
- Up to $178 per day ($110 lodging + $68 M&IE) for assignments in standard-rate locations — if you maintain a qualifying tax home. Any stipend above the GSA rate is taxable wages.