Important updates to the Johns Hopkins University (JHU) travel and expense policy under the Travel Smart initiative (formerly known as Trust the Traveler) will take effect July 1. This university-wide effort consolidates travel and non-travel expense policies into a single, simplified framework designed to reduce administrative burden, improve consistency, and streamline reimbursements across all divisions. These updates do not impact the current JHHS Travel Policy.
Please review the key policy changes below:
| Area | Previous Policy | Updated Policy |
| Submission Deadline | 90 days from date of purchase/payment | 90 days from the last day of travel (non-travel: 90 days from purchase) |
| Receipt Threshold | Itemized receipt required for all expenses | No receipt needed under $75 (exceptions: air/rail, hotel, car rental) |
| Per Diem Option | One method per day per trip | May now alternate per diem and actuals on different days within the same trip |
| Meal Documentation | Full attendee list with names, titles, and affiliations | Names required for <10 attendees; headcount only for 10+; simplified purpose notes |
| Late Submissions | No formal exception process | Discretionary exceptions available for extraordinary circumstances (illness, family emergency) |
| Mixed Travel | Brief guidance, no structured process | Detailed fare comparison requirements for air, hotel, and lodging available |
These changes do not affect corporate card submission requirements — corporate card charges must still be submitted within 30 days. All staff who travel or submit expenses should complete the Travel Smart training module: Travel Smart –Business Expenses Related to University Travel.
For additional information, consult these resources:
