FAQ's

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Q: Can I purchase a computer on my sponsored project?

A:  Normally, computers are considered general purpose supplies and are paid for from institutional funds, including returned F&A. There are instances, with prior justification and approval, when computers can be purchased with sponsored funding. Examples may include laptops used for field work or to run project-specific laboratory equipment. As with all project expenditures, computers should be allocable for the benefit of a particular agreement. Desktops for faculty offices are seldom approved or justifiable, since there is no specific benefit allocable to one activity.

Q:  Can I purchase equipment in the last 90 days of my sponsored project?

A:  Most equipment purchases during the last 90 days of a project are not allowed without prior approval from the contract or grants officials of the sponsoring agency. Such purchases raise reasonable questions from the funding source and risk an audit. The availability of funds late in the project does not, by itself, justify spending unless it benefits the project.

Q:  I’m attending a four-day conference that coincides with my 30-day vacation in the same location. What can my project or F&A return pay for?

A:  For the transportation costs to be reimbursable, the IRS requires that days of business travel exceed days of personal travel. In this example, the airfare would not be reimbursable from sponsored or other institutional funds. The costs of the conference itself -- including registration, hotel and per diem -- would probably be allowable.

If you have additional questions please e-mail Kevin Teel