Fiscal Year(FY)
The 12-month period used by the government for budgeting and appropriations; the federal fiscal year runs October 1–September 30.
Overview
The federal fiscal year (FY) begins October 1 and ends September 30. Congress passes appropriations by FY, and agencies plan spending, contract awards, and budget execution within this cycle.
Why It Matters in GovCon
Contractors must align with the federal budget cycle. End-of-fiscal-year (September) often sees a surge in contract awards as agencies obligate remaining funds. Understanding FY timing helps with pipeline forecasting and proposal planning.
Key Details
- FY 2025: Runs from October 1, 2024, through September 30, 2025.
- Appropriations: Budget authority is provided by fiscal year.
- Use-It-or-Lose-It: Unexpended obligational authority often must be used before FY end.
- Planning: Agencies plan major acquisitions across multiple FYs.
How GovCon Data Can Help
GovCon Data lets you filter opportunities by fiscal year and track agency spending cycles. Plan your bid calendar around typical FY award patterns and budget milestones.
Related Terms
- Appropriations
- Budget Authority
- Obligation
- Contract Award
More Management Terms
A project management methodology that integrates scope, schedule, and cost data to measure project performance and progress objectively.
The government's plan for monitoring and evaluating contractor performance against the standards defined in the contract.
Integrated software systems that manage business processes such as finance, procurement, HR, and project management.
A measurable value used to evaluate how effectively a contractor or program is achieving strategic objectives and contract requirements.
The PMI-published guide that defines best practices and processes for project management, widely referenced in government contract management.
A contractor-developed plan describing how quality will be assured during contract performance, often required in solicitations.
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