Writing a Budget Narrative/Justification

The budget narrative is sometimes referred to as the budget justification. The narrative serves two purposes: it explains how the costs were estimated and it justifies the need for the cost. The narrative may include tables for clarification purposes. Below are 3 documents designed to assist in the development of budget narratives:

1. A set of instructions and definitions for budgeting

2. A budget narrative template for use with proposals to federal sponsors.  Please consult with SRS about appropriate budget narratives for non-federal sponsors.

3. Proposals to NASA ROSES cannot contain any information regarding salaries, fringe benefits, indirect costs, or total costs. Provided below is a justification template for such proposals.