Government Contractors - Best Practices to Guide You Forward.

In this episode of Cherry Bekaert's Government Contracting podcast, host Jonathan Reid, Director, is joined by Mike Cippel, Managing Director, to discuss the job differences between accounting managers, controllers and chief financial officers (CFO). Tune in to learn more about:The definition of an accounting manager, controller and CFO  Key differences between the three rollsResponsibilities expected in these rolesRequirement to hold the positions What type of work environment to expect Skills needed to succeed in each roleCherry Bekaert's team of government contracting consultants has significant experience in outsourced accounting solutions.  Our professionals provide regular updates, thought leadership, current and future state consulting, change management advisory and ready to stand up services. If you have any questions specific to your situation, our government contracting and tax consultants are here to discuss solutions tailored to you. Contact us.View all Government Contracting Podcasts

As of Monday, January 28, President Donald Trump has signed various executive orders requiring the halt of federal funding for various programs. This will allow the administration to determine the program's alignment with legal and presidential priorities. These orders impact funding for foreign aid, non-governmental organizations, diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programs, gender ideology, Green New Deal initiatives, as well as funding under the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) programs. Eric Poppe, a Managing Director in Cherry Bekaert's Government Contracting Industry practice, is joined by Jeff Annessa, a Senior Manager in the Firm's Government Contracting practice who spent 13+ years with DCAA, to discuss what this means for government contractors moving forward.Listen to learn more about:What it means when an organization receives a stop work order How to understand the terms and conditions of the contract or awardWhen to reach out to your contracting officer The flow down of responsibilities for prime contractors vs. subcontractors when receiving a stop-work order or a termination of contractThe importance of documenting all costs and expensesThe differences between terminations of fixed price and cost-plus contracts or awardsStrategies to control and mitigate costsSteps you can take to help minimize the settlement process timeline Ways to maximize cost recovery during settlement or negotiationsCherry Bekaert's team of government contracting professionals has significant experience with the complexities and challenges of navigating these types of executive orders. If you have any questions specific to your situation, our government contracting consultants are available to discuss your situation with you.View all Government Contracting Podcasts

In this episode of Cherry Bekaert's Government Contracting podcast, we discuss what to consider when planning the cost of a project. Eric Poppe, a Managing Director in the Government Contracting Industry practice, is joined by Jonathan Reid, a Director in Outsourced Accounting Services.Tune in to learn more about:What to expect when reporting costImpact revenue recognition on the cost of a project Tax impactsFinancial reporting considerations Compliance requirements Setting up a project for joint ventureCompanies who aren't in government but work with Government ContractorsCherry Bekaert's team of government contracting professionals have significant experience in accounting and reporting. As more guidance comes forth, we are here to provide regular updates and thought leadership to guide your journey forward. If you have any questions specific to your situation, Cherry Bekaert is here to discuss solutions tailored for you. Contact us.View all Government Contracting Podcasts

In this episode of Cherry Bekaert's Government Contracting podcast, host Jeff Annessa, a Senior Manager in the Firm's Government Contracting practice, is joined by Jade Casey, a director in the Firm's Government Contracting Services group. Jeff spent more than 13 years working with the Defense Contract Audit Agency (DCAA) and brings valuable experience to their discussion on forward pricing rates and their benefits.Tune in to learn more about:An overview of forward pricing ratesHow forward pricing rates differ from provisional billing rates The forward pricing rates proposal processDifference between a recommendation (FPRR) and an agreement (FPRA)The forward pricing rate proposal adequacy checklist for contractorsBenefits of sound forward pricing ratesCherry Bekaert's team of government contracting professionals have significant experience in forward pricing rates. As more guidance comes forth, we are here to provide regular updates, and thought leadership to guide your journey forward. If you have any questions specific to your situation, Cherry Bekaert is here to discuss solutions tailored for you. Contact us.View all Government Contracting Podcasts

In this episode of Cherry Bekaert's Government Contracting podcast, Romain Robveille, Advisory Services Director, is joined by Justin Pell, Senior Manager,  for an overview of the Deltek Costpoint software and how to get the most out of this system. Tune in to learn more about:Effective uses of Deltek Costpoint for businesses Issues with current Costpoint uses and leadership challengesHow changes in leadership can affect system and accounting efficiencies Areas companies need to consider to make the most of Deltek CostpointBenefits of a system assessment for organizations using Deltek Costpoint Cherry Bekaert's team of government contracting professionals have significant experience with Deltek Costpoint. As more guidance comes forth, we are here to provide regular updates and thought leadership to guide your journey forward. If you have any questions specific to your situation, Cherry Bekaert is here to discuss solutions tailored for you. Contact us.View all Government Contracting Podcasts

In this episode of Cherry Bekaert's Government Contracting podcast, host Brendan Halloran, a Director in Cherry Bekaert's Government Contracting Industry practice, is joined by Jeff Annessa, a Senior Manager in the Firm's Government Contracting practice. Bringing extensive knowledge and experience in the government contracting space, Brendan and Jeff discuss the Truthful Cost or Pricing Data Act, formerly known as the Truth in Negotiations Act or TINA.Brendan was previously a divisional administrative contracting officer (DACO) at the Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA) and Jeff has spent over 13 years with the Defense Contract Audit Agency (DCAA), while holding several leadership positions.Tune in to find out more about:The background and history of the Truthful Cost or Pricing ActWhat is considered cost or pricing data Most common thresholds and exceptions to the act The certification, sweep and disclosure processDefective pricing and government auditsBest practices surrounding the Truthful Cost or Pricing Act Cherry Bekaert's team of government contracting consultants have significant experience and can help your growing government contracting business navigate the Truthful Cost or Pricing Data Act. If you have any questions specific to your situation, our consultants are available to discuss your situation with you. Contact us today.View all Government Contracting Podcasts

In this episode of Cherry Bekaert's Government Contracting podcast, host and Advisory Services Manager Shaydah Naraghi is joined by Advisory Services Senior Manager Christine DeYuliis to discuss how Unanet could help guide your business forward. Tune in to learn more about:How Unanet got its nameHow long it typically takes employees to adopt time and expense functionality in UnanetThe recommended company size needed to utilize UnanetHow Unanet supports growth in a companyHow Unanet supports DCAA and FAR complianceThe ease of standard and analytics reportingAdditional resources available during and after implementation Cherry Bekaert's team of government contracting professionals has significant knowledge and experience with Unanet. As more guidance comes forth, we are here to provide regular updates and thought leadership to guide your journey forward. If you have any questions specific to your situation, Cherry Bekaert is here to discuss solutions tailored to you.View all Government Contracting Podcasts

In this episode of Cherry Bekaert's Government Contracting podcast, host and Government Contractor Services Director Brendan Halloran leverages his extensive knowledge and experience in the government contracting space. With a background as a Divisional Administrative Contracting Officer (DACO) at the Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA), Brendon offers valuable insights alongside Advisory Services Director Lynnette Leidwinger. Together, they discuss how subcontractor administration can be beneficial to a company's success. Tune in to find out about:The definition ofSubcontractingFlow downsTeaming arrangementsCompliance considerationsThe importance of flow-down clausesHow teaming arrangements can be a good tool for contractorsCompliance considerationsCircumstances in which a contractor's compliance gets reviewedKey takeaways for hiring a subcontractor Cherry Bekaert's team of government contracting consultants have significant experience in subcontracting administration and can help your growing government contracting business navigate the challenges. If you have any questions specific to your situation, our consultants are available to discuss your situation with you.View all Government Contracting Podcasts

In this episode of Cherry Bekaert's Government Contracting podcast, Mike Cippel, a Managing Director in the Firm's Outsourced Accounting Advisory practice, is joined by Irwin Kaplan, Director, to discuss how government contractors can begin to plan for next year. They cover the ideal timeframe for contractors to start preparing, as well as key planning considerations. Tune in to learn more about vital elements of year-end planning, including:BudgetingContract WaterfallCash ForecastingKey Measures: Monthly Tracking and Reporting Cherry Bekaert's team of government contracting professionals have significant experience with next-year and year-end planning for government contractors. As more guidance comes forth, we are here to provide regular updates and thought leadership to guide your journey forward. If you have any questions specific to your situation, Cherry Bekaert is here to discuss solutions tailored to you. Contact us.View all Government Contracting Podcasts

In this episode of Cherry Bekaert's Government Contracting podcast, we discuss the do's, don'ts and pitfalls of outsourced accounting. Host Eric Poppe, a Managing Director in the Government Contracting Industry practice, is joined by Jonathan Reid, a Director in Outsourced Accounting Services.   Tune in to learn more about:How outsourced accounting helps government contractors Differences between bookkeeping and outsourced accounting Situations in which government contractors need accounting help How to make a smooth transition into outsourcing accounting needsTips for forming a positive relationship with an outsourcing firmPitfalls a company should avoid before getting into an outsourcing relationshipQuestions you should ask during the interview processCherry Bekaert's team of government contracting professionals have significant experience in outsourced accounting. As more guidance comes forth, we are here to provide regular updates and thought leadership to guide your journey forward. If you have any questions specific to your situation, Cherry Bekaert is here to discuss solutions tailored for you. Contact us.Related Guidance Podcast: How to Get the Most Out of Your Outsourcing FirmArticle: Outsourced Accounting Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)View all Government Contracting Podcasts

In this episode of Cherry Bekaert's Government Contracting podcast, we discuss how to choose the right Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system that fits your company's unique needs. Host Eric Poppe, a Managing Director in the Government Contracting Industry practice, is joined by Christine DeYuliis, a Senior Manager.  Tune in to learn more about steps your business can take to find the right ERP, including:Conducting an initial discussion with stakeholdersDefining and documenting current business processes, strengths and pain pointsDetermining required features and functions Identifying needed software integrations Integrating accounting and reporting considerations Considering compliance requirementsCherry Bekaert's team of government contracting professionals have significant experience in ERP solutions. As more guidance comes forth, we are here to provide regular updates and thought leadership to guide your journey forward. If you have any questions specific to your situation, Cherry Bekaert is here to discuss solutions tailored for you. Contact us.View all Government Contracting Podcasts

In this episode of Cherry Bekaert's Government Contracting podcast, we discuss ways to optimize the benefits of outsourcing your accounting operations. Host Craig Hunter, a Director in the Government Contracting Industry practice, is joined by Mike Cippel, Managing Director, and Directors Irwin Kaplin and Jonathan Reid.Tune in to learn more about:Deciding if outsourced accounting is your best option Uncovering the benefits of using an outsourcing firmOptimizing the working relationship with an outsourcing firmCherry Bekaert's team of government contracting consultants have significant experience in outsourced accounting solutions. As more guidance comes forth, we are here to provide regular updates, thought leadership, current and future state consulting, change management advisory and ready to stand up services. If you have any questions specific to your situation, our government contracting and tax consultants are here to discuss solutions tailored for you. Contact us.View all Government Contracting Podcasts

In the fourth episode of Cherry Bekaert's Cost Accounting Standards (CAS) podcast series, Brendan Halloran, a Director in Cherry Bekaert's Government Contracting Industry practice, is joined by Jeff Annessa, a Senior Manager in the Firm's Government Contracting practice. Bringing extensive knowledge and experience in the government contracting space, Brendan and Jeff discuss cost impacts, as well as the differences between General Dollar Magnitude (GDM) and Detailed Cost Impacts (DCI).Brendan was previously a Divisional Administrative Contracting Officer (DACO) at the Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA) and Jeff has spent over 13 years with the Defense Contract Audit Agency (DCAA), while also holding positions such as quality manager, supervisory auditor and field audit office manager.Tune in to find out more about:What cost impacts are When cost impact proposals are necessaryDifferent types of cost impact proposalsA detailed overview of GDM and DCICost Impact Materiality How to position the cost impactCherry Bekaert's team of government contracting consultants have significant CAS experience and can help your growing government contracting business navigate CAS. If you have any questions specific to your situation, our consultants are available to discuss your situation with you. Contact us today.If you haven't already, catch up on other parts of the series :Cost Accounting Systems Series: Part 1 – A Comprehensive OverviewCost Accounting Systems Series: Part 2 – Considerations for Growing a GovConCost Accounting Systems Series: Part 3 – Implications When Acquiring CompaniesRelated GuidanceWebinar Recording: Cost Accounting Standards (CAS): Part 1 – CAS Coverage Types, Common Standards, and CAS ApplicabilityWebinar Recording: Cost Accounting Standards (CAS): Part 2 – Cost Accounting Changes and ImpactView all Government Contracting Podcasts

In the second episode of Cherry Bekaert's Operational Effectiveness podcast series, Eric Poppe, a Managing Director in Cherry Bekaert's Government Contracting Industry practice, is joined by Todd Angioli, a Director in the Firm's Government Contracting practice with 20+ years of financial operations experience.Together, Eric and Todd discuss mid-year considerations when budgeting and forecasting.Listen to this episode to find out more about:What government contractors should consider at the mid-year point when forecasting for the remainder of the calendar yearHigh-level considerations when reforecasting the operating plan:RevenueDirect LaborFringeOverheadGeneral and Administrative Expenses (G&A)Bottom Line Key forecasting and planning areas:Recompete andNew BusinessCurrent ExecutionImprovement InitiativesNeed Assessment for Mid-Year Burden RecalculationThe Need to Move InvestmentsOther Course CorrectionsWhat growing government contractors should be doing at the mid-year pointCherry Bekaert's team of government contracting consultants have significant operations and contracting experience to help you navigate any operational considerations. If you have any questions specific to your situation, our government contracting consultants are available to discuss your situation with you. If you haven't already, catch up on part one of the budgeting considerations series: Effective Operational & Financial Performance:  Budget Considerations During Year-EndView all Government Contracting Podcasts

In this episode of Cherry Bekaert's GovCon Podcast host Eric Poppe, a Managing Director in Cherry Bekaert's Government Contracting Industry practice, is joined by Vivian Kohrs, Director, Strategic Tax, and Bryan Weems, Senior Manager, Tax Credits and Incentives. Together they give an overview of research and development (R&D) credits for government contractors. Listen to learn about:What R&D credits areWho is able to take advantage of these creditsContract R&D CreditsRights and risksHow subcontractors could potentially qualify R&D credits by state: Virginia GeorgiaTexasMarylandFloridaSection 174 impact to tax liability and cashflowRecommendations on how to collect R&D Credits and prepare for the potential impact of Section 174 capitalizationCherry Bekaert's team of government contracting and tax credit and incentives consultants have significant experience in R&D credits and Section 174 analysis. If you have any questions specific to your situation, our government contracting and tax consultants are available to discuss your situation with you. Contact us.View all Government Contracting Podcasts

In this episode of Cherry Bekaert's GovCon Podcast, Brynn McNeil and Craig Hunter both Assurance Partners in Cherry Bekaert's Government Contracting Industry practice, discuss  revenue recognition for government contractors. Listen to learn more about:The five steps for recognizing revenue under Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) 606Understanding how costs drive revenue Common errors in recording revenue Best practices for government contractors regarding processes and controls for recording revenue Cherry Bekaert's team of government contracting consultants have significant experience in navigating the SBA 8(a) business development program and can assist your business with the best accounting practices. If you have any questions specific to your situation, our government contracting consultants are available to discuss your situation with you. Contact us.View all Government Contracting Podcasts

In the third episode of Cherry Bekaert's Cost Accounting Standards (CAS) podcast series, Brendan Halloran, a Director with Cherry Bekaert Advisory, is joined by Jeffery Annessa, a Senior Manager in Cherry Bekaert's Government Contractor Industry practice, to discuss CAS implications during mergers and acquisitions. Cherry Bekaert's government contracting consulting team has years of CAS experience and can help you navigate CAS compliance issues or disclosure statement development.This episode highlights key topics to help guide your business forward, including:Scenarios and implications to CAS when:A CAS-covered company acquires a company that is non-CAS coveredA non-CAS covered company acquires a company with CAS coverageThe two most common approaches on how to treat the company you are acquiring, specifically:A legal entity dissolved and integrated fullyA legal entity being maintained as a wholly owned subsidiaryUnderstanding CAS structure as it relates to the companySteps to consider when merging with or acquiring a companyCommon areas that do not constitute a cost accounting practice changeImpacts and considerations when the acquired company is CAS coveredAreas a CAS-covered company should focus their attention on when acquiring, including:Transitional accounting periodIndirect rate structureSimilarity of laborAllocationsRestructuring costPitfalls to avoidAreas a non-CAS covered company should focus their attention on when acquiring, such as:Analysis of the CAS-covered contracts to understand period of performance, numbers and money magnitudeAdditional exposureCompliance requirementsIf you haven't already, catch up on part one and two of the series:Cost Accounting Systems Series: Part 1 – An OverviewCost Accounting Systems Series: Part 2 – Growing a GovCon Related GuidanceWebinar Recording: Cost Accounting Standards (CAS): Part 1 – CAS Coverage Types, Common Standards, and CAS ApplicabilityWebinar Recording: Cost Accounting Standards (CAS): Part 2 – Cost Accounting Changes and ImpactView all Government Contracting PodcastsView all Government Contracting Podcasts

On December 26, 2023, the proposed rule for the Department of Defense (DoD) Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) Program was published in the Federal Register. Listen to Eric Poppe, a Managing Director in Cherry Bekaert's Government Contractor Industry practice and Brian Kirk, Senior Manager in the Firm's Information Assurance & Cybersecurity practice, as they share insights into the proposed rule, including the surprises that came out and DoD's timing for implementation.Refresher on CMMC Level 1 Self-Assessment, CMMC Level 2 Self-Assessment + CMMC Third-Party Assessment Organization (C3PAO) Assessment, and CMMC Level 3 Government-Led AssessmentEquivalency: Cloud Service Provider (CSP) and External Service Provider (ESP)Phased Implementation (DoD rollout in solicitations)Final Certification vs. Conditional CertificationCMMC Level 3 requires a CMMC Level 2 Final CertificationDefense Industrial Base Cybersecurity Assessment Center (DIBCAC) High conversion to CMMC Level 2 Final Certification for perfect scoresCost ConsiderationsHow do I prepare for CMMC certification?If you have any questions regarding CMMC, Cherry Bekaert's Information Assurance & Cybersecurity and Government Contracting advisors are available to discuss your situation with you. Cherry Bekaert is an authorized CMMC Third-Party Assessment Organization (C3PAO) by the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) Accreditation Body, Inc. (The Cyber AB). We assist Organization's Seeking Certification (OSCs) with CMMC readiness assessments for Levels 1, 2 and 3. Additionally, as an authorized C3PAO, Cherry Bekaert partners with the Defense Contractor Management Agency (DCMA) Defense Industrial Base Cybersecurity Assessment Center (DIBCAC) under their Joint Surveillance audit program to perform DIBCAC High (NIST 800-171) Assessments which are convertible to CMMC Level 2 Certification, if a perfect score is obtained. View all Government Contracting Podcasts

In this episode of Cherry Bekaert's GovCon Podcast series on the Small Business Administration's (SBA) 8(a) Business Development Program, Brynn McNeil and Craig Hunter, assurance partners in Cherry Bekaert's Government Contracting Industry practice, discuss accounting best practices for 8(a) companies. Listen to find out about:Setting up an accounting system to segregate costsChart of AccountsIndirect ratesReporting functionality for:Contract revenue summary by contractShowing cumulative revenueAnnual revenueDirect costsImportance of month end reconciliations of balance sheet account Recent accounting pronouncements that impact accounting ASC 505ASC 842What to consider when selecting an accounting system Accounting department general housekeeping best practicesCherry Bekaert's team of government contracting consultants have extensive experience in navigating the SBA 8(a) Business Development Program and can assist your business with accounting best practices. If you have any questions specific to your situation, our GovCon consultants are available to discuss your situation with you. Contact us.If you haven't already, catch up on other episodes in our podcast series discussing various aspects of the Small Business Administration's (SBA) 8(a) Business Development Program:The SBA 8(a) Business Development Program – What Is It and What Are the Requirements?The SBA 8(a) Business Development Program Application Process and RequirementsWhat Are the Compliance Requirements for 8(a) Certified Companies?Winning an SBA 8(a) Sole Source Award Contract – What's Involved and What to KnowWinning an 8(a) Competitive ContractSmall Business Administration (SBA) Mentor-Protégé ProgramSBA Mentor-Protégé & Joint Venture Arrangements – Important Elements of the AgreementThe lifecycle of an 8(a) CompanyOIG Report: SBA's Business Development Assistance to 8(a) Program ParticipantsContract Performance After the SBA 8(a) Business Development ProgramView all Government Contracting Podcasts

In the first episode of a new series on effective operational and financial performance for government contractors, Eric Poppe, a Managing Director in Cherry Bekaert's Government Contracting Industry practice, is joined by Todd Angioli, a Director in the Firm's GovCon practice with 20+ years of financial operations experience, to discuss considerations when budgeting for year end. Listen to this episode to find out more about:What government contractors should consider during year end and while budgeting for the next calendar yearHigh-level considerations when reviewing the operating plan:RevenueDirect LaborFringeOverheadGeneral and Administrative Expenses (G&A)Bottom Line Key budget planning areas:Recompete/New BusinessResourcesWhat growing government contractors should be doing at year endCherry Bekaert's team of government contracting consultants have significant operations and finance experience. If you have any questions specific to your situation, our GovCon consultants are available to discuss your situation with you. Contact us.View all Government Contracting Podcasts

In the second episode of Cherry Bekaert's Cost Accounting Standards (CAS) podcast series, Eric Poppe, a Managing Director in Cherry Bekaert's Government Contracting Industry practice, is joined by Jeff Annessa, a Senior Manager in the Firm's GovCon practice who spent 13+ years with DCAA and held various positions such as Quality Manager, Supervisory Auditor, Field Audit Office Manager, and Artan Ivezaj, a manager in Cherry Bekaert's GovCon practice with 15 years of experience at the DCAA, to discuss CAS considerations for a growing GovCon. Listen to this the episode to find out more about:When a company should start thinking about CASThe difference between full and modified CAS coverageExplanation of the fundamental requirements of CAS 401 and 402CAS 401: Consistency in Estimating, Accumulating, and Reporting CostsCAS 402: Consistency in Allocating Costs Incurred for the Same PurposeThe commonality of Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Cost Principles, Approved Accounting System, and CASBeing aware of CAS 405 and 406CAS 405: Approved accounting system requires the system to ensure unallowable costs are reviewed and removed from government billingsCAS 406: Cost Accounting PeriodImportant notes about CAS Coverage and the applicability towards subcontractsDisclosure Agreement as it pertains to CASCherry Bekaert's team of government contracting consultants have significant CAS experience and can help your growing government contracting business navigate CAS. If you have any questions specific to your situation, our GovCon consultants are available to discuss your situation with you. Contact us.If you haven't already, catch up on Part 1 of the series:Cost Accounting Systems Series: Part 1 – An OverviewRelated GuidanceWebinar Recording: Cost Accounting Standards (CAS): Part 1 – CAS Coverage Types, Common Standards, and CAS ApplicabilityWebinar Recording: Cost Accounting Standards (CAS): Part 2 – Cost Accounting Changes and ImpactView all Government Contracting Podcasts

Cost Accounting Standards (CAS) are 19 standards and rules promulgated by 41 U.S.C. 422. These standards impact emerging small and large businesses alike. They are designed to achieve uniformity and consistency in cost accounting practices and to improve the accuracy of cost data by ensuring its basis on consistent definitions and principles.  Ultimately, the Federal government wants a reliable basis for cost comparison and decision making. This allows them to be able to compare proposals from contractor to contractor and from a single contractor year-over-year.In this new Cherry Bekaert GovCon Podcast CAS series, Eric Poppe, a Managing Director in Cherry Bekaert's Government Contracting Industry practice, is joined by Jeff Annessa, a Senior Manager in the Firm's GovCon practice who spent 13+ years with DCAA holding positions such as Quality Manager, Supervisory Auditor and Field Audit Office Manager, to give an overview of CAS. Listen to find out:An overview of CASThe differences between the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and CASWhat the standards consist of, including the four main categories When CAS comes into consideration as it pertains to government contractingWhen CAS would apply to a contract and if there are certain dollar thresholdsThe current exemptions, differences in full and modified CAS coverage and applicationOverview of the disclosure statement requirementWhy contractors should consider completing a disclosure statement prior to being CAS- covered Who is responsible in administering CAS and making the required determinations and findings The benefits of abiding by CASPitfalls and compliance considerations for changes in accounting practices, M&A activity and budgeting/forecasting Cherry Bekaert's Government Contractor Industry practice has significant  CAS experience and can help you navigate CAS compliance issues or disclosure statement development. Contact us to discuss your situation.Don't forget to keep an eye out for the remainder of our GovCon podcast CAS series, where our hosts will go into more detail on the specifics of the individual CAS standards, general requirements, cost accounting changes and the disclosure statement. View all Government Contracting Podcasts

In this episode of Cherry Bekaert's Government Contracting podcast, Brendan Halloran, a Director in Cherry Bekaert's Government Contracting Industry practice ,and  Jeff Annessa, a Senior Manager in the Firm's GovCon practice continue our Contractor Business Systems series, discussing system reviews, audit findings, corrective actions, and ACO determinations.Indicators of potential findings or noncompliances during a DCAA system audit and steps contractors can takeThe DCMA system review processThe ACO process in determining the level of deficienciesWays to get a DCAA finding viewed as non-significant and differences between DCAA and DCMA Business System Deficiency terminologyTools used by the ACO and how they work through the processThe corrective action processCherry Bekaert's Government Contracting Industry advisors excel in navigating business systems requirements and intricate control environments, offering guidance in the development, maintenance, assessment, and audit preparation of compliant systems for contractors facing reviews by DCAA, DCMA, or related agencies.View all Government Contracting Podcasts

The Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) doesn't provide many details on the specifics related to an adequate timekeeping system. However, the Defense Contract Audit Agency (DCAA) does have some specific requirements they look for when performing accounting system audits and labor floor checks.In this episode of Cherry Bekaert's GovCon Podcast, Eric Poppe, a Managing Director in Cherry Bekaert's Government Contracting Industry practice, is joined by Jeff Annessa, a Senior Manager in the Firm's GovCon practice who spent 13+ years with DCAA and held various leadership positions such as Quality Manager, Supervisory Auditor and Field Audit Office Manager, and Jacquelin LaClair, a Manager in the Firm's GovCon practice who spent 10 years working with DCAA and the Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA). They discuss one of their favorite topics: timekeeping and the government's expectations. Listen to find out:Why contractors should have written timekeeping policies and procedures in place and should consider including all types of work arrangements available by your organization (in-office, remote or hybrid)Key elements for an adequate timekeeping systemEnsuring segregation of responsibilities for labor-related activitiesTotal Hours Worked approach and why the government caresPolicies and procedures that address how direct and indirect time is recordedHow to handle paper vs. electronic timesheets  The employee and the supervisor roles in certifying the accuracy of timesheets on a daily, weekly, bi-weekly or monthly basis Record retention requirements for timesheetsAt the end of the day, would a government auditor be able to review your current timekeeping policies and procedures and compare them to what is currently happening at your organization and find no discrepancies? If you have any questions specific to your situation, we are available to discuss your situation with you. Contact us. View all Government Contracting Podcasts

The Defense Contract Audit Agency (DCAA) recently released its Fiscal Year 2022 Report to Congress. By law, the DCAA is required to submit an annual report detailing the DCAA's activities for the previous year.In this episode of Cherry Bekaert's GovCon Podcast, Eric Poppe, a Managing Director in Cherry Bekaert's Government Contracting Industry practice, is joined by Jeff Annessa, a Senior Manager in the Firm's GovCon practice who spent 13+ years with the DCAA and held various positions such as Quality Manager, Supervisory Auditor, Field Audit Office Manager and Senior Financial Liaison Advisor, and Jacquelin LaClair, a Manager in the Firm's GovCon practice who spent 10 years working with the DCAA and the Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA), discuss key takeaways from the DCAA's report as an update to Cherry Bekaert's DCAA Update webinar in February 2023. Listen in to find out about:Number of audits conducted by the DCAA, noted questioned costs and which audits were performed more frequentlyOverall return on investment (ROI) for each audit type and what this means for government contractorsInvestigative casesSustention rates by audit, how those rates are important to the DCAA and how this impacts contractorsTiming to complete an audit, by audit typeNumber of incurred cost audits performed by Independent Public Accounting FirmsHow the DCAA assists with Other Transaction Authorities (OTAs), the overall impact to the DCAA and current trendsDifference between an incurred cost audit and a low-risk memo, when one is issued over the other and how many audit reports and memos were issued by the DCAA in FY22Post-pandemic changes occurring within the DCAAEstablishment of Operations Business Enterprise and Data Intelligence Division (OBD) and what is currently being worked on with the DCAADCAA's External Peer ReviewWhether you are a small business expecting your first audit, or a large contractor preparing for one of your many different audits, Cherry Bekaert's GovCon consultants work with clients to prep for audits, resolve DCAA findings and have extensive hands-on experience in this subject. If you have any questions specific to your situation, we are available to discuss your situation with you. Contact usView all Government Contracting Podcasts

In this episode, Eric Poppe, a Managing Director in Cherry Bekaert's Government Contractor Industry practice is joined by Matt Schiavone, Managing Director, and Brian Kirk, Senior Manager in the Firm's Information Assurance & Cybersecurity practice to discuss the Department of Defense (DoD) Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) 2.0 program milestone and what contractors should be doing now to prepare.Listen in as they share insights into the:Recent updates to the final CMMC rule, including next steps and an updated expectation on when it will go finalProjected timeline implications for contractors and action steps to prepareRecommendations for ensuring preparedness for timely achieving a certificationIf you have any questions regarding CMMC, Cherry Bekaert's Information Assurance & Cybersecurity and Government Contracting advisors are available to discuss your situation with you. Cherry Bekaert is authorized by the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) Accreditation Body, Inc. (The Cyber AB) as a CMMC Third-Party Assessment Organization (C3PAO). As an authorized C3PAO, Cherry Bekaert assists DoD contractors seeking a CMMC assessment with CMMC readiness and Defense Industrial Base Cybersecurity Assessment Center (DIBCAC) Joint Surveillance Voluntary Level 2 assessments in partnership with the DIBCAC.Having undergone Level 2 assessment as a Firm, Cherry Bekaert has a deep understanding of the assessment process to guide DoD contractors seeking a CMMC assessment.Catch up on Cherry's Bekaert's previous guidance pertaining to CMMC 2.0:Podcast: How Will NIST Special Publication (SP) 800-171, Revision 3 Impact CMMC?Article: Updated Projected Timeline for CMMC: What this Means for Contractors and How to Prepare for CertificationFinal CMMC Rule: March 2023 UpdatePodcast: CMMC 2.0 – Where Does It Stand?Podcast: What's New with CMMC 2.0?: August 2022 UpdatePodcast: CMMC 2.0 Brings Major Program ChangesOn-Demand Webinar: CMMC 2.0 Brings Major Program ChangesView all Government Contracting Podcasts

In this eighth episode of Cherry Bekaert's podcast series on Contractor Business Systems, Brendan Halloran, a Senior Manager in Cherry Bekaert's Government Contracting Industry practice who was previously a Divisional Administrative Contracting Officer (DACO) at the Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA), is joined by Roy Rushing, a Manager in the Firm's GovCon practice and a former Contracting Officer with various federal agencies, to talk about navigating Contractor Business Systems audits and reviews. Listen in to find out about:The two primary types of system audits/reviews: Defense Contract Audit Agency (DCAA) audits Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA) reviewsSteps to take early on once you have received notification of a planned audit/reviewConsiderations leading up to the audit/reviewTypical timing/schedulingPointers to navigate the process once the audit/review has startedBenefits of an approved systemIf you have any questions specific to your situation, Cherry Bekaert's GovCon Consultants are available to discuss your situation with you. Contact usIf you haven't already, catch up on other parts of the series:Contractor Business Systems Series: Part 1 – ApplicabilityContractor Business Systems Series: Part 2 – Accounting SystemContractor Business Systems Series: Part 3 – Cost Estimating System RequirementsContractor Business Systems Series: Part 4 – Purchasing SystemContractor Business Systems Series: Part 5 – Earned Value Management SystemContractor Business Systems Series: Part 6 – Property Management SystemContractor Business Systems Series: Part 7 – Material Management and Accounting SystemCherry Bekaert's Government Contracting Industry advisors are well versed in business systems requirements and complex control environments. We guide contractors in developing and maintaining compliant business systems, performing systems assessments, providing audit support and preparing contractors for audits or reviews by the Defense Contract Audit Agency (DCAA), the Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA) or other cognizant agencies.View all Government Contracting Podcasts

In this episode, Eric Poppe, a Managing Director in Cherry Bekaert's Government Contractor Industry practice, is joined by Brian Kirk, Senior Manager in the Firm's Information Assurance & Cybersecurity practice, to discuss the impact of the Draft NIST Special Publication (SP) 800-171 Revision 3 on the Department of Defense's (DoD) Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) 2.0 program. The Revision 3 draft was released on May 10, 2023, and is out for public comment through July 14, 2023.Listen in as they share insights into:Why the update to NIST SP 800-171 is significant to CMMCTimeline for the final version of NIST SP 800-171 Revision 3 and subsequent revisions to the CMMC Assessment Guide, which is based on NIST 800-171 Revision 2Revisions to the set of supporting NIST publications on protecting controlled unclassified information, including SPs 800-171A (security requirement assessment), SP 800-172 (enhanced security requirements) and SP 800-172A (enhanced security requirement assessment)A summary of the significant changes between NIST SP 800-171, Revision 2 and Draft NIST SP 800-171, Revision 3Recommendations to DoD contractors seeking a CMMC assessment with CMMC readiness and Defense Industrial Base Cybersecurity Assessment Center (DIBCAC) Joint Surveillance Voluntary Level 2 assessments in partnership with the DIBCACIf you have any questions regarding CMMC, Cherry Bekaert's Information Assurance & Cybersecurity and Government Contracting advisors are available to discuss your situation with you. Cherry Bekaert is authorized by the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) Accreditation Body, Inc. (The Cyber AB) as a CMMC Third-Party Assessment Organization (C3PAO). As an authorized C3PAO, Cherry Bekaert assists DoD contractors seeking a CMMC assessment with CMMC readiness and DIBCAC Joint Surveillance Voluntary Level 2 assessments in partnership with the DIBCAC.Having undergone Level 2 assessment as a Firm, Cherry Bekaert has a deep understanding of the assessment process to guide DoD contractors seeking a CMMC assessment.Catch up on Cherry's Bekaert's previous guidance pertaining to CMMC 2.0:Article: Updated Projected Timeline for CMMC: What this Means for Contractors and How to Prepare for CertificationPodcast: Final CMMC Rule: March 2023 UpdatePodcast: CMMC 2.0 – Where Does It Stand?Podcast: What's New with CMMC 2.0?: August 2022 UpdatePodcast: CMMC 2.0 Brings Major Program ChangesOn-Demand Webinar: CMMC 2.0 Brings Major Program ChangesView all Government Contracting Podcasts

A government contractor Material Management and Accounting System (MMAS), as outlined in Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) 252.242-7004, is a system for planning, controlling and accounting for the acquisition, use, issuance and disposition of material. It is under the cognizance of the Defense Contract Audit Agency (DCAA) and geared towards a contractors' manufacturing planning and production. In this seventh episode of Cherry Bekaert's podcast series on each of the Contractor Business Systems, Brendan Halloran, a Senior Manager in Cherry Bekaert's Government Contracting Industry practice who was previously a Divisional Administrative Contracting Officer (DACO) at the Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA), is joined by John Bula, a Manager, and Chris Morris, a Senior Associate, in the Firm's GovCon practice to discuss the requirements for a contractor MMAS, when contractors are obligated to maintain a MMAS and what to expect from DCAA during an audit. Listen in to find out about:What is a Material Management and Accounting System?When are contractors obligated to maintain an adequate and acceptable MMAS? What are common elements of MMAS?When is a MMAS review or audit needed and what is expected from the DCAA?How should a contractor prepare for a review or audit by DCAA?What are operational benefits of a MMAS?What are typical issues encountered with internal monitoring, or a government audit or review?If you have any questions specific to your situation, Cherry Bekaert's GovCon Consultants are available to discuss your situation with you. Contact usIf you haven't already, catch up on other parts of the series:Contractor Business Systems Series: Part 1 – ApplicabilityContractor Business Systems Series: Part 2 – Accounting SystemContractor Business Systems Series: Part 3 – Cost Estimating System RequirementsContractor Business Systems Series: Part 4 – Purchasing SystemContractor Business Systems Series: Part 5 – Earned Value Management SystemContractor Business Systems Series: Part 6 – Property Management SystemCherry Bekaert's Government Contracting Industry advisors are well versed in business systems requirements and complex control environments. We guide contractors in developing and maintaining compliant business systems, performing systems assessments, providing audit support and preparing contractors for audits or reviews by the Defense Contract Audit Agency (DCAA), the Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA) or other cognizant agencies.View all Government Contracting Podcasts

Government Property Management System is one of the six systems covered by the Department of Defense's (DoD) Contractor Business Systems. In this sixth episode of Cherry Bekaert's podcast mini-series on each of the six Contractor Business Systems, Eric Poppe, a Managing Director in Cherry Bekaert's Government Contracting Industry practice, and Brendan Halloran, a Senior Manager in the Firm's GovCon practice who previously was a Divisional Administrative Contracting Officer (DACO) at the Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA), discuss the requirements for a Contractor Property Management System, 252.245-7003, and when it is required.Listen in to find out about:Property Management Systems and their requirementsBest practices and processes for handling government propertyPolicies, procedures and documentationFlow down requirements to subcontractorsCommon pitfallsDisposal of government propertyOther integral Business Systems requirementsIf you have any questions specific to your situation, Cherry Bekaert's GovCon Consultants are available to discuss your situation with you. Contact usIf you haven't already, catch up on the series:Contractor Business Systems Series: Part 1 – ApplicabilityContractor Business Systems Series: Part 1 – Accounting SystemContractor Business Systems Series: Part 3 – Cost Estimating System RequirementsContractor Business Systems Series: Part 4 – Purchasing SystemContractor Business Systems Series: Part 5 – Earned Value Management SystemCherry Bekaert's Government Contracting Industry advisors are well versed in Business Systems requirements and complex control environments. We guide contractors in developing and maintaining compliant Business Systems, performing systems assessments, providing audit support and preparing contractors for audits or reviews by the Defense Contract Audit Agency (DCAA), the Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA) or other cognizant agencies.View all Government Contracting Podcasts

Contractors with the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Clause 52.216-7, Allowable Cost and Payment included in their cost reimbursable and time & materials (T&M) contracts are required to submit an Incurred Cost Submission (ICS). Submitting your ICS on time to the appropriate Government Administrative Contracting Officer and the cognizant Defense Contract Audit Agency (DCAA) office can be a hurdle but a requirement. Late submissions are subject to a unilateral decision by the Contracting Officer (CO) to apply a decrement factor, which will reduce the billed cost.In this episode of Cherry Bekaert's GovCon Podcast, Brendan Halloran, a Senior Manager in the Firm's GovCon practice who was previously a Divisional Administrative Contracting Officer (DACO) at the Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA), welcomes Eric Poppe, a Managing Director in Cherry Bekaert's Government Contracting Industry practice. Together they cover the ICS submission process, the first step in developing final indirect cost rates for contractors with flexibly priced contracts, due six months after the end of the fiscal year.Listen in as they discuss:When an ICS is a requirementICS preparation and required schedulesDCAA's ICE ModelThe importance of the preparation, due diligence and review processFactors that can play into questioned costs and the full audit programProcess for extensions and repercussions for not timely submitting an ICS Common issues and best practicesIf you have any questions specific to your situation, Cherry Bekaert's GovCon consultants are available to discuss your situation with you.View all Government Contracting Podcasts

In this episode, Eric Poppe, a Managing Director in Cherry Bekaert's Government Contractor Industry practice, and Brian Kirk, Senior Manager in the Firm's Information Assurance & Cybersecurity practice, share an update on the status of the final rule of the Department of Defense (DoD) Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) 2.0 program and what contractors should be doing now to prepare.Listen in as they share insights into the:Current state of the final CMMC rule, including next steps and an updated expectation on when it will go finalComparison of the current projected timeline with the original timelineCongress's concern about the cost of complianceProjected timeline implications for contractors and action steps to prepareIf you have any questions regarding CMMC, Cherry Bekaert's Information Assurance & Cybersecurity and Government Contracting advisors are available to discuss your situation with you. Cherry Bekaert is authorized by the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) Accreditation Body, Inc. (The Cyber AB) as a CMMC Third-Party Assessment Organization (C3PAO). As an authorized C3PAO, Cherry Bekaert assists DoD contractors seeking a CMMC assessment with CMMC readiness and Defense Industrial Base Cybersecurity Assessment Center (DIBCAC) Joint Surveillance Voluntary Level 2 assessments in partnership with the DIBCAC. Having undergone Level 2 assessment as a Firm, Cherry Bekaert has a deep understanding of the assessment process to guide DoD contractors seeking a CMMC assessment.Catch up on Cherry's Bekaert's previous guidance pertaining to CMMC 2.0: Podcast: CMMC 2.0 – Where Does It Stand?Podcast: What's New with CMMC 2.0?: August 2022 UpdatePodcast: CMMC 2.0 Brings Major Program ChangesOn-Demand Webinar: CMMC 2.0 Brings Major Program ChangesView all Government Contracting Podcasts

In Part 1 of this two-part series, Cherry Bekaert's Government Contracting Industry advisors discussed what companies need to consider when being acquired or acquiring a company that has federal contracts that are a significant part of their business, including some of the administrative items critical to that process. In Part 2 Brendan Halloran, a Senior Manager in Cherry Bekaert's Government Contracting Industry practice, is joined by John Ure, a Tax Partner and member of the Firm's GovCon practice, to discuss some of the additional administrative steps and tax considerations.Listen to find out about:Contract novations and Novation AgreementsAdministrative Contracting Officers' (ACO) expectations in a Novation packageStandard acquisition and due diligence considerations for an S CorpBeneficial sales structures from a tax perspective for company ownersPopular sales structures for C Corps and the often-overlooked 1202 saleTax and planning considerations in preparation for a Letter of Interest (LOI)Considerations for government contractors when bringing on an acquisitionIf you have any questions specific to your situation, Cherry Bekaert's GovCon consultants are available to discuss your situation with you. Contact usView all Government Contracting Podcasts

An Earned Value Management System (EVMS) refers to the software, processes, tools, templates and management controls a contractor uses to accomplish their earned value management activities in accordance with the guidelines established by the Electronics Industry Alliance (EIA) Standard 748. Earned Value Management Systems (EVMS) is the standard for DoD (Department of Defense) Earned Value Management System Programs and Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) 252.234-7001 Notice of Earned Value Management System.In this fifth episode of Cherry Bekaert's podcast series on each of the six Contractor Business Systems, Brendan Halloran, a Senior Manager in Cherry Bekaert's Government Contracting Industry practice who was previously a Divisional Administrative Contracting Officer (DACO) at the Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA), and John Bula, a Manager in the Firm's GovCon practice, discuss the requirements for a Contractor EVMS, when it is required and what it entails.Listen in to find out about:What is an Earned Value Management SystemWhat is being seen in solicitations and RFPsEVMS requirements and key componentsDCMA EVMS guidelines, surveillances and reviewsProcesses, documentation, metrics and reportingBenefits in having an EVMS system in placeEVMS Best practicesIf you have any questions specific to your situation, Cherry Bekaert's GovCon Consultants are available to discuss your situation with you. Contact usIf you haven't already, catch up on the series:Contractor Business Systems Series: Part 1 – ApplicabilityContractor Business Systems Series: Part 1 – Accounting SystemContractor Business Systems Series: Part 3 – Cost Estimating System RequirementsContractor Business Systems Series: Part 4 – Purchasing SystemCherry Bekaert's Government Contracting Industry advisors are well versed in business systems requirements and complex control environments. We guide contractors in developing and maintaining compliant business systems, performing systems assessments, providing audit support and preparing contractors for audits or reviews by the Defense Contract Audit Agency (DCAA), the Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA) or other cognizant agencies.View all Government Contracting Podcasts

What are size standards and how does the Small Business Administration (SBA) determine a small business's size? In this episode of Cherry Bekaert's Government Contracting podcast series, John Ure and Carol Marin, Tax Partners in Cherry Bekaert's Government Contractor Industry practice join James Kahrs, a Business Development Director in the Firm's GovCon practice. Together, they discuss SBA size standards and recent threshold adjustments, which are used to determine whether a business entity is considered small, and subsequently eligible for government programs and preferences reserved for small business concerns.Listen in to find out about:SBA size standards and how they are establishedSBA calculation of annual receipts SBA calculation of number of employeesSBA's recent adjustment of the size standard thresholds If you have any questions specific to your situation, Cherry Bekaert's GovCon Consultants are available to discuss your situation with you. Contact usView All Podcasts from this Series. View all Government Contracting Podcasts

What is a Contractor Purchasing System? When is a Contractor Purchasing System required? What trends are being seen in solicitations?The fourth episode of Cherry Bekaert's podcast series on each of the six Contractor Business Systems features Brendan Halloran, a Senior Manager in Cherry Bekaert's Government Contracting Industry practice who previously was a Divisional Administrative Contracting Officer (DACO) at the Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA), and John Bula, a Manager in the Firm's GovCon practice. Together they discuss the requirements for a Contractor Purchasing System, as outlined in Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) 252.244-7001, when it is required and what it entails. Listen in to find out about:What constitutes an acceptable and compliant Contractor Purchasing SystemWhat triggers the Contractor Purchasing System requirementKey components and considerations of a Contractor Purchasing SystemPolicies, processes and documentation to demonstrate complianceBenefits contractors can realize in having an approved systemContractor Purchasing System Reviews (CPSR)If you have any questions specific to your situation, Cherry Bekaert's GovCon Consultants are available to discuss your situation with you. Contact usIf you haven't already, catch up on the first three parts of the series:Contractor Business Systems Series: Part 1 – ApplicabilityContractor Business Systems Series: Part 2 – Accounting SystemContractor Business Systems Series: Part 3 – Cost Estimating System RequirementsCherry Bekaert's Government Contracting Industry advisors are well versed in business systems requirements and complex control environments. We guide contractors in developing and maintaining compliant business systems, performing systems assessments, providing audit support and preparing contractors for audits or reviews by the Defense Contract Audit Agency (DCAA), the Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA) or other cognizant agencies.View all Government Contracting Podcasts

Merger and acquisition activity is complex on its own, much less when you factor in government contracts. What should government contracting companies consider when evaluating a potential transaction? Join Cherry Bekaert's Government Contracting Industry practice for a two-part series on government contract considerations during an acquisition. In the first episode, Brendan Halloran, a Senior Manager in Cherry Bekaert's Government Contracting Industry practice, and Roy Rushing, a Manager in the Firm's GovCon practice, discuss contract types, requirements and considerations when a company evaluates acquiring a company or being acquired. Listen to find out about:Types of contracts and past performance considerationsPotential impacts to contracts and revenue streamOrganizational conflicts of interest and other considerations for different contract typesSpecial security considerationsContract novations and requirementsIf you have any questions specific to your situation, Cherry Bekaert's GovCon Consultants are available to discuss your situation with you. Contact usView all Government Contracting Podcasts

In this episode Eric Poppe, a Director in Cherry Bekaert's Government Contractor Industry practice, leads a panel discussion on the current state of the Department of Defense (DoD) Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) 2.0 program. He and the panel draw from the Firm's own experience with the assessment process, having undergone a Level 2 assessment to receive authorization from the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) Accreditation Body, Inc. (The Cyber AB) as a CMMC Third-Party Assessment Organization (C3PAO).Listen in to hear from Neal Beggan, Partner and leader of Cherry Bekaert's Risk Advisory and Information Technology Audit Group, Matthew Schiavone, Managing Director and Brian Kirk, Senior Manager, from the Firm's Information Assurance & Cybersecurity Practice as they share insights into:Current state of CMMCStatus of the Final Rule – Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) Clause 252.204.7021, or the “CMMC Clause”What we are seeing in contractsWhat a C3PAO meansAssessment pitfallsJoint Surveillance Voluntary Assessments program in partnership with the Defense Industrial Base Cybersecurity Assessment Center (DIBCAC)Catch up on Cherry's Bekaert's previous guidance pertaining to CMMC 2.0:Podcast: What's New with CMMC 2.0?: August 2022 UpdatePodcast: CMMC 2.0 Brings Major Program ChangesOn-demand webinar: CMMC 2.0 Brings Major Program ChangesIf you have any questions regarding CMMC, Cherry Bekaert's Information Assurance & Cybersecurity and Government Contracting advisors are available to discuss your situation with you.View all Government Contracting Podcasts

The 8(a) Business Development Program is a nine-year program created by the Small Business Administration (SBA) to help small, disadvantaged businesses compete and conduct business with the Federal government. The 8(a) Program offers small, disadvantaged businesses tremendous opportunities but contains stringent compliance requirements. What must companies be aware of to avoid early graduation from the program? At what point should companies prepare for life beyond the program? What should companies consider to thrive in a more competitive business environment?Listen to Susan Moser, Partner and Leader of Cherry Bekaert's Government Contracting Industry practice, and Sarah Tucker, a Senior Manager in the Firm's GovCon practice, discuss what an 8(a) company needs to know and focus on as it prepares for life beyond the 8(a) Program, including: Why some companies graduate early from the 8(a) ProgramWhat to consider when contemplating an early graduationWhat to monitor to stay in compliance of the 8(a) ProgramWhat pre-planning steps to take to transition from the 8(a) ProgramWhich areas to focus on to successfully graduate from the 8(a) Program and thriveIf you have any questions specific to your situation, Cherry Bekaert's GovCon Consultants are available to discuss your situation with you. Contact usIf you haven't already, catch up on other episodes in our podcast series discussing various aspects of the Small Business Administration's (SBA) 8(a) Business Development Program:The SBA 8(a) Business Development Program – What Is It and What Are the Requirements?The SBA 8(a) Business Development Program Application Process and RequirementsWhat Are the Compliance Requirements for 8(a) Certified Companies?Winning an SBA 8(a) Sole Source Award Contract – What's Involved and What to KnowWinning an 8(a) Competitive ContractSmall Business Administration (SBA) Mentor-Protégé ProgramSBA Mentor-Protégé & Joint Venture Arrangements – Important Elements of the AgreementThe lifecycle of an 8(a) CompanyOIG Report: SBA's Business Development Assistance to 8(a) Program ParticipantsContract Performance After the SBA 8(a) Business Development ProgramView all Government Contracting Podcasts

What year-end, tax-saving steps can government contracting businesses and their owners take? How can they prepare for tax law changes impacting 2023? In this episode of Cherry Bekaert's Government Contracting podcast series, John Ure and Carol Marin, Tax Partners in Cherry Bekaert's Government Contractor Industry practice and Private Client Services practice, discuss year-end tax planning at the entity and individual levels, including pertinent information for government contractors and 8(a) government contractors.Listen in to find out about:Methods to reduce current year incomeCaptial expenditures, fixed assets and phase out of bonus depreciation rules starting in 2023Retirement plans to manage income, including VIP retirement plansResearch & Development (R&D) tax creditEmployee Retention Credit (ERC)Projections and estimated tax payments to avoid surprisesPass-thru entity considerationsQualified Business Income deductionCharitable contributionsSpecial regulations and thresholds for SBA 8(a) program government contractorsIf you need help with year-end tax planning, Cherry Bekaert tax advisors are available to discuss your situation. We welcome the opportunity to identify the best tax positions and opportunities for you and your company.View All Podcasts from this SeriesView all Government Contracting Podcasts

When should government contractors that work with the Department of Defense (DoD) be concerned about Cost Estimating System Requirements for compliance and adequacy per the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) What are the requirements and trends being seen in solicitations?In this third episode of Cherry Bekaert's podcast series on each of the six Contractor Business Systems, Eric Poppe, a Director in Cherry Bekaert's Government Contracting Industry practice, and Brendan Halloran, a Senior Manager in the Firm's GovCon practice who previously was a Divisional Administrative Contracting Officer (DACO) at the Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA), discuss the requirements for an adequate estimating system as outlined in Cost Estimating System Requirements, 252.215-7002. Listen in to find out about:What constitutes an adequate Estimating SystemWhen it is a requirementPolicies, processes, and documentation to demonstrate complianceBest practices and pitfalls to avoidHow to prepare for getting an approved Estimating SystemIf you have any questions specific to your situation, Cherry Bekaert's GovCon Consultants are available to discuss your situation with you. Contact usIf you haven't already, catch up on Part 1 & Part 2 in the series:Contractor Business Systems Series: Part 1 – ApplicabilityContractor Business Systems Series: Part 2 – Accounting SystemCherry Bekaert's Government Contracting Industry advisors are well versed in business systems requirements and complex control environments. We guide contractors in developing and maintaining compliant business systems, perform systems assessments, provide audit support, and prepare contractors for audits or reviews by the Defense Contract Audit Agency (DCAA), the Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA) or other cognizant agencies.View all Government Contracting Podcasts

The Contractor Business Systems podcast series hosts members of Cherry Bekaert's Government Contracting Industry team to discuss each of the six contractor business systems—Accounting, Estimating, Purchasing, Earned Value Management Systems (EVMS), Material Management and Accounting System (MMAS), and Property Management. In this second episode, Eric Poppe, a Director in Cherry Bekaert's Government Contracting Industry practice, and Jacquelin LaClair, a Senior Associate in the Firm's GovCon practice who spent 10 years working with the Defense Contract Audit Agency (DCAA) and the Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA), discuss the requirements for an adequate accounting system as outlined in Accounting System Administration, 252.242-7006 and required by FAR 16.301-3 in the award of a cost reimbursable type contract. Listen in to find out about:What types of Accounting System audits might be requested by Contracting OfficersWhat the differences are between Pre-Award Accounting System audits and Post Award Accounting System auditsWhat the government is reviewingHow contractors should prepare for an Accounting System auditIf you have any questions specific to your situation, Cherry Bekaert's GovCon Consultants are available to discuss your situation with you. Contact usIf you haven't already, catch up on Part 1 in the series:Contractor Business Systems Series: Part 1 – ApplicabilityCherry Bekaert's Government Contracting Industry advisors are well versed in business systems requirements and complex control environments. We guide contractors in developing and maintaining compliant business systems, perform systems assessments, provide audit support, and prepare contractors for audits or reviews by the Defense Contract Audit Agency (DCAA), the Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA) or other cognizant agencies.View all Government Contracting Podcasts

Continuing in our series on the Small Business Administration (SBA) 8(a) Business Development Program and the All-Small Mentor-Protégé Program (previously the 8(a) Mentor-Protégé Program), the focus of this podcast episode is on how to handle basic accounting when entering into a Joint Venture (JV) agreement as part of a Mentor-Protégé (M-P) arrangement.Listen to Eric Poppe, a Director in Cherry Bekaert's Government Contracting Industry Practice, and Craig Hunter, an Assurance Partner and member of the Firm's GovCon practice, to find out about:The SBA All Small Mentor-Protégé ProgramHow JV arrangements are traditionally set-upHow the day-to-day accounting flows between entitiesBilling and best practicesCost allocationHow to handle the accounting for different contract typesIf you have any questions specific to your situation, Cherry Bekaert's GovCon Consultants are available to discuss your situation with you. Contact us.If you haven't already, catch up on other episodes in our podcast series discussing various aspects of the Small Business Administration's (SBA) 8(a) Business Development Program:The SBA 8(a) Business Development Program – What Is It and What Are the Requirements?The SBA 8(a) Business Development Program Application Process and RequirementsWhat Are the Compliance Requirements for 8(a) Certified Companies?Winning an SBA 8(a) Sole Source Award Contract – What's Involved and What to KnowWinning an 8(a) Competitive ContractSmall Business Administration (SBA) Mentor-Protégé ProgramSBA Mentor-Protégé & Joint Venture Arrangements – Important Elements of the AgreementThe lifecycle of an 8(a) CompanyOIG Report: SBA's Business Development Assistance to 8(a) Program ParticipantsContract Performance After the SBA 8(a) Business Development Program

Join Cherry Bekaert's Government Contracting Industry team for part one of a new podcast series discussing the six contractor business systems—Accounting, Estimating, Purchasing, Earned Value Management Systems (EVMS), Material Management and Accounting System (MMAS), and Property Management. The series will discuss Business Systems applicability, requirements and trends currently seen for Business Systems in solicitations.In the first episode Susan Moser, Partner and Leader of Cherry Bekaert's Government Contracting practice, and Roy Rushing, a Manager in the Firm's GovCon practice and a former Contracting Officer with various federal agencies, discuss Business Systems applicability, including an overview of what the Business Systems are and background. Listen in to find out about:An overview of the Business SystemsWhen contractors should be concerned about Business SystemsWhich three systems are the most common and come into play first for contractorsWhen companies would encounter the other three systemsSmall business applicability and the value of these requirements beyond meeting contractual requirementsCherry Bekaert's Government Contracting Industry advisors are well versed in business systems requirements and complex control environments. We guide contractors in developing and maintaining compliant business systems, perform systems assessments, provide audit support, and prepare contractors for audits or reviews by the Defense Contract Audit Agency (DCAA), the Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA) or other cognizant agencies.If you have any questions specific to your situation, Cherry Bekaert's GovCon Consultants are available to discuss your situation with you. Contact us

As companies prepare for graduation from the Small Business Administration (SBA) 8(a) program, there are many important considerations and decisions to be made. The key to successfully graduate and thrive is to plan well in advance. Listen to Susan Moser, Partner and Leader of Cherry Bekaert's Government Contracting practice, John Ure, a Tax Partner and member of the Firm's GovCon practice, and Brendan Halloran, a Senior Manager in the Firm's GovCon practice and former Divisional Administration Contracting Officer (ACO) with the Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA), discuss what an 8(a) company needs to know and focus on as it prepares for graduation from the 8(a) Business Development Program.We will discuss:Why for some contractors focusing on staying a small business is a good thingIf your path is to stay small, what to be aware of and to focus on for more successConsiderations and planning for growth to meet requirements as a large businessNew SBA rule to help small businesses meet past performance requirementsIf you have any questions specific to your situation, Cherry Bekaert's GovCon Consultants are available to discuss your situation with you. Contact usIf you haven't already, catch up on other episodes in our podcast series discussing various aspects of the Small Business Administration's (SBA) 8(a) Business Development Program:The SBA 8(a) Business Development Program – What Is It and What Are the Requirements?The SBA 8(a) Business Development Program Application Process and RequirementsWhat Are the Compliance Requirements for 8(a) Certified Companies?Winning an SBA 8(a) Sole Source Award Contract – What's Involved and What to KnowWinning an 8(a) Competitive ContractSmall Business Administration (SBA) Mentor-Protégé ProgramSBA Mentor-Protégé & Joint Venture Arrangements – Important Elements of the AgreementThe lifecycle of an 8(a) CompanyOIG Report: SBA's Business Development Assistance to 8(a) Program Participants

Where does the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) 2.0 program currently stand? Neal Beggan, leader of Cherry Bekaert's Risk Advisory Services and a Principal in Cherry Bekaert's Information Assurance & Cybersecurity Practice and Eric Poppe, a Director in the Firm's Government Contractor Services Group, discuss the latest information about the Department of Defense (DoD) CMMC 2.0 program.Listen in to find out about:The CMMC accreditation body - now called “The CYBER AB”CAP, a pre-decisional draft of the CMMC assessment process (CAP) released by The CYBER ABFedRAMP certification and NIST SP 800-171Recent DoD memorandum and DoJ Comprehensive Cyber Review highlighting enforcement mechanisms for compliance with cybersecurity requirements Voluntary assessments, which are now allowed prior to the interim final rule for CMMC, and expected to begin in late summer/early fall of 2022 If you haven't already, catch up on Cherry's Bekaert's previous guidance on CMMC 2.0:On-demand webinar: CMMC 2.0 Brings Major Program ChangesPodcast: CMMC 2.0 Brings Major Program ChangesIf you have any questions regarding CMMC, Cherry Bekaert's Risk Advisory and GovCon Consultants are available to discuss your situation with you.

On February 14, 2022, the Office of Inspector General (OIG), U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) issued a report on SBA's Business Development Assistance to 8(a) Program Participants. The objective of the audit was “to determine to what extent SBA measures and monitors an 8(a) firm's progress toward achieving individual business development goals. The objective was also to ensure 8(a) firms receive the help needed to meet their goals and if the program adapted during the Coronavirus Disease 2019 pandemic.”Why should we care about the findings of this report? Often OIG reports foreshadow what might be expected in the coming year. This report gives 8(a) companies a preview of what SBA may focus on.Listen to Susan Moser, Partner and Leader of Cherry Bekaert's Government Contracting practice and Brendan Halloran, a Senior Manager in the Firm's GovCon practice, discuss what they learned from the OIG report and key takeaways, including:Background on the SBA 8(a) Program and data points from the ReportOIG's findings and recommendationsWhat 8(a) contractors should expect in the coming yearOur Government Contractor Services group has an in-depth understanding of the 8(a) program and advises a number of 8(a) government contractors through each step of the process to add value and anticipate ongoing opportunities. From the initial important decisions made in becoming an 8(a), to the first contract, to how the company is growing throughout the life of the program.If you have any questions specific to your situation, Cherry Bekaert's GovCon Consultants are available to discuss your situation with you.If you haven't already, listen to other episodes in our podcast series discussing various aspects of the SBA 8(a) Program:Part 1: The SBA 8(a) Business Development Program – What Is It and What Are the Requirements?Part 2: The SBA 8(a) Business Development Program Application Process and RequirementsPart 3: What Are the Compliance Requirements for 8(a) Certified Companies?Part 4: Winning an SBA 8(a) Sole Source Award Contract – What's Involved and What to KnowPart 5: Winning an 8(a) Competitive ContractPart 6: Small Business Administration (SBA) Mentor-Protégé ProgramPart 7: The Lifecycle of an SBA 8(a) Company

The use of teaming agreements when competing for government contracts can create new government contract opportunities for businesses both large and small. Teaming and subcontracting agreements give companies the chance to win awards that they might not otherwise qualify for or have the depth of technical expertise and resources individually. There are many factors to consider when entering a teaming or subcontract arrangement, including types of arrangements, regulatory compliance requirements, rate structures and operating and entity agreements. In this episode, Eric Poppe, a Senior Manager in Cherry Bekaert's Government Contracting Industry practice, and Brendan Halloran, also a senior manager in the Firm's Government Contracting practice, share their insights into the different types of teaming arrangements and what government contractors should consider when entering into an agreement, along with best practices.Discussion includes:Reasons for entering a teaming arrangementSmall business plans and subcontractor arrangementsRate structures and contract mixThe differences between a subcontract and other teaming arrangementsOperating and entity agreementsRegulatory compliance considerationsIf you need any help developing your teaming strategy or navigating the proposal process, Cherry Bekaert's Government Contracting consultants are available to discuss your situation with you.

In this episode Neal Beggan, leader of Cherry Bekaert's Risk Advisory Services and a Principal in Cherry Bekaert's Information Assurance & Cybersecurity Practice, selected as one of the first Provisional Assessors nationwide by the CMMC Accreditation Body, and Eric Poppe, a senior manager in the Firm's Government Contractor Services Group, discuss the current state of the Department of Defense (DoD) Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) 2.0 program and share insights on what contractors and subcontractors in the defense industrial base (DIB) should be doing now to prepare.Discussion includes:The Pentagon's shift of responsibility for the CMMC program to the DoD CIOChange in leadership at the CMMC Accreditation BodyDebunking some of the rumors around the CMMC 2.0 rollout, including:DoD's rollback on the number of companies who would have been allowed to self-attest, increasing the number of contractors that may require a third-party assessment The expected length of the rulemaking process and when the actual requirements will be incorporated into procurementsThe Government Accountability Office (GAO) report on the CMMC rolloutWhat companies should be doing now to prepare for CMMC Incentives being considered by DoD to encourage early adoption of certificationIf you haven't already, catch up on Cherry's Bekaert's previous guidance on CMMC 2.0:On-demand webinar: CMMC 2.0 Brings Major Program ChangesPodcast: CMMC 2.0 Brings Major Program ChangesIf you have any questions regarding CMMC, Cherry Bekaert's Risk Advisory and GovCon Consultants are available to discuss your situation with you.

Idle facilities and the associated costs have always been a topic of debate between government contractors and the Federal government. Contractors need to proactively monitor their facility use to avoid potential questioned costs while ensuring they can meet contract work fluctuations and future demand. With businesses becoming more comfortable with employees working from home due to the COVID 19 pandemic, office occupancy has greatly declined and there is uncertainty as to when, or if, government contractors will go back to a fully occupied office environment. Many contractors now find themselves in a position of evaluating their long-term needs for facility space.  Listen to Brendan Halloran, a Senior Manager in Cherry Bekaert's Government Contracting Industry (GovCon) practice who previously spent 10 years at the Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA), and Curt Smith, a Manager in the Firm's GovCon practice who spent 12 years at the Defense Contract Audit Agency (DCAA), discuss how the Federal government views idle facilities, how much time contractors are allowed before the government considers facility costs unallowable, and how contractors should address the costs associated with these facilities.If you need help determining or supporting idle facilities costs, Cherry Bekaert's GovCon Consultants are available to discuss your situation with you.

Listen to Brynn McNeil, an Assurance Partner in Cherry Bekaert's Government Contracting Industry practice and Eric Poppe, a Senior Manager in the Firm's GovCon practice, discuss the important elements of an agreement when forming a Mentor-Protégé/Joint Venture arrangement.They discuss:Benefits of the Mentor-Protégé ProgramBasic principles to consider in AgreementsRegulatory requirementsOther considerationsIn our previous podcast on the SBA Mentor Protégé program, we gave an overview of the program, discussed some of the goals and benefits from participating in this program, as well as eligibility to participate both from the mentor and the protégé perspectives.We will continue to do future podcasts on this topic, highlighting the annual evaluations that need to be performed, compliance issues, including limitations on subcontracting, accounting and financial reporting, and pricing considerations.Our Government Contractor Services group has an in-depth understanding of the 8(a) program and advises a number of 8(a) government contractors through each step of the process to add value and anticipate ongoing opportunities. From the initial important decisions made in becoming an 8(a), to the first contract, to how the company is growing throughout the life of the program.