Reviewers do not read a budget in isolation. A monthly project manager cost implies a period of work; a travel line implies visits; materials imply quantities and delivery points. If those facts differ from the implementation plan, credibility and compliance can suffer.
Build three simple bridges
First, reconcile named roles to the staffing schedule, including level of effort and employment basis. Second, compare cost periods with milestones and the contract term. Third, connect travel, venues and materials to the locations and quantities promised in the method statement.
Investigate, do not conceal
A difference may have a valid explanation: a shared role, donated venue or contingency held elsewhere. Record that explanation and place it where evaluators can understand it if the tender permits. Silently forcing totals to agree can create a new inconsistency.
The finance lead and technical author should perform this check together before sign-off. One understands the cost build-up; the other knows what delivery the narrative actually commits the bidder to.