Final answer:
No, tips given to hotel staff are not classified as "incidental expenses" under the per diem regulations.
Step-by-step explanation:
No, tips given to hotel staff are not classified as "incidental expenses" under the per diem regulations.
Incidental expenses include small expenses that are not directly related to lodging or meals, such as fees and tips for services such as baggage handling, cleaning, and room service. However, tips given to hotel staff are considered service charges and are not part of incidental expenses.
For example, if you give a tip to a hotel housekeeper for cleaning your room, that tip would not be considered an incidental expense. It is a service charge that you voluntarily give to the staff for their services.