{"id":1967,"date":"2024-07-08T09:30:19","date_gmt":"2024-07-08T13:30:19","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.diener.org\/?p=1967"},"modified":"2025-12-29T14:37:14","modified_gmt":"2025-12-29T19:37:14","slug":"keeping-up-with-the-compliance-how-to-stay-informed-on-dcaa-regulations","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.diener.org\/keeping-up-with-the-compliance-how-to-stay-informed-on-dcaa-regulations\/","title":{"rendered":"Keeping Up With the Compliance: How to Stay Informed on DCAA Regulations"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"auditGovernment contracting<\/a> is a highly rewarding niche where companies can secure long-term contracts and steady revenue streams. However, contractors are held to high standards and subject to strict compliance, especially with timekeeping policies governed by the DCAA (Defense Contract Audit Agency) and other federal agencies.<\/p>\n

Successful procurement of government contracts depends on passing DCAA’s SF1408 criteria<\/a>, commonly known as the pre-award audit. Retaining these contracts and maintaining eligibility for future government projects require contractors to pass DCAA post-award audits<\/a>.<\/p>\n

This obligates companies to understand all requirements, keep up with regulatory changes, and maintain compliance.<\/p>\n

This guide will discuss strategies on how to stay informed on DCAA regulations.<\/p>\n

Understanding DCAA Regulations<\/h2>\n

The DCAA<\/a> is a Department of Defense (DOD) auditing agency responsible for overseeing the financial affairs of government contracts.<\/p>\n

The agency ensures that the DOD and other federal entities receive quality goods and services at fair prices through ensuring compliance<\/a> with contract and agency specific regulations, including the methods and accuracy of timekeeping<\/a> and tracking procedures, and the training of those associated with each contract.<\/p>\n

The DCAA assesses contractors’ compliance with Federal Acquisition Regulations<\/a> (FAR), Cost Accounting Standards<\/a> (CAS), the Truth in Negotiations Act (TINA), and agency-specific FAR supplements.<\/p>\n

Keeping up with changes in all the above frameworks and their impact on DCAA’s auditing standards, usually found in the DCAA contract audit manual (CAM), is integral but often challenging.<\/p>\n

Government contractors should employ the following strategies to remain informed on changes in DCAA regulations:<\/p>\n

Follow the Federal Register<\/h2>\n

The Federal Register<\/a> is published every business day by NARA (National Archives and Records Administration). As the official journal of the federal government, it plays an integral role in disseminating new and amended regulations and rules in government contracting.<\/p>\n

Government contractors should monitor the Federal Register to remain updated on the DCAA and other auditing agencies’ activities. Contractors can opt to subscribe to the Federal Register’s email alerts.<\/p>\n

Monitor the Official DCAA Website and Resources<\/h2>\n

Every time a new regulation is implemented, it is featured on the DCAA’s official website. Government contractors should regularly check the site for updates or changes in regulations. The CAM<\/a> is also updated.<\/p>\n

In addition, the DCAA issues Audit Guidance Memos (AGMs) and Memorandum for Regional Directors Covering Audit Guidance (MRD). These resources contain non-binding updates on regulations, interpretations of existing rules, and detailed procedural instructions.<\/p>\n

Albeit meant to guide DCAA auditors, AGMs and MRD can help government contractors stay ahead of changes in auditing standards. Contractors can also attend the DCAA’s webinars and training courses.<\/p>\n

Join Industry Associations<\/h2>\n

Various industry associations are championing the interests of government contractors. These associations provide resources to help members stay informed on DCAA and other agency regulations. These industry associations include:<\/p>\n