AmeriCorps Tweaks Application Instructions, Inviting Another Round Of Comments
Published Date: 6/12/2026
Notice
Summary
AmeriCorps is updating its application instructions for programs like State, National, and Tribal service. This affects organizations and governments applying to AmeriCorps, and they want your feedback by August 11, 2026. No big cost changes, just smoother paperwork to help everyone apply more easily!
Analyzed Economic Effects
7 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 3 costs, 3 mixed.
Removal of fixed indirect-cost option
AmeriCorps will remove the fixed percentage rate method as an option for calculating administrative/indirect costs for cost-reimbursement grants (see Attachment B). This change is part of the revised AmeriCorps State and National Application Instructions that are open for comment through August 11, 2026.
Update to de minimis indirect cost rate
AmeriCorps will update the de minimis indirect cost rate referenced in the application instructions. This revision is included in the materials AmeriCorps is proposing for renewal and comment by August 11, 2026.
Carry forward (unexpended funds) rules revised
AmeriCorps proposes revisions to how unexpended funds are handled (see the Carry Forward Funding section in Continuations) in the State and National application instructions. These revisions are part of the renewal package open for comment until August 11, 2026.
Updates to match requirements and terminology
The proposed renewal will reflect regulatory changes since the last renewal, including updates to match requirements and to terminology used in the application instructions. These changes are part of the package open for public comment until August 11, 2026.
Application paperwork burden and timeline
AmeriCorps estimates 450 annual responses and a total of 18,000 estimated annual burden hours for the AmeriCorps State and National application instructions. Comments on the proposed revisions are due August 11, 2026, and the currently approved collection expires September 30, 2026.
New Attachment I requirement
The revised instructions add a new Attachment I: State Commission Recommendation and Ranking Guidance that applicants must use as part of their application materials.
Clarified Member Service Year hours
The application instructions will add clarifying language identifying the hours that constitute a full Member Service Year (MSY). This clarification is included in the proposed revisions being reviewed through August 11, 2026.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
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2026-14188, Agency Information Collection Activities; Comment Request; AmeriCorps VISTA Criminal History Acknowledgement Form
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