MP Expense Rules (IPSA)
A plain-language explainer of how MPs’ staffing, office, accommodation, and travel costs are funded and approved.
Why these rules exist
MPs are funded to perform their parliamentary duties in both Westminster and their constituencies. IPSA sets the rules, budgets, and evidence requirements, and publishes all claims data so the public can see how the budgets are used.
What MPs can claim for
IPSA’s Scheme sets out which costs can be claimed to support parliamentary duties. The main categories are staffing, office costs, accommodation, and travel.
- Staffing: salaries, pensions, training, and associated employer costs for MP staff.
- Office costs: office rent, utilities, equipment, and communications used for parliamentary work.
- Accommodation: rent or hotel stays plus approved associated costs for eligible MPs.
- Travel: travel for parliamentary duties, constituency work, and approved staff travel.
How budgets are set
IPSA sets annual budget limits by category and publishes the current figures. Budgets differ by location (for example, London vs outside London).
- Staffing Budget (2024-25): £237,430 (core) plus possible uplifts for caring, security, or specific roles.
- Office Costs (2024-25): £29,950 (non-London) or £32,590 (London Area).
- Accommodation (2024-25): £26,120 rent (non-London), £28,620 (London), or £18,760 (associated costs only).
- Travel: No fixed cap. Reimbursed per journey based on IPSA's travel rules and rates.
- Winding Up / Start Up: £61,580 / £12,460 one-time budgets for staff and office transitions.
Accommodation and rent claims
Accommodation budgets are intended to cover the cost of staying in London or the constituency for MPs who need a second place of work.
- MPs can claim either hotel stays, rental costs plus associated costs, or associated costs if they own the property.
- Only one property can typically be funded at a time, with exceptions for specific circumstances.
- Claimed accommodation must be used by the MP and cannot be sublet.
- Associated costs can include utilities, council tax, and service charges; some personal costs are excluded.
How claims are approved and paid
Claims are submitted in IPSA Online and must meet Scheme rules. IPSA reviews evidence before payment.
- MPs or their proxies submit claims with receipts or evidence.
- IPSA staff review claims against Scheme rules and may request clarification.
- Approved claims are paid by IPSA, either to the MP or directly to suppliers.
- Rejected claims can be reviewed through IPSA’s internal review and Compliance Officer process.
Frequently asked questions
Accommodation costs are funded from public money, but only within the limits and rules of the IPSA Scheme. Claims must be evidenced and approved before payment.
No. IPSA budgets are held by sitting MPs. MPs or their proxies submit claims, and IPSA pays approved costs to MPs or suppliers. Staff and contractors are covered through the MP’s staffing or office budgets rather than claiming directly.
Claims are submitted by MPs or their proxies in IPSA Online and then reviewed by IPSA staff to ensure they meet the Scheme rules. Disputed decisions can be escalated via review processes.
Some accommodation claims reflect recurring rent or ongoing costs (such as utilities) within the approved budget. The public data typically records the payment amounts and category rather than the full lease detail.
When IPSA rejects a claim, the MP receives notification with the reason. They can request an internal review, appeal to the Compliance Officer for IPSA, or escalate to the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority if they believe the decision was wrong. Most rejections are due to missing evidence or claims outside Scheme rules.
No. Core budgets vary by location (London Area MPs have higher limits reflecting higher costs). MPs can also receive uplifts for specific circumstances like disability support, enhanced security needs, or committee chair responsibilities. The annual Scheme document lists all budget variations.
Official sources
Budget limits and detailed rules change over time. Use the official IPSA guidance and Scheme for the latest amounts and eligibility criteria.