Reliascent.com Review

Based on looking at the website, ReliAscent.com appears to be a legitimate and comprehensive service provider for government contractors seeking DCAA Defense Contract Audit Agency compliance and related accounting and financial management support.

The site clearly outlines its services, target audience, and its unique value proposition in an industry often plagued by generic offerings.

It emphasizes a team-based approach to ensure continuous, expert-level support, which is a significant advantage over hiring individual accountants.

Overall Review Summary:

• Purpose: Provides DCAA-compliant accounting, government contract management, and financial consulting for Federal Government Contractors and Grantees.
• Transparency: High, with detailed service descriptions, client reviews, and direct contact information.
• Professionalism: Very high, showcasing a deep understanding of complex government contracting regulations FAR Part 31 & DCAA.
• Ethical Stance: The services offered accounting, compliance, consulting are inherently ethical and align with principles of transparency and accountability in financial dealings. There are no indications of forbidden or questionable practices.
• Completeness: The website covers a vast array of topics relevant to government contracting, from initial compliance setup to audit support, timekeeping, and contract closeouts.
• Accessibility: Offers various resources like white papers, videos, and a blog, suggesting a commitment to educating its clientele.

ReliAscent positions itself as more than “just another accounting firm,” aiming to be a strategic partner.

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They highlight their team of experts, ranging from bookkeepers to fractional CFOs, who work cohesively to provide tailored solutions.

This model aims to offer consistent, high-level support at a cost potentially lower than hiring a full-time, in-house accountant, while mitigating risks associated with employee turnover.

Their focus on proactive problem-solving and efficiency for complex government contracting indicates a mature and specialized service.

Best Alternatives for Ethical Financial & Business Management Services:

• KPMG: A global network of professional firms providing audit, tax, and advisory services. They offer extensive financial advisory and consulting, including compliance services, which can be tailored for government contractors.
  • Key Features: Global reach, wide range of professional services, deep industry expertise, large pool of certified professionals.
  • Price: Typically higher-tier, project-based or retainer, suitable for larger enterprises.
  • Pros: Reputable, comprehensive service offerings, strong regulatory compliance experience.
  • Cons: Can be expensive for smaller businesses, less personalized attention for smaller clients compared to niche firms.
• Deloitte: One of the “Big Four” accounting firms, providing audit, consulting, financial advisory, risk advisory, and tax services. They have robust government and public sector consulting divisions.
  • Key Features: Broad service portfolio, strong focus on digital transformation and emerging technologies, significant experience in government sectors.
  • Price: Premium pricing, often engagement-specific.
  • Pros: World-class expertise, strong global network, cutting-edge solutions.
  • Cons: Can be very costly, structure might be too corporate for startups or small businesses.
• PwC PricewaterhouseCoopers: Another “Big Four” firm offering assurance, advisory, and tax services. Their advisory services include financial management, risk management, and regulatory compliance.
  • Key Features: Extensive advisory services including strategy, operations, and technology consulting. Strong presence in various industries.
  • Price: High-end, tailored to the scope of work.
  • Pros: Global presence, deep industry knowledge, holistic approach to business challenges.
  • Cons: Potentially cost-prohibitive for smaller entities, processes can sometimes be less agile.
• EY Ernst & Young: A global leader in assurance, tax, transaction, and advisory services. They offer consulting services that include financial accounting and compliance for various industries, including government.
  • Key Features: Strong advisory practices, focus on innovation and digital integration, robust risk management solutions.
  • Price: Premium, customized based on client needs and project scale.
  • Pros: Highly experienced professionals, comprehensive service lines, global insights.
  • Cons: May be less accessible for small and medium-sized businesses due to cost, often cater to larger corporations.
• BDO USA: A leading accounting and advisory firm serving clients across the country and around the world. They provide assurance, tax, and advisory services.
  • Key Features: Strong focus on middle-market companies, broad range of services including government contracting advisory.
  • Price: Generally more accessible than the “Big Four” but still professional-level.
  • Pros: More personalized service for mid-sized businesses, good industry-specific knowledge.
  • Cons: Smaller global footprint compared to the “Big Four,” specialized expertise might vary by region.
• Grant Thornton: A major accounting and advisory organization. They offer audit, tax, and advisory services to public and private clients, including government contractors.
  • Key Features: Strong advisory capabilities, particularly in public sector consulting and risk management.
  • Price: Competitive for a large firm, often more flexible than the very top tier.
  • Pros: Reputable, offers a good balance of expertise and cost-effectiveness for larger SMEs.
  • Cons: May not have the same breadth of specialized services as the “Big Four” in every niche.
• CliftonLarsonAllen CLA: A leading professional services firm delivering wealth advisory, outsourcing, audit, tax, and consulting services. They have significant experience in government contracting.
  • Key Features: Integrated approach combining wealth advisory with business services, strong local presence across the U.S.
  • Price: Mid-to-high range, competitive for the level of expertise.
  • Pros: Strong focus on privately held businesses and their owners, comprehensive service offerings.
  • Cons: Primarily U.S.-focused, less global reach than the larger firms.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.

IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

Reliascent.com Review & First Look

From a quick glance at Reliascent.com, it’s clear this isn’t just another generic accounting website.

It immediately targets a very specific niche: Federal Government Contractors and Grantees.

The language is sharp, professional, and full of industry-specific terms like “DCAA Compliant Accounting Systems,” “FAR Part 31,” and “Incurred Cost Proposals ICE.” This signals expertise and a deep understanding of a highly regulated and complex sector.

Initial Impressions on Professionalism and Focus

The website’s design is clean and functional, prioritizing information delivery over flashy aesthetics.

This aligns with the serious nature of government contracting compliance. E-saw.club Review

The navigation is intuitive, allowing quick access to services, resources, and company information.

It’s a no-nonsense site designed to convey competence and reliability.

Understanding the Target Audience

The emphasis on DCAA and FAR compliance immediately tells you who ReliAscent serves: businesses that work with or aim to work with the U.S. government.

These are entities that need to adhere to stringent accounting standards to ensure transparency, prevent fraud, and maintain eligibility for federal contracts.

The stakes are high, and the website effectively communicates that ReliAscent understands these stakes. Accessmobility.com Review

Core Value Proposition

ReliAscent’s core value proposition revolves around being a “partner” and an “entire accounting team” rather than just a software vendor or a single CPA.

They explicitly state they don’t “bait and switch clients” or “sell software supported by overpriced ‘template packages’.” This directly addresses common pain points in the industry, suggesting they offer a more comprehensive, hands-on, and trustworthy solution.

They aim to free up contractors to focus on their core business, while ReliAscent handles the intricate financial and compliance requirements.

Reliascent.com Services: A Deep Dive into Compliance

ReliAscent’s service offerings are extensive, covering virtually every facet of financial management and compliance required for government contractors.

They effectively break down complex processes into digestible service lines, demonstrating a thorough understanding of the contracting lifecycle. Theonlinegroup.com Review

DCAA Compliant Accounting Systems

This is arguably the cornerstone of their services.

DCAA compliance is non-negotiable for government contractors, and ReliAscent positions itself as the expert in setting up and maintaining systems that meet these rigorous standards.

• Initial Setup: They likely assist new contractors in establishing accounting systems that are compliant from day one, which is crucial for passing pre-award audits.
• System Review & Remediation: For existing contractors, they can review current systems, identify deficiencies, and help implement corrective actions to achieve or maintain compliance.
• Ongoing Maintenance: Beyond setup, ongoing support to ensure the system remains compliant as regulations evolve or business operations change.

DCAA Accounting & Bookkeeping Services

This goes beyond just compliance systems, offering day-to-day operational support.

• Outsourced Accounting Team: They provide a full team—from bookkeepers to senior accountants and potentially a controller—which is a significant advantage for businesses that can’t afford a full in-house team.
• FAR Part 31 Compliance: This refers to cost principles and procedures for contracting with the government. ReliAscent ensures that accounting practices align with these principles, crucial for allowable costs.
• Financial Reporting: Preparing accurate and timely financial statements that meet both internal needs and government reporting requirements.

DCAA Compliant Timekeeping

Timekeeping is a critical area for DCAA audits, as it directly impacts labor costs charged to government contracts.

• System Implementation: Assisting clients in selecting and implementing timekeeping systems that meet DCAA’s stringent criteria for accuracy, segregation of duties, and audit trails.
• Policy & Procedure Development: Helping establish internal controls and procedures around time recording, approval, and payroll processing to prevent issues during audits.
• Audit Readiness: Ensuring all timekeeping records are meticulously maintained and ready for DCAA scrutiny at any given moment.

Government Contract Management

This service extends beyond pure accounting, delving into the contractual aspects of government work. Peelcarrentals.com Review

• Proposal & Contract Reviews: Offering expertise in reviewing proposals before submission and contracts before signing to ensure favorable terms and compliance. This can save businesses from costly errors or unfavorable clauses.
• Contract Change Orders: Navigating modifications to existing contracts, ensuring that financial and administrative impacts are properly managed and documented.
• Subcontract Management: Providing guidance on managing subcontractors, ensuring their compliance flows down from the prime contract.
• Terminations & Closeouts: Assisting with the complex process of contract termination for convenience or default and proper closeout procedures, which includes final invoicing and release of liabilities.

Financial & Business Management Consulting

This is where ReliAscent offers strategic value, acting as a fractional CFO or business advisor.

• Outsourced CFO Services: Providing high-level financial strategy without the cost of a full-time executive. This includes budgeting, forecasting, cash flow management, and strategic planning.
• Provisional Billing Rates & SBIR PH II Proposal Pricing: Critical for government contractors, setting provisional billing rates correctly impacts cash flow and audit risk. Assistance with SBIR Small Business Innovation Research Phase II proposals is also highly specialized.
• Incurred Cost Proposals ICE: ICE submissions are annual, complex, and high-risk. ReliAscent provides support in preparing, submitting, and defending these proposals during DCAA audits.
• IP Protection: Guidance on intellectual property rights within government contracts, a vital area for businesses developing innovative solutions.

Reliascent.com Pros & Cons

When evaluating a service provider like ReliAscent, it’s essential to weigh the advantages against any potential drawbacks.

For a specialized firm in government contracting, the pros generally outweigh the cons for their target market.

Pros of ReliAscent.com

• Deep Specialization: ReliAscent isn’t a general accounting firm. they focus exclusively on government contractors and DCAA compliance. This specialization means unparalleled expertise in a very niche and complex area. They understand the specific challenges, regulations, and audit processes unique to this industry.
• Team-Based Approach: Instead of a single accountant, clients get an “entire accounting team” bookkeeper, senior accountant, optional controller, and account executive/fractional CFO. This ensures continuity, diverse skill sets, and a lower risk of service disruption due to individual absences or turnover.
• Proactive Compliance: Their emphasis on setting up and maintaining DCAA-compliant systems from the outset, rather than reactive fixes, can save clients significant headaches, penalties, and audit failures.
• Comprehensive Service Offering: From basic bookkeeping to high-level CFO services, audit support, and contract management, they cover the full spectrum of financial and administrative needs for government contractors. This “one-stop shop” approach simplifies management for clients.
• Cost-Effectiveness Compared to In-House: They claim to offer their team-based service at “less than the cost of hiring a single, full-time accountant.” For small to medium-sized government contractors, this can be a highly attractive proposition, providing expert resources without the overheads of full-time employees benefits, training, etc..
• Risk Mitigation: By ensuring compliance with FAR Part 31 and DCAA regulations, they help clients minimize audit risks, disallowances, and potential reputational damage. Their mock audits and audit support services are invaluable.
• Educational Resources: The website offers a blog, white papers, and videos, demonstrating a commitment to educating their clients and the broader industry. This adds significant value beyond direct service delivery.
• Strong Testimonials/Reviews: The presence of a “Client Reviews” section on the website, along with external social media links LinkedIn, Twitter, YouTube, suggests transparency and confidence in client satisfaction.

Cons of ReliAscent.com

• Niche Focus Means Limited Applicability: While a strength for government contractors, this specialization means ReliAscent is not suitable for general businesses or individuals outside the government contracting sphere. Their expertise is highly specific.
• Pricing Transparency: Like many professional services firms, explicit pricing isn’t immediately available on the website. Clients need to “Request a Quote,” which means potential clients cannot quickly compare costs without direct engagement. This is standard for complex services but can be a barrier for some.
• Potential for Over-Servicing Smaller Clients: For very small, nascent government contractors, the full “team of experts” might feel like overkill or potentially more expensive than a basic, bare-bones accounting solution. However, ReliAscent’s claim of being cheaper than a single in-house accountant mitigates this somewhat.
• Dependence on External Experts: While benefiting from a team, clients are still dependent on an external firm for critical financial operations. Any miscommunication or misalignment could potentially lead to issues, though ReliAscent’s model aims to prevent this.
• Geographic Location: While they serve clients nationally, their physical address is in Broomfield, CO. For clients who prefer in-person meetings, this might be a consideration, though most services are likely delivered remotely.

ReliAscent.com Pricing: Understanding the Investment

As is typical for highly specialized professional services firms, ReliAscent.com does not display explicit pricing tiers or fixed rates on their website.

Instead, they encourage potential clients to “Request a Quote.” This approach is standard for services that are custom-tailored to each client’s specific needs, complexity, and scale of operations. Sosyaldepo.com Review

Why No Public Pricing?

• Customization: The services offered by ReliAscent are not one-size-fits-all. The needs of a small SBIR Phase I grantee differ significantly from a large, established prime contractor with multiple complex contracts.
• Scope Variability: The scope of accounting, compliance, and consulting support required can vary wildly. Some clients may need full outsourced accounting, while others might only need audit support or specific project pricing assistance.
• Long-Term Engagements: These are not transactional services. they often involve ongoing partnerships. Pricing will reflect the long-term commitment and the depth of the team provided.
• Value-Based Pricing: Firms like ReliAscent often price based on the value they deliver e.g., preventing disallowances, securing contracts, ensuring compliance rather than just hourly rates. The cost savings from avoiding penalties or successfully managing audits can far outweigh the service fees.

What to Expect When Requesting a Quote

When you “Request a Quote” from ReliAscent, you can expect a consultative process:

• Initial Discovery: They will likely conduct an initial consultation to understand your business, your current government contracts or aspirations, your existing accounting setup, and your specific challenges and requirements.
• Needs Assessment: Based on this discovery, they will assess the level of support needed, the size of the accounting team to be assigned, and the estimated time commitment.
• Tailored Proposal: You will then receive a customized proposal outlining the services, the proposed team structure, and the associated costs. This might be a monthly retainer, project-based fee, or a combination.

Comparative Cost Considerations

ReliAscent makes a compelling claim that their service comes in at “less than the cost of hiring a single, full-time accountant.” To truly gauge this, consider the following:

• Fully Loaded Cost of an Employee: A full-time accountant involves salary, benefits health insurance, retirement, paid time off, payroll taxes, software licenses, office space, training, and recruitment costs. This can easily push the total cost well over $100,000-$150,000 annually for an experienced professional.
• Team vs. Individual: ReliAscent provides an entire team. To replicate that in-house, you’d need a bookkeeper, a senior accountant, potentially a controller, and a fractional CFO/contracts manager. The combined cost of these individuals would be significantly higher than a single accountant.
• Expertise and Continuity: An in-house accountant might leave, requiring costly and time-consuming recruitment. ReliAscent’s team model ensures continuity and immediate access to diverse expertise, preventing knowledge gaps or service disruptions.
• Audit Readiness: The cost of failing a DCAA audit disallowed costs, penalties, reputational damage can be enormous. Investing in proactive compliance with ReliAscent can be viewed as an insurance policy against these much larger potential losses.

While the exact numbers aren’t public, the value proposition suggests that for government contractors, the investment in ReliAscent is positioned as a cost-effective way to ensure compliance, mitigate risk, and gain strategic financial management, often at a lower overall cost than building an equivalent in-house capability.

How to Cancel ReliAscent.com Subscription or Engagement

While ReliAscent.com doesn’t explicitly detail a “cancellation” process on their public homepage, their services are typically provided under a formal engagement agreement or contract, rather than a simple subscription model.

Therefore, the process for ending services would follow the terms outlined in that specific agreement. Walmoo.com Review

Understanding Engagement Agreements

Professional services firms like ReliAscent operate on contracts that specify:

• Term of Agreement: Whether it’s a month-to-month service, an annual contract, or project-based.
• Notice Period for Termination: This is crucial. Most contracts for ongoing services require a certain number of days’ notice e.g., 30, 60, or 90 days before termination can become effective. This allows both parties to transition smoothly.
• Termination Clauses: Conditions under which either party can terminate the agreement e.g., for cause, for convenience.
• Data Handover: Procedures for the secure and timely transfer of all client financial data, documents, and system access upon termination.
• Final Billing: How final invoices will be handled for services rendered up to the termination date.

Steps to “Cancel” an Engagement with ReliAscent

1. Review Your Agreement: The absolute first step is to carefully review the service agreement or contract you signed with ReliAscent. Look for sections related to “Termination,” “Cancellation,” “Notice,” and “Disengagement.” This document will dictate the exact procedure.
2. Formal Written Notice: Once you understand the terms, you’ll likely need to provide formal written notice of your intent to terminate services. This should be sent via a method specified in the contract e.g., certified mail, email to a specific contact to ensure it’s properly documented. Include your company name, account details, and the effective date of termination as per the notice period.
3. Discuss Transition Plan: Proactively communicate with your ReliAscent Account Executive or primary contact. Discuss a transition plan for handing over your financial records, access to systems, and any ongoing tasks. A smooth transition is vital to avoid disruptions to your business and maintain DCAA compliance.
4. Data Retrieval and System Access: Ensure you retrieve all necessary financial data, reports, and documentation. Confirm that any access ReliAscent had to your accounting systems or portals is properly revoked or transferred as agreed.
5. Finalize Outstanding Invoices: Settle any outstanding invoices for services rendered up to the termination date. Ensure there are no disputes regarding final charges.
6. Secure New Provider If Applicable: If you are switching to another accounting or compliance firm, ensure your new provider is ready to take over before your engagement with ReliAscent officially ends.

Important Considerations

• Timing: Be mindful of critical deadlines, such as DCAA audits, ICE submissions, or major contract milestones. Terminating services at an inopportune time could jeopardize compliance.
• Professional Handover: A professional and cooperative handover benefits both parties. Maintaining a good relationship can be helpful for future references or if you need to consult them again.
• No Free Trial Cancellation: Given the nature of complex, ongoing professional services, it’s highly unlikely ReliAscent offers a “free trial” in the consumer software sense. Engagements typically start with a formal agreement from day one, often following an initial consultation.

ReliAscent.com vs. Competitors: A Specialized Landscape

While many large accounting firms the “Big Four” and national firms offer government contracting services, ReliAscent differentiates itself through its dedicated focus and particular operational model.

ReliAscent’s Unique Selling Proposition USP

ReliAscent positions itself against two main types of competitors:

1. General Accounting Firms: These firms may have a government contracting department, but it’s often not their sole focus. Their expertise might be diluted across various industries, and their staff may not have the deep, day-to-day DCAA experience.
2. Solo Consultants or Small Boutiques: While highly specialized, these often rely on one or two key individuals, creating a single point of failure and potential scalability issues.

ReliAscent’s USP lies in its “entire accounting team” model at a fractional cost, dedicated solely to GovCon compliance. They claim to provide comprehensive expertise without the typical overheads of hiring a full in-house team or the potential inconsistencies of less specialized firms.

Comparison with Large Professional Services Firms KPMG, Deloitte, PwC, EY

• Scale & Breadth: The “Big Four” have immense global scale, offering a wider array of services beyond just accounting and compliance e.g., vast consulting arms, M&A advisory, cybersecurity. ReliAscent is much more focused.
• Cost Structure: Large firms generally have premium pricing, often catering to very large enterprises or complex, high-value engagements. ReliAscent aims to be more accessible for small to medium-sized contractors, offering a cost-effective alternative to building an in-house DCAA-compliant team.
• Specialization Depth: While the Big Four have government sector practices, ReliAscent’s entire business is built around DCAA compliance and government contracting. This intense focus can mean deeper, more concentrated expertise in the granular details of FAR, CAS Cost Accounting Standards, and DCAA audit methodologies.
• Personalization: ReliAscent’s model emphasizes a dedicated “Account Executive” who acts as a fractional CFO and Contracts Manager, offering a highly personalized, integrated service. Larger firms, while providing excellent service, might have more hierarchical structures, potentially leading to less direct access to top-tier expertise for smaller clients.

Comparison with Mid-Tier and Regional Accounting Firms BDO, Grant Thornton, CLA

• Market Focus: These firms often target the middle market, which includes many government contractors. They offer strong accounting and advisory services.
• Government Contracting Expertise: Many have dedicated government contracting groups, but their level of specialization can vary. ReliAscent’s singular focus might still give it an edge in the minute details of DCAA compliance.
• Service Model: These firms typically offer more traditional audit, tax, and advisory services. ReliAscent’s outsourced “team” model is a specific operational differentiator, providing ongoing, integrated support rather than just periodic engagements.
• Client Relationship: ReliAscent’s emphasis on partnership and continuous engagement through a dedicated team aims to foster a closer, more integrated client relationship than a typical audit or tax engagement.

Comparison with Niche Boutiques/Consultants

• Scalability & Continuity: ReliAscent’s team model provides better scalability and continuity than relying on a single highly specialized consultant who might be prone to burnout or have limited capacity.
• Comprehensive Offerings: While a boutique might excel in one aspect e.g., ICE preparation, ReliAscent offers a broader suite of integrated services from timekeeping to CFO functions.
• Infrastructure: ReliAscent, as a more established firm, likely has robust internal controls, quality assurance processes, and technological infrastructure that a very small operation might lack.

In essence, ReliAscent carves out its space by offering a comprehensive, team-based, specialized solution for government contractors that aims to combine the depth of niche expertise with the reliability and scalability of a larger firm, often at a more cost-effective point than full-scale in-house teams or the most premium global consultancies. Goload.com Review

How ReliAscent.com Manages DCAA Compliance Risks

Managing DCAA compliance risks is central to ReliAscent’s service model.

The Defense Contract Audit Agency DCAA is responsible for performing all contract audits for the Department of Defense DoD and providing accounting and financial advisory services regarding contracts and subcontracts to all DoD components responsible for procurement and contract administration.

Non-compliance can lead to significant financial penalties, contract terminations, and even debarment from future government contracts.

ReliAscent implements several strategies to mitigate these risks for its clients.

Proactive System Setup and Review

One of the most effective ways to manage DCAA risk is to prevent issues before they arise. Studentsupply.com Review

• Initial Accounting System Setup: ReliAscent helps establish accounting systems that are designed to be DCAA compliant from day one. This includes setting up chart of accounts, cost centers, and expense allocation methodologies in line with FAR Part 31 and DCAA requirements. This proactive approach minimizes the chances of system deficiencies being flagged during an audit.
• System Reviews: For existing contractors, they conduct thorough reviews of current accounting systems to identify potential vulnerabilities or non-compliance issues. For example, they might find that direct and indirect costs are not properly segregated or that unallowable costs are not being adequately identified.
• Internal Control Implementation: They assist in implementing robust internal controls over financial transactions, timekeeping, and expense reporting. Strong internal controls are a key component of a compliant accounting system and can significantly reduce audit risk.

Ongoing Monitoring and Maintenance

Compliance is not a one-time event. it’s an ongoing process.

ReliAscent provides continuous support to ensure sustained compliance.

• Regular Financial Reporting: They ensure that financial statements and other reports are prepared regularly and accurately, providing the necessary audit trails and documentation. This includes proper segregation of direct and indirect costs, and proper allocation of indirect costs to cost pools.
• Policy and Procedure Updates: DCAA regulations and FAR provisions can change. ReliAscent stays abreast of these changes and helps clients update their accounting policies and procedures to remain compliant. For instance, new interpretations on executive compensation or travel expenses can significantly impact allowability.
• Continuous Timekeeping Compliance: Since labor costs are often a major component of government contracts, maintaining DCAA-compliant timekeeping systems is critical. ReliAscent ensures systems are robust, employee time is properly recorded, approved, and costs are correctly allocated.
• Mock DCAA Audits: This is a crucial risk mitigation strategy. ReliAscent conducts simulated DCAA audits to identify weaknesses and prepare clients for the real thing. This helps uncover potential issues in advance, allowing time for remediation and rehearsal of responses. For example, a mock audit might reveal issues with inadequate segregation of duties in the payroll process or missing documentation for subcontracts.

Expert Audit Support and Defense

When a DCAA audit inevitably occurs, ReliAscent provides critical support to navigate the process.

• Pre-Audit Preparation: They help clients gather all necessary documentation, organize financial records, and prepare explanations for various cost elements. This includes ensuring all supporting documentation for incurred costs receipts, invoices, timesheets, payroll records is readily available and organized.
• During the Audit: They can act as an intermediary between the client and the DCAA auditors, answering technical questions, providing explanations, and ensuring that all information provided is accurate and consistent. They understand the typical audit procedures and common areas of auditor scrutiny.
• Responding to Audit Findings: If audit findings or questioned costs arise, ReliAscent helps clients develop robust responses, provide additional documentation, and negotiate with DCAA to resolve issues. They can also assist in preparing appeals if necessary.
• Incurred Cost Proposal ICE Expertise: The ICE submission is a high-risk area, as it reconciles all costs incurred on government contracts. ReliAscent’s expertise in preparing and defending ICE submissions is vital for mitigating risk in this complex annual filing. Accuracy in the ICE submission is paramount to avoid significant financial penalties and disallowances.

By integrating these proactive, ongoing, and reactive strategies, ReliAscent aims to significantly reduce the DCAA compliance risk for its government contractor clients, allowing them to focus on their core business without the constant worry of audit failures.

FAQ

What is Reliascent.com?

Reliascent.com is a professional services firm specializing in providing DCAA Defense Contract Audit Agency compliant accounting, government contract management, and financial consulting services specifically for Federal Government Contractors and Grantees in the United States. Amcosoft.com Review

What does DCAA compliance mean for government contractors?

DCAA compliance means adhering to the accounting standards and requirements set forth by the Defense Contract Audit Agency, which audits government contracts.

This ensures that contractor costs are reasonable, allocable, and allowable according to the Federal Acquisition Regulation FAR and Cost Accounting Standards CAS.

Is Reliascent.com suitable for small businesses?

Yes, Reliascent.com explicitly states they serve small to medium-sized Federal Government Contractors and Grantees, offering a team-based accounting solution that aims to be more cost-effective than hiring a single full-time accountant.

Does Reliascent.com offer a free trial?

No, given the nature of complex, ongoing professional accounting and compliance services, ReliAscent.com does not offer a typical “free trial.” Services are usually initiated after a consultative process and formal engagement agreement.

How does Reliascent.com help with DCAA audits?

Reliascent.com helps with DCAA audits through mock audits, pre-audit preparation, providing support during the audit by acting as an intermediary, and assisting with responses to audit findings and potential appeals. Burgtranslations.com Review

What are Incurred Cost Proposals ICE?

Incurred Cost Proposals ICE are annual submissions required from government contractors to reconcile all costs incurred on flexibly priced contracts with the government during a fiscal year. They are complex and subject to DCAA audit.

Can Reliascent.com help with provisional billing rates?

Yes, Reliascent.com offers services related to Provisional Billing Rates, which are estimated indirect cost rates used by contractors to bill the government during the performance of a contract.

Proper provisional rates are critical for cash flow and avoiding over/under billing issues.

What is the Federal Acquisition Regulation FAR?

The Federal Acquisition Regulation FAR is the primary regulation for all federal executive agencies in the United States regarding their acquisition of supplies and services.

Contractors must adhere to FAR Part 31, which covers contract cost principles and procedures. Lorenweisman.com Review

Does Reliascent.com provide ongoing bookkeeping services?

Yes, Reliascent.com offers ongoing DCAA Accounting & Bookkeeping Services, providing clients with an entire accounting team from bookkeepers to senior accountants and optional controllers.

How does ReliAscent.com ensure data security?

While the website doesn’t explicitly detail their specific data security protocols, as a professional accounting firm handling sensitive financial data, they would be expected to employ industry-standard security measures, including secure servers, data encryption, and access controls.

This is typically covered in their service agreements.

What kind of industries does ReliAscent.com serve?

Reliascent.com primarily serves businesses that contract with or receive grants from various U.S.

Federal agencies, including the Department of Defense DOD, National Institutes of Health NIH, Department of Energy DOE, National Science Foundation NSF, and NASA. H0stch0pper.com Review

Does ReliAscent.com help with setting up timekeeping systems?

Yes, Reliascent.com provides services for DCAA Compliant Timekeeping, assisting clients in implementing and maintaining systems that meet the stringent requirements for accurate time recording on government contracts.

What is an “Outsourced CFO Service” from ReliAscent.com?

An “Outsourced CFO Service” from ReliAscent.com means they provide high-level financial strategy and guidance, typically through a dedicated Account Executive acting as a fractional CFO and Contracts Manager, without the client needing to hire a full-time, in-house Chief Financial Officer.

How does ReliAscent.com compare to a traditional CPA firm?

Reliascent.com differs from traditional CPA firms by specializing exclusively in government contracting and DCAA compliance.

They offer a comprehensive, team-based, ongoing service model rather than just periodic audit or tax preparation.

What resources does Reliascent.com offer?

Reliascent.com offers a variety of resources including a blog with industry insights, white papers, checklists, and FAR & DCAA training videos to help educate clients and the broader government contracting community. Blogmaza.com Review

Can ReliAscent.com assist with contract negotiations?

Yes, under their Government Contract Management services, ReliAscent.com offers support for contract negotiations, ensuring favorable terms and compliance for their clients.

Does ReliAscent.com handle intellectual property IP protection?

Yes, ReliAscent.com provides guidance on IP Protection within the context of government contracts, helping clients navigate the complexities of intellectual property rights when working with federal agencies.

How do I get a quote from ReliAscent.com?

To get a quote from ReliAscent.com, you need to visit their website and submit a “Request a Quote” form.

They will then likely follow up with a consultation to understand your specific needs before providing a tailored proposal.

What is the advantage of a “team of experts” over a single accountant?

A “team of experts” provides diverse skill sets bookkeeping, senior accounting, controller, CFO-level advice, ensures continuity of service even if one person is unavailable, and offers collective knowledge to tackle complex issues more effectively than a single individual. Providerservice.com Review

Is ReliAscent.com a good option for a company new to government contracting?

Yes, ReliAscent.com appears to be a very strong option for companies new to government contracting.

Their services, particularly DCAA Compliant Accounting Systems setup, can help new entrants establish a compliant foundation from the beginning, mitigating significant risks.