Basic information regarding payment of relocation expenses, although not inclusive, can be found below: 

Pre-Move and Travel Expenses

• Employment offer letters from the University must indicate relocation expense provisions in order to be paid.

• New faculty and staff are encouraged to make their move using the most economical and sustainable method.

• After a new faculty or staff member has accepted employment, travel expenses may be reimbursed for up to one trip for the purpose of arranging housing for the new employee and their spouse/partner. A maximum of $2,000 of the total moving allowance can be applied to the house hunting expenses. 

• All moving expenses are deemed taxable and are subject to tax withholding and UNI is required to deduct this withholding from the employee’s paycheck. Taxable moving reimbursements are reported on the employee’s W-2.

• The request for reimbursement must be submitted within 60 days, including documentation of expenses (i.e. itemized receipts and invoices).

• The University has selected vendors for moving services through a competitive bid process; significant discounts and other additional benefits are available to assist with the moving process. The current preferred vendors and contact information can be found here. When speaking with the vendor, reference the University of Northern Iowa Agreement.

• Moving contracts are between the employee and the moving company. A purchase order may be created for the university’s portion of the move; please contact the departmental administrative staff for assistance.

• Reimbursement may include moving company charges for packing, moving services, insurance, and any other approved expenses associated with arranging the relocation of the individual’s household goods or other personal effects.

• When renting a vehicle, trailer or other moving equipment, the employee is responsible for paying the rental agency directly.

• Original receipts should be submitted for packaging materials (i.e. boxes, tape, bubble wrap, etc.), gas for the rental vehicle(s) used in the move, enroute lodging, road toll fees, etc.

• During the move, while in travel status, the University's travel guidelines should be followed for reimbursement requirements. The University will reimburse mileage for up to (2) personal vehicles at the IRS Moving Rate.

Reimbursable Expense Examples

Non-Reimbursable Moving Expenses

• Expenses associated with a home sale or lease breakage will not be reimbursed.

• Totes and other reusable storage bins are not reimbursable.

• Reimbursement for moving expenses shall not include moving plants or animals.

• No reimbursement will be made for the hiring of assistance (family/friends) to help with the loading and/or unloading of household or professional goods.

Additional Resources: 

• Cedar Valley Community Information

• Cedar Falls Tourism and Visitors Bureau

• UNI Human Resources Website for New Employees

• UNI Moving Policy 4.10