Chicago per diem rates
Illinois · FY 2026 · GSA high-cost locality
Official travel to Chicago uses a GSA non-standard area rate—higher than the statewide CONUS default of $110 lodging + $68 M&IE.
Daily M&IE is $92. First and last travel days are paid at 75% ($69). Lodging is a monthly maximum (before tax), not a prorated daily amount.
- M&IE (full day)
- $92
- Peak lodging (FY 2026)
- $234
Example: 3-night trip (October lodging)
Four travel days: two at 75% M&IE and two at 100%, plus three nights at the October cap of $223.
- Lodging: 3 × $223 = $669
- M&IE: 2 × $69 + 2 × $92 = $322
- Estimated total: $991
Monthly lodging caps (FY 2026)
Caps are before lodging tax. Use the month of each night, not the month you book.
| Month | Max lodging | Full-day total |
|---|---|---|
| January | $142 | $234 |
| February | $142 | $234 |
| March | $142 | $234 |
| April | $234 | $326 |
| May | $234 | $326 |
| June | $234 | $326 |
| July | $202 | $294 |
| August | $202 | $294 |
| September | $223 | $315 |
| October | $223 | $315 |
| November | $223 | $315 |
| December | $142 | $234 |
M&IE breakdown
Used when a government-provided meal is deducted. First/last day = $69.
- Breakfast
- $23
- Lunch
- $26
- Dinner
- $38
- Incidentals
- $5
Frequently asked questions
What is the GSA per diem rate for Chicago?
For FY 2026, this locality pays $92 M&IE and up to $234 lodging in peak months . Use the monthly table for the exact lodging cap.
How does the 75% first and last day rule apply here?
On the first and last calendar days, M&IE is $69 (75% of $92). Lodging is never prorated.
Is this an official GSA page?
No. Verify amounts on GSA per diem rates and your agency’s FTR rules.
Other Illinois high-cost localities
Planning aid only · Not affiliated with GSA · Methodology