2025-004 Indirect Cost Rate Application on Federal Invoices We acknowledge BDO’s observation regarding the indirect cost rate applied to federal invoices during the period in which VOAWW transitioned from its approved NICRA rate to the de minimis rate. During this transition, VOAWW applied the NICRA rate of 17.2% while moving to the de minimis rate but did not complete the required true-up to 10% for a three-month period prior to the de minimis rate being increased to 15%. VOAWW has reviewed the circumstances that led to this error and determined that it occurred during an unusual and infrequent set of conditions. Transitions between indirect cost methodologies are rare and increases to the federal de minimis rate are also uncommon. As a result, this specific scenario is unlikely to recur. Nonetheless, VOAWW recognizes the importance of strengthening controls around indirect rate changes to ensure accurate application during any future transitions. To address this finding and strengthen controls over indirect cost rate application, VOAWW will implement the following corrective actions: • Formal Rate Transition Procedures – Before the end of FY26, the Finance Department will develop and document a standardized procedure for transitioning between indirect cost rates, including effective dates, interim rate requirements, required true-ups, and approval checkpoints to ensure accurate application during any future rate changes. • Centralized Indirect Rate Tracking – Before the end of FY26, the Finance Department will maintain a centralized indirect rate schedule that includes approval documentation, effective dates, and any required adjustments. This schedule will be referenced during invoice preparation and review to ensure consistent and accurate rate application across all federal awards. • Contract Kick-Off Meetings and Cross-Department Alignment – Before the end of FY26, Finance, Grants, and Contract Compliance will implement contract kick-off meetings for new awards and significant contract amendments to align on billing requirements, approved indirect cost rates, effective dates, and other critical compliance information and ensure consistent communication across departments. • Documentation of Important Communications – Before the end of FY26, VOAWW will implement guidance for documentation of important communications with funders that have a single audit impact. Responsible Individual: Claire Danielson, VIP of Finance Estimated Completion Date: June 30, 2026