Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) / Memorandum of Agreement (MOA)
The MOU/MOA is an agreement by two or more parties to cooperate in a mutual endeavor. It is not intended to be a
detailed working document but may be used as an "umbrella" agreement that provides an initial basis for more
detailed subagreements, such as Interagency Acquisitions (IA).
MOUs/MOAs do not obligate or exchange Federal funds, supplies, equipment or services. They are usually signed by
agency or department officials while an IA requires the signature of a warranted Contracting Officer from the
Requesting Agency.
Reclamation Finance should never fund any MOU/MOA. If an MOU/MOA is received in Finance requesting funding, the
matter should be referred to the local Acquisitions Office for resolution.
MOUs/MOAs are not required to be in place prior to award of IAs.
Any IA written pursuant to a MOU/MOA requires a separate Economy Act Determination.