Disallowed Costs [Education]: A Comprehensive Guide to Legal Definitions

Definition & Meaning

The term disallowed costs refers to expenses charged to a grant or award that the Secretary of Education determines are not allowable under federal cost principles or specific conditions set forth in the grant agreement. In simpler terms, these are costs that cannot be reimbursed or paid for by federal funds.

Table of content

Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A university receives federal funding to support a research project. If the university uses some of the funds to pay for an extravagant dinner unrelated to the project, that cost may be deemed disallowed.

Example 2: A non-profit organization charges travel expenses to a federal grant for a conference that is not relevant to the funded project. These expenses can also be classified as disallowed costs.

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Difference
Allowable Costs Expenses that can be reimbursed under the terms of a grant. Disallowed costs are specifically those that cannot be reimbursed.
Unallowable Costs Costs that are not permitted under any circumstances. Disallowed costs may be permissible under certain conditions but are rejected in specific contexts.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you suspect that certain costs may be disallowed under your grant, it is crucial to review the terms of your award carefully. Document all expenses and ensure they align with federal cost principles. For assistance, consider using US Legal Forms' templates to help manage your compliance. If you face complex issues regarding disallowed costs, seeking advice from a legal professional may be necessary.

Quick facts

  • Typical Fees: Varies by grant.
  • Jurisdiction: Federal grants and agreements.
  • Possible Penalties: Repayment of funds, legal action, or loss of future funding.

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

Examples include lavish meals, personal expenses, and costs not directly related to the grant objectives.