DCAA Incurred Cost Submission (ICE) Preparation


Annual incurred cost filings for cost-type government contracts don’t have to be a headache. At A.L. Schmidt CPA, we specialize in preparing DCAA-compliant Incurred Cost Submissions (ICS)—including the complex ICE schedules—so you stay audit-ready, on schedule, and focused on winning new work.


Our team handles every step, from calculating final indirect rates to reconciling costs and producing each ICE schedule. We’ve helped contractors of all sizes avoid costly audit findings, payment withholds, and last-minute filing stress.


What Is an Incurred Cost Submission (ICS)?

If you have a flexibly-priced contract (CPFF, cost-plus, or similar), FAR 52.216-7 requires you to file an ICS each year. This package includes:

  • Schedules of all direct and indirect costs claimed

  • Reconciliation of claimed vs. billed costs

  • Cumulative cost by contract and funding

  • Adjustments for actual vs. provisional indirect rates


  • Multiple required ICE model schedules (e.g., Schedule I – Indirect Costs, Schedule K – Labor, Schedule O – CAS Compliance)


Getting any piece wrong can trigger DCAA audits or payment delays.


Our Incurred Cost Submission Services

A.L. Schmidt CPA will:

  • Prepare and validate the full ICE submission package

  • Calculate and reconcile indirect rates—identifying under- or over-billing

  • Map and fill out all required ICE schedules

  • Ensure consistency with your financials and contract terms

  • Communicate with DCAA as needed to resolve questions


  • Coach your team on backup documentation and audit readiness


We ensure you meet every deadline and avoid surprises.


Why Professional ICE Preparation Matters

Mistakes in your incurred cost submission can mean:

  • DCAA audit findings and possible paybacks

  • Payment withholds


  • Costly contract closeout delays


With our experienced support, you’ll file on time, with total confidence.


Case Example:
A client facing a tight filing deadline turned to us for help. Our thorough ICE package passed DCAA review with no findings, freeing up their team for new contract pursuits.

Person using calculator and pen, working on paper at a desk with phone and keyboard.

DCAA Accounting

Learn More
  • What is the DCAA ICE model?

    The ICE (Incurred Cost Electronically) model is an Excel-based template required by DCAA for ICS filings. It standardizes the schedules, calculations, and cross-checks auditors need.

  • What are the key ICE schedules A.L. Schmidt CPA prepares?

    We handle all required schedules, including:

    • Schedule I: Indirect Costs
    • Schedule K: Direct Labor
    • Schedule O: CAS Coverage/Compliance
    • Schedule of cumulative claimed costs by contract
    • All reconciliations and supporting documents
  • How are indirect rates “trued up” in the incurred cost submission?

    We compare provisional rates billed during the year to your actual final rates. If you’ve overbilled, you may need to reimburse the government; underbilling can mean a receivable. We ensure the math is right and flag any issues before submission.

  • What are the biggest risks of getting the ICS wrong?

    Common pitfalls include misallocated costs, incomplete schedules, and failing to reconcile claimed costs to your financial statements. These can trigger DCAA findings, delays, or even contract penalties. Our expertise helps you avoid these traps.

  • When is the incurred cost submission due?

    ICS filings are due within six months of your fiscal year-end. We help you plan ahead, gather data, and submit a complete, audit-ready package before the deadline.

Stay Compliant, Stay Confident

Rely on A.L. Schmidt CPA to manage your annual ICE submission—so you stay focused on your contracts, not complex paperwork.