HBP Content Updates

New Content

6.4 CREDIT CARD COLLECTIONS

A large amount of the document was updated; TXShop information was removed. Archived document can be viewed here.

15.2 TUITION AND FEE BILLING

Added Section G - Tax Reporting

14.4 CASH PRIZES

Added DEFINITION

2.7 Account Balances

Added new sub-section for account balances procedures to Fund Accounting section.

Updated Content

9.1.6 USE OF CREDIT CARDS FOR OFFICIAL UNIVERSITY BUSINESS

Updated language for Membership-Only Warehouse Club Retail Stores

15.1 INTRODUCTION AND RESOURCES

Updates were made throughout the page

15.3 STUDENT LOANS

Updates were made throughout the page

9.1.1 ENTERTAINMENT AND OFFICIAL OCCASION EXPENSES

Updated guidelines for OOEF; communication cited.

14.1. INTRODUCTION AND RESOURCES

Updates were made throughout the page.

14.4. CASH PRIZES

Updates were made throughout the page.

14.2. TYPES OF SCHOLARSHIPS AND FELLOWSHIPS

Updates were made throughout the page.

7.11.4. UNIVERSITY TERMS AND CONDITIONS

Updated the link for Section I: Incorporated into all Purchase Orders to reflect new information from the Executive Order issued.

7.11.4. UNIVERSITY TERMS AND CONDITIONS

Updated the link for Section I: Incorporated into all Purchase Orders

16.2. ACQUISITION OF EQUIPMENT

Updated capitalization threshold and controlled threshold

5.3.1. CENTRALIZED RECEIVABLES

Updated Section B CR handbook to Centralized Receivables training slides

7.2. AUTHORITY TO OBLIGATE

Removed guidance from Section D. Noncompliant Purchases

5.3.3. OTHER ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE

Updated the email for SAR. 

5.3.1. CENTRALIZED RECEIVABLES 

Updated language to "hold" instead of "bar"

5.3. ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE 

Updated language to "hold" instead of "bar", added information to Collection Agency, removed Tuition from Credit Bureaus, and updated Write-Offs from 10 to 5 years past due

11.5.2. MEALS AND LODGING

Updated the reimbursement rates for overnight travel in Texas 

19.1.1. VEHICLE INSURANCE AND RELATED CLAIMS

Replaced the old Automobile Insurance Vehicle Packet and the Automobile Loss Notice Claim form with the 2024-2025 versions

11.5.4. RECEIPTS

Updated guidance and instructions on submitting receipts 

11.5.2. MEALS AND LODGING

Added information and guidance specific to expenses paid from sponsored project accounts

11.2. TRAVEL AUTHORIZATION

Added information and guidance specific to expenses paid from sponsored project accounts

11.1. TRAVEL INTRODUCTION AND RESOURCES

Added a link to Texas Research - Grand Management Services and federal regulations 2 CFS 200.475

7.2. AUTHORITY TO OBLIGATE

Added new guidance to Section D. Noncompliant Purchases

20.3.3. FINANCIAL RECORDS

Section removed due to outdated information

9.1.4. PREPAYMENTS

Updates were made throughout the page 

7.7.7. PURCHASES ELIGIBLE THROUGH MULTIPLE PROCUREMENT METHODS

Changed the title and updated information about the list

7.7.6. PURCHASE AND PAYMENT METHODS FOR TECHNOLOGY PURCHASES

Updates were made throughout the page 

7.7.5. BLANKET PURCHASE ORDERS

Updates were made throughout the page 

7.2. AUTHORITY TO OBLIGATE

Updates were made throughout the page 

7.7.1. PURCHASE OF USED EQUIPMENT 

Updated a job title and department name

9.1.7. ADVANCES FOR RESEARCH SUBJECTS AND SURVEY PARTICIPANTS 

Updated a broken link

2.2.6. GIFT FUNDS - 30-ACCOUNTS

Added link to new HOP page related to the same topic

7.11.4. UNIVERSITY TERMS AND CONDITIONS

Added updated Section II Government Subcontract Provisions and Section III Federal Grant Provision documents

9.1.7. ADVANCES FOR RESEARCH SUBJECTS AND SURVEY PARTICIPANTS

Added additional electronic signature service provider

2.2.6. GIFT FUNDS — 30-ACCOUNTS

Updated guidance for unrestricted nonendowed gift funds. 

11.5.1. TRANSPORTATION

Updated the link to the exception request form website.

11.4. CASH ADVANCE FOR TRAVEL

Updated mailing address to reflect the closure of the west mall post office.

9.1.7. ADVANCES FOR RESEARCH SUBJECTS AND SURVEY PARTICIPANTS

Updated mailing address to reflect the closure of the west mall post office. 

16.5. DISPOSITION OF GOVERNMENT-OWNED EQUIPMENT

Minor updates for additional clarification 

11.4. CASH ADVANCE FOR TRAVEL

Changes made throughout the page. Updates were made to bring documentation in line with current practices.  

9.1.7. ADVANCES FOR RESEARCH SUBJECTS AND SURVEY PARTICIPANTS

Changes made throughout the page. Updates were made to bring documentation in line with current practices.  

9.1.1. ENTERTAINMENT AND OFFICIAL OCCASION EXPENSES

Removed the Housing and Dining exemption from Part M. Voucher Requirements Section 1. Supporting Documentation Requirements sub-section C to reflect their current policies and procedures. 

11.5.2. MEALS AND LODGING

Updated Part D. Overnight Travel in Texas Section 1. State Accounts to, "Reimbursements for travel to a Texas city for any county not listed in the federal rate tables are limited to actual expenses not to exceed $166, of which meals can be up to $59 per day."

19.1.1. VEHICLE INSURANCE AND RELATED CLAIMS

Uploaded an updated the Automobile Insurance Vehicle Packet 

6.6 PETTY CASH FUNDS

Updated language and email address in Section D.2 Reconciliation.  

16.6 OTHER TRANSACTIONS RELATING TO EQUIPMENT

Updates were made throughout the page. 

16.7 REFERENCE MATERIALS

Updates were made throughout the page. 

16.1 INVENTORY CONTROL AND PROPERTY MANAGEMENT OVERVIEW

Updates were made throughout the page. 

16.2 AQUISITION OF EQUIPMENT

Updates were made throughout the page. 

16.3 TRACKING, MAINTENANCE, AND UTILIZATION

Updates were made throughout the page. 

16.4 REMOVAL OF EQUIPMENT FROM THE INVENTORY

Updates were made throughout the page. 

16.5 DISPOSITION OF GOVERNMENT-OWNED EQUIPMENT

Updates were made throughout the page. 

19.1.1. VEHICLE INSURANCE AND RELATED CLAIMS

Replaced the old Automobile Insurance Vehicle Packet and the Automobile Loss Notice Claim form with the 2023-2024 versions

11.2. TRAVEL AUTHORIZATION

Updated links to the State of Texas Travel Allowance Guide

11.5.1. TRANSPORTATION 

Updated a link to the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts' Travel Reimbursement Rates web page

7.5.2. USE OF EXISTING CONTRACTS

Removed a contract that the university is no longer authorized to use and to ensure documentation is in line with UT Systems

20.8. RECORDS MANAGEMENT TERMINOLOGY

Updates were made throughout the page. Updates are part of an overarching project to update sections relating to Records and Information Management Services. 

10.3. SERVICE CENTER MANUAL 

Uploaded an updated copy of the Service Center Manual, with additions in 10.3.2. Service Center Management, 10.3.8. Record Retention Requirements, and 10.3.10. Closing a Service Center. 

10.2. SERVICE CENTER POLICY SUMMARY 

Updates made to record retention and cost recovery requirements. A link to the Service Center Closure Form was added. 

20.7.2. DESTRUCTION OPTIONS FOR CONTROLLED OR CONFIDENTIAL RECORDS 

Updates were made throughout the page. Updates are part of an overarching project to update sections relating to Records and Information Management Services. 

2.2.6. GIFT FUNDS - 30-ACCOUNTS 

Changes were made to reflect the name change of Gift and Data Services to Texas Gift Operations and their new email address.

9.1.11. RELOCATION EXPENSES 

Added new language to Section B. Authorization about new Form I-9 requirements for employees receiving relocation payment. A re-write of Section F. Voucher and Documentation Requirements, Part 1 Relocation and Moving Expenses — Lump-Sum Payment with instructions on preferred method of payment in Workday or in DEFINE via VP2.

Changes were made to support CSU CBOs with regards to relocation expenses being paid prior to an employee's start date. 

20.7.1. MANAGING CONTROLLED OR CONFIDENTIAL RECORDS 

Updates were made throughout the page. 

20.7. RECORDS THAT CONTAIN CONTROLLED OR CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION – GENERAL INFORMATION

Updates were made throughout the page 

20.6.7. VITAL RECORDS

Updates were made throughout the page 

20.6.6. ELECTRONIC RECORDS

Updates were made throughout the page 

20.6.5. EMAIL RECORDS 

Updates were made throughout the page  

24.3.1. INDIVIDUAL SUBCONTRACTING PLAN

Updated the federal subcontracting delineation for PIs from $700,000 to $750,000.  

20.6.4. CATEGORIES OF CORRESPONDENCE

Updates were made throughout the page

7.5.2. USE OF EXISTING CONTRACTS

Added group purchasing organizations and their hyperlinks 

20.6.3. TRANSITORY INFORMATION RECORDS

Updated language "UT Item" instead of "UT Code" and updated retention schedule and Records and Information Management Services hyperlinks

20.6.2 CONVENIENCE COPIES

Updated text 

7.5.2. USE OF EXISTING CONTRACTS

Updated Group Purchasing Organizations section

7.11.4. UNIVERSITY TERMS AND CONDITIONS

Updated link to Section II, Government Subcontract Provisions

20.6.1. MASTER RECORDS

Updated content and links

11.2. TRAVEL AUTHORIZATION

Updated the language under the section: C. Foreign Travel

20.6. TYPES OF RECORDS - GENERAL INFORMATION

Updated verbiage

9.1.7. ADVANCES FOR RESEARCH SUBJECTS AND SURVEY PARTICIPANTS

Updated sections C, D, E, and J plus 3 forms needed for clarification purposes

20.5.4. DESTRUCTION PROCEDURES AND FORM

Updated page links

24.3. FEDERAL SMALL BUSINESS PROGRAM

Update the "For additional information contact the HUB/SB Program Office" hyperlink.

5.3.1. CENTRALIZED RECEIVABLES

Updated Student Accounts Receivable's email

20.5.3. ARCHIVAL REVIEW/TRANSFER PROCEDURES

Updated page links

7.8.7 CONSEQUENCES OF MISUSE

Updated the link to disallowed list

7.8.4 PROCARD USAGE 

Updated the link to disallowed list

7.8.3 APPROPRIATE CONDUCT WITH PROCARD 

Updated the link to disallowed list

20.5.2. CONTROLLED OR CONFIDENTIAL RECORDS VERSUS NONCONFIDENTIAL RECORDS

Updated page links and content

20.5.1. REQUIREMENTS FOR DISPOSITION OF RECORDS

Updated page links and content

9.1.1. ENTERTAINMENT AND OFFICIAL OCCASION EXPENSES

Updated Entertainment Limit from $75 to $100

20.5. DISPOSITION OF RECORDS – GENERAL INFORMATION

Updated page links and content

9.1. EXPENDITURE PROCEDURES INTRODUCTION AND RESOURCES

Updated email address of Tax Services and Scholarship/Fellowship Services

11.5.3. OTHER EXPENSES

Updated section B

20.4.4. CONTRACTS PERTAINING TO STATE RECORDS

Updated page content and links

12.3. CLASSIFICATION OF SERVICE PROVIDER - INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR VERSUS EMPLOYEE

Updated the page content

20.4.3. RECORDS MANAGEMENT PLAN

Updated the page links and content

12.2. AUTHORIZATIONS

Updated the page links and content

20.4. DEPARTMENTAL RECORDS MANAGEMENT – GENERAL INFORMATION

Updated the page links

12.4. SPECIAL PAYMENTS, INCLUDING HONORARIA AND STIPENDS

Updated the page links and content

12.1. OBTAINING SERVICES OF AN INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR

Updated the page links and content

20.2.4. CONDITIONS UNDER WHICH RECORDS MUST NOT BE DESTROYED

Updated the page links

20.2.3. ARCHIVAL REQUIREMENTS

Updated the page links

11.2. TRAVEL AUTHORIZATION

Updated the links and content for section C

12.6. TAX FORMS

Updated the links and content

20.2.2. HOW TO USE THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN RECORDS RETENTION SCHEDULE (UTRRS)

Updated the links and added new content

20.2.1. RECORDS AND INFORMATION MANAGEMENT SERVICES DOCUMENTS

Updated the links and added new content

7.8.1 PROCEDURES FOR PROCARD HOLDERS

Added new sections (7.8.1.1-7.8.1.4)

20.2. RECORDS RETENTION - GENERAL INFORMATION

Update page content and links

20.1. INTRODUCTION AND RESOURCES

Updated the page links

12.5.9. RESOURCES

Updated the page links, removing sections D. & E. 

6.3. CHECK COLLECTIONS

Update to language in section D

7.6. FEDERAL PURCHASING GUIDELINES - GENERAL INFORMATION & 7.6.2. COST REASONABLENESS OR COST/PRICE ANALYSIS - FEDERAL GRANTS AND U.S. GOVERNMENT PRIME CONTRACTS

Updated the broken "United States Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Circular A-110, 45 Cost and Price" link

6.3. CHECK COLLECTIONS & 6.1. CASH HANDLING INTRODUCTION AND RESOURCES

Updated the broken Abagnale and Associates web link. 

2.2.2. SERVICE CENTER FUNDS—18-ACCOUNTS

Updated the broken link for the Comply with both university accounting policies and federal guidelines published by the Office of Management and Budget, Circular A-21, Section J., General provisions for selected items of cost. to the new webpage. https://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/

9.1.1. ENTERTAINMENT AND OFFICIAL OCCASION EXPENSES

Updates were made throughout the page including the OOE policy chart

11.5.2. MEALS AND LODGING

Updated the federal rate table "limited to actual expenses not to exceed $155, of which meals can be up to $59 per day."

19.1.1. VEHICLE INSURANCE AND RELATED CLAIMS

Updated the pdf forms 

5.4. UNRELATED BUSINESS INCOME TAX (UBIT)

Update all text with a complete rewrite

9.1.6. USE OF CREDIT CARDS FOR OFFICIAL UNIVERSITY BUSINESS

Removed "Intercollegiate Athletics is authorized to use the University Federal Credit Union-issued MasterCard for activities related to the athletics programs."  from the Authorized credit cards for travel are: 

HBP 12.6. Taxes

Updated responsible office from Office of Accounting to the Tax Services.

19.1.1. VEHICLE INSURANCE AND RELATED CLAIMS

Updated the Auto Loss Notice form with the new email address: autoclaims@utsystem.edu

11.5. TRAVEL REIMBURSEMENTS - GENERAL INFORMATION

Updated section R

11.5.5. NON-EMPLOYEE TRAVEL REIMBURSEMENT PROCEDURES

Add an additional paragraph to the Introduction section

5.4. UNRELATED BUSINESS INCOME TAX (UBIT)

Updated last sentence from "If you believe your department may be involved in activities that may be subject to tax, please contact Andrew Gordon in the Office of Accounting and Financial Management at agordon@austin.utexas.edu" to now read, "If you believe your department may be involved in activities that may be subject to tax, please contact the Tax Services department of Accounting and Financial Management at tax.ubit@austin.utexas.edu."

3.1. INTRODUCTION AND RESOURCES

Updated language from "A comprehensive list of user resources for budget preparation, budgetary position funding (HRMS), commitments, and allocations" to the following "A comprehensive list of user resources for budget preparation, such as links to recommended reports, budgeted funding, the Budget Update Document, the Commitment Application, and Workday Allocation Details."

9.1.10.C.

Updated the language on specific funding type for co-sponsorship

19.5.1

Updated the responsible person indicator in Section A. Oversight

19.5.4 Debit Card Issuance

Correct references throughout the section that refers to Bevo Bucks instead of Bevo Pay

19.5.3 Consumer Reports

Updated the language concerning pre-employment credit reports

19.5.4. DEBIT CARD ISSUANCE

Updated Hyperlinks in Section A. Introduction

"The University of Texas at Austin issues an ID card to current faculty, staff, and students, which is a photo identification and may be used as a debit card for Dine In Dollars and Bevo Bucks. Initial card requests must be made in-person at the University ID Center. The request must be accompanied by a valid, current government-issued photo ID such as a driver's license, passport, or military ID."

20.1. Introduction and Resources

Updated the Hyperlink for 20.7.4. Contact and Payment Procedures for Document Destruction Vendor to link directly to the new 20.7.3. CONTACT AND PAYMENT PROCEDURES FOR DOCUMENT DESTRUCTION VENDORS page. 

7.7.12. Software Licenses

Updated the title from 7.7.12. Purchasing and Licensing Software to 7.7.12. Software Licenses

7.8.4. ProCard Usage

Updated the "list of SDNs" link to an updated URL. 

7.8.2 PROCARD APPLICATION AND ISSUANCE PROCESS

Updated the previous "apply" link to an updated URL. 

24.1. INTRODUCTION AND RESOURCES

Updated the link Texas Administrative Code, Statewide Annual HUB Utilization Goals to Texas Administrative Code, Title 34, Chapter 20, Subchapter D, Division 1, Sections §20.281 to §20.298

11.5.2. MEALS AND LODGING

Section D. Overnight Travel in Texas, 1. State Accounts.  Updated the Reimbursements for travel to a Texas city from $149 to $151.

24.3. FEDERAL SMALL BUSINESS PROGRAM

Changed the $700,000 to be $750,000

20.7.3. CONTACT AND PAYMENT PROCEDURES FOR DOCUMENT DESTRUCTION VENDORS

The Texas State Comptroller and the Texas State Library have renewed the document destruction services contract with new information.

9.1.7. Advances For Research Subjects And Survey Participants

Removed requirements to pay UT employees through Payroll Services. 

12.6. Taxes

Now includes information on receiving 1099-MISC and 1042-S forms electronically.

9.2.7. Payment Generation and Distribution

Updated link for Check Distribution Code “P” For All Check Pick Up In Person.

11.5.4. Receipts 

Removed language which excluded Airbnb as an acceptable short-term rental.

The following sections of the HBP have been redrafted  to reflect updated policies and procedures:

7.8. The Procurement Card Program

7.8.1. Procedures for ProCard Holders

7.8.2. ProCard Application and Issuance Process

7.8.3. Appropriate Conduct with ProCard

7.8.4. ProCard Usage

7.8.5. Payment Voucher Processing

7.8.6. Reporting Requirements for Misuse

7.8.7. Consequences of Misuse

7.8.8. ProCard Cancellations

7.8.9. Contact Information

19.1.1. Vehicle Insurance and Related Claims

Automobile Loss Notice form (ACORD) for UT owned vehicles updated for FY 19-20.

24.3.1. Individual Subcontracting Plan

Section B was updated with a link to the Small Business Plan Worksheet

19.1.1. Vehicle Insurance and Related Claims

Vehicle packet for UT owned vehicles updated for FY 19-20.

2.2.1. Education and General Funds - 14- and 20-Accounts

Section D was updated with specific restrictions for state appropriated funds.

20.2.1. Records Management Services Documents

Amendment 4 was added to the list of amendments under the University of Texas Records Retention Schedule (UTRRS) 7th Recertification.

20.1. Introducution and Resources

Removed statement about reference materials.

10.3.1. Purpose - Updates were made throughout the page.

10.3.2. Responsibilities - Updates were made throughout the page.

10.3.3. General Information About Service Centers - Updates were made throughout the page.

10.3.4. Expenditures/Costs - Updates were made throughout the page.

10.3.5. Rate Setting - Updates were made throughout the page.

10.3.6. Types of Service Centers - Updates were made throughout the page.

10.3.7. Requesting and Approving a Service Center - Updates were made throughout the page.

10.3.8. Service Center Administration - Updates were made throughout the page.

10.3.9. Taxes - Updates were made throughout the page.

10.3.10. Equipment - Updates were made throughout the page.

10.3.11. Closing a Service Center - Updates were made throughout the page.

10.3.12. Glossary - Updates were made throughout the page.

11.5.4. Receipts

Section B was updated to exclude the company Airbnb.

10.3. Service Center Manual

Updates were made throughout the page.

10.2. Service Center Policy Summary

Updates were made throughout the page.

9.1.1. Entertainment and Official Occasion Expenses

The first paragraph in section M.1.b. Procard was changed from:

When using the Procard for entertainment and official occasion-related items, departments must attach a signed Official Occasion Expense Form (OOEF) for each purchase and include the form as a basic part of the back-up documentation retained for the Procard at the departmental level.  If purchasing alcohol from grocery stores using the Procard, the OOEF requires advance approval by the applicable dean, vice president, or official delegate. Backup documentation is subject to review and must be provided upon request for auditing purposes.

to:

When using the Procard for entertainment and official occasion-related items, departments must attach a signed Official Occasion Expense Form (OOEF) for each purchase and include the form as a basic part of the back-up documentation retained for the Procard at the departmental level.  If purchasing alcohol from grocery stores using the Procard, the OOEF requires advance approval by the applicable dean, vice president, or official delegate. Backup documentation is subject to review and must be submitted with the receipt of purchase as supporting documentation to Records Imaging Services (refer to HBP 7.8.5. Post Purchase section C. Record Keeping and Retention).

9.1.7. Advances for Research Subjects and Survey Participants

The last paragraph in section C was changed from:

University employees must be paid on a *DEFINE OV2 payroll voucher for participant fees of any amount. The Individual Receipt Form must be attached to the OV2 as support for the payment.

to:

University employees must be paid through payroll in Workday for participant fees of any amount. The Individual Receipt Form must be attached as support for the payment.

9.1.5. Communication Device Allowance

Updates were made throughout the page.

2.2.8. Unexpended Plant Funds - 36-Accounts

The Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) threshold in the second bullet of section C was updated from $4 million to $10 million.

The group name for CIP projects in the third bullet of section C was changed from "UT System Office of Facilities Planning and Construction" to "UT Austin Capital Planning and Construction."

9.1.8. Awards

Updated the Cash Awards section in Part B.1. from: 

Cash (monetary) awards to employees for any amount must be processed through Payroll Services. Departmental awards for employees must be approved in advance by the dean or vice president of the awarding college or department and submitted to Payroll Services. Award program approval letters sent to deans and vice presidents must contain signature approval and include the following information: award name, selection criteria, frequency, amount per award, and account number(s).

to:

Cash (monetary) awards to employees for any amount must be processed through Payroll Services. These should be submitted as One-Time Payments in Workday and cannot be paid using state funds (14 or 20 accounts). An award program letter, approved in advance and signed by the dean or vice president of the awarding department, must be attached to the One-Time Payment. Signed award program letters must include the following information: award name, selection criteria, frequency, amount per award, and account number(s).

19.1.9. Camp Insurance

The Camp Insurance claim form was renamed in Section 3 from Summit America Insurance claim form.

19.1.9. Camp Insurance

Entire section was updated with new links and revised language.

7.8.3. Guidelines for Use

Section 2 was updated with new information about Gift Cards.

9.1.1. Entertainment and Official Occasion Expenses

Section M.1.C was updated with the addition of Commons Event Services.

9.1.11. Relocation Expenses

Updates were made throughout the page.

11.5.4. Receipts

Section B was updated from: 

The following original receipts are required for reimbursement:

• Airline receipts Rental car receipts
• Gasoline receipts
• Bus, taxi, train receipts (for travel between cities)
• Lodging receipts
• Itemized meals receipts (when rules allow exceptions to limits)
• Registration receipts
• Miscellaneous expenses

Receipts are not required within a city for all other transportation, but the expenses must be itemized by date, locale, type, point-to-point, and amount. Receipts for parking expenses are not required.

to:

The following original receipts are required for reimbursement:

• Airline ticket receipts if the traveler paid for the ticket
• Car rental receipts
• Gasoline receipts
• Taxi, bus, or train receipts for travel between cities
• Lodging receipts which must include the hotel/motel, or Airbnb folio card showing itemized costs
• Itemized meal receipts when rules allow exceptions to the limits
• Registration receipts if registration was paid for by the traveler
• Miscellaneous expenses

Receipts are not required within a city for all other transportation, but the expenses must be itemized by date, locale, type, point-to-point, and amount. Receipts for parking expenses are not required.

Part 13. Payroll Services

13.1. Introduction and Resources - Updates were made throughout the page.

13.2. Payroll - General Information - Updates were made throughout the page.

13.2.1. Salary and Wages - Updates were made throughout the page.

13.2.2. Encumbered and Unencumbered Payments - Updates were made throughout the page.

13.2.3. Pay Frequency - Updates were made throughout the page.

13.2.4. Employee’s Payroll Profile - Updates were made throughout the page.

13.2.5. Replacement Paychecks - Updates were made throughout the page.

13.2.6. Unclaimed Paychecks - Updates were made throughout the page.

11.5.2. Meals and Lodging

The reimbursement limit in section D was updated from $144, of which meals can be up to $51 per day, to $149, of which meals can be up to $55 per day.

7.8.3. Guidelines for Use

Section A.2. was updated to clarify that Gift Cards may not be purchased for any employee. Gift cards may only be purchased for research/study purposes or as an award. Recipient information for gift cards over $50 in value must be recorded and sent to Contractor Services.

19.1.3. Equipment Insurance and Related Claims

Section B was updated to reflect the current policy period and the new rate of $0.50 per $100 (was $0.60 per $100).

The Radio Tower/Outdoor Equipment Insurance Request Form was added to section F.

7.5.9. HUB Subcontracting Requirements (HSP)

This page's body was changed from:

When the value of a competitive solicitation is expected to be  $100,000 or greater and there is an expectation that subcontracting opportunities exist, the university requires that a  Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) Subcontracting Plan be submitted as part of the response.

The HUB subcontracting plan requirement is included in formal solicitation documents. For procurements made through existing contracts or exclusive acquisition determinations, a HUB subcontracting plan is not required.

For more information about HSP requirements, contact the HUB/SB Staff.

to:

When the value of a procurement is expected to be $100,000 or greater, the Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) and Small Business (SB) Office will make a determination regarding subcontracting opportunities and the need for a HUB Subcontracting Plan (HSP). Any resulting documentation will be included in the purchase order or contract file.

For more information about HSP requirements, see the Handbook of Business Procedures 24.2.1 HUB Subcontracting Plans (HSP) or contact HUB/SB Office Staff.

24.1. Introduction and Resources

The second paragraph in section A was changed from:

The HUB/SB Program Office operates within the Office of the Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, under the direction of the HUB/SB Coordinator/Director. The HUB/SB staff is comprised of staff associates working in the HUB/SB Program Office and in the Project Management and Construction Services HUB Services section.

to:

The HUB/SB Program Office operates within the Procurement and Payment Services department, under the direction of the Assistant Vice President of Procurement, Payments Services, and Business Contracts, who is also the current HUB/SB Coordinator. HUB/SB staff is comprised of the HUB/SB Director and associates working in the HUB/SB Program Office and in the Campus Planning and Project Management and Project Management and Construction Services departments.

7.8. Procurement Card (Procard) Program

This page was rewritten to serve as an introduction and overview for the new subsections added September 7, 2018.

11.5.5. Non-Employee Travel Reimbursement Procedures

Part D was changed from:

D. Reimbursements to Ten or More Non-Employees

If ten or more non-employees are to be reimbursed for travel expenses incurred to attend a single event and will not be paid for services or receive a stipend or honorarium, a Blanket Authorization of Professional Services (APS) may be prepared in lieu of preparing a Request for Travel Authorization (RTA) for each traveler. A list of participants' names must be submitted with the Blanket APS so that hotel and airfare expenses can be direct-billed.

As a general rule, an APS may not cross fiscal years; this includes an APS for payments for services or honoraria. The exception to this rule is a "travel-only" APS, which may span fiscal years if the start date and end date of the trip occur in different fiscal years. 

If there is a signed hotel contract in place, rather than a Blanket APS, a memo from a department chair/center director may be submitted with a list of participants’ names identifying any current employees and including the appropriate RTA number.

to:

D. Reimbursements to Ten or More Non-Employees

If ten or more non-employees are to be reimbursed for travel expenses  for one of the listed activities on the Exempted Services Authorization form,  then prepare this form in lieu of preparing a Request for Travel Authorization (RTA) for each traveler. For direct-billing of hotel, rental car and airfare expenses, a list of participants' names must be submitted with the Non-Employee Travel Authorization form.

If there is a signed hotel contract in place, include with a copy of the hotel contract a completed Non-Employee Travel Authorization form with a list of non-employee participants’ names, and if any employees, include a copy of the appropriate RTA.

11.4. Cash Advance for Travel

The reference to "Departmental Business Officer" in section C was updated to "CSU Business Officer."

Section D.2 was changed from: 



2. Professional services

If the traveler expects to use the cash advance to pay for any nonemployee services (guides, field workers, participants in studies, guest lecturers, transcribers, etc.) or travel costs  (meals, hotels, bus, airfare, etc.), a completed Authorization for Individual Services(PBS) document (for individual authorization) or Authorization of Professional Services Form (APS) form (for 26-accounts and blanket authorizations) must be included for each event.

to:

2. Professional services

If the traveler expects to use the cash advance to pay for any nonemployee professional services (guides, field workers, participants in studies, transcribers, etc.) or travel costs  (meals, hotels, bus, airfare, etc.) while traveling abroad, then add this information to the Travel Cash Advance Request Form. If any services are expected to be long-term or continuous then a business contract might be warranted instead of using a travel cash advance thus contact the Business Contract Office for assistance.

9.1.11. Relocation Expenses

References to the Authorization for Professional Services (APS) form were changed to Non-Employee Travel Authorization form.

9.1. Expenditure Procedures Introduction and Resources

Email addresses, voucher types, and processing office names were updated.

7.11.4. University Terms and Conditions

A new section of the Terms and Conditions of Orders was added: Section IV: Photography Provisions

9.1.1. Entertainment and Official Occasion Expenses

Sections M.1.f. and M.1.g were combined to clarify that the university is exempt from both state sales tax and mixed beverage sales tax.  Section M.1.h was relabeled M.1.g.

7.7.3. Purchase From Former Employee

The contents of this page were removed from the HBP:

"The purchase of goods and services from a former university employee can be made only after the employee has been separated from the university for a period of more than one year. A department entering a requisition for the purchase of goods or services from a former employee must include that information in the supporting documentation to the Purchasing Office, along with the date the individual separated from the university.

Purchases from former employees are reviewed and approved by the director of procurement and payment services."

16.2. Acquisition of Equipment

Updated section E from "Once the transfer has been approved by the property manager, the department needs to either schedule an appointment with Inventory Services by emailing INVtagging@austin.utexas.edu for the items to be tagged or send the tagging information to Inventory Services within the 10 or 30 day timeline depending on the ownership of the item(s)."

to

"Once the transfer has been approved by the property manager, the department needs to send the tagging information to Inventory Services within the 10 or 30 day timeline depending on the ownership of the item(s)."

In section F, a reference to "self-tagging departments" was changed to "departments". In addition, the following sentence was removed:

"Departments that do not tag their own equipment must send a tagging request to INVtagging@austin.utexas.edu as soon as equipment is received."

7.6.4. Federal Reporting

The following bullet point was removed:

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) 

The goal of the ARRA is to create new jobs, save existing jobs, and foster economic growth. University purchases funded wholly or partially with federal funds that are subject to ARRA reporting require that the awarded vendor comply with all applicable provisions of ARRA. If an award exceeding $25,000 is issued to a vendor, the vendor must identify the jobs created and/or retained as a result of receipt of ARRA funds. Information is reported by the university to the federal government. For more information about ARRA reporting, see the Office of Sponsored Projects’ American Recovery and Reinvestment Act – ARRA website.

7.5.5. Invitation to Bid (ITB) - Purchase Value Greater than $50,000; Based Solely on Price and Delivery

Updated the third bullet in section A from "ITB opportunities are sent to known suppliers who provide the good or service. An ITB opportunity is also publically posted on the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts Electronic State Business Daily (ESBD) website so that any supplier may submit a response."

to

"ITB opportunities are sent to known suppliers who provide the good or service and publically posted on the Formal Bid Opportunities website so that any supplier may submit a response."

Updated #9 in section B from "All bidders or proposers are notified by the Purchasing Office when an award is made, and the results are publically posted on the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts Electronic State Business Daily (ESBD)website."

to

"All bidders are notified by the Purchasing Office when an award is made."

7.5.6. Request for Proposal (RFP) – Purchase Value Greater than $50,000; Based on Factors in Addition to Price and Delivery

Updated the third bullet in section A from "RFP opportunities are sent to known suppliers who provide the good or service. An RFP opportunity is also publically posted on the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts Electronic State Business Daily (ESBD) website so that any supplier may submit a response."

to

"RFP opportunities are sent to known suppliers who provide the good or service and publically posted on the Formal Bid Opportunities website so that any supplier may submit a response."

Number 13 in section B "The award results are publically posted on the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts Electronic State Business Daily (ESBD) website" was deleted, and #14 was renumbered #13.

7.5.8 Request for Information (RFI) - Used to Gather Information and Specifications

Updated the first paragraph in section A from "A Request for Information (RFI) is used to collect additional information about features and specifications of a product or service. This process is used when the department and the Purchasing Office do not have sufficient information to develop an appropriately detailed scope of work (SOW) to be used in a subsequent solicitation. The solicitation is open to all prospective vendors and is publically posted on the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts Electronic State Business Daily (ESBD) website so that any vendor may submit a response. A vendor is not required to respond to the RFI in order to submit a proposal."

to

"A Request for Information (RFI) is used to collect additional information about features and specifications of a product or service. This process is used when the department and the Purchasing Office do not have sufficient information to develop an appropriately detailed scope of work (SOW) to be used in a subsequent solicitation. The solicitation is open to all prospective suppliers and is publically posted on the Formal Bid Opportunities website so that any supplier may submit a response. A supplier is not required to respond to the RFI in order to submit a proposal.An RFI adds time to the overall solicitation process, but can be valuable in situations where:"

References to "vendor" were updated with "supplier."

7.11.2. Bid and Proposal Submission Requirements

Updated the fourth bullet in Section B from "Bid Opening - University Purchasing Office bid openings are conducted in the Main Building and are open to the public. Interested bidders may request that a specific bid be read aloud by appearing in person at the bid opening site when bids are scheduled to open. For information about the bid opening, contact the solicitation’s designated buyer."

to

"Bid Opening - Public bid openings are not generally conducted by the Purchasing Office.  If a public opening is planned, the solicitation will note the details so interested parties may attend."

Updated the last paragraph in section C from "All bidders or proposers are notified by the Purchasing Office when an award is made, and the results are publically posted on the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts Electronic State Business Daily (ESBD) website."

to

"All bidders or proposers are notified by the Purchasing Office when an award is made."

11.2. Travel Authorization

Updated the first two paragraphs in section A from: "Prior approval for all business travel is required for absences of employees from the campus or other designated headquarters for periods of half a day or more during the normal working period, whether or not there is a cost to The University. Non-employees and students not traveling as employees (traveler types N and S on an electronic Request for Travel Authorization) are not required to have prior approval before claiming travel reimbursements. Payment Services does not require travel authorization for personal absences such as vacation.

An electronic Request for Travel Authorization (RTA) should be completed. Approval is delegated to the immediate supervisor."

to:

"All travelers should submit an electronic Request for Travel Authorization (RTA) for business travel.  Prior approval for all business travel is required for absences of employees from the campus or other designated headquarters for periods of half a day or more during the normal working period, whether or not there is a cost to the university.  Prospective employees (traveler type P on an RTA) also require prior approval before travel dates. Non-employees and students not traveling as employees (traveler types N and S) are not required to have prior approval. All travelers must submit an RTA before claiming travel reimbursements. Payment Services does not require travel authorization for personal absences such as vacation.

Approval of an RTA is delegated to the immediate supervisor."

9.1.1. Entertainment and Official Occasion Expenses

The following sentence was added at the end of the second paragraph in section D: "Delegates must hold a higher-level administrative position."

11.5.1. Transportation

The following six reasons for premium class airfare reimbursement were added to section C, part 1. Commercial Air:

1. Traveler has a health issue documented by a doctor
   1. Exception must be requested for each trip. Letter from your doctor must be sent to Travel Management Services office. Letters documenting chronic conditions can be held on file for one year but must be renewed yearly. (State and institutional fund accounts only)
2. It is the only seat available on the flight, and the traveler must be on that flight
   1. Written documentation of business reason traveler must be on specific flight and written confirmation of last seat availability from a UT contracted travel agency is required. (state and institutional fund accounts only))
3. It is the lowest available airfare
   1. Written documentation from a UT contracted travel agency is required to be sent to Travel Management Services. (state and institutional fund accounts only)
4. The traveler has a fully executed contract or written agreement with the university that requires it.
   1. A copy of the written agreement must be sent to Travel Management Services with each request. (institutional fund accounts only)
5. Another entity will reimburse the department for the airfare.
   1. Written confirmation from the other party is required to be sent to Travel Management Services. The department is responsible for ensuring the funds are reimbursed and deposited into the departmental account. (institutional funds only)
6. Research grant allows it
   1. A copy of the applicable section of the grant must be sent to Travel Management Services with each request. (grant accounts only)

7.6.3. Additional Thresholds for U.S. Government Prime Contracts

References to "vendor" were updated to "supplier"

References to "departments" were updated to "colleges, schools, and units (CSUs)"

The following text was removed:

Purchases Greater than $100,000

• The vendor must certify compliance with any applicable Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) clauses, including Debarment, prior to award.
• For requests that are competitively bid, the Purchasing Office documents a summary of the vendors that were solicited through the federal Dynamic Small Business Search (DSBS) database and posts the award of the successful vendor on the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts Electronic State Business Daily (ESBD) website.

For requests that are competitively bid, the Purchasing Office documents a summary of the vendors that were solicited through the federal Dynamic Small Business Search (DSBS) database and posts the award of the successful vendor on the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts Electronic State Business Daily (ESBD) website.

7.7.14. Purchase of Vehicles

Updates were made throughout the page.

9.1.1. Entertainment and Official Occasion Expenses

Mentions of "vice president equivalents" were removed throughout the page.

Glossary of Business and Financial Terms

Definition for "vice president equivalents" was removed.

9.1.7. Advances for Research Subjects and Survey Participants

The following line was added to the first paragraph in section F: "except for university employees; refer to 9.1.7.C."

9.1.6. Use of Credit Cards for Official University Business

The fourth paragraph in section C was updated from "Advance approval by the Executive Vice President and Provost is also required to serve alcohol on campus. This approval must be submitted with the Official Occasion Expense Form. Vouchers will be rejected if the Provost's prior approval has not been obtained."



to



"Advance approval by an approved delegate is required to serve alcohol in campus facilities, including leased spaces. This approval must be submitted with the Official Occasion Expense Form. Vouchers will be rejected if a delegate’s prior approval has not been obtained.  For more information, refer to the Request Exception to Serve Alcoholic Beverages at an Event on Campus page."

9.1.1. Entertainment and Official Occasion Expenses

Updates made to section D to clarify who can and cannot approve expenditures and exceptions.

The following text was added to sections D, E, and F: "Exceptions for the deans, vice presidents, vice president equivalents, executive vice president and provost, senior vice president and chief financial officer, and president require additional higher level approval, regardless if the payment is by reimbursement or direct payment to the vendor. Refer to section“9.1.1.D Oversight of Entertainment Expenditures” for approval hierarchy."

11.2. Travel Authorization

The following sentence was added at the end of the first paragraph in section C. Foreign Travel: "Travelers must also comply with UTS190 International Travel Policy."

11.4. Cash Advance for Travel

References to the Travel Section in Shared Services were updated to Cash Advance Section in Payment Services throughout the page. 

References to Diners Club Travel Credit Card were updated to Citibank Individual Liability Travel Card in section B. Justification.

9.1.6. Use of Credit Cards for Official University Business

In section 2. Travel:

References to Citicorp Diner's Individual Travel Card were updated to Citibank Individual Liability Travel Card.

References to Diner's Club were updated to Citibank.

9.1.11 Relocation Expenses

The following was added before section A: "Effective January 1, 2018 the University intends to treat all relocation or moving expenses as taxable per Tax Cuts and Jobs Act 2017. Updates to this section of the Handbook of Business Procedures will be completed as soon as IRS provides guidance."

5.4. Unrelated Business Income Tax (UBIT)

Updated the contact information at the bottom of the page to Sandhya Akella in the Office of Accounting and Financial Management at sandhya.akella@austin.utexas.edu.

11.1. Travel Introduction and Resources

The mileage rate listed on slide 50 of the Travel Rules and Regulations slideshow was increased from 53.5 to 54.5 cents, and the effective date was changed from January 1, 2017 to January 1, 2018.

24.5.1. Vendor Guidelines for Doing Business With the University of Texas at Austin as a Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) or Federal Small Business Concern

Updates made throughout.

24.3. Federal Small Business Program

Updates made throughout.

7.6.2. Cost Reasonableness or Cost/Price Analysis - Federal Grants and U.S. Government Prime Contracts

Section A and B purchase thresholds were raised from $5,000 to $15,000, references to "departments" were updated to the new term, "colleges, schools and units (CSUs)," and various other updates were made.

7.6.3. Additional Thresholds for U.S. Government Prime Contracts

The first heading in section B was changed from "Purchases Greater than $30,000" to "Purchases Greater than $35,000."

9.1.2. Other Reimbursements

 References to Texas Procurement and Support Services (TPASS) were updated using the agency's new name, Statewide Procurement Division (SPD).

24.2.4. HUB Reporting Requirements

References to Texas Procurement and Support Services (TPASS) were updated using the agency's new name, Statewide Support Services Division (SSSD)​.

7.5.2. Use of Existing Contracts

Updates made throughout page.

11.5.2. Meals and Lodging

The reimbursement limit for travel to a Texas city for any county not listed in the federal rate tables was increased from $142 to $144.

9.1.7. Advances for Research Subjects and Survey Participants

Updates made throughout page.

6.1. Cash Handling Introduction and Resources

Updated section A. Introduction from "Cash handling at all University of Texas component institutions is governed by University of Texas Board of Regents' Rules Series 22201.

University of Texas Board of Regents' Rules Series 22201*"



To: "Cash handling at all University of Texas component institutions is governed by UT System Policy 166 Cash Management and Cash Handling Policy.

UTS166 Cash Management and Cash Handling Policy*"

16.4. Removal of Equipment From the Inventory

Removed the following line from section G.2:

For details on the procedure, refer to the Process for Removing Items Where the Proceeds from Sale Could Exceed $25,000 procedures.

7.1. Introduction and Resources, 7.6.4. Federal Reporting

Links and references to the Central Contractor Registration (CCR) system were updated to reflect the name of its replacement, the System for Award Management (SAM).

10.3.2. Responsibilities, 10.3.4. Expenditures/Costs, 11.4. Cash Advance for Travel

References to "UBOC member" were updated to reflect the new position name, "business officer."

24.1. Introduction and Resources, 24.3. Federal Small Business Program, 24.5.1. Vendor Guidelines for Doing Business with the University of Texas at Austin as a Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) or Federal Small Business Concern

Links and references to the Central Contractor Registration (CCR) system were updated to reflect the name of its replacement, the System for Award Management (SAM).

17.2. Types of Awards

Updated the text in i. Unspent Funds from "Upon completion of a contract, the associated University account is closed, and net proceeds are transferred to a centrally administered project adjustment account. The project adjustment account will be maintained at a funding level sufficient to cover forecasted uncollectible accounts receivable amounts (bad debt). Any amount in excess of the total annual forecasted bad debt will be transferred to the Vice President for Research to provide seed funding for research initiatives.

Office of the Vice President for Research"

to

"Upon completion of a contract, the associated University account is closed, and net proceeds are transferred to a centrally administered project adjustment account. The project adjustment account will be managed by the Office of the Executive Vice President & Provost and used to support research administration and initiatives."

10.3.5. Rate Setting

Changed "All internal users must be charged the same rate(s) for the same level of service or products under the same circumstances." to "All internal users must be charged the same rate(s) for the same level of service or products." in section B. 

20.4.1. Unit Records Manager (URM) Responsibilities

Page title, URL, and content were updated to reflect the new name of the Departmental Records Management Contact (DRMC): Unit Records Manager (URM)

20.1. Introduction and Resources, 20.4 Departmental Records Management - General Information, 20.4.2. Records Inventory, 20.4.3. Records Management Plan

References to "Departmental Records Management Contacts (DRMC)" were updated to the new title, "Unit Records Managers (URM)."

20.2.1. Records Management Services Documents

Added amendment dates to Section A:

The University of Texas at Austin Records Retention Schedule (UTRRS) (PDF)

7^th Recertification November 10, 2014

          Amendment 1 – March 24, 2016

          Amendment 2 – April 28, 2016

          Amendment 3 – February 28, 2017

7.5.5. Invitation to Bid (ITB) - Purchase Value Greater Than $50,000; Based Solely on Price and Delivery

Added the following to section B:

7. The purchasing buyer may need to take steps to determine if pricing received from a bidder is fair and reasonable (ref. FAR 15.404-1). This can be done by comparing the proposed price to that of a same or similar item by reviewing: historical prices paid; published price lists; or

• historical prices paid;
• published price lists; or
• prices obtained through market research, including Web research.

The purchasing buyer should also confirm with the respondent that the pricing is the best pricing available and that no other discounts or incentives are available to the university.

7.6.3. Additional Thresholds for U.S. Government Prime Contracts

$25,000 changed to $30,000 and $650,000 changed to $700,000 in section B.

7.6.2. Cost Reasonableness or Cost/Price Analysis - Federal Grants and U.S. Government Prime Contracts

$700,000 changed to $750,000 in section C.

19.1.3. Equipment Insurance and Related Claims

Updated the following: 

B. Rates

Equipment insurance for the current policy period (November 1, 2016 – October 31, 2017) can be purchased at a rate of $0.60 per $100 of equipment value for most items, and $1.25 per $100 of equipment value for airborne or waterborne use items. Any equipment permanently housed in an outdoor environment is subject to a rate of $1.07 per $100 of equipment value.

15.1. Introduction and Resources

Added the following to to section A:

SAR has delegated to the International Office the acceptance of foreign wires on behalf of international students that are for payment of their tuition and fees and other student bills.  Specific requirements and processes for acceptance of these foreign wires will be maintained by the International Office and approved by SAR.

9.1.11 Relocation Expenses

Removed "security deposits" from the list of taxable reimbursements.

7.1. Introduction and Resources

Updated the location of the Purchasing Office.

11.5.3. Other Expenses

Commuting expenses added to section C.

11.5.2. Meals and Lodging

Changed $140 to $142 in section D.

20.2.2. How to Use The University of Texas at Austin Records Retention Schedule (UTRRS)

Updates made throughout page.

20.4.1. Departmental Records Management Contact (DRMC) Responsibilities

Updated Records Management courses.

7.5.2. Use of Existing Contracts

Updates made throughout page.

19.1.3. Equipment Insurance and Related Claims

Updated dates in section B.

20.2.2. How to Use The University of Texas at Austin Records Retention Schedule (UTRRS)

Updates made throughout page, added Note 5:

Note 5 – Contracts with a private contractor that will create, manage, or maintain state records must expressly provide that the contractor will comply with applicable state laws and University policies relating to the management, access, retention and destruction of state records. Refer to University of Texas at Austin Handbook of Operating Procedures 3‐1410 VII.D.5 and Handbook of Business Procedures Part 20.4.4 Contracts Pertaining to State Records.

Summary: If a unit chooses to contract with a third party who will create, manage, or maintain university records, the language of the contract must state that the third party will follow state laws and University policies regarding University records that are in its care.

20.2.3. Archival Requirements

Updated references to UTRRS.

9.1.7. Advances for Research Subjects and Survey Participants

Changed "OV7" to "OV2" in section C.

11.4. Cash Advance for Travel

Updates made throughout page.

9.1.7. Advances for Research Subjects and Survey Participants

Updates made throughout page, added section L:

L. Reimbursement for Research Subjects and Survey Participants Expenses

A researcher can be reimbursed for research subjects and survey participants expenses without requesting a cash advance on a *DEFINE VP2 payment document but must follow sections C-G above using one of these two forms: Individual Receipt Form for Out of Pocket Expenses* or theMultiple Participant Receipt Form for Out of Pocket Expense* for these payments. If you use either of these two forms, you must also complete the Summary Reconciliation Sheet for Out of Pocket Expenses* for reconciliation totals

19.2. UTDRIVERS

Updated the following:

Driver Training

• Driver Training Procedures: Check with supervisor or department contact for the procedures and the account number to which the training course fee should be charged.

9.1.1 Entertainment and Official Occasion Expenses

Updated the following:

D. Oversight of Entertainment Expenditures

Deans, vice presidents, and vice president equivalents may approve their own expenditures and exceptions; however official delegates may not approve their own expenditures, regardless if the payment is by reimbursement or direct payment to the vendor, and they may not approve any exceptions.

9.1.11 Relocation Expenses

Updated the following:

5. If new hire doesn’t provide documentation of expenses for reimbursement, then a lump sum payment of the relocation allowance amount is processed on a Departmental (Manual) Payroll Voucher submitted to Payroll Services along with a copy of the offer letter.

11.5.2. Meals and Lodging

Added the following:

I. Hotel Rewards and Other Rewards Program



Subject to changes in state law, rewards such as hotel rewards and frequent flier miles earned as a result of individual business travel may be retained by the employee. However, employees that arrange group travel for their department may not use rewards for personal travel. Arranging conferences and events with hotels is also considered group travel. Rewards generated through university group travel bookings must be used for future university group travel. It is the responsibility of the department to monitor that rewards generated through university group travel bookings are used for future university group travel. Rewards programs incentives must not influence individual business travel decisions.

11.5.1. Transportation

Updated the following:

3. Frequent Flyer Miles and Other Rewards Programs

Subject to changes in state law, rewards such as frequent flier miles or hotel rewards earned as a result of individual business travel may be retained by the employee. However, employees that arrange group travel for their department may not use rewards for personal travel. Arranging conferences and events with hotels is also considered group travel. Rewards generated through university group travel bookings must be used for future university group travel. It is the responsibility of the department to monitor that rewards generated through university group travel bookings are used for future university group travel. Rewards programs incentives must not influence individual business travel decisions.

An employee may be reimbursed for the cost of a buy one, get one free promotion. However, the amount of reimbursement is limited to the charges shown on the ticket with the employee's name.

9.1.1. Entertainment and Official Occasion Expenses

Updated the following:

H. Approval to Serve Alcohol in Campus Facilities

Advance approval by an approved delegate is required to serve alcohol in campus facilities, including leased spaces. This approval must be submitted with the Official Occasion Expense Form. Vouchers will be rejected if a delegate’s prior approval has not been obtained.  For more information, refer to the Request Exception to Serve Alcoholic Beverages at an Event on Campus page.

7.7.9. Emergency Purchases

Content moved to 7.5.3. Exclusive Acquisition

Part 7. Purchasing Table of Contents

Changed 7.7.12. Purchasing of Licensing Software to 7.7.12. Software Licenses

7.5.2. Use of Existing Contracts

Updates throughout page.

7.5.3. Exclusive Acquisition

Added to section 3. Emergency Purchase

7.6.1. Debarment and Suspension

Rewrote second paragraph

7.6.2. Cost Reasonableness or Cost/Price Analysis – Federal Grants and U.S. Government Prime Contracts

Added information to section B. Purchases Greater than $5,000

11.5.2. Meals and Lodging

Updated reimbursement amounts in sections D and E.

19.1.2. Charter Bus Insurance Requirements

Added link to UT Systems Policy UTS157

20.2.5. UT Codes and Prefixes

Updated the List of UT Code Prefixes

7.7.12. Purchasing and Licensing Software

Section rewritten

7.6.4. Federal Reporting

Added the following:

• OMB Uniform Guidance
  
  The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) “Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards; Final Rule” was released in the Federal Register on December 26, 2013 (2 CFR Chapter I, Chapter II, Part 200, et al.). Per the OMB website this guidance “will supersede requirements from OMB Circulars A-21, A-87, A-110, and A-122 (which have been placed in 2 C.F.R. Parts 220, 225, 215, and 230); Circulars A-89, A-102, and A-133; and the guidance in Circular A-50 on Single Audit Act follow-up.”
  
  
  
  The University of Texas at Austin will implement the Procurement Standards effective September 1, 2017.

9.1.3. Bottled Water Purchase

Updated the following:

B. Purchase Requirements

A department should not process individual purchase orders monthly for any known, long-term requirements, including monthly water purchase. If the purchase of bottled water is an ongoing requirement and recurs on a monthly basis, an annual blanket purchase order must be in place. All water purchases must following these guidelines:

• For annual blanket orders or individual purchases of $15,000 or less, competitive bids are not required and the order may be processed on a PBO document. Additionally, the purchase may be processed on a procurement card (Procard) up to the maximum transaction limit for the card and keeping in mind that total is the annual total for blanket orders.
• For orders that total between $15,000.01 up to a maximum of $50,000, a minimum of three bids are required and the order should be processed on a PB3 document.
• For orders totaling over $50,000, formal bids must be solicited by the Purchasing Office and should be submitted on a PB4 document.

20.1. Introduction and Resources

Updated the following:

D. Resources

• Records Management Services (RMS)
• Handbook of Operating Procedures: 3-1410 Records Management
• OHS Contacts System – For designating Departmental Records Management Contact (DRMC)
• Records Management Services mailing list:
  • DRMCs are required to subscribe to the records management mailing list by contacting RMS.
  • Non-DRMC staff members who are assigned records management responsibilities may request to be subscribed by contacting RMS.
• How to Use The University of Texas at Austin Records Retention Schedule (UTRRS)
• Austin Task – A preferred vendor for secure destruction of confidential or sensitive records. For more information, refer to 20.7.4. Contact and Payment Procedures for Document Destruction Vendor.
• Handbook of Operating Procedures
• 20.2.1. Records Management Services Documents
• Legal sources
  • Texas Administrative Code, Title 13, Part 1, Chapter 6. State Records
  • Texas Government Code, Title 4, Subtitle D, Chapter 441.183-441.200
• Training
  • Training Resources
  • Classes

11.1. Travel Introduction and Resources

Added the following:

Prospective Employee Travel Cheat Sheet***

11.5.2. Meals and Lodging

Updated the following:

B. General Requirements for Meals and Lodging Reimbursements

When traveling in-state or out-of-state on local or state funds, the meal expense reimbursement rate may be reduced and a corresponding amount used to increase the lodging reimbursement rate. However, lodging expense may not be reduced to increase the meal reimbursement rate.

11.5.2. Meals and Lodging

Updated the following:

D. Overnight Travel in Texas

1. State Accounts

State accounts and state-funded 18- and 26-accounts are limited by the U.S. General Services Administration federal per diem tables. The rates may be found in *DEFINE using the GG1 command. These rates are updated each Oct. 1, when the federal government announces their updated rates.

Reimbursements for travel to a Texas city for any county not listed in the federal rate tables are limited to actual expenses not to exceed $140, of which meals can be up to $51 per day.

21.2. Guidelines

Updated the following:

Individuals need a notary stamp that includes the statement "Notary without Bond"- and a record book. It is the sponsoring department's responsibility to purchase these items. Departments should not do so until the individual has received his or her Notary Commission Certificate. Effective Jan. 1, 2016, all notary seals issued must include the notary’s identification number. This applies to all current notaries, not just those who are new or renewing. It is the university’s recommendation that all current notaries renew their notary seals to be in compliance with Texas House Bill 1683.

State Office of Risk Management (SORM)—Notary Without Bond Forms 

Texas House Bill 1683

9.1.9. Use of University Funds for Parking Expenditures

All Interdepartmental Transfers (IDTs) for parking expenditures are subject to Office of Accounting approval. If the account used on the IDT is not deemed suitable for parking, another account must be provided.

7.5.2. Use of Existing Contracts

Updated the following:

1. Premier, Inc.
   • For amounts between $15,000 and $3 million only one quote or proposal is required.
   • For amounts greater than $3 million, a minimum of three quote or proposals are required from suppliers in the same category
     • If there are only two suppliers in a category, obtain proposals from both.
     • If only one supplier has a contract, this must be documented in the purchasing file, and the purchase can be made without further justification.
   • For purchases that will exceed $3 million, approval from the UT System Board of Regents Audit, Compliance and Management Review Committee (ACMR) must be received prior to issuance of a purchase order or contract.
   • UT System Board of Regents approval is required for amounts greater than $3 million.

11.1. Travel Introduction and Resources

Added the following:

Local Travel Checklist**

State Travel Checklist**

7.2. Authority to Obligate

7.4. Purchasing Process

7.5. Solicitation Procedures - General Information

7.5.2. Use of Existing Contracts

7.5.3. Exclusive Acquisition

7.5.4. Informal Bids - Purchase Value of $15,000.01 - $50,000

7.5.5. Invitation to Bid (ITB) - Purchase Value Greater than $50,000; Based Solely on Price and Delivery

7.5.6. Request for Proposal (RFP) – Purchase Value Greater than $50,000; Based on Factors in Addition to Price and Delivery

7.7.1. Purchase of Used Equipment

7.7.5. Blanket Purchase Orders

7.7.12. Purchasing and of Licensing Software

7.10.2. UT Market Purchase Order Changes

7.11.2. Bid and Proposal Submission Requirements

Updated pages to reflect new purchasing threshold amounts, and changed “supplier” to “vendor” where applicable.

11.5.5. Non-Employee Travel Reimbursement Procedures

Added the following:

D. Reimbursements to Ten or More Non-Employees

As a general rule, an APS may not cross fiscal years; this includes an APS for payments for services or honoraria. The exception to this rule is a "travel-only" APS, which may span fiscal years if the start date and end date of the trip occur in different fiscal years. 

11.5.5. Non-Employee Travel Reimbursement Procedures

Added the following:

D. Reimbursements to Ten or More Non-Employees

As a general rule, an APS may not cross fiscal years; this includes an APS for payments for services or honoraria. The exception to this rule is a "travel-only" APS, which may span fiscal years if the start date and end date of the trip occur in different fiscal years. 

9.1.10. Co-Sponsorships

Updated the following:

A co-sponsorship is funding for a specific event or function, that is planned, hosted, and sponsored by an outside entity, where the University of Texas at Austin participates in the event and receives a benefit as well as recognition for the co-sponsorship. (Note: Any agreements or contracts relating to sponsorship needs to be signed by a person who has delegated signature authority, such as the Business Contracts Office.)

B. Requirements

Processing a payment for a co-sponsorship requires the following:

• Description of the planned event or function and supporting documentation stating how the funds will be used
• Date(s) of the event or function

Also updated the following forms:

• Co-Sponsorship Approval Form
• Co-Sponsorship Approval Form for Sponsored Projects

16.2. Acquisition of Equipment

Updated the following:

Newly purchased vehicles and electric carts (costing $5,000 and up) that are received by Fleet Management Services in Parking and Transportation Services are tagged by Fleet Management Services. Self-tagging departments are not responsible for tagging these items but must still supply Inventory Services with the tagging detail. Note: Attaching property control plates or tags, or otherwise marking capital or controlled items to indicate university ownership is required by state law. For information about the sale and purchase of vehicles, refer to 16.4.1. Vehicle Title Transfers.

9.1.1. Entertainment and Official Occasion Expenses

Added the following:

Code 1347 —Official Occasions and Administrative/Business Meeting

Cost of food, beverages, catering charges, waiters, decorations, flowers, invitations, room rentals, or related expenses associated with an official occasion or business meeting. The event is usually a reception, luncheon, or dinner. Many events are associated with special programs, university guests, faculty and staff recruitment and similar university activities. Examples include conferences/workshops/seminars, development events (donor receptions, fundraising activities, etc.), planned retreats, staff meetings, unit or department employee morale events, or contract and grant programs. In addition, all food/beverage items for the break room, or not associated with a university-funded event, such as coffee, cream, sugar, beverages, and water, must be coded 1347 and an OOEF is required.

This object code should not be used for payments to speakers, travel costs for speakers, lodging, participant support fees, awards, and cash prizes as a result of a competition.

Code 1402 - Consumable Supplies-Non-Office

Cost of consumable/disposable, non-food/non-beverage items not associated with a university-funded event, such as coffee filters, plastic utensils, paper plates, paper towels, and soap. An Official Occasion Expense Form is not required for this type of expense; however, when purchased with state funds, the department must document how the purchase is necessary to accomplish a public purpose that is related to the agency’s legal authority or duties. Refer to use of Code 1347 for food/beverage items not associated with a university-funded event.

11.5.1. Transportation

Added the following:

2. Mileage Within a City

An employee can be reimbursed actual mileage for business travel within a city, including for travel between their home and the nearest airport or from the employee's place of employment to the airport.The number of miles reimbursed can be documented with either (a) actual odometer readings, (b) mileage computed by an online mapping tool (MapQuest is required for state funds), or, (c) by using the pre-determined mileage shown below (if applicable).  

Pre-Determined Distances:

An employee may be reimbursed for the mileage incurred by another person transporting the employee to the airport. The reimbursement may not exceed the reimbursement that would have been paid if the employee had driven himself or herself to the airport.

6.1. Cash Handling Introduction and Resources

Added the following link:

Cash Transfer Log

7.4. Purchasing Process

Updated "Sole source" to "Exclusive Aquisition".

7.7.1. Purchase of Used Equipment

In general, the purchase of used equipment may not be processed as a exclusive acquisition purchase. Although the equipment may have originally been available from only one source, once equipment appears on the used equipment market, a variety of sellers may be able to provide the equipment to the university.

If extenuating circumstances exist that prevent competitive bidding and the order exceeds $5,000, a exclusive acquisition justification form must be provided.

7.7.5.Blanket Purchase Orders

• If single releases (single invoice or delivery) against the blanket purchase order are expected to be greater than $5,000, the award must be based on university guidelines regarding informal bids, formal solicitations, or exclusive acquisition justifications. For more information, see the Handbook of Business Procedures, 7.4. Purchasing Process - General Information.
• If single releases against the blanket purchase order will not exceed $5,000, an award can be made without informal/formal bidding or a exclusive acquisition justification. Note: Departments must include the statement “no single invoice or delivery against this purchase order can exceed $5,000” in the body of the purchase order.

7.5.7 Request for Qualifications - Used to Qualify Suppliers

A. Guidelines

A Request for Qualifications is used to identify a group of vendors who meet a set of minimum qualifications in order to submit proposals for a planned solicitation. Only qualified vendors are permitted to submit proposals to the solicitation.

Requests for Qualifications add time to the overall solicitation process, but can be valuable in situations where:

• many suppliers provide the goods or service, but the overall quality, reputation, and capabilities are widely variable.
• aspects of the solicitation are confidential and there is a need to restrict access to information that would otherwise be publically posted.
• it is unclear whether one supplier has a unique or proprietary offering that could be justified as an exclusive acquisition procurement.

B. Procedure

1. The decision to use the Request for Qualifications process is generally made through discussions between the requesting department and the Purchasing Office. Note: Since this process does not conclude with a contract award suppliers are not asked to provide pricing or delivery information.
2. The Purchasing Office and the department develop a general scope of work (SOW) along with a set of questions that will be asked of the suppliers to determine their qualifications for the project.
3. The department identifies a team of end users/subject matter experts to review vendor submissions and score the responses. The team develops a scoring methodology that will be used in the scoring process. Team members each sign a Non-Disclosure/Conflict of Interest statement. The designated Purchasing Office buyer will provide the form.
4. The Request for Qualifications is posted for a minimum of two weeks.
5. The evaluation team scores the responses and identifies those suppliers who meet the minimum qualification requirements. Only qualified suppliers are asked to participate in any subsequent solicitation.
6. When the Request for Qualifications is concluded, the university may or may not issue a solicitation.

7.5.9. HUB Subcontracting Requirements (HSP)

When the value of a competitive solicitation is expected to be $100,000 or greater and there is an expectation that subcontracting opportunities exist, the university requires that a  Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) Subcontracting Plan be submitted as part of the response.

The HUB subcontracting plan requirement is included in formal solicitation documents. For procurements made through existing contracts or exclusive acquisition determinations, a HUB subcontracting plan is not required.

For more information about HSP requirements, contact the HUB/SB Staff.

7.5.3. Exclusive Acquisition

A. Introduction

Most purchases at The University of Texas at Austin are made on a competitive basis. However, there may be times when competition does not exist or it is in the university’s best interest to use a particular product or service. Since these purchases eliminate competition, the university requires that justification be submitted with any purchase where only one supplier is being considered for requests that exceed $5,000. The justification does not require departments to defend the need for the product or service, but it is necessary to:

1. Identify the unique features of the particular product or service.
2. Explain the need for the unique features of the product or service.
3. Explain why other products/vendors are not acceptable.

For more information, refer to examples of exclusive acquisition justification forms and guidelines for completing the form on the Purchasing Forms and Templates Web page.

B. Types of Exclusive Acquisitions

There are four categories of purchases that require exclusive acquisition justification

1. Proprietary (as defined in Texas Government Code 2155.067)

Justification for a proprietary purchase is used when the goods or services are only available through a single source. The Purchasing Office establishes that the selection meets best value criteria. Some examples include:

1. Equipment maintenance or repair parts from the original equipment manufacturer (OEM).
2. Pharmaceuticals or chemical reagents that are only available through one supplier.
3. Software or software maintenance that is only available through one software supplier.

2. Best Value (as defined in Texas Government Code 2155.067)

Justification for a best-value purchase is used when it is in the best interest of the university to use the particular product or service, but there is actually more than one source available. The Purchasing Office establishes that the selection meets best-value criteria. Some examples include:

1. Specific reagents used in long-term experiments. For continuity of research, a lab would need to continue using the same products for the duration of the experiment.
2. Compatibility with existing equipment. A laboratory is purchasing a new component from a supplier to add to an existing piece of equipment to enhance its quality/performance.
3. A contract or grant specifically names a supplier, product, or service that is required for the university to use.

3. Emergency Purchase(as defined in Texas Government Code 2155.086 )

Justification for an emergency purchase occurs as the result of an unforeseen circumstance that requires an immediate response to prevent financial or operational damage to the university. If a situation arises in which routine compliance with procurement practice is impractical and not in the university’s best interest, an emergency purchase may be warranted to prevent a hazard to life, health, safety, welfare, or property, or to avoid undue additional cost to the university. Emergency purchases of goods or services are performed to restore a system to its original intended functionality and must not exceed the scope or duration of the emergency. The Purchasing Office will establish that the selection meets best value criteria.

4. Professional Services (as defined in Texas Government Code 2254.002)

Professional service providers must normally be pre-qualified based upon a Request for Qualifications (RFQ). The contract award is based on negotiation with the most qualified provider. When a professional service is required and no pre-qualification has been established, a contract award must be justified as an exclusive acquisition to establish that the selection meets best-value criteria.

1. Professional service providers are normally licensed or certified and the scope of their services include:
   1. accounting
   2. architecture
   3. landscape architecture
   4. land surveying
   5. medicine
   6. optometry
   7. professional engineering
   8. real estate appraising
   9. professional nursing
2. A provider of professional services may not be selected on the basis of competitive bids, but rather on basis of demonstrated competence and qualifications to perform the service and for a fair and reasonable price.

C. Procedure

Departments must use the most current version of the Exclusive Acquisition Justification form **available on the Purchasing Forms and Templates web page. Information on the form must be typed and alterations to the form will not be accepted. Completed forms must be emailed to the department’s Purchasing Office buying team.

D. Resources

• Exclusive Acquisition Justification Form**
• Exclusive Acquisition Justification (EAJ) Form Instructions**
• Exclusive Acquisition Justification Form Template for Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) for Maintenance and Repair**
• Exclusive Acquisition Justification Form Template for Software Maintenance Agreement with Original Licensor**

** Note: This document requires that you be able to view Excel documents. A free Word viewer may be obtained from Microsoft.

7.7.12. Purchasing and Licensing Software

A. Introduction

These procedures apply to the acquisition of software, whether installed locally or hosted remotely, where the software provider requires that a Software License Agreement (SLA) be accepted by The University of Texas at Austin. The Business Contracts Office has delegated authority to enter into software licenses on behalf of the university.

B. Procedure

For these situations, departments must follow the appropriate procedures listed below.

• For Purchases of $5,000 or Less
  
  Schools and departments can issue a purchase order for the purchase of the software, but must have the SLA reviewed and approved by the Business Contracts Office. A  Software License Intake Form must be completed and forwarded to the Business Contracts Office. Payment must be completed with a *DEFINE VP1 document.
• For Procard Purchases of $1,000 or Less
  
  Schools and departments can pay for software on a ProCard for amounts up to $1,000. Low dollar software is generally less risky and often requires acknowledgement of the license via a click through agreement. These agreements should be reviewed by the software purchasers to make sure that they understand the terms of compliance.
• For Purchases Greater than $5,000
  
  Schools’ and departments’ purchasing requisitions are routed to the Purchasing Office for approval. All supporting documents, such as quotations or exclusive acquisition justifications, must be forwarded to the department’s  buyer team in the Purchasing Office. In addition, a Software License Intake Form  must be completed and forwarded to the Business Contracts Office. Payment must be completed with a *DEFINE VP1 document.
• No-Charge Software
  
  A  Software License Intake Form must be completed and forwarded to the Business Contracts Office. If the software provider requires a Software License Agreement, it must be reviewed and approved by the Business Contracts Office.

C. Software License Intake Form

The form provides the Business Contracts Office with the necessary information regarding the planned use of the software in order to determine if additional review and approval is required by other university offices such as:

• Information Security Office (security)
• Office of Community Engagement and Diversity (accessibility)
• Legal Affairs (privacy)
• Purchasing Office

D. Software License Agreement (SLA) Processing

1. Departments review the license and confirm that they are able to comply with the business terms of the SLA (e.g., user restrictions, vendor access, intellectual property, and renewal procedures). Any anticipated issues should be noted on the Software License Intake Form. Forward the completed  Software License Intake Form and any Software License Agreement to the Business Contracts Office.
2. The Software License Agreement is reviewed in accordance with a checklist of requirements provided by the UT System Office of General Council. Based on the review, a determination is made regarding terms and conditions that must be negotiated with the software provider.
3. The Business Contracts Office determines if there are additional reviews/approvals required and makes arrangements to initiate those processes if necessary.
4. When all requirements have been met and the Software License Agreement terms and conditions are finalized with the software provider, the Software License Agreement is reviewed and signed by the Business Contracts Administrator.
5. The Software License Agreement must be fully executed by both the University and the software manufacturer prior to issuing a purchase order.

E. Payments for Renewal and Maintenance Fees

Subsequent invoices for periodic renewals, maintenance fees, and other charges associated with the license are to be paid on a *DEFINE VP2 document using the original Software License Agreement as supporting documentation. No additional purchase order or purchasing justification is required. If the Licensor requires a signed document for the renewal/maintenance, the document must be reviewed and signed by the Business Contracts Office. If there is no approved Software License Agreement associated with the charges, the department issues a purchase order and makes payment on a *DEFINE VP1 document.

G. Donated Software

Software that is being donated to the university must be reviewed by the Development Office to determine how the donation is to be valued and recognized. Donated software does require a Software License Intake Form to be completed to determine if additional reviews and approvals are required. If the software provider requires a Software License Agreement, it must be reviewed and approved by the Business Contracts Office.

6.6. Petty Cash Funds

Updated the following :

D. Petty Cash Maintenance Requirements

The following petty cash maintenance requirements are in place to ensure proper cash management procedures are followed in compliance with UTS166 Section 7 Cash Handling.

1. Approved letter required by section 6.6.C. above authorizing the establishment of the petty cash account must be kept by the department as long as the account is in use. Letter must be made available to auditors or other administrative staff upon request.
2. Reconciliation
   1. Monthly reconciliations for all petty cash accounts are required and must be submitted to the Cash Management section of the Office of Accounting, Campus Mail Code K5300, Attn: Petty Cash.
   2. Petty cash bank accounts should use the Imprest Fund Bank Account Reconciliation form AC217-4 and non-bank account (cash) petty cash accounts should use the Cash Imprest Fund Reconciliation Sheet form AC217-3. Other reconciliation formats are allowable with approval from Cash Management.
   3. If the reconciliation of a petty cash account of $500 or more is not received within 60 days after the close of a month, the account will be referred to the Office of Internal Audits for review.

3. Annual Confirmations – at least annually, Cash Management will:

   If the confirmation of a petty cash account of $500 or more is not received within 60 days of the original request, the account will be referred to the Office of Internal Audits for review.

   1. Confirm the continued need of each petty cash account.
   2. Confirm the appropriateness of the balance of each petty cash account.
   3. Confirm the account contact information of each petty cash account, including verifying and/or updating the responsible person and custodian(s).

19.1.11. Tenant and Users Liability Insurance Policy (TULIP) Program

Updated the following :

D. TULIP Coverage

1. How to Apply for TULIP Coverage

The management of the university facility that is being rented out is responsible for securing the appropriate insurance, based on the university contract or facility use agreement. Insurance terms and conditions are included in the university’s standard contract templates.

a. If TULIP is needed, complete the Request for TULIP Insurance form using the Events List as a guide. Complete all highlighted fields in the COI & Premium Calculation tab of the spreadsheet.

7.7.5. Blanket Purchase Orders

Updated the following:

B. Guidelines

The following guidelines apply to blanket purchase orders.

• They are school- or department-specific, and funds must be encumbered based on a reliable estimate of the amount to be purchased within the fiscal year.
• They cannot extend beyond the current fiscal year.
• All campus-wide, multiple-department, and/or multiple-year requirements must be placed on a contract. Note: Schools and departments may issue a blanket purchase order to proportionally encumber funds in a specific fiscal year for services and commodities that are on contracts spanning multiple fiscal years.
• Equipment leases and maintenance agreements should not be on blanket purchase orders because the quantity and frequency of delivery must be defined at the inception of those agreements.
• They are not intended for the purchase of items for which the university requires additional supporting documentation, such as an Official Occasion Expense Form (OOEF). Note: Blanket orders can be used to order coffee, water, and other drinks; however, the school/department will be responsible for maintaining any required OOEFs related to such purchases.
• They are not for use with UT Market orders.
• They are paid on *DEFINE VP1 voucher documents.
• All blanket orders must contain verbiage specifying the contract period. For example: “Contract period is from date of order through August 31, 20XX. There shall be no price increases during this contract period.” Schools and departments must inform the supplier of intent to use a blanket purchase order when requesting a quote for goods/services and that the pricing will be held for the term of the blanket order.
• If appropriate, the blanket order may contain verbiage about estimated usage. For example: “This order is an estimate of usage/services only. No maximum or minimum quantity is guaranteed.”

19.1.9. Camp Insurance

Added the following :

• 1. How to Apply for Coverage

  a. Complete the appropriate form at least 7 business days prior to the start of the camp.It will take at least 5 business days to receive a certificate of insurance.

  • Sports Camp Application Form
  • Educational (Non-sports) Camp Application Form

  b. Completed applications should be sent to The University of Texas System Office of Risk Management (ORM), Attn: Ruth Maldonado, via email at rmaldonado@utsystem.edu or fax to 512-499-4524. Please do not send applications to Southwest Special Risk Insurance.

  c. The University of Texas System Office of Risk Management (ORM) will accept the application as an order to bind coverage for the camp.  Once ORM has received your application, coverage will be binding unless there are any inaccuracies in the application, i.e. number of days is incorrect or premium does not calculate correctly.  If inaccuracies are noted, ORM will contact you as soon as possible to have them corrected.

  2. Billing

  Billing is coordinated by The University of Texas System’s Risk Finance Office. The camp insurance broker will bill each camp administrator individually.

  •  
    1. Southwest Special Risk Insurance will email an invoice for 50 percent of the quoted premium, a certificate of insurance, and claims form to the designated Camp Director.
    2. Timely payment of the 50 percent deposit is due directly to Southwest Special Risk.  Failure to make timely payments may result in removal of coverage and impact future eligibility to participate in the Camp Insurance Program.
    3. **Camp is held **
    4. Southwest Special Risk will contact the designated Camp Director at the end of each camp with the actual, final number of campers and coaches/staff and will send a final invoice for the remaining premium balance (based on the actual camper counts) to the designated Camp Director.
    5. Timely payment of any additional premium is due directly to Southwest Special Risk.  Failure to make timely payments may result in removal of coverage and impact future eligibility to participate in the Camp Insurance Program.
    6. Important: Please note that Southwest Special Risk Insurance has an updated Employer Identification Number.  Use the revised W9 to update your vendor payment records.

  3. Reporting Claims

  Claims should be reported as soon as possible, using the procedures outlined on the Summit America Insurance claim form

  E. Resources

  • For additional information about camp insurance, email Ruth Maldonado at rmaldonado@utsystem.edu or visit The University of Texas System’s Camp Insurance Program page.
  • Risk Management Guidelines for Special Events (Sponsored by UT, Sponsored by Third Party, Jointly Sponsored, Third Parties Providing Services)
  • The University of Texas System’s Risk Finance Office

11.5.3 Other Expenses

Added the following :

• TSA Pre✓® Application Program fee - http://www.tsa.gov/tsa-precheckR-application-program (local accounts only)

9.1.9. Use of University Funds for Parking Expenditures

Updated the following :

G. University-Owned Vehicles

Departments can purchase permits to park university-owned vehicles on campus. Refer to Parking and Transportation Services for information on university-owned vehicle permits.

Account Guidelines for University-Owned Vehicles

• Expenditures for university-owned vehicles can be charged to the following accounts:
  
   

   

  • State-funded Accounts: 14- and 20- Accounts
  • Designated Funds: 19-Accounts (other than Indirect Cost Return (ICR) and student funded accounts)
  • Designated Funds: ICR 19-Accounts for Organized Research Units (ORU), if expenditure supports the research mission of the ORU
  • Auxiliary Funds: 29-Accounts (other than student funded accounts)
  • Gift Funds: 30-Accounts that are unrestricted and are not endowed

11.5.1. Transportation

Updated the following :

1. Mileage Between Cities

For official point-to-point mileage you may use odometer readings or mileage computed by an online mapping tool. For travel paid with local funds, any online mapping tool may be used while travel paid with state funds can only be calculated using Mapquest.

Voucher Requirements:

• The voucher must state that travel occurred using a personally owned or leased motor vehicle.
• Travel locations must be identified on the voucher, and mileage must be itemized on a point-to-point basis. In other words, mileage is calculated from a starting point to an ending point using beginning and ending odometer readings or online mapping tool calculations.

2. Mileage Within a City

An employee may be reimbursed actual mileage for travel between home and the nearest airport or from the employee's place of employment to the airport. The number of miles reimbursed from the employee’s home can be documented with either actual odometer readings or mileage computed by an online mapping tool.  For travel paid with local funds, any online mapping tool may be used while travel paid with state funds can only be calculated using MapQuest.

19.1.11. Tenant and Users Liability Insurance Policy (TULIP) Program

Updated the following :

a. If TULIP is needed, complete the Request for TULIP Insurance form. Complete all highlighted fields in the COI & Premium Calculation tab of the spreadsheet.

16.3.2 Sale of Equipment

Modified the following line:

B. Departmental Sale of Equipment with Estimated Value of $25,000 or More

In addition to the requirements detailed in section C of this policy, sale of equipment with an estimated value of $25,000 or more requires that the property manager evaluate the request in conjunction with the associate vice president for finance, director of procurement and payment services, and chief financial officer. The decision is based on the condition of the equipment, the market value of similar or like equipment, and the potential to reap a higher dollar return than placing the property in a scheduled quarterly live auction through Surplus.

In accordance with Board of Regents rule 80201, Section 4, sales expected to exceed $50,000 require chief financial officer approval and sales expected to exceed $100,000 require advance approval by the Chancellor and approval by the Board of Regents through the Consent Agenda. 

Department must submit an Inventory Removal Request (25K+) Form by email to Inventory Services to begin the review process. For details on the procedure, refer to the Process for Removing Items Where the Proceeds from Sale Could Exceed $25,000 procedures.

7.5.1. eCommerce – UT Market

Updated the following line:

• Receipt: The receipt of the product is documented electronically in FRMS. For desktop delivery, departments must enter the receipt within 72 hours of the delivery. If shipments for a purchase order are split over multiple days, an electronic receipt should be entered for each partial shipment. Receipts for items delivered to Central Receiving are created by central receiving personnel.

  Per the Office of Accounting's Inventory Best Practices and Payment Vouchers handout:

  • The individual (receiver) receiving the shipment must be different than the buyer.
  • The receiver is responsible for signing and dating all invoices and/or packing slips . If the receiver verifies a shipment via email, a digital certificate must be attached to the email.

  Part 20.3.3.Financial Records states that packing slips and other support documentation received as hardcopy must be submitted to the Image Retrieval System to be imaged or retained in the department in accordance with all applicable retention codes.

7.4. Purchasing Process

Updated the following line:

• For desktop delivery, the requesting department must enter the receipt within 72 hours of the delivery. If shipments for a purchase order are split over multiple days, an electronic receipt should be entered for each partial shipment. Receipts are updated and finalized in the system daily. Receipts for items delivered to Central Receiving are created by central receiving personnel.

  Per the Office of Accounting's Inventory Best Practices and Payment Vouchers handout:

  • The individual (receiver) receiving the shipment must be different than the buyer.
  • The receiver is responsible for signing and dating all invoices and/or packing slips . If the receiver verifies a shipment via email, a digital certificate must be attached to the email.

9.1.1. Entertainment and Official Occasions Expenses

Modified the following line:

Expenses for alcohol may not be the primary expenditure, that is, greater than the total food expense.

11.5.1. Transportation

Added the following two paragraphs under Commercial Air.:

1. Commercial Air

All travel agency assisted business-related air travel for university employees and students must be arranged through Anthony Travel or Corporate Travel Planners, the two university-contracted travel agencies. For more information, including the exception request process, refer to the airfare purchase policy on the Travel Management Services website.

Travelers may use an online reservation tool (e.g., Expedia, Southwest.com) in addition to the university’s online tool, Concur. If an online tool other than Concur is used, the purchase invoice submitted to the Office of Accounting for reimbursement after the completion of the trip should include the traveler’s statement: Online selection is best value as consistent with institutional priorities.

Glossary

Added the following:

reimburse.To pay someone an amount of money equal to an amount the person has spent.

9.1.10. Co-Sponsorships

Added the following note:

Note: Any agreements or contracts relating to sponsorship needs to be signed by a person who has delegated signature authority, such as the Business Contracts Office.

12.2. Authorizations

Added the following:

The APS or PBS may not be used to procure services, which result in the creation of original literary, dramatic, musical, or artistic works (including photographic services, technical writing services, and songwriting services). Contact Business Contracts for assistance.

9.1.2. Other Reimbursements

Added the following:

2. Memberships

Professional, institutional, or social club memberships are allowable reimbursements for faculty or staff only if they pertain to the person’s job duties and benefit the university. The account number used must allow these types of purchases and should be coded as object code 1301 for professional and institutional membership or object code 1302 for social club dues. Otherwise, the vendor must be paid directly using a Procard or a *Define VP2 or VPE payment document. Purchase orders are not required for memberships. For social memberships, approval from the provost or the president is also required. For additional information on professional and institutional memberships, refer to the Provost’s Institutional Memberships and Dues for Professional Organizations page

Social Club Membership Approval Letter Sample for Academic Departments approved by Dean*

Social Club Membership Approval Letter Sample for Deans approved by Provost*

Social Club Membership Approval Letter Sample for Administrative Departments and Vice Presidents approved by President*

3. Professional License Fees

Professional license fees are allowable reimbursements for faculty or staff only if the payment of licensing fee relates to the university’s functions, and the department receives an adequate return for the payment. Departments may consider the following factors to determine an adequate return for the payment:

• If the employee works full-time or part-time
• If the employee uses his or her professional credentials in working outside the confines of state employment
• If the employee’s professional credentials are required or merely useful in performing his or her job duties

Departments must retain documentation on file that shows how the payment is directly and substantially related to the university’s functions and how an adequate return on the payment is received.

The account used must allow these types of purchases and should be coded as object code 1753. As an alternative to employee reimbursement, the vendor may also be paid directly using a Procard or a *DEFINE VP2 payment document. Purchase orders are not required for professional license fees.

9.1.4. Prepayments

Added the following:

professional license fee

7.7.7. Purchases That Do Not Require a Purchase Order

Updated list of goods and services purchased for The University of Texas at Austin use that do not require a purchase order.

7.5.9. HUB Subcontracting Requirements (HSP)

Updated the following:

Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) Subcontracting Plan

Forms

Updated the following Inventory forms:

• Property Transfer Receipt(Agencies)**- New
• Property Transfer Receipt(Non-Agencies)**- New
• Property Transfer Receipt - Non-Texas State Agency Incoming **- New
• Inventory Removal Request**- New

9.1.10. Co-Sponsorships

Updated the following:

C. Procedures

1. Complete and attach the appropriate Co-Sponsorship form(s) to the payment document that is sent to Accounts Payable.

• Use of noncentrally-funded designated funds (19-account), non-centrally funded auxiliary funds (29-account), gift funds (30-account), or all other appropriate accounts should complete the Co-Sponsorship Approval Form.

9.1.1. Entertainment and Official Occasions Expenses

Added the following:

E. Entertainment Limits

Note: If multiple payment documents are submitted for the same event and alcohol is paid separately, then a copy of all backup documentation related to the event must be included to verify alcohol expense is not greater than food expense.

20.2.1. Records Management Services Documents

Deleted some of the lines from this page.

Updated the following:

The University of Texas at Austin Records Retention Schedule (UTRRS)

Records Inventory Workbook

Request to Dispose of Records Form

9.1.10. Co-Sponsorships

Updated the following:

C. Procedures

Use of noncentrally-funded designated funds (19-account), gift funds (30-account), or all other appropriate accounts should complete the Co-Sponsorship Approval Form.

11.5.5. Non-Employee Travel Reimbursement Procedures

Updated the following:

A. Introduction

Non-employee travel reimbursements are subject to the same policies as employee, prospective employee, and student travel reimbursements; however, a non-employee is not required to sign the *DEFINE VP5 coversheet and is not exempt from Texas state hotel occupancy taxes, therefore, is not required to provide a Texas Hotel Occupancy Tax Exemption Certificate at Texas lodging establishments. For more information about travel reimbursements, refer to Parts 11.5., 11.5.1., 11.5.2., 11.5.3., and 11.5.4.

11.5.5. Non-Employee Travel Reimbursement Procedures

Updated the following:

D. Reimbursements to Ten or More Non-Employees

If there is a signed hotel contract in place, rather than a Blanket APS, a memo from a department chair/center director may be submitted with a list of participants’ names identifying any current employees and including the appropriate RTA number.

11.5.1. Transportation

Updated the following:

If submitting receipts for public transportation, the tip or gratuity is separated from the daily transportation amount and should be itemized in the “Other Travel” section of the voucher.

9.1.1. Entertainment and Official Occasions Expenses

Updated the following: Entertainment and Official Occasion Expenditure Policy Chart

9.1.9. Use of University Funds for Parking Expenditures

Added the following:

F. Account Guidelines for Employee, Nonemployee, and Other Parking

If multiple accounts are to be used for a parking expenditure, the accounts and amounts must be provided when the request is made to Parking and Transportation Services. The charges cannot be split between accounts by the department at a later date.

12.2. Authorizations

Added the following:

C. Purchasing Procedures

A purchase order is required when an individual or company performs general services that are widely available and subject to bidding requirements as shown in Part 7.4 Purchasing Process. Examples include:

• Repetitive services such as monthly preventative maintenance and services of equipment (e.g., Xerox, IBM)
• General services such as design or advertising services
• Emergency maintenance services such as one-time cleaning due to unexpected event and one-time pest control or removal
• Photography services resulting in printed or digital images
• Services resulting in a tangible deliverable such as artwork, printing, or film processing

Glossary

Added the following:

vice president equivalents. The University of Texas at Austin athletic directors.

9.1.1. Entertainment and Official Occasions Expenses

Updated the Official Occasion Expense Form and the below contents.

D. Oversight of Entertainment Expenditures

Oversight of entertainment expenditures is required at the senior administrative level, i.e., by vice presidents, deans, and vice president equivalents. Authority may be delegated by the vice president or dean to associate/assistant vice presidents, associate/assistant deans, department heads, or other staff in leadership roles to act as official delegates for approval of entertainment expenses. Entertainment expenses may require approval prior to the function as determined by the dean or vice president.

Deans, vice presidents, and vice president equivalents may approve their own expenditures and exceptions; however official delegates may not approve their own expenditures or any exceptions.

Authority has been delegated by the president to Payment Services in the Office of the Vice President and Chief Financial Officer to review and approve all entertainment expenses including expenses incurred by the deans, vice presidents, and vice president equivalents.

Contact the Accounts Payable manager at 512-471-1816 for documentation required for deans and vice presidents to delegate authority to official delegates. If delegation changes, new documentation must be sent to Accounts Payable.

Additional requirements for entertainment expenditures may be promulgated by the dean, vice president, or unit business officer.

Accounts Payable

E. Entertainment Limits

The entertainment limit is an average of $75 per person including food, alcohol, tax, and gratuity. The cost should be appropriate for the type of meal or event, and this limit applies to all venues including restaurant expenses and entertainment at a private residence.

Units will not be required to get a per person cost when there is a negotiated agreement with a vendor for a total package price that includes food and non-food expenses.

Gratuities are allowed within reasonable limits. Gratuities should not exceed 20 percent of the bill subtotal before sales tax. For more information, refer to section K.1.h.

Expenses for alcohol may not be the primary expenditure submitted for reimbursement, that is, greater than the total food expense.

Exceptions to the above policy and limit require justification documented on the Official Occasion Expense Form (OOEF) and approval by the dean, vice president, or vice president equivalent. Official delegates may not approve these exceptions. For more information about the OOEF, refer to section K.1.a.

Employees of The University of Texas at Austin are expected to be good stewards of university funds. University leadership reserves the right to deny reimbursement of excessive expenditures. Additional requirements and limits for entertainment expenditures may be promulgated by the dean, vice president, or unit business officer.

F. Serving Alcohol at Non-licensed Venues including a Private Residence

• All pertinent laws, regent rules, and university policy regarding alcoholic beverages must be observed.
• It is advisable for an individual that is licensed by the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) to serve the alcohol.
• The area where the alcohol is being served should be monitored to ensure that only invited guests participate in the event.

Expenses for alcohol may not be the primary expenditure submitted for reimbursement, that is, greater than the total food expense. Exceptions require justification documented on the OOEF and approval by the dean, vice president, or vice president equivalent. Official delegates may not approve these exceptions. Additional requirements for serving alcohol may be promulgated by the dean, vice president, or unit business officer.

2. Voucher Coding

Code 1402 - Consumable Supplies-Non-Office

Cost of consumable/disposable, non-food/non-beverage items not associated with a university-funded event, such as coffee filters, plastic utensils, paper plates, paper towels, and soap. An Official Occasion Expense Form is not required for this type of expense; however, when purchased with state funds, the department must document how the purchase is necessary to accomplish a public purpose that is related to the agency’s legal authority or duties.

Code 1836 - Furniture & Equipment – Expensed

Cost of Non-consumable/non-disposable, non-food/non-beverage items not associated with a university-funded event, such as dishes, cups, silverware, and brooms/mops. Cost of equipment such as refrigerators, microwaves, and coffee makers. An Official Occasion Expense Form is not required for this type of expense; however, when purchased with state funds, the department must document how the purchase is necessary to accomplish a public purpose that is related to the agency’s legal authority or duties.

11.4. Cash Advance for Travel

B. Justification

When an employee requests a cash advance, the Office of Accounting determines whether a cash advance is justified based on the specific circumstances of the travel. An employee may be eligible for a cash advance if any of the following are true:

• The cash advance requested is a minimum of $100.00.
• The destination is in an isolated area or region with limited access to suppliers or services that accept credit cards.
• Travel is for an extended period of time.
• The employee does not qualify for the university-facilitated Diners Club Travel Credit Card.
• The employee’s university-sponsored Diners Club Travel Credit Card is lost or stolen.
• A faculty member takes a group of students overseas for educational purposes, such as for a study abroad program.
• It would be a financial hardship for the employee to pay the travel expenses out of pocket.

19.1.3. Equipment Insurance and Related Claims

In this page, the following were updated:

• Temporary Equipment Insurance Request Form.
• Airborne/Waterborne Equipment Insurance Request Form.

10.3.1. Purpose

10.3.2. Responsibilities

10.3.3. General Information About Service Centers

10.3.4. Expenditures/Costs

10.3.5. Rate Setting

10.3.6. Types of Service Centers

10.3.7. Requesting and Approving a Service Center

10.3.8. Service Center Administration

10.3.9. Taxes

10.3.10. Equipment

10.3.11. Closing a Service Center

10.3.12. Glossary

Updated "Costing and Analysis" to "Federal Reporting" and other related changes.

7.7.9. Emergency Purchases

Updated the following content and the Emergency Justification Form.

2. Processing an Emergency Request

Once the Purchasing Office has approved the Emergency Justification Form, it may, at the department’s request and at their own discretion, issue a manual purchase order number to facilitate order placement. Once the work is complete, the requesting department must submit the approved Emergency Justification Form , the invoice, and any other supporting documentation required to Accounts Payable in MAI 132 or campus mail G0500 for payment on a *DEFINE VP2 payment voucher.

2.6. Overdraft Approval

10.1. Introduction and Resources

Updated "Costing and Analysis" to "Federal Reporting"

10.2. Service Center Policy Summary

Updated "Costing and Analysis" to "Federal Reporting". Also updated the following in the same page:

These changes were made in Service Center Manual also.

16.4.1. Vehicle Title Transfers

Updated the following:

A. Vehicle Sales

Departments must contact UFO prior to selling or transferring any vehicle, whether the sale is to another university department or to an external entity. Regardless of the method of sale, all vehicle sales are subject to Inventory Services’ disposal procedures. For more information, refer to 16.3. Removal of Equipment from the Inventory - General Information. Once a sale or disposal is approved by Inventory Services, the Fleet manager can sign over title of all vehicles, boats, and bikes for incoming and outgoing equipment with the exception of insurance settlements. Refer to 19. Risk Management for information about vehicle insurance.

9.1.5. Communication Device Allowance

Updated the following:

B. Acquisition of Communication Devices

1. University-owned Devices

A department may elect to acquire and provide a communication device to an employee whose job duties, in the opinion of the department head, necessitate the provision of such a device. A communication device acquired by a department and provided to an employee is considered to be university property and will be used by the employee for university business purposes. Personal use of university-owned devices are allowed in accordance with Section 5.2 of The University of Texas at Austin’s Information Resources Use and Security Policy.

7.5.6. Request for Proposal (RFP) – Purchase Value Greater than $25,000; Based on Factors in Addition to Price and Delivery

Updated the following:

B. Procedure

1. The department submits Request for Proposal Intake Form to the Purchasing Office.

• The RFP is posted for a minimum of four weeks. The need for a pre-proposal conference or HSP may increase the length of time the RFP is posted.

11.5.2. Meals and Lodging

Removed the link to Travel Reimbursement Rates.

A. Introduction

Reimbursements for meal and lodging expenses include overnight travel and lease of an apartment or house. Reimbursement for meals and lodging expenses is subject to official rules and regulations. The amounts that may be claimed depend on the sources of funding.

11.5.2. Meals and Lodging

Removed the following:

A department can only use state funds for a hotel payment if the hotel is a contracted hotel listed in the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts, Hotel Directory Listings website or a noncontracted hotel that meets one of the exceptions listed on the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts, State Purchasing, Travel Audits & Exceptions Web page.

16.1. Inventory Control and Property Management Introduction and Resources

16.3.1. Equipment Transfer

16.3.2. Sale of Equipment

16.3.3. Trade-in of Equipment

16.3.4. Methods of Discarding Equipments

16.3.5. Missing or Stolen Property

16.5.3. Disposition of Government-Owned Equipment

Pages updated to reflect changes to Inventory Disposal Process.

11.5.1. Transportation

Updated the following:

4. Travel by Mass Transit, Taxi, or Limousine

Receipts are not required when traveling within a city by public transportation. However, if public transportation is used for travel between cities, receipts are required.

The cost of limousine transportation may be reimbursed only if it is the lowest transportation available.

Tips may not be reimbursed using state accounts. Tips may be reimbursed using local accounts up to 20 percent.

7.11.3. Vendor Protests, Disputes, and Resolutions

Updated the following:

Assistant Vice President and Director of Procurement and Payment Services

The University of Texas at Austin

110 Inner Campus Drive

Main Building, Room 132

Austin, TX 78712-1140

9.1.7. Advances for Research Subjects and Survey Participants

Multiple updates are made in this page.

11.2. Travel Authorization

Updated the following:

1. Foreign Travel Using State Accounts

Section 2.02(B) of the State of Texas Travel Allowance Guide states that a state agency may pay or reimburse a state employee for travel expenses incurred while traveling to or from, or staying at a duty point in a foreign country only if the agency's chief administrator, or someone designated by the chief administrator, provides prior written approval. This approval is not required for Canada, Mexico, or U.S. possessions because they are considered out-of-state travel, not foreign.

11.5.2. Meals and Lodging

Updated the following:

Local accounts may reimburse tips and gratuities incurred during travel for official business. The amount of the reimbursement may not exceed 20 percent of the reimbursed amount. The tip or gratuity is separate from the daily meal limit and should be itemized in the "Other Travel" section of the voucher.

9.1.1. Entertainment and Official Occasions Expenses

Updated the following:

h. Gratuities on Restaurant Receipts

Gratuities are allowed within reasonable limits. Gratuities should not exceed 20 percent of the bill subtotal before sales tax. An explanation must be provided in the NOTes section of the *DEFINE payment voucher if tips exceed this amount; such incidents could be the result of a restaurant gratuity limit of more than 20 percent.

7.7.7. Purchases that Do Not Require a Purchase Order

Added the following:

• Subsequent invoices for periodic renewals, maintenance fees, and other charges associated with approved software license agreements (SLA). These charges may be paid on a *DEFINE VP2 document using the original SLA as supporting documentation.

7.7.12. Purchase of Licensed Software

Updated the following:

E. Payments for Renewal and Maintenance Fees

Subsequent invoices for periodic renewals, maintenance fees, and other charges associated with the license are to be paid on a *DEFINE VP2 document using the original SLA as supporting documentation. No additional purchase order is required. If the Licensor requires a signed document for the renewal/maintenance, the document must be reviewed and signed by the assistant vice president and director of procurement and payment services. If there is no approved SLA associated with the charges, the department issues a purchase order and makes payment on a *DEFINE VP1 document.

7.12.4. Initiatives Toward a More Responsible Supply Chain

Multiple updates are made in this page

7.11.4. University Terms and Conditions

Updated the following:

Section II: Government Subcontract Provisions

Section III: Federal Grant Provisions

9.2.9. Unclaimed Property

Updated the following:

B. The University's Reporting of Unclaimed Property

The University of Texas at Austin's unclaimed property consists of checks issued by the university that have not been cashed and unused stored value cards , such as Bevo Bucks, that have reached their abandonment period. The abandonment period is one year for payroll checks and three years for all other checks and stored value cards. When unclaimed property has met the conditions outlined above (or conditions defined by the Texas Comptroller's Office), it is reported to the Texas Comptroller's Office on the following February 28 and is then included in the next remittance to the state. The university's reporting period spans from March 1 to February 28 each year, and the report and payment are due to the Texas Comptroller's Office by July 1 of each year.

11.1. Travel Introduction and Resources

Updated the following slideshow:

Travel Rules and Regulations slideshow

11.5.3. Other Expenses

Updated the following contact information:

Contact oa.travel@austin.utexas.edu for any questions.

9.1.7. Advances for Research Subjects and Survey Participants

Updated the following:

Participant Study Cash Advance Request Form

C. Payment Amounts and Documentation Requirements

Cash advances for research may not extend beyond a six-month time frame.If the study is planned to last longer than six months, multiple cash advances may be issued accordingly so that researchers will not experience a lapse in coverage.

Research and study consent forms will acknowledge that the University may need to collect certain taxpayer information under compensation limits set forth below.

Research subjects and study participants must be asked whether or not the compensation received for the current research project in combination with all other research subject compensation received from the University of Texas at Austin will equal or exceed $600 in the current calendar year.

Research subjects and study participants receiving $600 or more in a calendar year from all University of Texas at Austin research subject participation activities must provide IRS 1099 related information.

16.5. United States Government-Owned Equipment - General Information

Updated below contents

FAR 52.245-1(f)(1)(vii)(B) Loss, damage, destruction, or theft

Unless otherwise directed by the Property Administrator, the Contractor shall investigate and report to the Government all incidents of property loss as soon as the facts become known. Such reports shall, at a minimum, contain the following information:

1. Date of incident (if known)
2. The data elements required under (f)(1)(iii)(A).
3. Quantity.
4. Accountable contract number.
5. A statement indicating current or future need.
6. Unit acquisition cost, or if applicable, estimated sales proceeds, estimated repair or replacement costs.
7. All known interests in commingled material of which includes Government material.
8. Cause and corrective action taken or to be taken to prevent recurrence.
9. A statement that the Government will receive compensation covering the loss of Government property, in the event the Contractor was or will be reimbursed or compensated.
10. Copies of all supporting documentation.
11. Last known location.
12. A statement that the property did or did not contain sensitive, export controlled, hazardous, or toxic material, and that the appropriate agencies and authorities were notified.

19.1.3. Equipment Insurance and Related Claims

Updated Temporary Equipment Insurance Request Form

Forms

Removed link to Ocean Cargo Insurance Request Form

11.4. Cash Advance for Travel

B. Justification

When an employee requests a cash advance, the Office of Accounting determines whether a cash advance is justified based on the specific circumstances of the travel. An employee may be eligible for a cash advance if any of the following are true:

Important: All funds required for travel should be requested on the Cash Advance Request form Travel Cash Advance Request Form.*DEFINE VP5s for reimbursement are not to be issued after travel is completed. Expenses in excess of the original cash advance amount will be reimbursed by the Cash Advance Desk via a *DEFINE VP2 payment voucher.

• The destination is in an isolated area or region with limited access to suppliers or services that accept credit cards.
• Travel is for an extended period of time.
• The employee does not qualify for the university-facilitated Diners Club Travel Credit Card.
• The employee's university-sponsored Diners Club Travel Credit Card is lost or stolen.
• A faculty member takes a group of students overseas for educational purposes, such as for a study abroad program.
• It would be a financial hardship for the employee to pay the travel expenses out of pocket.

C. How to Request a Travel Cash Advance

Travel cash advance requests must be submitted to the Travel Section of the Office of Accounting at least seven business days prior to the date funds are needed. To request a travel cash advance, take the following steps:

1. Complete the Travel Cash Advance Request Form. Note: The Departmental Reviewer is listed on this form when the UBOC officer does not personally review and sign the Travel Reconciliation Summary Form. This person can be anyone authorized by the UBOC.
2. Print the completed form on departmental letterhead. The form must be signed by two people. The form must be signed by two people:
   1. A University Business Officers Council (UBOC) member
   2. An authorized signer on the account (See GB1 screen of *DEFINE.) (Note: The traveler may not sign the request form.)
3. Assemble a packet that includes the following items:
   1. Completed Travel Cash Advance Request Form Note: All funds required for travel should be requested on the Cash Advance Request form. *DEFINE VP5s for reimbursement are not to be issued after travel is completed. Expenses in excess of the original cash advance amount will be reimbursed by the Cash Advance Desk via a *DEFINE VP2 payment voucher
   2. A copy of the *DEFINE Request for Travel Authorization (VE5 document) for the traveler
   3. All required authorization documents listed in section D. Required Documentation
4. Send by campus mail or hand deliver the packet of original documents to the Cash Advance Desk in the Office of Accounting, Main 132, Mail code K5300.

19.1.3. Equipment Insurance and Related Claims

B. Rates

Equipment insurance for the current policy period (November 1, 2013 – October 31, 2014) can be purchased at a rate of $0.60 per $100 of equipment value for most items, and $1.39 per $100 of equipment value for airborne or waterborne use items.

C. Equipment Policy Details

• Carrier: Travelers Lloyds Insurance Company
  
   

• Limits of Insurance

  $25,000,000

  Any one occurrence

  
  
   

• Exclusions
  
  The equipment insurance policy excludes losses due to:

   

  • Governmental Action (seizure or destruction of property by order of governmental authority)
  • Nuclear Hazard
  • War and Military Action
  • Inventory Shortage
  • Pollution
  • Programming Errors
  • Hidden or Latent Defect, Mechanical Breakdown or Failure (does not apply to mechanical breakdown due to crash, collision, upset or overturn as evidenced by external visible damage)
  • Wear and Tear/Gradual Deterioration
  • Other exclusions as defined by the policy

D. Coverage

Each department has a designated inventory contact listed in the Organizational Hierarchy System (OHS) Contacts System. The Annual Equipment Insurance System (AEIS) is used to track and report insured equipment.

1. How to Obtain or Drop Annual Equipment Insurance during Renewal Time
   
   
   
   During the annual renewal, which normally occurs in September for a policy effective date of Nov. 1, all equipment is reviewed by the department's inventory contact to determine if insurance should be continued for each item. Equipment insurance must be renewed annually in AEIS to maintain coverage. Access to AEIS is granted through the *DEFINE NVE command authorization by the department's electronic office manager. Training is provided annually by the Office of Accounting Risk Management section. For more information, see DE 438 Equipment Insurance or contact oa.riskmgt@austin.utexas.edu.
   
    
2. How to Obtain or Drop Annual Equipment Insurance during Nonrenewal Time
   
   
   
   To request the purchase of equipment insurance, contact the department's inventory contact. Premium expense will be charged for the remainder of the policy year.
   
    

3. How to Obtain Temporary Equipment Insurance
   
   
   
   To obtain temporary equipment insurance, which is only available for items loaned or leased to the university, follow these procedures:

    

   1. Complete the Temporary Equipment Insurance Request Form.
   2. Send an email to the authorized signer (typically a dean, director, or chair) on the account to be charged for the premium expense.
   3. The account signer should forward the email to oa.riskmgt@austin.utexas.edu along with the spreadsheet from Step 1. The authorized signer may copy the requestor on the email.
      
       

4. How to Obtain Waterborne or Airborne Equipment Insurance
   
   
   
   To obtain waterborne equipment insurance, which is available only on a year round basis for property to be used while waterborne, underwater, or over the side of watercraft, follow these procedures:

    

   1. Complete the Airborne/Waterborne Equipment Insurance Request Form.
   2. Send an email to the authorized signer (typically a dean, director, or chair) on the account to be charged for the premium expense.
   3. The account signer should forward the email to oa.riskmgt@austin.utexas.edu along with the spreadsheet from Step 1. The authorized signer may copy the requestor on the email.

11.5. Travel Reimbursements - General Information

2. Travel Payment Voucher (VP5)

An electronic Travel Payment Voucher (*DEFINE VP5) must be prepared to reimburse any traveler with an approved RTA. Print the VP5 coversheet, have the traveler sign it, and forward the signed coversheet and all required receipts to Travel Services in the Office of Accounting (K5300). For more information about receipts, refer to 11.5.4. Receipts.

Note: If the traveler is an employee, student employee, or prospective employee, the traveler’s signature is required only when paying with state funds. If the reimbursement is being paid with local funds, the signature on the VP5 coversheet is optional. However, if a transfer document (VT6) is created to move the expense from local to state funds, the VT6 document will not be approved by the Office of Accounting until the traveler’s signature is obtained on the VP5 coversheet.

16.5. United States Government-Owned Equipment - General Information

A. Purpose and Scope

These procedures briefly cover aspects of procuring, receiving, controlling, tracking, maintaining, and disposing of U.S. Government property. It is the responsibility of the user of government property to follow these procedures. When questions arise that are not answered by these procedures, the Office of Naval Research Regional Office (ONRRO) or cognizant Property Administrator should be consulted to determine the procedure to be followed.

This document provides instructions to project directors/principal investigators and Department Chairmen on the procedures necessary for the control of U.S. Government-owned equipment in the possession of The University of Texas at Austin (UT Austin) operating in the capacity of a non-profit research and development contractor. It is based on procedures and policies of the various Government agencies as announced in their respective publications and guidance letters.

These procedures apply to Government contracts and grants handled by UT Austin. However, the guidelines presented in this document do not preclude the utilization of supplemental systems such as those at the Applied Research Laboratories (ARL) and Electrical Engineering Research Laboratory so long as such supplemental systems come within the basic framework and ensure adequate control and accountability.

16.5.2 Care, Maintenance, and Utilization

E. Maintenance of Equipment

1. Preventive Maintenance

The preventive maintenance measures are designed to preserve and prolong the useful life of the property, minimize the incidence of failure through breakage of its component parts, and promote its full utility through maintenance of high standards of condition and performance. The preventive maintenance program will include the following:

• Provision of a proper environment for the preservation of the property, compatible with its use in performance of authorized research.
• Cleaning and painting, or application of suitable preservative coatings to equipment, as required for surface protection and good appearance as well as proper storage and preservation of accessories and special tools furnished with an item of equipment but not regularly used with it.
• Routine daily cleaning and lubrication of metalworking machines. A thorough cleaning and lubrication will be scheduled weekly. Removal of sludge, chips, and cutting oils from metalworking machines that will not be used for an extended period of time.
• A constant surveillance by cognizant persons of all property, especially machine shop equipment and vehicles, for evidence of improper maintenance, malfunction, or wear, and the reporting of equipment shortcomings to their supervisors.
• A periodic inspection and servicing of equipment to assure detection of maladjustment, wear, or impending breakdown.

Glossary of Common Business and Financial Terms

FAR. See Federal Acquisition Regulation. fabricated equipment. Equipment made or constructed from raw or processed materials, supplies, parts, small tools, components, etc. in accordance with the terms of a contract or grant to accomplish specific research purposes or goals. A detailed explanation is provided in Section 16.5.1 of this publication.

7.7.12. Purchase of Licensed Software

All content on page replaced.

9.1.1. Entertainment and Official Occasions Expenses

Updated to include the following:

e. Itemization of Expenses

To prevent a personal tax liability, an itemized receipt or ticket is required for meals, or events with food, and the receipt or ticket must include the number of attendees. If an itemized receipt or ticket is not available, a statement declaring this must be included either on the OOEF, the nonitemized receipt, or in the Notes section of the electronic document, and the unit business officer, unit head, director, chair, or official delegate must approve the expense. This approval may be in the form of a signature on the OOEF or nonitemized receipt, or approval in the electronic routing of the document. It is also recommended that the department have the employee attest that an itemized receipt was not available.

All other consumable and non-consumable items, such as those purchased from grocery or department stores, must be itemized without exception.

f. State Sales Tax

The university is exempt from state sales tax, so faculty and staff must follow the Texas Sales and Use Tax Exemption Certificate Instructions and present the exemption certificate to the vendor at the time of purchase. However, if paid with personal funds, employees can be reimbursed for sales tax on business meals. For tax charged on goods and services, refer to 9.1.2. Other Reimbursements, for guidance.

 

g. Mixed Beverage Sales Tax

Unlike state sales tax, the university is not exempt from the mixed beverage sales tax enacted on January 1, 2014

h. Gratuities on Restaurant Receipts

Gratuities are allowed within reasonable limits. Gratuities should not exceed $5 over 20 percent of the bill subtotal before sales tax. An explanation must be provided in the NOTes section of the *DEFINE payment voucher if tips exceed this amount; such incidents could be the result of a restaurant gratuity limit of more than 20 percent.

20.1. Introduction and Resources

Updated to include the following:

The University of Texas at Austin is required to comply with state and federal mandates to establish an active and ongoing records management program. A state (university) record is any recorded information created or received in the course of university business. This includes records created or maintained by the university as well as those created or maintained on behalf of the university by a third-party vendor. No official university record (paper, microform, electronic, or any other media) may be destroyed without following university disposition procedures, developed to comply with Texas Government Code, Title 4, Subtitle D, Chapter 441.180-441.205, Subchapter L. Preservation and Management of State Records and Other Historical Resources and Texas Administrative Code, Title 13, Part 1, Chapter 6. State Records.

12.5.3. Tax Treaty Benefits

Updated to include the following:

1. Confirm the actual dates of the visit and the type of U.S. entry visa with the visitor.
2. Provide the visitor with an official invitation letter to ensure a proper stamp is issued by the U.S. border authorities in the visitor’s passport.
3. Call Contractor Services in the Office of Accounting at 512-471-7820 to confirm that the visitor’s country of residence has treaty benefits available.
4. If the visitor is eligible for treaty benefits, make a treaty benefit appointment with the Office of Accounting. Due to the limited availability of appointments, schedule the appointment early to ensure the visitor will have an appointment time available during the time the visitor will be at the university.
   • If the visitor already has a U.S. tax number [Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)], the appointment will take no longer than 30 minutes.
   • If the visitor does not have a U.S. tax number (SSN or ITIN), the appointment will take no longer than one hour.
     
     
     
     Note: A visitor without a U.S. tax number can be issued a payment Nov. 16th thru Dec. 31st of each calendar year, but will not be eligible for tax treaty benefits during this time. Because the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) requires up to two months for issuing U.S. tax numbers, it will not be possible to issue the payment to the visitor under the tax treaty benefit, which expires by the end of the year. Therefore, tax treaty appointments cannot be made for these visitors during this period.
5. Collect all items on the B or J checklist except the I-94 electronic authorization. When the visitor arrives, make a copy of the I-94 electronic authorization if the visitor has one or pull a copy from the link provided on the checklist.
6. All checklist items must be faxed to the Office of Accounting at 512-471-2728 and must be received at least 24 hours prior to the meeting. Note: If the list contains security sensitive information, send via the Secure Message System.
   
   
   
   If all checklists items are not received at least 24 hours prior to the appointment, the scheduled appointment will be canceled. If arrival/departure stamp in the passport or the electronic I-94 issued indicates a different immigration status than expected, treaty benefits may not be available. Keep a departmental copy of the checklist items to attach to the payment voucher when submitted for payment to the Office of Accounting. Call Contractor Services at 512-471-7820 immediately after submitting the checklist items to confirm the appointment.
7. Escort the visitor to the Office of Accounting in MAI 132 and attend the appointment with the visitor to provide assistance if needed. The department must bring all checklist items, and the visitor must bring his/her passport to the scheduled appointment, including a copy of the original electronic I-94 admission number retrieval.

12.5.2. Authorization for J Visitors

Updated to include the following:

The department must obtain all of the items listed on the J Visitor Checklist from the visitor while the person is at the university. The I-94 electronic authorization will not be available on the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) website once the individual has returned to his or her home country, so it is critical to collect these items while the visitor is still physically present at the university.

12.5.1. Authorization for B Visitors

Updated to include the following:

It is recommended that the department provide the visitor with an invitation letter that confirms the dates and business purpose of the visit to the university. The letter must be presented to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection authorities to ensure that the business status stamp B-1 or WB is placed on a page in the passport booklet for this visit to the U.S.

In rare circumstances, a visitor who is not in business status and is already in the United States for tourist purposes (tourist status of B2 or WT) may be invited for an incidental visit to the university and be compensated for services.

The department must obtain all of the items listed on the B Visitor Checklist from the visitor while the person is at the university. The I-94 electronic authorization will not be available on the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) website once the individual has returned to his or her home country, so it is critical to collect these items while the visitor is still physically present at the university.

7.7.6. Purchase and Payment Methods for Technology Purchases

Updated to include the following:

Purchase and payment methods for software applications remain the same regardless of the owner of the device (university or employee).

University departments retain ownership of the software applications they purchase regardless of device ownership. Upon separation from the university, employees must remove all university-owned applications from personally-owned devices. Departments must make a reasonable effort to ensure compliance.

University departments can participate in the Apple Volume Purchase Program to purchase iOS apps and books in volume for distribution to university staff and students. The Procard is the only payment method approved by the university for this program.

20.4. Departmental Records Management – General Information

Updated to include the following:

Departments at The University of Texas at Austin are responsible for following the policies and procedures developed by Records Management Services (RMS) to preserve and protect all records that the department maintains or which are created or stored for the department by a private contractor to the university. Managing departmental records includes systematically controlling the department’s records from creation to final disposition, whether that means the record is destroyed or transferred to the archives. Departments must also ensure contracts to create, manage, or maintain university records have provisions for the contractor to comply with state records laws and university records management policy. In order to effectively manage records, departments must designate at least one departmental records management contact (DRMC) using the Organizational Hierarchy System (OHS). Large departments with specialized divisions may designate a DRMC for each division.

20.4.2. Records Inventory

Updated to include the following:

Departments at The University of Texas at Austin are required to preserve and protect all records maintained within the department or which are created or stored on behalf of the department by a private contractor. A records inventory lists all the records for which the department is responsible and provides specific details about how records are managed. The records inventory is the primary document of a records management plan and may be developed in the form of a spreadsheet, database, or other format. For more information, refer to 20.4.3. Records Management Plan.

20.4.3. Records Management Plan

Section 20.4.3.7.d. added the following:

• Records Retained in Non-University Systems
  • The department must document contract provisions requiring contractors to comply with state laws, codes, and rules pertaining to state records and with university records management policy. For more information, refer to 20.4.4 Contracts Pertaining to State Records.
  • The department must ensure that retention and destruction requirements and procedures for each record series maintained through a private contractor are listed in the departmental records inventory.

20.5. Disposition of Records – General Information

Updated to include the following:

Whether an official record is created and maintained within The University of Texas at Austin or by a private contractor to the university, its life-cycle ends with disposition, which takes one of two forms: the record is transferred to archives or the record is destroyed. The university is required to retain one copy of every record created through university business processes, and retention requirements apply to that copy, which is the master record. The university is also required to record the final disposition of every master record in the university disposition log, which is managed by Records Management Services (RMS).

20.5.1. Requirements for Disposition of Records

Updated to include the following:

Whether a record is created and maintained within The University of Texas at Austin or by a private contractor to the university, its disposition requirements depend on whether the record is a master record, a convenience copy, or transitory information. For detailed instructions regarding records that contain confidential or sensitive information, refer to 20.7.1. Managing Confidential or Sensitive Records and 20.7.2. Destruction Options for Confidential or Sensitive Records.

Caution: If a determination cannot be made as to whether a record is a master record or a convenience copy, the record must be treated as a master record and all requirements for disposition of master records must be applied. For more information, refer to 20.6.2. Convenience Copies.

20.5.2. Confidential or Sensitive Records versus Nonconfidential Records

Updated to include the following:

Any record created and maintained within The University of Texas at Austin or by a private contractor to the university can contain confidential or sensitive information, whether it is a master record, a convenience copy, or transitory information. Records that contain confidential or sensitive information have additional requirements for management.

Master records, convenience copies, or transitory information records that meet retention requirements and do not contain confidential or sensitive information can be disposed by any method available in accordance with 20.5.1 Requirements for Disposition of Records. There are no special requirements for nonconfidential records that are approved for archival transfer. Records that do not contain confidential or sensitive information and are approved for destruction by RMS can be placed in recycle bins or disposed of by any method available.

20.5.3. Archival Review/Transfer Procedures

Updated to include the following:

Archival review and transfer procedures apply to master records at The University of Texas at Austin or those retained on behalf of the university by a private contractor. Archival review and transfer requirements are listed in the top half of the Archival/Vital column of The University of Texas at Austin Records Retention Schedule (UTRRS). When archival review or transfer is required for a record that has met retention requirements, the following procedures must be used.

20.5.4. Destruction Procedures and Form

Updated to include the following:

The following destruction procedures apply to master records at The University of Texas at Austin. Departments must contact Records Management Services to authorize the destruction of master records created and maintained by a contractor to the university. Retention requirements for master records are listed in The University of Texas at Austin Records Retention Schedule (UTRRS). Records that have archival review or transfer requirements have additional disposition procedures. For more information, refer to 20.5.3. Archival Review/Transfer Procedures.

20.6.1. Master Records

Updated to include the following:

The University of Texas at Austin is required to keep one copy of every record created in the course of university business whether the record is created and maintained within the university or by a private contractor to the university. The master record or official university record is the record that is retained, subject to The University of Texas at Austin Records Retention Schedule (UTRRS) requirements and university disposition policies. The master record may or may not be the original and may be created or retained in any medium (e.g., voice mail, fax, email, hard copy). When the same record serves different business purposes in two or more departments, each department must manage the record as a master record. This is known as dual master records. If a master record is captured as an image, the image may be retained as the master and the hard copy original becomes a convenience copy. For more information, refer to 20.6.2. Convenience Copies.

Departments may also engage a private contractor for services that create, manage, store and dispose of master records so long as the contract expressly provides that the contractor will comply with applicable state laws and university policies relating to the management, access, retention, and destruction of state records. For more information, refer to 20.4.4 Contracts Pertaining to State Records.

20.6.6. Electronic Records

Updated to include the following:

Records created, managed, or retained in electronic formats or automated systems as master records at The University of Texas at Austin or by a private contractor to the university must be retained and disposed of in accordance with The University of Texas at Austin Records Retention Schedule (UTRRS) and university policy. State law regarding electronic records requires that they are individually identifiable and retrievable for their entire retention period. Backup tapes cannot be considered a method of retaining records unless the backup tape is indexed for individual record retrieval.

C. Master Records Retained in Electronic Format at the Department Level

A department may choose to image records or use automated recordkeeping programs at the departmental level. For records maintained electronically at the department level, each department has a responsibility to follow federal and state regulations regarding electronic records. For detailed instructions on meeting required standards, refer to the Departmental Management of Imaged Master Records Acknowledgment. Departments that choose to manage electronic or imaged records must include a signed copy of the acknowledgment in the department’s records management plan.

20.8. Records Management Terminology

Added the following definition:

state record. (also referred to as university record, official record, master record) Recorded information created or received in the conduct of official university business. State records include (1) a record that is created or maintained by the university and (2) a record that is created or maintained for the university, and the university owns the information or has a right of access to it (e.g., a state record in the possession of a private contractor to the university).

10.2. Service Center Policy Summary

Section D.2. added the following:

• Advanced billing for services or products is not allowed.

19.1.9. Camp Insurance

Section C.1.b. contact information updated

19.1.3. Equipment Insurance and Related Claims

Section completely rewritten

9.1.1. Entertainment and Official Occasions Expenses

Section K.1.e.

Replaced:

Caution: The university is exempt from state sales tax, so faculty or staff must follow the Texas Sales and Use Tax Exemption Certificate Instructions and present the exemption certificate to the vendor at the time of purchase of consumable or non-consumable items on behalf of the university. Faculty and staff can be reimbursed for the actual cost, but if Texas sales tax is charged, it will not be reimbursed. However, for purchases of meals at restaurants, if the sales tax exemption is not available to patrons of the restaurant, the sales tax will be reimbursed.

With:

Caution: The university is exempt from state sales tax, so faculty and staff must follow the Texas Sales and Use Tax Exemption Certificate Instructions and present the exemption certificate to the vendor at the time of purchase. However, if paid with personal funds, employees can be reimbursed for sales tax on business meals. For tax charged on goods and services, refer to 9.1.2. Other Reimbursements, for guidance.

9.1.5. Communication Device Allowance

Sections B and C updated, Section E removed, replaced by Section F.

7.12. Sustainability - Statement and Purpose

Section renamed and completely rewritten

10.3.8. Service Center Administration

Section F. Working Capital

Replace:

Working capital is operating income less expenses. Within the fiscal year, a service center is allowed a maximum working capital amount that is the lesser of 60 days or 20 percent of expenditures excluding depreciation. Any surplus balance must be eliminated or utilized by fiscal year-end.

With:

10.3.5. Rate Setting

H. Breakeven Rates

Section completely rewritten

10.3.2. Responsibilities

D.5. Calculation of Effective Balance

Section completely rewritten

7.10.1. POINT Plus Purchase Order Changes

Removed the following note:

Note: An FYI copy on the Purchase Order Summary page does not display the COR action in the Select an Action drop-down menu.

7.10.4. Purchase Order Cancellations

Section completely rewritten to reflect new PO cancellation documents.

7.6.1. Debarment and Suspension

Replaced second paragraph:

For purchases with a gross amount (prior to trade-ins) exceeding $25,000 using federal funds, the purchasing buyer checks SAM to ensure that the vendor has not been debarred or suspended from receiving federal funds. The purchasing buyer then includes a copy of the SAM search results with the purchase order file to verify the vendor’s status.

With:

For all purchases using Homeland Security funds (of any dollar amount) or other federal funds with a gross amount (prior to trade-ins) exceeding $25,000, the purchaser must check SAM to ensure that the vendor has not been debarred or suspended from receiving federal funds. The purchaser must then retain a copy of the SAM search results with the purchase order file to verify the vendor’s status.

16.5.4. Records

Replace Part 45.505-1 with Part 52.245-1

Removed the following from 16.5.4.C.4.

• Department of Defense (DOD) Property in the Custody of Contractors (DD Form 1662). The 1662 Report is prepared annually for the period ending September 30th. Report is due no later than October 31. Negative reports are not required.

16.5. United States Government-Owned Equipment - General Information

Replace Part 45.5 with Part 52.245-1

Updated Federal Acquisition Regulation hyperlink from www.arnet.gov/far;to http://www.acquisition.gov/far/

7.6.1. Debarment and Suspension

Full section text rewritten.

11.5.1. Transportation

Section C.1.added the following:

All business-related air travel for university employees and students must be arranged through Anthony Travel or Corporate Travel Planners, the two university-contracted travel agencies. For more information, refer to the airfare purchase policy on the Travel Management Services website.

9.1.8. Awards

Section B.1.e.added the following:

Athletics-related employee merchandise awards that exceed fair market value of $50 are monitored by the Athletics Business Office and reported annually to Payroll Services to be included in the employee’s W-2.

Section B.2.added the following:

Athletics-related non-employee and student awards that exceed fair market value of $50 are monitored by the Athletics Business Office and reported annually to The Office of Accounting if awards collectively total $600 or more.

9.1.1. Entertainment and Official Occasions Expenses

Section H. updated to include the following:

H. Flowers or Other Perishable Items for Individuals

Flowers or other perishable items to or for individuals that are not associated with a university-funded event must be sent in the name of the sending department or office. Examples of other perishable items include cookies, fruit, chocolate, pre-cooked meal, or basket of pre-packaged food items. Flowers or other perishable items may be purchased for funerals, memorial services, hospital stays, and extended illnesses or for congratulations or recognition. Flowers or other perishable items may be paid by reimbursement to the purchaser or by direct payment to the florist or vendor. This type of expense requires an Official Occasion Expense Form. Refer to the Entertainment and Official Occasion Expenditure Policy Chart for dollar limits.

4.2.2. Voucher Adjustments and Corrections - VT6 Guidelines

Section B. added the following:

• Correcting Endowment Gift Deposits to or Transfers from 57-Accounts
  
  Once an entry posts to a 57-account, that entry can only be corrected by Financial Accounting Services (FAS) and Endowment Services. If an endowment gift deposit or transfer must be corrected, departments must not reverse the gift deposit or transfer from the 57-account in *DEFINE. This includes transfers between 57-accounts and transfers from 57- to 30-accounts. All requests must be directed to the FAS team in the Office of Accounting.

11.1. Travel Introduction and Resources

Section A. added the following:

Note: Additional requirements for travel expenditures may be promulgated by the dean, vice president, or unit business officer.

9.1.1. Entertainment and Official Occasions Expenses

Section K.1.e. added the following:

Caution: The university is exempt from state sales tax, so faculty or staff must follow the Texas Sales and Use Tax Exemption Certificate Instructions and present the exemption certificate to the vendor at the time of purchase of consumable or non-consumable items on behalf of the university. Faculty and staff can be reimbursed for the actual cost, but if Texas sales tax is charged, it will not be reimbursed. However, for purchases of meals at restaurants, if the sales tax exemption is not available to patrons of the restaurant, the sales tax will be reimbursed.

6.4. Credit Card Collections

Section D.1.b. updated to include the following:

Credit card information stored on local hard drives must be properly secured and properly disposed of in accordance with the official University Records Retention Schedule (see section D2 of this Part for more information). If a department stores confidential credit card information on a local hard drive, the department must contact the Information Security Office (ISO) to ensure the information is stored in compliance with Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards (PCIDSS). Hard drives must be wiped clean before disposal.

The University of Texas at Austin Records Retention Schedule (UTRRS)

Section D.2. updated to include the following:

Both paper and electronic records are to be stored securely for the current fiscal year plus three years in accordance with the official University Records Retention Schedule records series AALL454 Detail-Credit Card Transaction. For more information, refer to the Handbook of Business Procedures:

• Part 20. Records Management
• 20.5. Disposition of Records – General Information

11.5.1. Transportation

Section D. replaced:

Employees may be reimbursed for travel in personally owned or leased aircraft at the rate of 40 cents per highway mile for single engine aircraft and 55 cents per highway mile for twin engine aircraft.

An employee may be reimbursed for the cost of renting or chartering an aircraft if the Texas Department of Transportation—Aircraft Fleet Services provides written approval. An employee may rent or charter an aircraft if a state-owned aircraft is not available or if the rental would reduce the cost of transportation.

with:

Employees holding a private or commercial aircraft license may not operate leased or privately owned aircraft in conjunction with official university business unless authorized by the Chancellor or his or her designee. More information is available at the UT System Board of Regents Rule 20601.

9.1.4. Prepayments

Section A. added:

The subsections of this section define The University of Texas Austin’s procedure for processing prepayments directly to suppliers and do not pertain to reimbursements for individuals such as employees, students, and independent contractors. For procedures for individual reimbursements, refer to 9.1.2 Other Reimbursements, 9.1.1 Entertainment and Official Occasions Expenses, and 11.Travel.

9.1.1. Entertainment and Official Occasions Expenses

Section K.1.c. replaced:

When using UT Market for entertainment and official occasion-related items, or for IDT charges from The Carillon, departments must attach a signed Official Occasion Expense Form (OOEF) for each purchase and include the form as a basic part of the back-up documentation retained at the departmental level. Backup documentation is subject to review and must be provided upon request for auditing purposes.

with:

When using UT Market for entertainment and official occasion-related items, or for entertainment IDT charges from The Carillon and Housing and Food 40 Acres Catering, departments are not required to send the signed Official Occasion Expense Form (OOEF) to the Office of Accounting. Departments must attach a signed OOEF for each purchase and include the form as a basic part of the back-up documentation retained at the departmental level. Backup documentation is subject to review and must be provided upon request for auditing purposes.

11.5. Travel Reimbursements - General Information

Section H. Updated to include the following text:

A cancellation or change charge is reimbursable only if the charge is incurred for a business-related reason or a reason listed on the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts, Textravel Exceptions page.

Voucher Requirements:

• The voucher must specify the business-related reason or unrelated state business exception for the cancellation.
• Proof that the cancellation charge has been paid must be submitted with the voucher transmittal form.
• If the cancellation charge is for an unused airline ticket, the original ticket must be submitted with the voucher transmittal form.

11.4. Cash Advance for Travel

Section C. updated steps one and two to include the following:

1. Complete the Travel Cash Advance Request Form. Note: The Departmental Authorized Reviewer is listed on this form when the UBOC officer does not personally review and sign the Travel Reconciliation Summary Form.
2. Print the completed form on departmental letterhead. The form must be signed by two people. The form must be signed by two people:
   1. A University Business Officers Council (UBOC) member
   2. An authorized signer on the account (See GB1 screen of *DEFINE.) (Note: The traveler may not sign the request form.)

Section F. replace:

• the traveler's supervisor

with:

• UBOC member or departmental authorized reviewer

Section G. added the following text:

Forms of payment accepted:

• cash (must be exact change)
• checks
• traveler’s checks
• money orders

Reconciliations without repayment may be sent via campus mail (K5300); however, the Office of Accounting is not responsible for lost documentation. The department must keep copies of all reconciliations and supporting documentation until the cash advance is closed.

24.2.1. HUB Subcontracting Plans (HSP)

Section A. replaced the first paragraph with the following two:

In accordance with Texas Government Code, Title 10, Subtitle D, Chapter 2161, Subchapter A, Section §2161.252 Agency Determination Regarding Subcontracting Opportunities and Texas Administrative Code, Title 34, Part 1, Chapter 20, Subchapter B, Rule §20.14 Subcontracts, before The University of Texas at Austin solicits bids, proposals, offers, or other applicable expressions of interest for a contract with an expected value of $100,000 or more, the HUB coordinator at the university must determine whether subcontracting opportunities are probable under the contract.

If subcontracting opportunities are probable, the university’s invitation for bids or other purchase solicitation documents for construction, professional services, other services, and commodities with an expected value of $100,000 or more must state that probability and require a HUB Subcontracting Plan (HSP). Any bid, proposal, offer, or other applicable expression of interest for the contract that does not include a required HSP is considered nonresponsive.

11.5.2. Meals and Lodging

Section B. added the following text:

A department can only use state funds for a hotel payment if the hotel is a contracted hotel listed in the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts, Hotel Directory Listings website or a noncontracted hotel that meets one of the exceptions listed on the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts, State Purchasing, Travel Audits & Exceptions Web page.

19.1.3. Equipment and Ocean Cargo Insurance and Related Claims

Section B. updated to include the following text:

Equipment insurance for the current policy period (insured through October 31, 2012) can still be purchased at a rate of $0.35 per $100 of equipment value. This deeply discounted rate is available due to co-sponsorship from the CFO for the 2011-2012 policy year. Note that premium rates will likely increase to at least $0.60 per $100 of equipment value for most items, and $1.30 per $100 of equipment value for waterborne use items.

Premium rates for the upcoming policy year November 1, 2012 – October 31, 2013 are under negotiation and will be published once finalized.

Section D.5. added:

How to Obtain Waterborne Equipment Insurance



To obtain waterborne equipment insurance, which is available only on a year round basis for property to be used while waterborne, underwater, or over the side of watercraft, follow these procedures:

1. Complete the Waterborne Equipment Insurance Request Form.
2. Send an email to the authorized signer (typically a dean, director, or chair) on the account to be charged for the premium expense.
3. The account signer should forward the email to oa.riskmgt@austin.utexas.edu along with the spreadsheet from Step 1. The authorized signer may copy the requestor on the email.

9.1.1. Entertainment and Official Occasions Expenses

Section K.1.e. replaced:

To prevent a personal tax liability, an itemized receipt or ticket is required for meals, or events with food, and the receipt or ticket must include the number of attendees. If itemized receipts or tickets are not available, a statement declaring this must be included and signed by the employee, and the unit business officer, unit head, director, or chair must approve the expense.

All other consumable and non-consumable items, such as those purchased from grocery or department stores, must be itemized without exception.

With:

To prevent a personal tax liability, an itemized receipt or ticket is required for meals, or events with food, and the receipt or ticket must include the number of attendees. If an itemized receipt or ticket is not available, a statement declaring this must be included either on the OOEF, the nonitemized receipt, or in the Notes section of the electronic document, and the unit business officer, unit head, director, chair, or official delegate must approve the expense. This approval may be in the form of a signature on the OOEF or nonitemized receipt, or approval in the electronic routing of the document. It is also recommended that the department have the employee attest that an itemized receipt was not available.

All other consumable and non-consumable items, such as those purchased from grocery or department stores, must be itemized without exception.

11.2. Travel Authorization

Section C. updated to include the following text:

Some foreign destinations are considered restricted regions and travel must be approved by the International Oversight Committee. For information on this policy and its procedures, go to the International Office’s UT Travel Policy to Restricted Regions Web page.