Claiming Expenses

FF, I absolutely agree with the person who told you to claim expenses. This not claiming expenses is done for the best of reasons, but it can discourage others who cannot afford to do so. When I have chaired organisations I have always encouraged members to claim expenses.

I am currently on a committee where people do not claim expenses, absorbing the costs of mailouts to members. I always claim for any money I spend. It is a matter of principle.

I can’t be bothered either. I’ve usually lost the receipt for small items before I think of filing them.

Was just composing in my head what I wanted to say when I read your post kitty and you’ve said just what I was thinking!

I agree with Granny23, claim then quietly donate it back

Nor the phone (that would be far too difficult and time-consuming anyway)

DH was told the same but had never claimed anything; however, he was persuaded to accept some reams of paper and inks for the printer (v expensive!) which were bought through the charity and accounted for. We didn't bother for petrol and I don't think anyone does.

He gives more than the cost of that back anyway.

Oh, I must buckmyself up then!

Point taken.

The charity will need to provide accounts, etc. It would be odd if the expenses varied, so its best to claim them.

I was told the same when we were volunteers for 2 local groups.
One was a driving job but the other one was only my time for which I didn't need any recompense, however as someone else said, it needs to be accounted for in the books of the charity. I claimed then just donated it back.
With the driving one, No one knew anyone else so we didn't claim and the organisation were happy, we didn't even know the organisers as all contact was by phone.

Dh and I both claim expenses for the volunteering we do. I have always been told (by the charities) that apart from setting a precedent for other people, the charities need to see what the actual costs involved in providing their services.

This is especially important when government funding is provided for such services.

We give it back to our different charities.

I was in this position myself and decided to always claim what was due in the way of expenses. Like you, I did not really want or need the money but as others have said, the next person may then feel awkward in entering the expenses into the accounts. Just claim and return the money to the organisation in an unobtrusive way.

Your friend is quite correct for the reasons given. There is also the factor of the accounts reflecting the true cost of running the group. You should claim whatever you are entitled to and then, without fuss, donate the money back or buy a prize for a fundraising event.

I don't bother but that's because - well because I can't be bothered.....

I feel you should claim them, I am involved with a couple of organisations from which I often claim expenses.
I am on a very limited income which friends know but I have found myself in a position of having to explain in detail my finances to almost complete strangers when they have made nasty comments about me claiming. Usually people who will ostentatiously pay or donate something and tell the world about their 'generosity' !
If a precedent is set for claiming it may even encourage people on lower incomes to volunteer if they think they will not be out of pocket.