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You are here: Home / Announcements / DOE Caps Indirect Costs for State and Local Governments, For-Profit and Non-Profit Org

DOE Caps Indirect Costs for State and Local Governments, For-Profit and Non-Profit Org

May 12, 2025

On May 8, the Department of Energy (DOE) released three new Policy Flashes introducing Indirect Cost rate (IDC) caps for nonprofit organizations, for-profit entities, and state and local governments.

What You Need to Know:

  • These new DOE IDC caps apply to the following entity types on new awards:
    • 15% IDC cap for nonprofits
    • 10% IDC cap for state and local governments
    • 15% IDC cap for for-profits
  • The policy does not override negotiated F&A agreements, but the DOE will only reimburse up to the capped rate.
  • These new Policy Flashes do not apply directly to Institutions of Higher Education. DOE issued a Policy Flash on April 11th imposing a 15% cap on IDC costs for new awards to Institutions of Higher Education. This particular policy is currently under a temporary restraining order and is not being enforced at this time.
  • The revised IDC caps have important implications for budgeting when proposals involve subawards or collaborations. When preparing DOE proposals, please ensure that any included budgets for nonprofits, for-profits, or state/local government partners comply with the applicable IDC rate caps.

For More Information:

  • DOE Announcement (May 2025)

Contact your DCG Officer

Filed Under: Announcements

Department of Contracts and Grants
3720 S. Flower Street
Los Angeles, CA 90089-0701
213-740-7762

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