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Revenue Recognition for Contractors – Reminders During Implementation

Sikich

Jul 16 2019

2 min read

Reminder for contractors

At long last and after several years of discussion regarding the new GAAP revenue recognition standard, we have entered the period of implementation for most private companies.

The standard is effective for the calendar year 2019 and for fiscal years that begin within 2019, so now is the time to make any changes that haven’t already been implemented. As we’ve been communicating over the past few years, even though many contractors won’t see widespread changes to their revenue recognition process under the new standard, it is important to understand its provisions and nuances, since there is whole new accounting language to be used going forward.

Reminder #1 – Contracts, Contracts, Contracts

The new revenue recognition standard is very contract focused. In general, the revenue recognition process is dictated by the terms of the contracts between the contractor and its customers. The terms are required to be analyzed on a contract-by-contract basis to determine how and when to recognize revenue. While this places an emphasis on making sure that contract terms are well-defined and agreed to in writing with customers, it also provides the flexibility to draft contract terms to help achieve desired revenue recognition results, when such flexibility is available.

Reminder #2 – Transition Method

The standard allows an entity to select between two transition methods: 1) a fully retrospective approach for all prior periods presented in the period of adoption, or 2) a modified retrospective approach with a cumulative effect adjustment as of the date of initial application. The second method is the most common approach used by companies. It requires a company to determine the impact on the balance sheet of the change in revenue recognition accounting principle as of the date of the beginning of the company’s fiscal year starting in 2019. This impact is recorded as a one-time line item adjustment to equity within a company’s statement of equity or retained earnings, net of any tax effects.

For More Information

We highly recommend that contractors study the new standard’s regulations and impact. For a more in-depth overview of revenue recognition’s affect on contractors, please continue reading about this topic here or contact us with questions.

This publication contains general information only and Sikich is not, by means of this publication, rendering accounting, business, financial, investment, legal, tax, or any other professional advice or services. This publication is not a substitute for such professional advice or services, nor should you use it as a basis for any decision, action or omission that may affect you or your business. Before making any decision, taking any action or omitting an action that may affect you or your business, you should consult a qualified professional advisor. In addition, this publication may contain certain content generated by an artificial intelligence (AI) language model. You acknowledge that Sikich shall not be responsible for any loss sustained by you or any person who relies on this publication.

About the Author

Sikich

Sikich is a global company specializing in technology-enabled professional services. With more than 1,900 employees, Sikich draws on a diverse portfolio of technology solutions to deliver transformative digital strategies and is comprised of one of the largest CPA firms in the United States. From corporations and not-for-profits to state and local governments and federal agencies, Sikich clients utilize a broad spectrum of services* and products to help them improve performance and achieve long-term, strategic goals. *Securities offered through Sikich Corporate Finance LLC, member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services offered through Sikich Financial, an SEC Registered Investment Advisor. 