Glossary-Terms

A method used to postpone current year taxes to a later year. This is typically done by recognizing income or a gain at a later time. It is important to remember that using tax deferral only delays tax liability, it does not eliminate it.

Named after a section of the 1978 Internal Revenue Code, a 401(k) is a tax deferred, employer-sponsored qualified retirement savings plan.

A retirement plan for non profit organizations that allows pre-tax contributions and investments to grow tax-free. However, taxes are applied upon withdrawal as that is considered income.

Commonly referred to as salary reduction plans or nonqualified deferred compensation plans, this type of retirement plan is available to state and municipal government employees. Plan participants may voluntarily contribute pre-tax income up to a certain amount per year.

A provision of the U.S. IRS Code listing the types of non-profit organizations exempt from some federal income taxes. Sometimes used as a condition of eligibility in a funding opportunity.

Non-profit corporations organized under acts of Congress such as Federal Credit Unions.

Federal tax code for fraternal lodge societies.

Federal tax code for teachers' retirement fund associations.

Federal tax code for local benevolent life insurance associations, mutual irrigation and telephone companies and like organizations.

Federal tax code for non-profit cemetery companies and burial corporations.

Federal tax code for credit unions without capital stock that are organized and operated for mutual purposes without profit.

Federal tax code for mutual insurance companies.

Federal tax code for corporations organized to finance crop (agricultural) operations.

Federal tax code for non-profit employees' associations.

Federal tax code for non-profit Veteran's organizations.

Federal tax code for non-profit corporations exclusively holding title to property, and collecting and remitting the income from it (less expenses) to an exempt organization.

Federal tax code for group legal services plan organizations.

Federal tax code for black lung benefit trusts.

Federal tax code for withdrawal liability payment funds.

Federal tax code for title-holding corporations for qualified exempt organizations.

Federal tax code for state sponsored high-risk health coverage organizations.

Federal tax code for state-sponsored workers' compensation reinsurance organizations.

Federal tax code for National railroad retirement investment trusts.

Federal tax code for non-profits organized for religious, educational, charitable, amateur athletic, scientific or literary, public safety purposes, foundations, and organizations involved in prevention of cruelty to children or animals.

Nonprofit entities to which contributions are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law. 501c(4) organizations are community or fraternal organizations that are not solely charitable.

Federal tax code for labor, agricultural or horticultural non-profits.

Federal tax code for non-profit chambers of commerce, boards of trade, business leagues, and similar organizations from federal taxation.

Federal tax code for non-profit recreational club organizations.

Federal tax code for fraternal beneficiary societies.

Federal tax code for Voluntary Employee Beneficiary Associations.

Section of the tax code that defines public charities (as opposed to private foundations). A 501(c)(3) organization also must have a 509(a) designation to further define it as a public charity.

55+ Lifestyles is the term usually referring to communities that are 55+ age restricted. They offer resort-style amenities and social activities. These may be ownership, rental or land lease communities.

The reporting form that all private grantmaking foundations must submit annually to the Internal Revenue Service to document their financial activities during the year. 990-PFs are public documents and can be a rich source of supplemental information about grantmaking foundations, including their trustees, the sources of their funds, and their grantmaking and charitable contributions during the year.

A period of time schools use to measure a quantity of study. For example, a school’s academic year may consist of a fall and spring semester during which a full-time undergraduate student must complete 24 semester hours. Academic years vary from school to school and even from educational program to educational program at the same school.

An institution with credentials awarded by an accrediting body that certify compliance with established standards of quality.

Daily structured programs in a community setting with activities and health-related and rehabilitation services to elderly who are physically or emotionally disabled and need a protective environment.

An investor who invests their money in a start-up company at the earliest stages of its life; a sponsor. Unlike a partner, the angel investor is rarely involved in management.

The formal document submitted by a potential Grantee seeking funds.

A group of specific forms and documents for a specific funding opportunity which are used to apply for a grant.

One or more forms and documents which can be reused for multiple opportunity-specific application packages.

Someone who has some experience with an art form and wishes to further his or her knowledge or skills.

This funding category includes the following subjects: Arts appreciation; arts associations; arts centers; arts festivals; arts funds; arts institutes; cinema; community arts; dance; ethnic arts; history/historic preservation; libraries; literary arts; museums/galleries; music; opera; performing arts; public broadcasting; theater; visual arts. Please contact individual corporations and foundations directly for specific details on their arts/culture giving programs.

The award of money, property, or services to a recipient to accomplish a public purpose as authorized by Federal statute. Assistance relationships (e.g., grants) are expressed in less detail than are acquisition relationships (contracts), and responsibilities for ensuring performance rest largely with the recipient or are shared with the Government.

Individuals requiring Assisted Living need extra help to create an environment of Independent Living for themselves. Assisted living bridges the gap between independent living and nursing homes. It is ideal for individuals who are not able to live by themselves, but who do not require constant care either. Assisted living facilities offer help with eating, bathing, dressing, laundry, housekeeping, and assistance with medications.

An AOR submits a grant on behalf of a company, organization, institution, or government. AORs have the authority to sign grant applications and the required certifications and/or assurances that are necessary to fulfill the requirements of the application process.

Financial assistance that provides support or stimulation to accomplish a public purpose. Awards include grants and other agreements in the form of money or property in lieu of money, by the federal government to an eligible recipient. The term does not include: technical assistance, which provides services instead of money; other assistance in the form of loans, loan guarantees, interest subsidies, or insurance; direct payments of any kind to individuals; and contracts which are required to be entered into and administered under federal procurement laws and regulations.

A larger than usual payment used to pay off the outstanding balance of a loan without penalty. Not all loans allow balloon payments. Simple interest loans, like many educational loans, generally do allow balloon payments.

In relation to the WHO website, "Benefit" relates to the amount or type of assistance that a particular opportunity will provide a successful applicant; similar to "Amount."

Otherwise, a payment made or an entitlement available in accordance with a wage agreement, an insurance policy, or a public assistance program.

Dollars awarded by the Federal government to state or local governments, in a "lump sum" form, around a specific issue area and usually with only a very few Federally-imposed guidelines. The local/state governments then have responsibility for setting more specific granting guidelines within their own jurisdictions, for creating and managing a community-based planning process to identify local needs, for coordinating and managing the grantmaking process, and for monitoring and evaluating the results. (See also "Discretionary grants" and "Formula grants.")

A brand name drug is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and is supplied by one company (the pharmaceutical manufacturer). The drug is protected by a patent and is marketed under the manufacturer's brand name.

Financial plan for conducting a project; should include whole dollar amounts only; no decimal points.

"Bricks and mortar" funds, used to purchase land and construct, renovate or substantially rehabilitate buildings and facilities. Also refers to major equipment purchases (computer systems, fleet vehicles, etc.)

A one-piece, written document telling your organization's story - past, present, and future - the way you and your stakeholders want it told. Why do you need one? Because you'll use the language every time a grant-maker's application materials ask: "Who are you? What are you all about? And how do we know we can trust you?"

A recipient’s cash outlay, including the outlay of money contributed to the recipient by third parties.

The Central Contractor Registry (CCR) is the primary vendor database for the U.S. federal government. CCR validates applicant information and electronically shares the secure and encrypted data with the federal agencies' finance offices to facilitate paperless payments through Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT). The CCR stores your organizational information, allowing Grants.gov to verify your identity and to pre-fill organizational information on your grant applications.

This identifies a particular federal grant. The CFDA is the encyclopedia of all funding programs–the way all grants are catalogued.

A grant that provides monies in response to monies from other sources, usually according to a formula. A challenge grant may, for example, offer two dollars for every one that is obtained from a fund drive. The grant usually has a fixed upper limit, and may have a challenge minimum below which no grant will be made. This form of grant is fairly common in the arts, humanities, and some other fields, but is less common in the sciences. A challenge grant differs from a matching grant in at least one important respect: The amount of money that the recipient organization realizes from a challenge grant may vary widely, depending upon how successful that organization is in meeting the challenge. Matching grants usually award a clearly defined amount and require that a specified sum be obtained before any award is made.

This funding category includes the following subjects:

• better government;
• business/free enterprise;
• civil rights;
• consumer affairs;
• economic development;
• economics;
• ethnic/minority organizations;
• First Amendment issues;
• international affairs;
• law and justice;
• municipalities;
• national security;
• nonprofit management;
• philanthropic organizations;
• professional/trade associations;
• public policy;
• public broadcasting;
• recreation and athletics;
• rural affairs; safety;
• urban/community affairs;
• zoos and botanical gardens.

Process by which the awarding agency determines that all applicable administrative actions and all required work of the award have been completed by the recipient and the awarding agency.

Cost-sharing arrangement between an insured person and the health insurance company. The insured person is required to pay a percentage of the cost for the health care services received.

Co-payment is a predetermined fee, in addition to what health insurance covers, that an individual pays for health care services.

College Work-Study is simply a part-time job. This term is sometimes erroneously used to refer to the Federal Work-Study Program.

A grantor selected ID that allows further distinction of the funding opportunity number which allows applications with the same funding opportunity number to be assigned unique identifiers.

An award made to support the costs of a meeting or meetings.

This funding category indicates corporations or foundations that are willing to sponsor professional development or special-interest events around a particular priority area. Please contact individual corporations and foundations directly for specific details on their sponsorship of conferences and seminars.

One of a fixed number of districts into which a state is divided, each district electing one member to the national House of Representatives.

The process of combining one or more loans into a single new loan.

residential campuses that provide a continuum of care -- from assisted living to skilled nursing care -- all in one location

A procurement contract under an award or subaward, and a procurement subcontract under a recipient's or subrecipient’s contract.

An award of financial assistance that is used to enter into the same kind of relationship as a grant; and is distinguished from a grant in that it provides for substantial involvement between the federal agency and the recipient in carrying out the activity contemplated by the award.

The portion of project or program costs not borne by the federal government

Deals with only debts you incur specifically with credit cards.

The period of time the recipient chooses for purposes of financial statements and audits.

(Doing Business As): An alternative name or trade name used by a business.

The date on which all work under an award is completed or the date on the award document, or any supplement or amendment thereto, on which awarding agency sponsorship ends.

The last day to submit an application for a specific award. Some awards have indefinite deadlines; the offer in these cases expires when funding runs out. Some awards allow you to post mark your application by the deadline date, others require receipt of your application by the deadline date.

Deals with all debts you may have incurred through any source of debt acquisition.

Occurs when a borrower is allows to postpone repaying the loan. If you have a subsidized loan, the federal government pays the interest charges during the deferment period. If you have an unsubsidized loan, you are responsible for the interest that accrues during the deferment period. You can still postpone paying the interest charges by capitalizing the interest, which increases the size of the loan.

Most federal loan programs allow students to defer their loans while they are in school at least half time. If you don't qualify for a deferment, you may be able to get what is called forbearance. You cannot get a deferment if your loan is in default.

Money that the organization has received, but has not yet earned as of the closing date on the balance sheet. The amount is carried as a liability until the organization provides the goods or services for which the money was received.

The William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan Program (aka the Direct Loan Program) is a federal program where the school becomes the lending agency and manages the funds directly, with the federal government providing the loan funds. Not all schools currently participate in this program. Benefits of the program include faster turnaround time and less bureaucracy than the old "bank loan" program. The terms for direct loans are the same as for the Stafford Loan program.

Contributions, gifts, grants, and bequests received directly from the public. Includes amounts received from individuals, trusts, corporations, estates, foundations, public charities, or raised by an outside professional fund-raiser.

Charges to an award that the awarding agency determines to be unallowable, in accordance with the applicable federal cost principles or other terms and conditions contained in the award.

Programs available to aid disaster victims. Federal programs include Individual Assistance, Public Assistance, and Mitigation. Other agencies, such as the U.S. Small Business Administration, also provide disaster assistance programs.

Grants that are allocated according to a funder’s judgment rather than according to a pre-established guideline or set of criteria.

See: Donated products

Any goods, products, equipment, or other tangible property that is donated to an organization to become its property and for its use. These can include consumable products (such as food items, paper goods, office supplies, etc.) as well as furnishings, computer equipment, automobiles, etc. Donated products are part of an agency’s "in-kind" support and should be included in an agency’s budget, at fair-market value.

This funding category includes the following subjects:

• Agricultural education;
• arts education;
• business education;
• career/vocational education;
• colleges and universities;
• community/junior colleges;
• continuing education;
• economic education;
• education administration;
• education associations;
• education funds;
• elementary education;
• engineering education;
• faculty development;
• health and physical education;
• international exchange;
• international studies;
• journalism education; legal education;
• liberal arts education;
• literacy;
• medical education;
• minority education;
• preschool education;
• private education (pre-college);
• public education (pre-college);
• religious education;
• science/ technology education;
• social sciences education;
• special education;
• student aid.

Term related to educational financial aid. Stands for Expected Family Contribution and is used to determine the amount of funding given to an applicant.

Grants made (almost always on a one-time basis) to help an agency through an extraordinary, short-term financial need.

A program in which a corporation makes cash donations to match donations from its employees and (sometimes) retirees and family members. In other words, when an employee donates $25 to her favorite charity, her employer will match that with a corporate gift to the same agency.

Match amounts vary widely, as do the eligibility requirements for recipient agencies. Some corporations will match "dollars for doers," offering cash grants to agencies for which their employees volunteer. It is almost always the employee’s responsibility to make the arrangements for a matching gift; the corporation will rarely deal directly with the recipient agency.

Identification of a business to the U.S. Internal Revenue Service; also known as a Federal tax identification number, "EIN", and "FEIN."

A body of funding that generates investment or interest income for an agency. Usually the principal of the endowment fund remains untouched, while the agency is free to spend or reinvest the interest income it generates.

A government program that guarantees and provides benefits to a particular group

Tangible nonexpendable personal property, including exempt property, charged directly to the award and having a useful life of more than one year and an acquisition cost of $5,000 or more per unit. However, consistent with recipient policy, lower limits may be established.

Property under the control of an awarding agency that, as determined by the head of the awarding agency or his/her delegate, is no longer required for the agency's needs or the discharge of its responsibilities.

Tangible personal property acquired in whole or in part with federal funds, where the awarding agency has statutory authority to vest title in the recipient without further obligation to the federal government. An example of exempt property authority is contained in the federal Grant and Cooperative Agreement Act, 31 U.S.C. 6306, for property acquired under an award to conduct basic or applied research by a nonprofit institution of higher education or nonprofit organization whose principal purpose is conducting scientific research.

Free Application for Federal Student Aid. This is the form that must be filed annually by all college students seeking financial assistance. It is used to calculate the EFC and determine eligibility for federally based sources of funding.

A Federally funded student loan program. Includes Federal Stafford Loans (both subsidized and unsubsidized), Federal Supplemental Loans for Students (SLS), Federal PLUS Loans, and Federal Consolidation Loans.

Federally funded program administered by the school within federal guidelines whereby the student seeks employment either in or through the school and is paid for hours worked.

An award made directly to an individual in support of specific educational pursuits; recipients may be subject to service and/or payback requirements after the fellowship terminates.

In relation to insurance plans, a Fee-for-Service Plan provides health coverage in which doctors and other providers receive a fee for each service such as an office visit, test, procedure, or other health care service.

The department that determines a student's eligibility for financial aid, creates the financial aid package, and sends out the award letter. Generally, the Financial Aid Office is located on the student's school campus.

The transfer of a thing of value from a federal agency to a recipient to carry out a public purpose of support or stimulation authorized by a law of the United States (see 31 U.S.C. 6101(3)). An agency may provide financial assistance through various types of transactions, including grants, cooperative agreements, loans, loan guarantees, interest subsidies, insurance, food commodities, direct appropriations, and transfers of property in place of money.

A 12-month period for which an organization plans the use of its funds. This period may be a calendar year but can be any 12-month period.

A fiscal year accounting period should normally coincide with the natural operating cycle of the organization. If an organization files an IRS Form 990, it is required to define its accounting period on Line A at the top of the form.

Estimated value of land, buildings, equipment, and other tangible items owned by the organization.

A situation where your loan holder gives you permission to stop making payments for a set period of time. Interest always continues to accrue during a forbearance. Forbearances are easier to obtain than deferments or cancellations.

A section of the Internal Revenue Service tax code. Often used as shorthand to designate an organization that has been accorded nonprofit status by the IRS. Funders and contributors will often require proof of 501(c)(3) status before making a grant or contribution. Donations to 501(c)(3) organizations are deductible from federal income taxes as charitable contributions; donations to other kinds of organizations may not qualify as charitable contributions.

A grant that the Department is directed by Congress to make to grantees, for which the amount is established by a formula based on certain criteria that are written into the legislation and program regulations; directly awarded and administered in the Department's program offices. Non-competitive.

The word "foundation" itself has no legal status. Any organization can call itself a foundation or use the word as part of its name without necessarily operating as a grant-making or philanthropic entity. True charitable or philanthropic foundations, on the other hand, are usually organized under the Internal Revenue Service tax code that allows them to accumulate, invest and hold assets tax-free (called the "corpus") as long as they make charitable grants or contributions amounting to at least 5% of the corpus value each year. So a philanthropic foundation with $100 million in assets can invest and grow those assets tax-free, but must contribute at least $5 million a year to qualifying charitable organizations in order to maintain its tax-exempt status.

Charitable and philanthropic foundations come in all shapes, sizes and varieties, from the very small, single-purpose family-run foundations to the multibillion-dollar, multipurpose international foundations. The only feature that all such foundations share in common is the IRS's 5% contributions requirement.

A complete, written "business plan" for the project or idea you are proposing for funding. A "full proposal" differs from a "letter proposal only in the degree of detail it contains; the basic components are identical. Requirements vary widely from funder to funder about length, format, and contents of a full proposal; be sure to check guidelines carefully.

A publicly available document by which a federal agency makes known its intentions to award discretionary grants or cooperative agreements, usually as a result of competition for funds. Funding opportunity announcements may be known as program announcements, notices of funding availability, solicitations, or other names depending on the agency and type of program.

The period of time when federal funding is available for obligation by the recipient.

Usually refers to monies given to an agency without restrictions on how the monies are used.

A generic medication is basically a copy of the brand name drug. A generic drug has the same active ingredients, strength, and dosage form as a non-generic drug and provides the same effectiveness and safety. Generics generally cost less than brand name drugs.

The section of a funding proposal commonly called "Goals and Objectives" is one of the most important components of your request for funding -- and one of the easiest to misunderstand. The terms themselves are often confused or used differently by organizations in different fields. Basically, the two terms refer to two different levels of changes, outcomes or impacts that will be achieved through your program or services. The first is the broad, overarching purpose served by your program or service -- for instance, "Our purpose [or goal] is to help women victimized by abuse recover their strength, stability and self-esteem." The second might best be called your targets or success indicators -- those results that are specific, measurable and time-bound and that directly contribute toward accomplishing the overall purpose. An example: "Within 6 months of graduating from our program, 75% of the women will have secured and maintained employment at or above the median income level by household size."

This funding category includes all topics related to environmental affairs;protection, preservation, and regeneration of natural resources, including water, air, earth, and wildlife.

Grants are gifts offered by the government, schools, non-profits, and other groups. A grant may be based on need or merit, or it may be an award from a competition. No repayment is required for these gifts.

The individual or organization that receives grant money.

The individual, organization, or Government entity that offers the grant and pays the grant to qualified/winning applicants.

Unpaid amount of grants or awards that an organization plans to pay other organizations or individuals.

An access point through which any person, business, or State, local, or Tribal government may electronically find and apply for more than 1,000 competitive grant opportunities from the 26 Federal grant-making Agencies. The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is the managing partner for the Federal Grants.gov initiative, one of 24 initiatives of the overall E-Government program for improving access to Government services via the Internet. Registration is required to apply.

The skill of knowing where the money is and how to get it.

Formally, an Alien Registration Receipt Card. Shows a person's status as a permanent resident with a right to live and work permanently in the U.S. Also called Form I-551.

This funding category includes the following subjects:

• disease-related education and research programs;
• emergency/ambulance services;
• geriatric health;
• health care cost containment;
• health funds;
• health organizations;
• hospices; hospitals;
• medical rehabilitation;
• medical research;
• medical training;
• mental health;
• nursing services;
• nutrition/health maintenance;
• outpatient health care;
• pediatric health;
• public health;
• single disease health associations.

A person who inherits or is entitled by law or by the terms of a will to inherit the estate of another.

In relation to insurance plans, a Health Maintenance Organization Plan is a type of coverage that provides health services to the insured in return for a monthly premium and co-payment.

Home Care is a general term to describe services delivered at home to recovering, disabled, or terminally ill persons in need of medical, nursing, social, or therapeutic treatment.

Any contributions to an agency that have value but are not monetary in nature. In-kind support can include the value of donated products or equipment; volunteer services; donated office space or staff time; loaned executives; and donated professional services, among others. In-kind support should always be included in an agency’s budget, at fair-market value.

Independent living is for people who want to and are able to live independently but do not want to maintain a home. Many people prefer to live in a community with others of the same age and with similar interests. An independent retirement community allows for a great deal of social activities and trips. Many independent living facilities also offer prepared meals and provide a wide range of amenities.

You're an independent student if at least one of the following applies to you: a) You will be at least 24 before January 1, of the school year for which you will receive aid; b) You are married at time of application; c) You are enrolled in a graduate or professional educational program; d) You have a legal dependent other than a spouse, for which you provide over one half of his/her support; e) You are an orphan or ward of the court (or were a ward of the court until age 18); or f) You are a veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces.

State administered individual assistance program intended to meet the necessary expenses and serious needs of disaster victims.  IFG operates within established grant limits that are funded through a 75 percent Federal and 25 percent State cost share.

Federal assistance provided to families or individuals following a disaster or emergency declaration.  Under a major disaster declaration, assistance to individuals and families is available through grants, loans, and other services offered by various federal, State, local, and voluntary agencies.

Cost-sharing arrangement where an insured person pays a fixed dollar amount of covered expenses each year before the health insurance company will reimburse for covered health care expenses.

Work for an employer who pays unemployment insurance tax.

Those wages paid by employers who pay unemployment insurance tax.

This funding category covers:

• foreign educational institutions;
• international development;
• international relief;
• international health care;
• international organizations.

Many times, if your grant seeking organization is very new, very small, or very short of resources, conducting a full audit of your financial status can be financially beyond your reach. Many grantmakers will instead accept a "letter of auditability." This is simply a letter prepared by your CPA or other independent third-party financial expert affirming that your organization's records are well-maintained, that everything is properly documented and receipted, and that financial reports are prepared on a monthly basis. In other words, if an audit were required, the auditor would find your record-keeping system in good order.

A brief letter to assess a potential funder's interest in considering your proposal for funding. Unless the funder specifies otherwise, a letter of inquiry is never more than one page long. It should include: (a) A few sentences of background on your agency; (b) a very brief description of the project or service you're proposing; (c) the specific dollar amount that will be requested; and (d) an explanation of why you believe your proposal matches the funder's priorities and interests. A funder will occasionally make a grant award on the basis of a letter of inquiry. More often, the funder will ask for a full proposal if the idea is of interest.

Unlike a letter of inquiry, a letter proposal includes all the information a potential funder will need in order to make a decision about funding your project. A letter proposal differs from a "full proposal" only in the degree of detail it contains; the basic components are identical. Requirements vary widely from funder to funder about length, format and contents of a letter proposal; be sure to check guidelines carefully.

The different stages of a project or organization (oftentimes funding will be specifically aimed at one of these Lifecycle Stages.) The stages are: Startup, Growth, Mature Organization, Turnaround.)

Lifecycle Stages: Funding targeted to support organizations that are in a rapid-growth stage or are moving quickly to a new, higher level of operation.

Lifecycle Stage: Funding targeted to support ongoing programs and services of a successful, stable, well-established organization.

Lifecycle Stages: Funding targeted to support the formation of a new nonprofit or community organization, or to help a very new organization establish solid operating base and begin offering programs and services.

Lifecycle Stages: Funding targeted to support a major "change" process in an organization that has encountered serious challenges in its operating environment; i.e., financial, leadership, mission, service mix, and so on.

A deferment excuses you from making loan payments for a set period of time because of a specific condition in your life -- such as economic hardship or unemployment.

A program in which a company "loans" key executives or managers to community-based organizations, to share their expertise and leadership. The "loan" may involve a full-time sabbatical lasting up to several months, or it may involve a commitment of several hours a week or month to provide a specific service. Corporations often find it easier to arrange for "loaned executive" services than to make an outright cash grant. (For more details, see "In-kind support.")

A local unit of government, including specifically a county, municipality, city, town, township, local public authority, school district, special district, intra-state district, council of governments (whether or not incorporated as a nonprofit corporation under State law), any other regional or interstate entity, or any agency or instrumentality of local government.

A local unit of government, including specifically a county, municipality, city, town, township, local public authority, school district, special district, intra-state district, council of governments (whether or not incorporated as a nonprofit corporation under State law), any other regional or interstate entity, or any agency or instrumentality of local government.

Expenses for the general functioning of the organization but not related to fund-raising or programs. Such expenses include the salaries of the chief officer and the chief officer's staff for activities not related to fund-raising or programs. Other costs include those associated with meetings of the board of directors or similar governing group; legal services; accounting; liability insurance; office management; auditing; personnel; preparation, publication, and distribution of an annual report; and investment expenses not related to programs or rental income.

A grant (or cooperative agreement) awarded under a program where the authorizing statute requires the head of the agency or designee to make an award to each eligible entity under the conditions and in the amount (or based on the formula) specified in the statute.

In relation to funding, matching is a form of cost sharing, often times contributed by the grantee. Many Federal and a few foundation grant programs require that applicants obtain a portion--usually anywhere from 10 to 50 percent of their total request--from other sources, to show that there is wide local support for the intended project. Also known as Cost-Sharing.

This is a joint state / federal health insurance program that is administered by the state. It provides health coverage for low-income individuals, especially pregnant women, children and the disabled.

Savings accounts designated for out-of-pocket medical expenses. Employers and individuals are allowed to contribute to a savings account on a pre-tax basis and carry over the unused funds at the end of the year.

This is a federally sponsored health care program that offers coverage for medical and hospital care primarily to those over the age of sixty-five.

Members' and affiliates' dues or fees that are not contributions.

Financial aid given to students who have outstanding abilities, talents, and/or achievements is called Merit-based Awards. Financial situation is not considered.

Relates to racial, ethnic, or cultural heritage. Categories on the WealthOfHelp.com are: African American or Black, American Indian or Alaskan Native, Asian/Asian American or Pacific Islander, Hispanic or Hispanic American, Other Racial/Ethnic Group.

The main purpose for which an organization exists.

Can indicate either: (1) grants that extend for more than one year, or (2) the option of reapplying to the same funder for additional monies in future budget periods. Multiyear and continuing grants are often contingent on the agency’s performance during the initial grant period.

Non-profits formed to serve the members of the organization. Attributes of organization and conduct are usually associated with for-profit entities. Examples are cooperatives, day care centers, nursing homes and trade associations.

Relates to financial aid awarded to students whose families do not have sufficient financial resources to pay for college. Students from low-income families are the primary recipients of these types of aid. A student's grades, talent, and abilities are not considered. These awards may or may not meet all of a student's needs.

Securities, real estate, royalty interest, partnership interest, all other non-inventory assets (such as program-related investments and fixed assets used by the organization in its related and unrelated activities), less costs, depreciation, and selling expenses.

Income earned from all special fund-raising events and activities, less costs.

Rental income earned from all non-program-related property, less costs.

An incorporated organization in which stockholders and trustees do not share in profits. Nonprofits are usually established to accomplish some charitable, humanitarian, or educational purpose.

Nonprofit, not-for-profit: These terms, though often used interchangeably, have very different meanings from a legal and fiscal standpoint. An organization can incorporate at State level as "not-for-profit" through the State Corporation Commission. This is not the same as being accorded "nonprofit status" as a charitable, tax-exempt organization by the Internal Revenue Service. In order to receive IRS nonprofit status [usually under IRS code 501(c)(3)], you must apply directly to the IRS and secure a "Letter of Determination." This letter is your documentation that you have been accorded nonprofit status by the IRS and that contributions to your organization are tax-deductible. A copy of the IRS letter of determination is often required by funders as part of your proposal package.

National Taxonomy of Exempt Entities Code, created by the National Center for Charitable Statistics; A classification system for nonprofits that divides the nonprofit world into categories.

Also known as a Nursing Home, these Skilled Nursing Facilities are designed for seniors who are in need of 24-hour nursing care.

Nursing homes are designed to care for very frail people that are not able to care for themselves and have numerous health care requirements.

The costs of keeping an agency open; expenses related to internal or administrative operations, rather than to specific programs or services.

Programs and activities by which the organization accomplishes its mission.

An evaluation process that focuses on measuring success in achieving specific, measurable and meaningful change in the community or in the lives of people being served (see "Outcome objective") rather than simply counting inputs or reporting on the process.

This terminology describes a target or success indicator that directly addresses the change that will "come out of" your proposed service or program. The "outcome" is the change itself -- the answer to the question, "What will be different in our community or in the lives of the people we're serving as a result of our effort?" An outcome objective is distinct from a process or input objective, which focuses on activities or to-do list items. An example of an input objective would be: "By Dec. 2003, we will provide 60 hours of reading instruction to 50 adult learners." A related, and much stronger, outcome objective -- focusing on the change, not what it takes to produce the change -- would be: "After 60 hours of instruction, 75% of the adult learners will have improved their reading abilities by at least two grade levels."

A document, issued by a national government, which certifies, for the purpose of international travel, the identity and nationality of its holder.

Most files available for download at WealthOfHelp.com will be in this file format. It is a file type that enables printing and viewing documents online. You will need to install "Adobe Reader" to view or print a PDF file.

The Federal Pell Grant Program provides need-based grants to low-income undergraduate and certain postbaccalaureate students to promote access to postsecondary education.

A Perkins loan is aFederally based loan program administered by the school within federal guidelines. Annual maximum is $4,000, with an interest of 5%. Funds are awarded at the discretion of the school within federal guidelines. Payment of principle and interest begins 9 months after separation.

Property of any kind except real property. It may be tangible, having physical existence, or intangible, having no physical existence, such as copyrights, patents, or securities.

An award made in support of the planning stages of a future project.

In relation to insurance plans, Point of Service is a product offered by an HMO or FFS plan that has features of both.

The last date that may be affixed by the Post Office in order for a proposal to be considered for funding; set by the funding source; see Deadline.

In relation to insurance plans, a Preferred Provider Organization Plan is a type of health coverage based on a network of doctors and hospitals that provides care to the insured at a prearranged discounted rate.

A brief, early draft of the proposal, used to elicit feedback from the prospective funder so that the proposal may be more closely tailored to funder expenditures. Also known as a discussion paper, proposal or pre-application. This is occasionally required by a funding source as a first step in the submission process.

The dollar amount you’ll pay on a monthly basis in exchange for your insurance coverage.

Health services that focus solely on preventative care measures such as physical exams, immunizations, diagnostic tests and mammograms.

Describes an agreement between a private party and the U.S. Government, where the private party works to obtain property or services for the U.S. Government's use.

Gross income earned by the recipient that is directly generated by a supported activity or earned as a result of the award.

Fees and other monies received by an organization for services rendered. These services must relate directly to the primary purpose for which the organization received its tax-exempt status.

All allowable costs, as set forth in the applicable federal cost principles (see Sec. 74.27), incurred by a recipient and the value of the contributions made by third parties in accomplishing the objectives of the award during the project period.

Funds given to an agency to support a specific, well-defined, often short-term project or set of activities designed to address a specific need or achieve a specific goal.

The period established in the award document during which awarding agency sponsorship begins and ends.

Real property, equipment, intangible property and debt instruments.

Welfare; Financial assistance to impoverished persons for the essentials of living through federal, state or local government programs.

A non-profit type that provides a service or product to the public that is generally not offered by for-profit corporations. It does not have a membership that would limit its accessibility to the non-membership public. Examples include schools, libraries and hospitals.

Land, including land improvements, structures and appurtenances thereto, but excludes movable machinery and equipment.

This funding category includes giving to religious welfare; churches, missionary activities, religious organizations and synagogues, and evangelical efforts.

Non-profits organized primarily or exclusively for religious purposes. Churches are an example.

Often abbreviated as "RFP," this is simply a formal announcement issued by a grantmaker (private or public) letting agencies know that it is looking for proposals for funding in specific topic or program areas. The RFP will usually include complete details on the kinds of services or programs the grantmaker will consider; what the proposal needs to contain; deadline information; proposal review and evaluation; and other guidelines to help respondents submit a technically qualified, highly competitive proposal.

All research activities, both basic and applied, and all development activities that are supported at universities, colleges, hospitals, other nonprofit institutions, and commercial organizations. Research is defined as a systematic study directed toward fuller scientific knowledge or understanding of the subject studied. Development is the systematic use of knowledge and understanding gained from research directed toward the production of useful materials, devices, systems, or methods, including design and development of prototypes and processes. The term research also includes activities involving training of individuals in research techniques where such activities utilize the same facilities as other research and development activities and where such activities are not included in the instruction function.

An award made in support of an empirical study.

A resident curatorship is a public/private partnership in which the curator (which may be a couple) donates their own resources—time and/or money—to the restoration of an historic property in exchange for a long-term no-rent agreement. Because the cost to the curator is often much more than $100,000, the term of the lease is typically for the life of the curator(s).

Temporary relief from duties for caregivers, ranging from several hours to days. May be provided in-home or in a residential care setting such as an assisted living facility or nursing home.

The year that the IRS granted an organization 501(c)(3) status.

A scholarship is a gift aid offered by schools and other groups. They are usually based on academic performance, talent, athletics, school, or community involvement.

This funding category includes: Medical research; observatories and planetariums; science exhibits/fairs; scientific institutes; science research; scientific organizations.

A small grant for the purpose of getting a project started; it is assumed that the project will be able to attract additional external funds following the "seed grant" period.

Funding to support a brand-new agency or project through its startup stage. Sometimes seed monies will be granted to tide a new agency or program over until another, larger funding source kicks in.

This type of health care plan is purchased to provide you with benefits during coverage gaps between jobs, after a move or while you’re traveling overseas.

The SBA lends money to homeowners and renters at low-interest rates to repair or replace homes and/or personal belongings not covered by insurance.  The SBA also offers low-interest business loans to qualifying businesses and nonprofit organizations that suffered physical and/or economic injury damages/losses not covered by insurance.

This is a type of health care coverage that is available to businesses employing between two and fifty employees. It offers discounted premiums to employees and tax advantages to small business owners; also in most cases, the coverage cannot be denied.

Agency administered programs supported by ear-marked federal funds, making grants to small business entities.

Grant applications and/or programs to fund small business "teamed" with research institutions.

This funding category includes the following causes:

• Child welfare; community centers;
• community service organizations;
• counseling; day care;
• delinquency and crime;
• disabled;
• domestic violence;
• drugs and alcohol;
• elderly programs;
• emergency relief;
• employment/job training;
• family planning;
• family services;
• food/clothing distribution;
• homes;
• housing;
• legal aid; refugee assistance;
• shelters/homelessness;
• united funds;
• volunteer services;
• women's affairs;
• youth organizations.

A funding source.

Periodic payment, similar to an allowance, made to an individual; normally intended for living expenses associated with participation in some phase of a funded project such as a fellowship or training grant; usually related to academic studies.

Refers to a type of loan where a borrower is not responsible for the interest while in an in-school, grace, or deferment status. Subsidized loans include: Direct Subsidized, Direct Subsidized Consolidation Loans, Federal Subsidized Stafford Loans and Federal Subsidized Consolidation Loans.

Federally based grant with an annual maximum of $2,000. Eligibility is tied to the Pell Grant. Funds are awarded at the discretion of the school within federal guidelines.

An award made to cover expenses incurred beyond those requested at the time the original was submitted; additional funds become a part of the original award.

A reduction of taxes or an exemption from taxes granted by a local government on a piece of real property for a specified length of time.

A tax deduction that is granted in order to encourage a particular type of commercial activity.

A direct reduction in tax liability (not dependent on the taxpayer's tax bracket)

A reduction in the gross amount on which a tax is calculated; reduces taxes by the percentage fixed for the taxpayer's income bracket.

A legal status, bestowed by the IRS, which states that organizations have adequately demonstrated their charitable, education, religious, scientific or literary nature. By far the largest part, but not all, of tax-exempt organizations are non-profit corporations. Others include trusts and benevolent associations.

An exemption from all or certain taxes of a state or nation in which part of the taxes that would normally be collected from an individual or an organization are instead foregone.

A reduction of one or more tax rates.

A tax refund or tax rebate is a refund on taxes when the tax liability is less than the taxes paid.

Amounts which you can deduct from your annual income to reduce the amount on which you have to pay tax.

Can be claimed as a deduction against taxpayers' incomes, estates, or gifts, depending on what the deductible item is and what tax is in question.

The amount of tax-exempt bonds (or other obligations) issued by an organization on behalf of a state or local governmental unit, or by a state or local governmental unit on behalf of an organization, and for which an organization has a direct or indirect liability. Tax-exempt bonds include state or local bonds and any obligations, including direct borrowing from a lender, or certificates of participation.

Stands for Teaching English as a Foreign Language

Stands for Teaching English as a Second Language

Stands for Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages; TESOL is an umbrella term that includes TESL (Teaching English as a Second Language) and TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language).

All income received and property owned by the organization.

All expenditures paid and debts owed by the organization.

An award to support costs of furthering the education of personnel, often students.

Financial assistance with transportation costs in the form of direct reimbursement to the employee, discounts, or passes.

(1) Money, securities, property in trust by an agent of wealth (bank, estate manager, attorney) or managed by an institution under trust agreement to produce income for the beneficiary. (2) Funds collected and used by the Federal Government for carrying out specific purposes and programs according to terms of a trust agreement or statute, such as the Social Security trust funds.

Debt, liability or obligation being held for a person or entity that cannot be found, where there has been a lack of contact or owner initiated activity for a statutorily prescribed time-frame. Unclaimed property does not pertain to land, houses or real estate of any kind.

Money that is given or donated to an organization from foundations or corporations in the form of grants.

Most states in the U.S. regulate charitable fundraising. State laws require charities to register and to provide information about fundraising activities to the government. The national Association of Attorneys General and the National Charities Officials have developed the Unified Registration Statement (URS). The purpose of the URS is to provide a standardized reporting form for many different states.

Refers to a type of loan where the borrower is fully responsible for paying the interest regardless of the loan status. Interest on unsubsidized loans accrues from the date of disbursement and continues throughout the life of the loan. Unsubsidized loans include: Direct Unsubsidized Loans, Direct PLUS Loans, Direct Unsubsidized Consolidation Loans, and Federal Unsubsidized Stafford Loans, Federal PLUS Loans, and Federal Unsubsidized Consolidation Loans.

A seal or endorsement made on a passport by the proper officials of a country that entitles the bearer to apply for entry into another country at the port of admission.

A woman whose husband has died and who has not remarried.

A man whose wife has died and who has not remarried.

A Federally funded student loan program. Includes Federal Direct Stafford/Ford Loans (Direct Subsidized Loans), Federal Direct Unsubsidized Stafford/Ford Loans (Direct Unsubsidized Loans), Federal Direct PLUS Loans (Direct PLUS Loans), and Federal Direct Consolidation Loans (Direct Consolidation Loans).