---
title: "Set up subsistence rates and categories"
slug: "set-up-subsistence-rates"
description: "Learn how to set up and edit subsistence rates for meals, accommodation, and allowances based on trip duration in just a few simple steps."
updated: 2026-08-20T08:44:31Z
published: 2026-08-20T08:44:31Z
canonical: "help.cintra.co.uk/set-up-subsistence-rates"
---

> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://help.cintra.co.uk/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Set up subsistence rates and categories

Subsistence rates define the amounts users can claim for meals, accommodation, and other allowances based on how long they are away. Once rates are configured, you assign them to the relevant categories.

> [!WARNING]
> **Important!** Before setting up subsistence rates, ensure trips have been enabled. See [Enabling trips](/enabling-trips).

### **Setting up subsistence rates**

1. Go to **Setup > Subsistence Rates**.

![](https://cdn.document360.io/fc2cda72-4645-4b36-96bf-60439ec11f11/Images/Documentation/image(405).png)

![](https://cdn.document360.io/fc2cda72-4645-4b36-96bf-60439ec11f11/Images/Documentation/image-UFDO0Q0L.png)

1. Click **+ Subsistence Rates**.
2. Ensure **Active** is selected.
3. Enter a **Description**, e.g. *Standard UK rates*.
4. Click **+ Rate** and complete the following fields:
  - **Name**: a label for the rate, e.g. *5 to 10 hours*.
  - **Hours**: the minimum hours away that triggers this rate.
  - **Rate**: the allowance amount.

![](https://cdn.document360.io/fc2cda72-4645-4b36-96bf-60439ec11f11/Images/Documentation/image(406).png)

1. Repeat step 5 for each rate band required.
2. Click **Save**.

### Editing subsistence rates

1. Go to **Setup > Subsistence Rates**.
2. Click **Edit** beside the subsistence rate you want to edit.

### **Adding subsistence rates to categories**

1. Go to **Setup > Categories**.
2. Click the **Edit** icon on the relevant category, e.g. *Meals and Drinks*.
3. Select **Enable Subsistence Rates**.
4. Click **Save**.

![](https://cdn.document360.io/fc2cda72-4645-4b36-96bf-60439ec11f11/Images/Documentation/image-1776266066560.png)

Repeat for every category that subsistence rates apply to.