When does the federal government fiscal year end?

Understanding the federal fiscal year calendar is essential: **Federal fiscal year:** - FY2024: October 1, 2023 - September 30, 2024 - FY2025: October 1, 2024 - September 30, 2025 - Named for calendar year containing most months **Fiscal quarters:** - Q1: October - December - Q2: January - March - Q3: April - June - Q4: July - September (highest activity) **Q4 spending surge:** - Agencies must obligate funds by September 30 - "Use it or lose it" for expiring appropriations - Heavy contract award activity August-September - Shortened evaluation periods common - More opportunities but also more competition **Continuing resolutions:** - When appropriations not passed by October 1 - CR maintains prior year funding levels - Limits new program starts - Creates uncertainty for planning **Budget timing:** - President's budget February - Congressional action through summer - Appropriations hopefully by September 30 - Often extends into new fiscal year **Strategic implications:** - Plan proposals for Q4 award opportunities - Monitor CR status for impact on opportunities - Understand which funds expire vs. multi-year - Build relationships during slower periods **Best times for outreach:** - Early fiscal year (October-December): Budget planning - Mid-year (January-June): Requirements development - Q4: Focus on execution, less availability