Head Start programs adhere to certain financial and administrative requirements. Explore the resources below as you provide comprehensive, wrap-around services to low-income children and families. Also, find materials detailing the requirements of the grant process.

Uniform Guidance streamlines and consolidates government requirements for receiving and using federal awards. In this way, it reduces the administrative burden for programs and improves outcomes.

Internal controls and reporting procedures protect and maximize a Head Start program's federal award.

Learn more about cost allocation principles and practices. Find out how they help Head Start programs organize their funding sources and comply with federal regulations.

Head Start grantees are required to provide a 20 percent non-federal match. This can come through resources donated by the communities they serve and state funding as appropriate.

This checklist is helpful in determining when and how to conduct a needs assessment. Program directors and services area managers can use it when identifying local needs and resources.

Grantees can find helpful information about implementing uniform guidance for non-federal entities and indirect costs and cost allocation. Review information about fiscal policies and procedures and learn more about real property reporting, requests and procurement. Note: These resources are under review.

Non-federal matching information and explanations of fiscal issues such as contributions, disallowances, documentation, in-kind, and volunteer services can be found below. Head Start administrators and non-federal entities may find this information helpful.

Use the resources below to become familiar with the expectations and impact of the Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements regulations for your organization. If you are unsure about how to apply the fiscal regulations and requirements, please contact your Regional Office for assistance.

Documenting in-kind contributions is a key part of a grantee’s fiscal operations. By accurately documenting in-kind expenditures, your program has a record of its financial "sweat equity" for potential funders.