How To Add Direct Cost Line Items

This article guides Applicants on entering Direct Cost Calculation Line Items in the Applicant Portal. This Line Item Type allows Applicants to input data into preset formulas to calculate Direct Cost. Direct Cost can be calculated by the following formulas:

Calculation	Example
Base x Rate	Indirect costs is an example of base x rate where it should be calculated by applying the current negotiated indirect cost rate(s) to the approved base(s).
Quantity x Rate	Equipment is a common quantity multiplied by rate calculation where a piece of technology or hardware may cost several thousands of dollars, and many pieces of equipment are necessary (example 5 x $6,000 = $3,000). Similarly, Supplies are frequently calculated in a similar manner. Where each supply widget costs $100 and ten widgets are needed. The total cost is 10 x $100, or $1,000.
Salary x Percentage x Time	A common use is to show the annual salary rate and the percentage of time to be devoted to the project and length of time working on the project.
Time x Quantity x Rate	Occupancy like rent and utilities are frequent use cases for this direct cost calculation. An example is a 12-month lease multiplied by 100 sq ft against a $10 per square foot monthly. 100 sq ft x $10 per square foot is $1,000 per month. Over a 12-month period, total rent is $12,000.
Travel x Quantity x Rate	An example of this is calculating funds for the cost of travel (airline tickets) multiplied by the number of staff against the number of trips planned. Basis references if costs may be charged on an actual cost basis, on a per diem or mileage basis, or a combination of the two.

Video Tutorial

Step-by-Step Instructions

Complete the following steps to enter Direct Cost Line Items when applying to an Opportunity in AmpliFund. A video tutorial is also available at the end of this article.

1. Click Budget at the top of the screen.
   
2. Click the + (Create) icon next to the Budget Category.
   
3. Select Direct Cost Calculation as the Item Type.
   
4. Select the appropriate Calculation Type. Fields will vary based on Calculation Type.
   
5. Add the line item Name.
   
6. Add information to the calculation fields as needed.
   
7. Add other line item data such adding a Narrative or Attachments.
8. Click Create on the bottom right of the screen.