Automated Standard Application for Payments (ASAP)
The U.S. Department of Treasury’s system used by UGA to draw funds for expenses incurred on various federally funded restricted accounts.
Automated Clearing House (ACH)
A nationwide, electronic network utilizing the Federal Reserve Bank for the financial transfer of funds for the inter-bank clearing of electronic payments.
Authorized Organizational Representative (AOR) (Signing Official (SO)
An individual at UGA who has been delegated the legal authority to bind UGA or UGARF to grants, contracts, and other institutional commitments.
Approved Budget (Working Budget)
The financial expenditure plan, including any revisions, approved by the sponsor and the University for the project or activity.
Appointment Letter
A letter of agreement between a faculty member and Board of Regents outlining the terms and conditions of the faculty appointment.
Anti-Kickback
The Anti-Kickback Act of 1986 prohibits those involved in government contracting from offering, accepting, or attempting to accept incentives for favorable treatment in awarding contracts for materials, equipment, or services of any kind.
America Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) (Stimulus Fund)
The recently enacted federal program designed to stimulate the U.S. economy by funding various programs that should result in increased employment.
Allowable vs. Unallowable
Allowable costs are costs allowed by University policy, sponsor policies, the project’s Notice of Grant Award, and federal policy (if applicable). Those costs not fitting this definition are usually considered unallowable costs and cannot be directly charged to a restricted or sponsored account.
Administrative Action Request Form (AARF)
A multi-purpose form used by PIs to request access to restricted funds prior to receipt of the actual award from the sponsor. Requests for approval for many post-award functions (i.e., equipment acquisition, foreign travel, and re-budgeting) are also covered by this form.