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Federal Government Contracting & Compliance Services

Strategic Ally for Pursuing Federal Opportunities

HeimLantz navigates the federal contracting landscape providing deep-rooted knowledge and expertise to help clients align their business to comply with government standards.

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Smarter Support for Federal Contractors

Working in the federal contracting space can be beneficial but it requires precision, knowledge, and a deep understanding of regulations. Navigating the complexities requires more than piecemeal solutions. Our team helps align financial systems, regulatory readiness, strategic planning, and operational execution under one advisory umbrella.

By integrating compliance oversight, financial modeling, strategic capture planning, and contract lifecycle support, contractors can move forward with confidence, reduce regulatory risk, and improve competitiveness for awards, while better meeting federal expectations.

HeimLantz helps bring together regulatory guidance, cost strategy, audit preparation, and operational support into a seamless framework, to support every phase of the contract lifecycle.

With a proactive approach and deep industry knowledge, we help businesses scale while staying compliant and financially sound in this highly regulated environment.

HeimLantz Federal Government Contracting & Compliance

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End-to-end solutions within the contracting space

Compete in the federal marketplace with expert guidance for financial practices, regulatory alignment, and contract bidding.

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FAR Compliance Advisory

Learn how to understand and apply federal acquisition rules to ensure smooth operations and avoid regulatory pitfalls.

DCAA Readiness Assessments

Evaluate financial systems, internal controls, accounting practices, and processes prior to review to avoid compliance issues.

DCAA Audit Preparation & Support

Partner together to ensure your financial data, internal processes, and systems are ready for detailed government examination.

Incurred Cost Submission Support

Build and assemble an accurate, defensible, compliant, and audit-ready cost package to support year-end government disclosures.

Indirect Cost Rate Budgeting

Let us build custom financial models that reflect true operating costs in line with government expectations and funding limits.

Capture Strategy & Proposal Consulting

Identify the right opportunities, craft compelling bids, and develop persuasive responses that resonate with government evaluators.

Federal Government Contracting & Compliance Services Business Unit Leader

team lead headshot mark machi

Mark Machi

From the Virginia location, Mark uses his expertise in law and labor to help government contractors capture and optimize business through effective management.

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Federal Government Contracting & Compliance Services Business Unit Leader

team lead headshot thomas lantz

Thomas J. Lantz, Jr
CPA, CGMA, CITP

With extensive experience in accounting and govcon industries, Tommy promotes compliance and disciplined internal controls to help clients succeed in the Federal space.

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Federal Government Contracting & Compliance Services Business Unit Leader

team lead headshot mark machi

Mark Machi

From the Virginia location, Mark uses his expertise in law and labor to help government contractors capture and optimize business through effective management.

View Profile

Federal Government Contracting & Compliance Services Business Unit Leader

team lead headshot thomas lantz

Thomas J. Lantz, Jr
CPA, CGMA, CITP

With extensive experience in accounting and govcon industries, Tommy promotes compliance and disciplined internal controls to help clients succeed in the Federal space.

View Profile

Why HeimLantz

Advisory support empowering
government contractors

Strategic guidance from vision to value.

Competitive Bidding

Improve your chances of winning contracts with strategic proposal support.

Responsiveness

Stand out in the bid process with persuasive, expert replies to follow-up inquiries.

Compliance

Avoid costly mistakes with insightful guidance for complex regulations.

Profitability

Optimize indirect cost structures and pricing accuracy for better margins.

What Clients Say

Elmfield Institute

"The team at HeimLantz is just amazing. We partnered with the firm after many years with the same firm and have been very pleased with the expertise and guidance they have provided. They have a willingness to explore and be creative in the advice and planning they provide. They are not just a CPA but have been a valued counselor that has helped our company look at what is not just important today but what will be important in the future. From the minute you walk in the door, you’ve entered a center of excellence."

– Elizabeth Martin, Elmfield Institute

GOVERNMENT CONTRACTOR

Aptive Resources, LLC

"The team at HeimLantz is extremely knowledgeable and always willing to help with any of our tax planning and financial service needs. They have gone above and beyond time and again to help our company achieve our financial goals. They are friendly and approachable and always willing to answer any question we might have. I would absolutely recommend them to any company looking for a strong, top-notch accounting firm."

– Josh Askarinam, CPA, Controller for Aptive Resources, LLC

REAL ESTATE

Celedon Partners, LLC

"HeimLantz is the right partner for us because of their flat fee engagement model. Our team can get clarifications and advice without additional fees, which gives an added level of trust to our relationship. They go above and beyond to provide us with the information and recommendations we need. We would recommend them to anyone looking for a great accounting firm."

– Michael Speca, Celedon Partners, LLC

CONSTRUCTION

IMER Group

"HeimLantz’s service has undoubtedly played a pivotal role in our overall success. Their expertise and dedication have significantly contributed to our achievement of goals. I must mention that Josh and Drew are outstanding members of their team. Their exceptional skills and unwavering dedication make them the best in the business. We are delighted with HeimLantz’s services and highly recommend them to anyone seeking top-notch audit assistance."

– Ethan Steele, Controller

Aviation Systems Engineering Company

"Our business and HeimLantz have grown together over the last 15 years. The team has been an integral part of our company and its continued growth over the years. We have relied on their expertise and financial advice, as well as their business savvy to grow from a three-person company to one with over 250 employees. I would highly recommend them to anyone looking for a strong accounting partner that will be there to help grow and continue to help their company succeed."

– Vincent Bellezza, Aviation Systems Engineering Company

Lee & Sylvia Marston

"Amy Smith has been and is an extremely helpful person for us. She has gone out of her way to do what we need."

– Lee & Sylvia Marston

Eagle Title

"The entire team at HeimLantz is geared towards creating solutions for their clients. They were instrumental in creating alignment for our company and ensuring our entire team is operating efficiently. Zack is an exceptional communicator and is terrific at giving you the tools to facilitate the growth of your organization."

– Brad Walsh, Esq., President, Eagle Title

Federal Government Contracting & Compliance Services FAQs

What is FAR in government contracting?

FAR stands for the Federal Acquisition Regulation, the primary set of rules governing how the U.S. federal government acquires goods and services. It ensures fairness, transparency, and accountability in federal procurement. Contractors must comply with FAR to qualify for and maintain government contracts.

What is DCAA and why is it important?

The Defense Contract Audit Agency (DCAA) is responsible for auditing government contracts to ensure costs are allowable, allocatable, and reasonable under FAR guidelines. DCAA audits help protect taxpayer dollars and ensure contractors are appropriately billing.

What is DCAA Compliance?

DCAA compliance refers to a contractor’s ability to meet the audit and accounting standards set by the Defense Contract Audit Agency (DCAA). These standards ensure that costs billed to the U.S. government comply with Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR). To be DCAA compliant, a contractor must maintain: a compliant accounting system, proper timekeeping and labor distribution practices, documented internal controls, accurate and timely incurred cost submissions, transparent financial records ready for audit. DCAA compliance is not a certification but rather a demonstration through audits and reviews that your systems and practices meet federal expectations. Non-compliance can result in delayed payments, disallowed costs, or even loss of contract opportunities.

What is an Incurred Cost Proposal (ICP)?

An Incurred Cost Proposal is a required submission under FAR 52.216-7 for contractors with cost-reimbursement contracts. It details actual costs incurred during the fiscal year and is used by DCAA to establish final indirect cost rates.

What are Indirect Cost Rates in government contracting?

Indirect cost rates allocate shared business expenses (like overhead or G&A) across multiple contracts. These rates must be calculated and submitted to the government for approval and are critical for accurate billing and compliance 3.

How can I prepare for a DCAA audit?

To prepare for a DCAA audit, contractors should ensure their accounting systems are compliant, maintain detailed records, and submit timely and accurate incurred cost proposals. A readiness assessment can help identify and resolve issues prior to an audit.

How do you help us prepare for a government audit?

We review your financial systems, internal controls, and documentation, and guide each step of the audit process to reduce risk and improve outcomes.

What is the benefit of outsourcing our incurred cost reporting?

Outsourcing ensures your cost submissions are accurate, compliant, and ready for auditing. This saves time, reduces errors, and minimizes the risk of costly rejections or penalties.

Do you help with proposal writing?

Our team supports the full lifecycle of federal proposals, from opportunity analysis and pricing strategy to narrative development, compliance review, and responses throughout the bidding window.

Can you help us if we are new to government contracting?

Absolutely. We work with contractors to build compliant systems, understand federal requirements, and develop competitive strategies for winning government contracts.

How often should we review our indirect cost structure?

We recommend reviewing it annually or whenever there are significant changes in your operations, contract mix, or funding levels to ensure accuracy and compliance.

Do you offer ongoing support or just one-time services?

We offer both-whether you need a one-time assessment or long-term advisory support, we tailor our services to fit your needs and goals.

How do you stay current with federal regulations and audit standards?

We actively work in this space for many clients so our team continuously monitors updates to FAR, DCAA guidance, and other federal regulations to ensure we provide the most accurate and up-to-date advice.

Can you help us respond to a DCAA audit finding or deficiency?

Yes. We assist with corrective action planning, documentation updates, and communication strategies to help resolve findings efficiently and maintain compliance.

What's the difference between direct and indirect costs, and why does it matter?

Direct costs are tied to specific contracts, while indirect costs support overall operations; properly categorizing them is essential for accurate billing and compliance.

How early should we involve you in the proposal process?

The earlier the better as early involvement allows us to help shape pricing, compliance strategy, and narrative alignment for a stronger, more competitive submission.

Do you offer training for internal teams on compliance or cost reporting?

Yes. We provide customized training sessions to help your staff understand federal requirements, improve internal processes, and build long-term compliance capabilities.

What if we've never submitted an incurred cost report before?

We can walk you through the entire process, from gathering data to formatting and submitting a complete, compliant report.

Can you help us develop a pricing strategy for a new contract?

Definitely. We analyze your cost structure, contract type, and competitive landscape to help you price effectively while maintaining compliance and profitability.

Why is professional invoice and voucher preparation important for government contracts?

Proper invoice and voucher preparation ensures timely payments and compliance with agency-specific billing systems like WAWF. Errors or delays in invoicing can lead to cash flow issues and strained agency relationships.

How does contract management support federal compliance and performance?

Effective contract management, including BPA and schedule oversight, ensures that deliverables, timelines, and pricing remain aligned with contract terms. This reduces risk, improves accountability, and supports successful audits and modifications.

What role does pre-award preparation play in winning government contracts?

Pre-award preparation includes readiness assessments, pricing strategy, and documentation alignment. It positions contractors to submit compliant, competitive proposals and meet pre-award audit requirements from agencies like DCAA or DCMA.

What is an Accounting System Adequacy analysis, and why is it important?

This analysis evaluates whether a contractor’s accounting system meets federal standards for cost tracking, segregation, and reporting. The analysis is often required before receiving cost-reimbursement or time-and-materials contracts and is critical for DCAA approval.

How does DCAA and DCMA representation benefit federal contractors?

Expert representation during audits or reviews helps contractors navigate complex requirements, respond to findings, and maintain compliance. It reduces the risk of disallowed costs, contract delays, or reputational damage.

What is the value of integrated proposal and capture management services?

Combining capture strategy with pricing and rate modeling ensures that proposals are not only persuasive but also financially sound and compliant. This increases win rates and reduces the risk of post-award issues.

How can contractors benefit from support with Government-Wide Acquisition Vehicles (GWACs)?

Preparing for GWACs like GSA MAS, SEWP, or OASIS requires detailed documentation, pricing strategy, and compliance alignment. Expert support improves submission quality and increases the likelihood of award.

What are Economic and Equitable Price Adjustments, and why do they matter?

These adjustments allow contractors to modify pricing in response to market changes or unforeseen costs. Proper preparation ensures that requests are justified, well-documented, and compliant with contract terms.

How does Service Contract Act (SCA) and FLSA compliance affect federal contractors?

Non-compliance with labor laws can result in penalties, back wages, or contract termination. Professional support ensures that wage determinations, classifications, and benefits are properly managed and documented.

What is WAWF management, and why is it critical for federal billing?

Wide Area Workflow (WAWF) is the electronic invoicing system of the DoD. Proper setup and management ensure timely, accurate submissions and faster payments, essential for maintaining cash flow and contract performance.

Why is professional support for contract schedule and BPA management important?

Managing contract schedules and Blanket Purchase Agreements (BPAs) requires precision and compliance with agency terms. Expert oversight ensures timely renewals, accurate pricing, and proper documentation, reducing the risk of contract lapses or disputes.

How does proposal rate modeling improve competitiveness in federal bids?

Rate modeling ensures your pricing is both competitive and compliant with cost principles. It helps you submit bids that are financially viable, supportable during audits, and aligned with indirect rate structures.

What is the value of having expert support for preparing GSA MAS or OASIS submissions?

These government-wide vehicles require detailed pricing, past performance, and compliance documentation. Expert guidance increases your chances of acceptance and ensures your submission meets all technical and regulatory requirements.

How does Economic Price Adjustment (EPA) support profitability in long-term contracts?

EPA clauses allow for pricing changes due to inflation or cost increases. Proper preparation and documentation ensure your requests are approved, helping you maintain margins without violating contract terms.

Why is WAWF (Wide Area Workflow) management critical for DoD contractors?

WAWF is the DoD’s invoicing system, and errors can delay payments or trigger audits. Professional WAWF management ensures timely, accurate submissions and helps maintain a positive relationship with contracting officers.

How does Service Contract Act (SCA) compliance affect labor cost planning?

SCA compliance ensures that wage rates, fringe benefits, and classifications meet federal labor standards. Proper planning helps avoid penalties, supports accurate pricing, and ensures ethical treatment of employees.

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In the Business of Helping Business

We are strategic partners well-versed in achieving success for companies and individuals through forward-thinking strategy, objective analysis, regulatory expertise, professional commitment, and a track record for success.

Locally Invested

Proudly serving the DMV area (District of Columbia, Maryland, Virginia) and multi-state clients since 2001.