Overpayment of expenses

Some MPs have been informed that they have to repay expenses which could collectively amount to over one million pounds. It has been reported that some MPs may be facing criminal charges pursuant to s17 of the Theft Act 1968 (false accounting). From now on, no doubt any claim that they submit will be scrutinised. Whatever your view is on the MP expenses row, how do you handle an employee who is “fiddling” his expenses form?

Some employers allow payment of personal expenses for their employees as well as business expenses.  Have a clear expenses policy in place. If certain expenses have to be authorised in advance then express that in the policy. When a claim is submitted, check it, do not just approve it. Question the employee. If you continue to spot inconsistencies in an employee’s expense claim, act upon it and subject them to a disciplinary hearing.  

Do not get into a situation where the employee may have made substantial sums resulting from a dishonest act.