Fiscal Checklist: Policy and Regulation Compliance
Use this checklist and planning tool to identify and comply with Head Start fiscal policies and regulations. It will be helpful for directors, managers, and Policy Council members.
Fiscal Management
Strong fiscal systems are key to a healthy program. The materials in this topic guide programs in making the most of their financial resources. Explore tools to help grantees account for their federal assets, comply with regulations, avoid waste, manage risk, and strengthen internal controls. Find information to support grantees in generating in-kind contributions and meeting matching requirements. Learn how to develop sound reporting systems, and execute budgets that reflect program goals and priorities.
Unspent Wages Worksheet
Use this electronic worksheet to calculate unspent salary and fringe benefit dollars related to understaffing and to make decisions on how to re-budget those funds.
Management Minute Video Series
These animated videos describe best practices for addressing the fiscal regulations and requirements that guide Head Start grant recipients.
Financial Essentials Series
Use Financial Essentials courses, available on the Individualized Professional Development (iPD) Portfolio, to create fundable Head Start grant applications and build strong fiscal management systems.
Cost Allocation Tip Sheet
Learn about the key concepts and vocabulary that frame cost allocation discussions and practical ways to assign the shared cost of a resource, good, or service.
Head Start New Fiscal Officer Training Inventory
Use this training inventory to help fiscal officers identify strengths and gaps in their knowledge. Learn ways to establish training priorities.
Financial Audits: Key Regulations and Tips
In this tip sheet, learn about key regulations concerning the financial audits of Head Start programs. Also, learn the steps for selecting an auditor and related online resources.
Navigating the Head Start Grant Process
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.
Make the Most of Cost Allocation, Cost Principles, Indirect Costs, and Budgeting
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.
Determining Non-federal Match
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.