Purpose of the A-21 Checklist Form: This form is divided into five types of costs that are generally charged to the sponsor via the Facilities & Administration (F&A) rates, but under the unusual circumstances, described below, can be approved to be included as a direct charge. For the purposes of this form, these types of direct charges will be collectively referred to as A-21 charges.
Note: Please note that this checklist does not need to be completed for the following:
- Direct awards from non-federal sponsors
- Program Project Grants (NIH example, P01)
- Center Grants (NIH example, P30)
- Fellowships (NIH example, F awards)
- Training Grants (NIH example, T awards)
- Conference Grants (NIH example, R13 and U13)
Two of the most common reasons that justify direct charging these types of expenses are defined as follows:
- Technical - the cost category may imply that the items are being used for administrative purposes. Checking this box indicates that the item will be used ONLY to meet the scientific, technical and/or programmatic requirements of the project being charged. Storage of supplies must be segregated from general use items, and the account code to be used should reflect the technical usage rather than general usage.
- Above standard level of service/items- because all projects require a certain amount of account reconciliation, office supplies, correspondence, phone calling, etc., checking this box indicates that the project requires items/services above the standard level of service normally required on a research project. Checking this box requires a brief explanation of why such items are significantly greater than the routine level. Provide quantifiable data, such as amount of effort required for tasks, number of surveys being conducted, number of conference participants, etc. Attach the narrative to the Checklist.
Once completed, the A-21 Checklist needs to be submitted to your OGC Post Award administrator.
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