2021 IRS high-low per diem rates

Optional IRS high-low substantiation rates for travel away from home.

Official

Primary reference value

$292
IRS high-low per diem rates for 2021
ParameterAmount
High-cost daily total$292
Other locality daily total$198
High-cost meals portion$71
Other locality meals portion$60
Announced
Not recorded; see primary document
Effective
2020-10-01 to 2021-09-30
Next usual release
September

These combined daily amounts include lodging and M&IE. High-cost locality classification and eligible seasonal dates must be checked in Section 5 of the notice. Optional transition rules and substantiation eligibility apply.

Who this applies to.

These are not GSA locality rates. High-cost localities and eligible dates are listed in each annual IRS notice.

Published by IRS. The table uses IRS annual October-to-September travel-rate period dates. Check the source for eligibility, elections and exceptions.

Use the 2021 number.

A numerical comparison does not establish eligibility, deductions, credit entitlement or tax liability. Read the selected number’s rules.

IRS high-low per diem rates history.

IRS high-low per diem rates reference value by year; equivalent values are in the history table2021202220232024202520262027$0.3k$0.3k$0.3k$0.3k
IRS high-low per diem rates history
YearReference valueChangeStatus
2021$292—Official
2022$296+$4Official
2023$297+$1Official
2024$309+$12Official
2025$319+$10Official
2026$319+$0Official
2027$329+$10Official

History compares the primary reference value; use each year’s full table for other filing statuses, regions or limits.

Questions about irs high-low per diem rates.

What is the 2021 irs high-low per diem rates?

The sourced table above shows the 2021 values. Its status is official. The primary reference is $292; other statuses or categories may differ.

When will the next number be announced?

The usual publication window is September. This is a typical schedule, not a promised date. The calendar distinguishes published values from pending releases.

Is this official or projected?

The displayed 2021 record is official. Official means a primary agency document or statute supports the value. A projection states its formula, inflation data and assumptions and changes when an official source becomes available.

How does it compare with last year?

Use the history and prior-year page for verified comparisons. Each table should be compared using the same filing status, region and effective period.

Can I use the calculator without an account?

Yes. Submit the form to get a server-calculated estimate, including when JavaScript is off. Inputs are not stored in the application cache or sent to analytics. Result URLs include the inputs, so avoid sharing them if the figures are private.

Related numbers.