What does per diem mean for a job Meaning and Definition
What does per diem mean for a job
Pronunciation
/ˈpɜːr ˈdiːɪm/
Part of Speech
Noun, Adverb
Definition
A phrase used to describe a payment or allowance made to an employee to cover expenses incurred while traveling for work, typically calculated based on the number of days spent away from home.
Examples
- The company provided a per diem allowance for business trips.
- The employee’s per diem expenses were reimbursed by the employer.
Synonyms
- Per day
- Per diem rate
Antonyms
- Fixed fee
- Flat rate
Additional Information
Per diem rates vary depending on the location and type of expenses incurred. Some employers may provide a fixed per diem rate, while others may reimburse actual expenses. Employers may also require employees to maintain receipts and documentation for expenses to ensure accurate reimbursements. The per diem system can be beneficial for employees who travel frequently for work, as it can help to reduce expense-related stress and improve financial planning.
The per diem system also has tax implications, as employees may need to report per diem income on their tax returns. It’s essential for employees to understand the tax implications of per diem expenses and to seek guidance from a tax professional if needed.
Etymology
The phrase “per diem” is derived from the Latin phrase “per diem,” meaning “per day.”
Usage Notes
Per diem is typically used in the context of employee expenses and travel reimbursement. However, it can also be used more broadly to describe a payment or allowance made on a daily basis.
Cultural References
Per diem has been featured in various TV shows and movies, such as “The Office” and “Parks and Recreation,” often in the context of employee expenses and travel reimbursement.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
Daily rate, daily allowance, daily compensation
Related Words or Phrases
- Expense report
- Reimbursement
- Tax deduction
Collocations
- The per diem rate for the trip was higher than expected.
- The employee’s per diem expenses were reimbursed by the company.
Frequency of Use
Per diem is commonly used in business and professional settings, particularly in industries that involve frequent travel, such as hospitality, transportation, and consulting.
Common Misspellings
- Per diem and per diem rate are commonly misspelled as “per dime” and “per dime rate,” respectively.
- Other common misspellings include “per die” and “perdiem.”