1. Indirect cost waivers are not required in order to accept documented alternate rates if they are mandated by the funding source, either in the grant or program announcement or as a written policy. When in doubt, contact OGCA.

2. The Vice Chancellor for Research & Engagement may reduce indirect costs rates with substantial justification. Such reductions are an exception rather than the rule. The process to seek such a reduction is as follows.

a. The PI sends a request to their department chair/head with copies to the dean and to vcre@umass.edu, providing the following:

(i) identify the funding source and the grant announcement

(ii) identify any additional faculty participants and their affiliations

(iii) provide a pro forma budget with and without the requested indirect cost rate reduction

(iv) a justification of the request

(v) the proposed reduction in the PI share of the RTF return.

b. The department chair/head replies to all parties with comments on item a, and proposes a reduction in the department RTF return.

c. The dean replies to all with comments on items "a" and "b", and proposes a reduction in the school or college RTF return. This step should be completed as soon as possible but not later than 7 business days prior to the OGCA deadline for the proposal.

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