Towson University travelers are required to submit a properly approved Travel Authorization Form (Forms Directory) prior to departure.

• Authorization Form is required for all travel involving over night stays.
• File the form 20 days before departure.
• A separate form is required for each traveler.
• Authorization Form must be on file before travel expenses can be paid by the university or reimbursed to the traveler.
  • A copy will be returned to the traveler once the form has all required signatures and has been approved by Financial Services.
• It is not necessary to submit a copy of this form with the Travel Expense Voucher.
• Forms Directory

 

How to Complete the Travel Authorization Form:

• Detailed instructions for completing the Travel Authorization Form are available along with the form on the Forms Directory. If you need assistance, call the Financial Services Help Line, 410-704-5599.
• Carefully estimate the cost of the trip. Should actual expenses exceed the estimated cost as approved on the form, an addendum form will be required.
• The estimated cost of the trip should only include costs that are to be paid by the university.
• Attach a copy of an agenda, brochure, or other supporting documentation for the trip.
• Forms Directory

 

Required Signatures:

• Authorized Budget Signature - This signature documents approval of the nature and cost of the trip. If the authorized budget signature is the traveler, their supervisor must sign this form.
  • An Authorized Budget Signature is an employee (usually the department head, dean or budget officer) who has an Authorized Signature Form on file permitting them to sign financial documents charged to their department;
• Authorizer of multiple sources of funds - if the cost of the trip is to be charged to more than one department, each department's Authorized Budget Signature must sign the form.
• Fiscal Planning & Services - this signature (budget office) certifies travel fund availability and is only required if the total cost of the trip exceeds $1,000.00.
• Financial Services - this signature certifies supporting documentation is attached and appropriate signatures of approval are present

 

Exception - Required Signatures for Grants and Contracts:

• If a RESI Grant or Contract is funding the travel, a signature must be obtained from the Provost's Decision & Support Services - required regardless of the total cost of the trip.  Contact 410-704-2124.
• If a College of Graduate Education & Research (CGER) Grant or Contract is funding the travel, the CGER Finance Office signs instead of Fiscal Planning & Services - required regardless of the total cost of the trip. Contact CGER at 410-704-2033.