Placing the Blame for Inflated Expenses: This Week in the Back Office

Cavalier Managers Would Be Happy to Approve That Ludicrous Expense

A new Concur survey finds that managers share the blame for inflated expense reports. Thirty-nine percent of managers surveyed copped to approving an expense report they didn't think was compliant. The reason? Expenses are a pain, managers are busy, and rules and policies are too complex.

“Workplace expenses can often be a complicated minefield for employees and managers,” Concur's Chris Baker tells PYMNTS.com. “This is exacerbated by archaic, time-consuming processes and unclear boundaries of what does and does not constitute an acceptable claim.”

Last year, JPMorgan found that $1 billion of the $186 billion spent on travel and entertainment expenses in the U.S. were fraudulent, and that small businesses are most susceptible to T&E fraud. As Concur's Baker says, it's a minefield out there — but automated expense reporting software and tools can decrease reporting hassles and ensure reports follow company policies.

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Lyft Targets Business Travelers With Customizable Expense Reporting

Lyft now allows customers to view their business ride history and create customized expense reports directly from the app. Check it out the full story.

How To Find the Right Mobile Plan for Your Business

Mobility costs related to employees' data usage are among the most costly corporate expenses. Mani Zarrehparvar, president of Visage Mobile and a former AT&T exec, explains what back office pros can do to keep mobility costs under control. Check out the full story.

A Financial Balancing Act at Circus Smirkus

Finances aren't funny business at Circus Smirkus, a nonprofit youth circus in Vermont. Executive director Ed LeClair uses data to accurately predict yearly expenses. Check out the full story.