The PI works with department or college-level grant administrators to:
Review award terms for rebudgeting flexibility
Confirm if the proposed change is within rebudgeting authority or requires prior sponsor approval
Draft a justification for the modification
Step 3: Prepare Budget Modification Request
The following materials are prepared:
Revised budget (in sponsor or institutional format)
Budget justification explaining the rationale
Any required forms or sponsor-specific documentation
Updated scope or timeline, if applicable
Step 4: Submit to ORI
The request must be submitted via email, with the required attachments, to ORI for institutional review.
Step 5: ORI Review
ORI will:
Verify compliance with sponsor terms and institutional policy
Determine if prior sponsor approval is required
Submit request to sponsor if needed (e.g., via Research.gov or Grants.gov)
Step 6: Approval and Implementation
If sponsor approval is needed, implementation occurs only after written approval is received.
If no sponsor approval is needed, ORI will issue internal approval to proceed with budget changes.
ORI will update internal records and notify the PI and department.
Common Budget Changes That May Require Sponsor Approval:
According to Federal Uniform Guidance (2 CFR 200.308), these may require prior approval:
Change in the scope or objectives of the project
Transfer of funds budgeted for participant support costs
Addition of a subaward not originally approved
Changes in key personnel or level of effort
Carryforward of funds if not automatically authorized
Best Practices:
Always consult ORI before making financial changes
Maintain documentation of all budget decisions
Ensure that changes are aligned with the project's approved goals
Use institutional systems to track and document modifications