Feds Sync Cost Rules with Lease and Revenue Accounting Standards

2026-05511 — Increase of Monetary Thresholds and Other Matters Related to Cost Accounting Standards Program Requirements

The government wants to raise the money limits that decide which companies must follow special cost rules when working on federal contracts. This change mainly affects businesses dealing with big government projects, making it easier for smaller contracts to skip some paperwork. If you have thoughts, you’ve got until April 20, 2026, to speak up!

2026-05512 — Conformance of Cost Accounting Standards to Generally Accepted Accounting Principles for CAS 407 Use of Standard Costs for Direct Material and Direct Labor

The government wants to update rules about how companies use standard costs for materials and labor to match regular accounting rules (GAAP). This affects businesses that work with federal contracts and could change how they report costs. Comments on these changes are open until April 20, 2026, so get ready to share your thoughts!

2026-05513 — Cost Accounting Standards Board Meeting Agenda

The Cost Accounting Standards Board is working hard to update and simplify the rules that companies follow when charging the government. They’re planning to remove some old rules, adjust money thresholds for when rules apply, and align standards with regular accounting practices. These changes aim to cut red tape and save time and money for businesses working on government contracts, with key meetings happening through early 2026.

2026-04911 — Federal Acquisition Regulation; Federal Acquisition Circular 2026-01; Introduction

The government just updated its big rulebook for buying stuff, called the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR). These changes affect businesses that want to sell to the government, especially small companies, by adjusting trade agreement rules and making it easier to follow the rules. The new rules kick in soon, so sellers should get ready to save time and maybe money!

2026-04913 — Federal Acquisition Regulation; Federal Acquisition Circular 2026-01; Small Entity Compliance Guide

Starting March 13, 2026, small businesses working with the government will see updated dollar limits for trade agreements. These changes affect when certain international trade rules kick in, making it easier to know when they apply. If you’re a small contractor, this update helps you understand new spending thresholds and plan your bids better—no surprises, just clearer rules!

2026-04912 — Federal Acquisition Regulation: Trade Agreements Thresholds

Starting March 13, 2026, new dollar limits kick in for government contracts under trade agreements like the WTO and various Free Trade Agreements. If you’re a business working with the government, these updated thresholds tell you when certain trade rules apply, often meaning bigger contracts get special treatment. This change helps keep government buying fair and up-to-date with global trade rules.

Previous: 2025-17475 — Eligibility for an Annuity and Family Relationships

The Railroad Retirement Board fixed unfair rules that treated husbands differently from wives when it comes to getting annuities for taking care of a railroad employee’s minor child. Now, both male and female spouses can receive annuities until the child turns 18, not 16. This change ensures equal treatment and protects your benefits starting right away.

Next: 2025-17485 — Air Plan Approval; New Jersey; Memorandum of Agreement To Address NOX SIP Call Requirements

The EPA is giving a thumbs-up to New Jersey’s updated plan to keep cutting harmful nitrogen oxide (NOx) pollution from big factories that don’t make electricity. This new agreement shows how New Jersey will stick to the rules and keep the air cleaner without extra costs or delays. It’s a win for the environment and everyone who breathes!