Honorarium Payments

Definition

An honorarium is a one-time payment of $5,000 or less made to an individual who is not an employee of the University, for a special and non-recurring activity or event for which a fee is not legally or traditionally required. The intent is to show appreciation for participation in University educational, research, or public service activities or events.

Occasions for an Honorarium

• Token of gratitude for activities for which custom or propriety precludes a price to be set.

  Examples: A minister or cleric providing an invocation; a distinguished alumnus invited to make brief remarks at the dedication of a new campus facility; an individual participating as a judge in a contest; or a Supreme Court Justice invited to judge a moot court competition.

• Award to an individual for special achievement, or renown for participation in (excluding leading or conducting) a short-term activity or event that is of an educational, research, or public service nature and no specific deliverable or specific result is requested or expected.

  Examples: Guest lecturers; reading of papers; participating in workshops and seminars; presenting research results, an address, or a speech; or an invited noted international scholar participating in a scientific symposium.

Honoraria for Foreign Nationals

Special requirements and conditions apply when requesting honorarium payments for non-employee foreign nationals. Check the Foreign Nationals Payment Eligibility Grid to find out which payments are permissible.

Restrictions

An honorarium may not be used for the following:

• To replace or circumvent procedures for paying consultants

• To pay University of Illinois salaried and non-salaried employees

• As an award to an individual where the primary intent is to confer distinction on, or to symbolize respect, esteem, or admiration for the recipient

• When the services require access to University proprietary information

• Solely as a reimbursement in lieu of undocumented expenses

• Payments larger than $5000; payments in excess of $5000 require a University of Illinois contract. Contract your campus Purchasing Division for assistance.

Last Updated: November 9, 2010