Which financial term describes money provided by Congress for specific purposes?

The term that accurately describes money provided by Congress for specific purposes is appropriated funds. This refers to funds that have been formally set aside by legislative action, typically through an appropriations bill, for a specific use or project.

Appropriated funds are crucial for ensuring that government activities receive the necessary financial backing to carry out their mandated responsibilities. Each appropriation specifies how the funds will be allocated, thus providing a clear mandate on their intended use.

In contrast, allocated funds generally refer to money set aside within an existing budget but may not have the same formal legislative action behind them. Expenditure funds could refer to funds that have already been spent, lacking the specificity regarding congressional approval. Operational funds are typically tied to ongoing operational expenses and may not be earmarked for specific purposes by Congress.