When does the federal fiscal year start and end?

The federal government operates on a fiscal year (FY) that differs from the calendar year: **Federal Fiscal Year:** - Start: October 1 - End: September 30 - Example: FY2026 = October 1, 2025 through September 30, 2026 **Why This Matters for Contractors:** - Q4 (July-September) is the busiest contracting period - Agencies must obligate remaining funds before year end - Many solicitations drop in spring for Q4 awards - New fiscal year may have budget changes **Key Contract Timeline Implications:** - Period of performance often aligns with fiscal year - Option years typically exercise at fiscal year boundaries - Continuing resolutions affect start-of-year contracting