Cost Restrictions on Federally-Supported Projects

Federally-supported projects are subject to several cost restrictions, which are outlined in the OMB Uniform Guidance. Because the university must treat like costs in a similar manner, these restrictions have been implemented in the Administrative Costing Requirements for Proposals and Awards policy. Cost categories that the university normally charges as indirect costs must meet specific requirements to be justified as direct costs.

These costs include: 

• Administrative or clerical salaries
• Office supplies
• Postage
• Telephone service

These costs are likely to be more highly scrutinized and must be well-justified. Be sure to review the resources below, and check in with your department or college business manager or grant administrator, OPAS Pre-award administrator, or the R&E Help Desk with questions.

Policies and Resources Affecting Administrative/Secretarial Compensation

• Administrative Costing Requirements for Proposals and Awards
• Sample Secretarial Justifications
• Federal Research Policies & Regulations
• Guidelines for Charges to Sponsored Projects Funded by Federal Agencies