Volunteer time has measurable value for impact reports and in-kind accounting. Multiply total hours by an hourly value — or sum each volunteer’s hours times a role rate with SUMPRODUCT.
The example
1,200 hours at $33.49.
| A | B | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Item | Value |
| 2 | Hours | 1200 |
| 3 | × $33.49 | → $40,188 |
The formula
The formula:
How it works
How it works:
- Multiply total volunteer hours by an hourly value (a national or local estimate of volunteer time).
- For mixed roles, use
SUMPRODUCT(hours_by_role, rate_by_role)to value skilled time higher. - Use it in impact reports and as in-kind support in grant applications.
- Keep the rate source documented — funders may ask how you valued the time.
Skilled time is worth more. A blanket hourly value undercounts pro-bono accounting, legal, or design work. A role-rate table with SUMPRODUCT(hours, rates) lets you value a CPA’s volunteer hour at professional rates and general help at the standard volunteer rate — a more defensible in-kind figure for grants and audits.
Try it: interactive demo
Total hours and hourly value.
Variations
By role (SUMPRODUCT)
Skilled rates:
FTE equivalent
Full-time staff:
Per program
Allocate value:
Pitfalls & errors
Document the rate. Cite your source for the hourly value — funders may ask.
Value skilled time separately. A flat rate undercounts professional pro-bono hours.
In-kind, not cash. Volunteer value is reported support, not spendable revenue.
Practice workbook
Frequently asked questions
How do I calculate the value of volunteer hours in Excel?
How do I value skilled volunteer time differently?
How many full-time staff do volunteer hours equal?
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