Maximus (MMS) 10-K 18 Nov 21 2021 FY Annual report Financial data

Cover Page

Cover Page - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021	Nov. 15, 2021	Mar. 31, 2021
Cover [Abstract]
Document Type	10-K
Document Annual Report	true
Document Period End Date	Sep. 30, 2021
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--09-30
Document Transition Report	false
Entity File Number	1-12997
Entity Registrant Name	Maximus, Inc.
Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code	VA
Entity Tax Identification Number	54-1000588
Entity Address, Address Line One	1891 Metro Center Drive
Entity Address, City or Town	Reston
Entity Address, State or Province	VA
Entity Address, Postal Zip Code	20190
City Area Code	703
Local Phone Number	251-8500
Title of 12(b) Security	Common Stock, no par value
Trading Symbol	MMS
Security Exchange Name	NYSE
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	Yes
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Interactive Data Current	Yes
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Entity Small Reporting Company	false
Entity Emerging Growth Company	false
ICFR Auditor Attestation Flag	true
Entity Shell Company	false
Entity Public Float			$ 5,420,739,618
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		61,954,267
Documents Incorporated by Reference	Portions of the registrant's definitive Proxy Statement for its 2022 Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held on March 15, 2022, which definitive Proxy Statement will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission not later than 120 days after the end of the registrant's fiscal year, are incorporated by reference into Part III of this Form 10-K.
Entity Central Index Key	0001032220
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2021
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Amendment Flag	false

Consolidated Statements of Oper

Consolidated Statements of Operations - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Income Statement [Abstract]
Revenue	$ 4,254,485	$ 3,461,537	$ 2,886,815
Cost of revenue	3,307,510	2,750,535	2,215,631
Gross profit	946,975	711,002	671,184
Selling, general, and administrative expenses	494,088	387,090	321,023
Amortization of intangible assets	44,357	35,634	33,054
Operating income	408,530	288,278	317,107
Interest expense	(14,744)	(2,059)	(2,957)
Other (expense)/income, net	(10,105)	843	3,170
Income before provision for income taxes	383,681	287,062	317,320
Provision for income taxes	92,481	72,553	76,825
Net income before noncontrolling interests	291,200	214,509	240,495
Loss attributable to noncontrolling interests	0	0	(329)
Net income before noncontrolling interests	$ 291,200	$ 214,509	$ 240,824
Earnings per share:
Basic (in dollars per share)	$ 4.69	$ 3.40	$ 3.73
Diluted (in dollars per share)	$ 4.67	$ 3.39	$ 3.72
Weighted average shares outstanding:
Basic (in shares)	62,072	63,062	64,498
Diluted (in shares)	62,365	63,322	64,820
Dividends declared per share (in dollars per share)	$ 1.12	$ 1.12	$ 1

Consolidated Statements of Comp

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income	$ 291,200	$ 214,509	$ 240,495
Other comprehensive income/(loss), net of tax:
Foreign currency translation adjustments	3,033	2,742	(8,427)
Net losses on cash flow hedge, net of tax	(303)	0	0
Other comprehensive income/(losses)	2,730	2,742	(8,427)
Comprehensive income	293,930	217,251	232,068
Comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interests	0	0	(329)
Comprehensive income attributable to Maximus	$ 293,930	$ 217,251	$ 232,397

Consolidated Balance Sheets

Consolidated Balance Sheets - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2020
Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 135,061	$ 71,737
Accounts receivable, net	834,819	786,203
Income taxes receivable	5,413	2,075
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	104,201	72,543
Total current assets	1,079,494	932,558
Property and equipment, net	62,627	66,721
Capitalized software, net	42,868	38,033
Operating lease right-of-use assets	179,349	177,159
Goodwill	1,774,406	593,129
Intangible assets, net	879,168	145,893
Deferred contract costs, net	36,486	20,891
Deferred compensation plan assets	46,738	36,819
Deferred income taxes	990	1,915
Other assets	16,839	11,584
Total assets	4,118,965	2,024,702
Liabilities:
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	305,565	253,338
Accrued compensation and benefits	186,809	137,101
Deferred revenue, current portion	98,588	51,655
Income taxes payable	6,782	5,377
Long-term debt, current portion	80,555	10,878
Operating lease liabilities, current portion	76,077	80,748
Other current liabilities	35,057	22,071
Total current liabilities	789,433	561,168
Deferred revenue, non-current portion	35,932	27,311
Deferred income taxes	194,638	24,737
Long-term debt, non-current portion	1,429,137	18,017
Deferred compensation plan liabilities, non-current portion	47,405	38,654
Operating lease liabilities, non-current portion	121,771	104,011
Other liabilities	20,320	8,985
Total liabilities	2,638,636	782,883
Commitments and contingencies
Shareholders' equity:
Common stock, no par value; 100,000 shares authorized; 61,954 and 61,504 shares issued and outstanding as of September 30, 2021 and 2020, respectively (shares in thousands)	532,411	513,959
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	(39,908)	(42,638)
Retained earnings	987,826	770,498
Total shareholders' equity	1,480,329	1,241,819
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity	$ 4,118,965	$ 2,024,702

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Pa

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) - shares	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2020
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]
Common stock, shares authorized (in shares)	100,000,000	100,000,000
Common stock, shares issued (in shares)	61,954,000	61,504,000
Common stock, shares outstanding (in shares)	61,954,000	61,504,000

Consolidated Statements of Cash

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income	$ 291,200	$ 214,509	$ 240,495
Adjustments to reconcile net income to cash flows from operations:
Depreciation and amortization of property, equipment and capitalized software	46,361	64,527	52,404
Amortization of intangible assets	44,357	35,634	33,054
Amortization of debt issuance costs and debt discount	865	0	0
Deferred income taxes	(6,577)	(19,145)	12,661
Stock compensation expense	28,554	23,708	20,774
Gain on sale of a business	0	(1,718)	0
Costs related to debt financing	8,509	0	0
Change in assets and liabilities, net of effects of business combinations:
Accounts receivable	38,578	(180,747)	(45,495)
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	(16,726)	(9,839)	(15,583)
Deferred contract costs	(15,426)	(1,911)	(4,670)
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	26,904	79,930	47,580
Accrued compensation and benefits	18,112	29,484	2,288
Deferred revenue	53,652	2,391	16,488
Income taxes	(2,733)	3,490	(4,720)
Operating lease right-of-use assets and liabilities	5,314	(556)	0
Other assets and liabilities	(3,622)	4,835	1,451
Net cash provided by operating activities	517,322	244,592	356,727
Cash flows from investing activities:
Purchases of property and equipment and capitalized software	(36,565)	(40,707)	(66,846)
Acquisitions of businesses, net of cash acquired	(1,798,915)	(7,066)	(436,839)
Acquisition of noncontrolling interests	0	0	(647)
Proceeds from the sale of a business	0	3,250	0
Maturities of short-term investments	0	0	19,996
Other	0	385	453
Net cash used in investing activities	(1,835,480)	(44,138)	(483,883)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Cash dividends paid to Maximus shareholders	(68,838)	(70,155)	(63,887)
Purchases of Maximus common stock	(3,363)	(166,959)	(47,446)
Tax withholding related to RSU vesting	(9,818)	(10,614)	(8,915)
Payments for debt financing costs	(23,213)	0	0
Proceeds from borrowings	2,318,129	638,048	414,664
Principal payments for debt	(824,483)	(619,445)	(405,142)
Other	(2,721)	(965)	(133)
Net cash provided by/(used in) financing activities	1,385,693	(230,090)	(110,859)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash	474	1,705	(2,052)
Net change in cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash	68,009	(27,931)	(240,067)
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, beginning of period	88,561	116,492	356,559
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, end of period	$ 156,570	$ 88,561	$ 116,492

Consolidated Statements of Chan

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders' Equity - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	Total	Cumulative impact from adopting ASC Topic 606 on October 1, 2018	Common Stock	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss	Retained Earnings	Retained EarningsCumulative impact from adopting ASC Topic 606 on October 1, 2018	Noncontrolling Interest	Noncontrolling InterestCumulative impact from adopting ASC Topic 606 on October 1, 2018
Balance (in shares) at Sep. 30, 2018			64,371
Beginning balance at Sep. 30, 2018	$ 1,086,419	$ 33,482	$ 487,539	$ (36,953)	$ 633,281	$ 32,929	$ 2,552	$ 553
Increase (Decrease) in Shareholders' Equity
Net income	240,495				240,824		(329)
Foreign currency translation	(8,427)			(8,427)
Cash flow hedge, net of tax	0
Cash dividends	(66,472)				(63,887)		(2,585)
Dividends on RSUs	$ 0		$ 1,611		(1,611)
Purchases of Maximus common stock (in shares)	(700)		(732)
Purchases of Maximus common stock	$ (46,797)				(46,797)
Stock compensation expense	20,774		$ 20,774
Tax withholding related to RSU vesting	(10,614)		$ (10,614)
RSUs vested (in shares)			340
Acquisition of part of noncontrolling interest	(659)		$ (877)				218
Balance (in shares) at Sep. 30, 2019			63,979
Ending balance at Sep. 30, 2019	1,248,201		$ 498,433	(45,380)	794,739		409
Increase (Decrease) in Shareholders' Equity
Net income	214,509				214,509
Foreign currency translation	2,742			2,742
Cash flow hedge, net of tax	0
Cash dividends	(70,564)				(70,155)		(409)
Dividends on RSUs	$ 0		$ 1,636		(1,636)
Purchases of Maximus common stock (in shares)	(2,800)		(2,767)
Purchases of Maximus common stock	$ (166,959)				(166,959)
Stock compensation expense	23,708		$ 23,708
Tax withholding related to RSU vesting	$ (9,818)		$ (9,818)
RSUs vested (in shares)			292
Balance (in shares) at Sep. 30, 2020	61,504		61,504
Ending balance at Sep. 30, 2020	$ 1,241,819		$ 513,959	(42,638)	770,498		0
Increase (Decrease) in Shareholders' Equity
Net income	291,200				291,200
Foreign currency translation	3,033			3,033
Cash flow hedge, net of tax	(303)			(303)
Cash dividends	(68,838)				(68,838)
Dividends on RSUs	$ 0		$ 1,671		(1,671)
Purchases of Maximus common stock (in shares)	(100)		(52)
Purchases of Maximus common stock	$ (3,363)				(3,363)
Stock compensation expense	28,554		$ 28,554
Tax withholding related to RSU vesting	$ (11,773)		$ (11,773)
RSUs vested (in shares)			502
Balance (in shares) at Sep. 30, 2021	61,954		61,954
Ending balance at Sep. 30, 2021	$ 1,480,329		$ 532,411	$ (39,908)	$ 987,826		$ 0

Organization

Organization	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Organization	ORGANIZATION Maximus, a Virginia corporation established in 1975, is a leading provider of government services worldwide. Maximus operates under its founding mission of Helping Government Serve the People ® , enabling citizens around the globe to successfully engage with their governments at all levels and across a variety of health and human services programs. Maximus delivers innovative business process management and technology solutions that contribute to improved outcomes for citizens and higher levels of productivity, accuracy, accountability, and efficiency of government-sponsored programs. Maximus is a proud partner to government agencies in the United States, Australia, Canada, Italy, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Korea, Sweden, and the United Kingdom.

Significant Accounting Policies

Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Significant Accounting Policies	SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (a) Basis of Presentation The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its wholly owned subsidiaries, and have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States, or U.S. GAAP, and the rules and regulations of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, or SEC. All intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. The consolidated financial statements and notes of the Company include its subsidiaries over which the Company has a controlling financial interest. The Company's fiscal year ends on September 30 and unless otherwise noted, references to fiscal year or fiscal are for fiscal years ended September 30. The accompanying consolidated financial statements present the financial position of the Company as of September 30, 2021 and 2020 and the Company's results of operations for fiscal 2021, 2020, and 2019. (b) Estimates The preparation of these financial statements, in conformity with U.S. GAAP, requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the disclosure of contingent liabilities, and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses. At each reporting period end, we make estimates, including those related to revenue recognition and cost estimation on certain contracts, the realizability of goodwill, and amounts related to income taxes, certain accrued liabilities, and contingencies and litigation. We base our estimates on historical experience and expectations of the future that we believe to be reasonable. The economic and political effects of the COVID-19 global pandemic increase uncertainty, which has reduced our ability to use past results to estimate future performance. Accordingly, our estimates may be subject to greater volatility than has been the case in the past. • Our balance sheet includes a number of long-lived assets, including property and equipment, capitalized software, operating lease right-of-use assets, deferred contract costs, and intangible assets. These assets are depreciated or amortized over their estimated useful economic lives but are subject to impairment if events indicate that the carrying amounts may not be recoverable. • As disclosed in "Note 4. Revenue Recognition," revenue for some of our employment services contracts in the Outside the U.S. Segment is based upon achievement of future outcomes as defined in each contract. Specifically, we are paid as individuals attain employment goals, which may take many months to achieve. Revenue is recognized on these contracts over the period of performance. Employment markets worldwide suffered a significant shock during fiscal year 2020 due to COVID-19, which resulted in significant reductions in work performed and outcomes reached. Although we experienced some recovery in fiscal year 2021, this revenue remains volatile. • As disclosed in "Note 6. Business Combinations," we acquired three businesses during fiscal year 2021. For assets acquired and liabilities assumed, we are required to identify and recognize these balances at their fair value as of the date of acquisition. (c) Cash and Cash Equivalents The company considers all highly liquid investments with an original maturity of three months or less when purchased to be cash equivalents. Restricted cash represents funds that are held in our bank accounts but which we are precluded from using for general business needs through contractual requirements; these requirements include serving as collateral bonds and letters of credit or where we hold funds on behalf of clients. We report our restricted cash balances within "prepaid expenses and other current assets" on our balance sheet. (d) Revenue Recognition We recognize revenue as, or when, we satisfy performance obligations under a contract. We account for a contract when the parties approved the contract and are committed to perform on it, the rights of each party and the payment terms are identified, the contract has commercial substance, and it is probable that we will collect substantially all of the consideration. A performance obligation is a promise in a contract to transfer a distinct good or service, or a series of distinct goods or services, to a customer. The transaction price of a contract must be allocated to each performance obligation and recognized as the performance obligation is satisfied. Although our services may have many components, these components are not necessarily distinct performance obligations as they may be interdependent on or interrelated to each other. Where our contracts contain more than one performance obligation, we allocate the contract's transaction price to each performance obligation using our best estimate of the standalone selling price of each component. This method will vary from contract to contract. Where available, we utilize standalone selling prices of similar components. If this information is unavailable, we utilize a suitable metric to allocate selling price, such as costs incurred. In most cases, we view our performance obligations as promises to transfer a series of distinct services to our customer that are substantially the same and which have the same pattern of service. We recognize revenue over the performance period as a customer receives the benefits of our services. This continuous transfer of control is supported by the unilateral right of many of our customers to terminate contracts for convenience, without having to provide justification for this decision. Where we are reimbursed on a cost-plus basis, we recognize revenue based upon our costs incurred to date; where we are reimbursed on a fixed price basis, we recognize revenue based upon an appropriate output measure that may be time elapsed or another measure within the contract. When we have variable fees, such as revenue related to the volume of work or award fees, we allocate that revenue to the distinct periods of service to which they relate. In estimating our variable fees, we are required to constrain our estimates to the extent that it is probable that there will not be a significant reversal of cumulative revenue when the uncertainty is resolved. Other performance obligations are satisfied at a point in time, rather than over time. We recognize revenue only when the customer received control over the goods provided. Revenue recognition on these performance obligations does not require a significant level of judgment or estimation. Where we have contract modifications, these are reviewed to determine whether they should be accounted for as part of the original performance obligation or as a separate contract. Where the modification changes the scope or price and the additional performance obligations are at their standalone selling price, these services are considered a separate contract. Where there is a modification and the additional performance obligations are not at their standalone selling price, we consider whether those performance obligations are distinct from those already delivered. If services are distinct from those already provided, the contract is accounted for prospectively, as though the original contract had been terminated and a new arrangement entered into. Where the modification includes goods or services which are not distinct from those already provided, we record a cumulative adjustment to revenue based upon a remeasurement of progress towards the complete satisfaction of performance obligations not yet fully delivered. (e) Accounts Receivable-Billed, Billable, and Unbilled and Deferred Revenue Billed receivables are balances where an invoice has been prepared and issued and is collectible under standard contract terms. Many of our clients require invoices to be prepared on a monthly basis. Where we anticipate that an invoice will be issued within a short period of time and where the funds are considered collectible within standard contract terms, we include this balance as billable accounts receivable. Both billed and billable balances are recorded at their face amount less an allowance for credit losses over the contractual payment terms of the receivable. The Company periodically reassesses these amounts by analyzing reasonably available information as of the balance sheet date, including the length of time that the receivable has been outstanding, historical bad debts and aging trends, and other general and contract specific factors. We present billed, billable, and unbilled receivables as one component on our consolidated balance sheets. Our deferred revenue is presented as a separate item on our consolidated balance sheet, broken out by current and long term portion. These balances represent timing differences between when amounts are billed or billable and when revenue has been recognized or has occurred as of period end. The timing of these billings is generally driven by the contractual terms, which may have billing milestones that are different from revenue recognition milestones. Our unbilled receivables balance also includes retainage balances, where customers may hold back payment for work performed for a period of time to allow opportunities to evaluate the quality of our performance. The balance also includes estimated fees where performance outcomes are anticipated but have not yet been achieved. Our unbilled receivable balance is recorded at fair value that is the value which we expect to invoice for the services performed once the objective criteria laid out by the contract have been met. We defer revenue where we receive up-front funds to establish the infrastructure needed for a long-term contract. (f) Credit Risk Credit risk has not historically been significant to our business due to the nature of our customers. For example, many of our U.S. state government agency programs receive significant federal funding. We believe that the credit risk associated with our receivables is limited due to the creditworthiness of our customers. (g) Business Combinations and Goodwill The purchase price of an acquired business is allocated to tangible assets, separately identifiable intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed based upon their respective fair values. Any excess balance is recorded as goodwill. Costs incurred directly related to an acquisition, including legal, accounting, and valuation services, are expensed as incurred. Goodwill is not amortized but is subject to impairment testing on an annual basis, or more frequently if impairment indicators arise. Impairment testing is performed at the reporting unit level. A reporting unit is the operating segment, or a business one level below that operating segment (the component level) if discrete financial information is prepared and reviewed regularly by segment management. However, components are aggregated if they have similar economic characteristics. We have the option to assess qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, including goodwill. If we conclude that such an impairment is not more-likely-than-not in all cases, no impairment is recorded. If such an impairment is more-likely-than-not, or if we choose to bypass this qualitative assessment, an evaluation is performed by comparing the fair value of the relevant reporting unit to the carrying value, including goodwill, of the reporting unit. If the fair value of the reporting unit exceeds the carrying value, no impairment loss is recognized. However, if the carrying value of the reporting unit exceeds the fair value, the goodwill of the reporting unit is determined to be impaired. Our reporting units are consistent with our operating segments, U.S. Services, U.S. Federal Services, and Outside the U.S. We perform our annual impairment test as of July 1 of each year. We performed the annual impairment test using the qualitative assessment as of July 1, 2021, and concluded it was not more likely than not that the fair value of the reporting units was less than the carrying amounts. (h) Intangible Assets The majority of our intangible assets are acquired through business combinations. They are separately identified and recorded at fair value. We use judgment in identifying, valuing, and assigning a useful economic life to assets as they are acquired. The judgments required vary with the type of asset but may include projections of future results, estimated costs to recreate or replace assets, the cost of utilizing other, similar assets provided by a third party, and an appropriate cost of capital. Where appropriate, we utilize the services of a third-party specialist to assist us in these valuations. We amortize our intangible assets over their estimated useful lives on a straight-line basis. We believe this reflects the manner in which the value from our customer relationships, technology, and other assets is realized by the business. (i) Property and Equipment Property and equipment is recorded at cost. Depreciation is recorded over the assets' respective useful economic lives using the straight-line method, which are not to exceed 39 years for our buildings and 7 years for office furniture and equipment. Leasehold improvements are amortized over the shorter of their useful life or the remaining term of the lease. Repairs and maintenance costs are expensed as incurred. (j) Capitalized Software All of the Company's capitalized software represents development costs for software that is intended for our internal use. Direct costs of time and materials incurred for the development of application software for internal use are capitalized and amortized using the straight-line method over the estimated useful life of the software, ranging from three (k) Deferred Contract Costs Deferred contract costs consist of contractually recoverable costs to fulfill related to long-term service contracts. These costs include direct and incremental costs incurred prior to the commencement of providing service to our customer. These costs are expensed over the period the services are provided using the straight-line method. (l) Income Taxes Deferred tax liabilities and assets are determined based on the difference between the financial statement and tax basis of assets and liabilities and are measured by applying enacted tax rates and laws for the taxable years in which those differences are expected to reverse. In addition, a valuation allowance is recorded if it is believed more likely than not that a deferred tax asset will not be fully realized. We recognize the financial statement benefit of a tax position only after determining that the relevant tax authority would "more likely than not" sustain the position following an audit. For tax positions meeting the "more likely than not" threshold, the amount recognized in the financial statements is the largest benefit that has a greater than 50 percent likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement with the relevant tax authority. (m) Foreign Currency For all foreign operations, the functional currency is the local currency. The assets and liabilities of foreign operations are translated into U.S. Dollars at period-end exchange rates, and revenue and expenses are translated at average exchange rates for the year. The resulting cumulative translation adjustment is included in accumulated other comprehensive loss on our consolidated balance sheets. Gains and losses from foreign currency transactions are included in "other (expense)/income, net" on our consolidated statements of operations. (n) Contingencies From time to time, we are involved in legal proceedings, including contract and employment claims. We assess the likelihood of any adverse judgments or outcomes to these contingencies, as well as potential ranges of probable losses and establish reserves accordingly. The amount of reserves required may change in future periods due to new developments in each matter or changes in approach to a matter, such as a change in settlement strategy. We are also subject to audits by our government clients on many of our contracts based upon measures such as costs incurred or transactions processed. These audits may take place several years after a contract has been completed. We maintain reserves where we believe the loss is probable and we are able to estimate any potential liability. (o) Fair Value Measurements U.S. GAAP provides a framework for measuring fair value, establishes a fair value hierarchy of the valuation techniques used to measure the fair value, and requires certain disclosures relating to fair value measurements. Fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between marketplace participants. The three-tier fair value hierarchy which prioritizes the inputs used in measuring fair value is as follows: • Level 1 - Observable inputs such as quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that a Company has ability to access; • Level 2 - Inputs, other than the quoted market prices included in Level 1, which are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly; and • Level 3 - Unobservable inputs for the asset or liability which is typically based on an entity's own assumptions when there is little, if any, related market data available. The Company evaluates assets and liabilities subject to fair value measurements on a recurring and non-recurring basis to determine the appropriate level to classify them for each reporting period. This determination requires significant judgments to be made by the Company. The fair values of receivables, prepaids, other assets, accounts payable, accrued costs, and other current liabilities approximate the carrying values as a result of the short-term nature of these instruments. The Company holds investments in a Rabbi Trust on behalf of our deferred compensation plan. These assets are recorded on our consolidated balance sheets at fair value under the heading of "Deferred compensation plan assets." These assets have quoted prices in active markets (Level 1). See "Note 21. Employee Benefit Plans and Deferred Compensation" for further details. We recorded contingent consideration payment related to acquisitions that may be paid between now and 2022. The related liabilities are recorded on our consolidated balance sheets at estimated fair value under the heading "Other liabilities" and updated on a quarterly basis as an acquisition-related expense or benefit. The valuation of this liability is derived from internal estimates of future performance and not from inputs that are observable (Level 3). See "Note 6. Business Combinations" for further details. (p) Leases We enter into contractual arrangements primarily for the use of real estate facilities, information technology equipment, and certain other equipment. These arrangements contain a lease when we control the underlying asset and have the right to obtain substantially all of the economic benefits or outputs from the asset. Where contracts include both lease and non-lease components, we do not typically separate the non-lease components in our accounting. The majority of our leases are operating leases. At the inception of a lease, we recognize a liability for future minimum lease payments based upon the present value of those payments. • In identifying our future minimum lease payments, we do not include variable lease costs, such as those for maintenance or utilities. These are recorded as lease expenses in the period in which they are incurred. • In identifying future lease payments, we do not include short-term leases, identified as those with an initial term of twelve months or less. • Lease options are included within our lease liability only where it is reasonably certain that we will utilize those periods of the lease and incur the related costs. • In calculating the fair value of our lease liability, we utilize an estimate of our collateralized incremental borrowing rate. This estimate is based upon publicly-available information adjusted for company, country, and lease specific factors. The weighted average incremental borrowing rate utilized as of September 30, 2021 was 3.4%. Over the course of a lease, the lease liability is reduced as scheduled lease payments are made and increased as the implied interest charges are added. Our right-of-use asset is based upon the lease liability at the contract inception but is adjusted over the life of the lease by lease prepayments, additional costs or lease incentives. The right-of-use asset is amortized on a straight-line basis over the lease term, offset by the interest accretion recorded on the lease liability. Lease expense is recorded within our consolidated statements of operations based upon the nature of the assets. Where assets are used to directly serve our customers, such as facilities dedicated to customer contracts, lease costs are recorded in "cost of revenue." Facilities and assets which serve management and support functions are expensed through "selling, general, and administrative expenses." (q) Stock Compensation Plan We grant both restricted stock units ("RSUs") and performance stock units ("PSUs") to eligible participants under our 2017 Equity Incentive Plan, which was approved by the Board of Directors and stockholders. The fair value of each RSU is equal to the market price of our common stock at the date of the grant, which is expensed ratably over the vesting period. The RSUs granted vest ratably over one four We have issued two types of PSUs. Half of those issued will vest after three years based upon the business reaching certain profit metrics. The expense for these awards is based upon the share price at the date of grant and the number of awards which we expect to vest based upon anticipated performance. The other PSUs are based upon the performance of our stock price against the S&P MidCap 400. The fair value for these awards was based upon a fair value calculated at the grant date. These awards are expensed over three years. Additionally, we have a retirement provision whereby we recognize total compensation expense of the awards for eligible participants through the end of their service period. (r) Derivative Instruments The Company uses derivative instruments to manage interest rate exposure. All derivative instruments must be recorded on the balance sheet at fair value. Currently, the Company is using an interest rate swap contract to lock a portion of the variability of the interest payments on long-term debt. The Company elected to designate these derivative instruments as cash flow hedges in accordance with ASC 815-20, Derivatives – Hedging . For derivative contracts designated as cash flow hedges, the effective portion of changes in the fair value of the derivative is recorded to accumulated other comprehensive income and is reclassified to earnings when the underlying forecasted transaction affects earnings. Cash flows from derivative instruments are included in net cash provided by operating activities in the consolidated statements of cash flows. The Company reassesses the probability of the underlying forecasted transactions occurring on a quarterly basis. (s) Recent Accounting Standards Accounting Standards Recently Adopted In August 2018, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued ASU No. 2018-15, Intangibles - Goodwill and Other - Internal-Use Software (Subtopic 350-40) - Customer's Accounting for Implementation Costs Incurred in a Cloud Computing Arrangement That Is a Service Contract . This accounting guidance requires customers in cloud-computing arrangements to identify and defer certain implementation costs in a manner broadly consistent with that of existing guidance on the costs to develop or obtain internal-use software. Costs capitalized under this guidance will be expensed over the term of the cloud computing arrangement. We adopted this guidance on October 1, 2020, using a prospective approach. In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-13, Financial Instruments - Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments . This update introduces a new model for recognizing credit losses on financial instruments, including losses on accounts receivable. This update replaced the existing incurred loss impairment model with an expected loss model. We adopted this guidance on October 1, 2020, with no material impact to our financial statements. In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU No. 2017-04, Simplifying the Test for Goodwill Impairment . This standard will not change the manner in which we would identify a goodwill impairment but would change any subsequent calculation of an impairment charge. We adopted this standard on October 1, 2020. The effect of this new standard will depend upon the outcome of future goodwill impairment tests.

Business Segments

Business Segments	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Business Segments	BUSINESS SEGMENTS We conduct our operations through three business segments: U.S. Services, U.S. Federal Services, and Outside the U.S. U.S. Services Our U.S. Services Segment provides a variety of business process services ("BPS") such as program administration, appeals and assessments, and related consulting work for U.S. state and local government programs. These services support a variety of programs, including the Affordable Care Act ("ACA"), Medicaid, the Children's Health Insurance Program ("CHIP"), Temporary Assistance to Needy Families ("TANF"), and child support programs. Addressing societal macro trends such as aging populations and rising costs, the segment continues to execute on its clinical evolution strategy by expanding its clinical offerings in public health with new work in contact tracing, disease investigation, and vaccine distribution support services as part of the governments' COVID-19 response efforts. The segment also successfully expanded into the unemployment insurance market, supporting more than 15 states in their unemployment insurance programs. U.S. Federal Services From technology solutions to program administration and operations, our U.S. Federal Services Segment delivers end-to-end solutions that help various U.S. Federal Government Agencies better deliver on their mission. This also includes appeals and assessments services, system and application development, IT modernization, and maintenance services. The segment also contains certain state-based assessments and appeals work that is part of the segment's heritage within the Medicare Appeals portfolio which continues to be managed within this segment. Benefiting from the Attain platform, the segment executes on its digital strategy to deliver technology solutions that advance agency missions, including the challenge to modernize, provide better customer experience, and drive process efficiencies. The segment continues to expand its clinical solutions with the acquisition of VES which manages the clinical evaluation process for U.S. veterans and service members on behalf of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. The segment further supports clinical offerings in public health with new work supporting the U.S. Federal Government's COVID-19 response efforts. This included expanded work with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ("CDC") for their helpline and increased support for the IRS Wage and Investment Division's response efforts to general inquiries regarding the Coronavirus Aid Relief & Economic Security ("CARES") Act and Economic Impact Payment Service Plan. Outside the U.S. Our Outside the U.S. Segment provides BPS for international governments and commercial clients, transforming the lives of people around the world. Helping people find employment, access vital support, and remain healthy, these services include health and disability assessments, program administration for employment services, wellbeing solutions, and other job seeker related services. We support programs and deliver services in the U.K., including the Health Assessment Advisory Service ("HAAS"), the Work & Health Programme, Fair Start, and Restart; Australia, including jobactive and the Disability Employment Service; Canada, including Health Insurance British Columbia and the Employment Program of British Columbia; in addition to Italy, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Korea, and Sweden, where we predominantly provide employment support and job seeker services. Table 3.1: Results of Operation by Business Segment (1) For the Year Ended September 30, 2021 2020 2019 Amount % (2) Amount % (2) Amount % (2) (dollars in thousands) Revenue: U.S. Services $ 1,662,110 $ 1,329,274 $ 1,176,488 U.S. Federal Services 1,893,284 1,633,337 1,111,197 Outside the U.S. 699,091 498,926 599,130 Revenue $ 4,254,485 $ 3,461,537 $ 2,886,815 Gross profit: U.S. Services $ 408,050 24.6 % $ 360,272 27.1 % $ 344,109 29.2 % U.S. Federal Services 432,551 22.8 % 318,925 19.5 % 242,070 21.8 % Outside the U.S. 106,374 15.2 % 31,805 6.4 % 85,005 14.2 % Gross profit $ 946,975 22.3 % $ 711,002 20.5 % $ 671,184 23.2 % Selling, general, and administrative expenses: U.S. Services $ 153,609 9.2 % $ 132,489 10.0 % $ 123,275 10.5 % U.S. Federal Services 243,485 12.9 % 186,023 11.4 % 126,128 11.4 % Outside the U.S. 86,248 12.3 % 65,938 13.2 % 68,944 11.5 % Gain on sale of business (4) — NM (1,718) NM — NM Other (3) 10,746 NM 4,358 NM 2,676 NM Selling, general, and administrative expenses $ 494,088 11.6 % $ 387,090 11.2 % $ 321,023 11.1 % Operating income: U.S. Services $ 254,441 15.3 % $ 227,783 17.1 % $ 220,834 18.8 % U.S. Federal Services 189,066 10.0 % 132,902 8.1 % 115,942 10.4 % Outside the U.S. 20,126 2.9 % (34,133) (6.8) % 16,061 2.7 % Amortization of intangible assets (44,357) NM (35,634) NM (33,054) NM Gain on sale of business (4) — NM 1,718 NM — NM Other (3) (10,746) NM (4,358) NM (2,676) NM Operating income $ 408,530 9.6 % $ 288,278 8.3 % $ 317,107 11.0 % Depreciation and amortization: U.S. Services $ 20,350 1.2 % $ 20,951 1.6 % $ 18,466 1.6 % U.S. Federal Services 12,986 0.7 % 25,153 1.5 % 16,802 1.5 % Outside the U.S. 13,025 1.9 % 18,423 3.7 % 17,136 2.9 % Depreciation and amortization $ 46,361 1.1 % $ 64,527 1.9 % $ 52,404 1.8 % (1) Expenses that are not specifically included in the segments are included in other categories, including amortization of intangible assets and the direct costs of acquisitions. These costs are excluded from measuring each segment's operating performance. (2) Percentage of respective segment revenue. Percentages not considered meaningful are marked "NM." (3) Other selling, general, and administrative expenses includes credits and costs that are not allocated to a particular segment. This includes expenses incurred as part of our acquisitions, as well as potential acquisitions which have not been or may not be completed. Our results for the year ended September 30, 2021, included $9.5 million of expenses relating to the acquisitions of Attain, LLC, and VES Group, Inc. For more information, see "Note 6. Business Combinations." (4) During fiscal year 2020, we sold Q2 Administrators LLC, a subsidiary within our U.S. Federal Services Segment, resulting in a gain. Table 3.2: Assets by Segment As of September 30, 2021 2020 (in thousands) U.S. Services $ 701,565 $ 702,728 U.S. Federal Services 2,863,581 937,477 Outside the U.S. 324,899 224,532 Corporate 228,920 159,965 Assets $ 4,118,965 $ 2,024,702 Identifiable assets for U.S. Federal Services increased due to the acquisitions of Attain, LLC and VES Group, Inc. Refer to "Note 6. Business Combinations" for details. Our long-lived assets consist of property and equipment, capitalized software costs, operating lease right-of-use assets, and deferred compensation plan assets. Table 3.3: Long-Lived Assets by Geography As of September 30, 2021 2020 (in thousands) United States $ 276,754 $ 255,346 Australia 17,105 30,183 Canada 20,637 24,522 United Kingdom 11,914 7,610 Rest of World 5,172 1,071 Total $ 331,582 $ 318,732

Revenue Recognition

Revenue Recognition	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]
Revenue Recognition	REVENUE RECOGNITION The Company recognizes revenue as, or when, we satisfy performance obligations under a contract. The majority of our contracts have performance obligations which are satisfied over time. In most cases, we view our performance obligations as promises to transfer a series of distinct services to our customers that are substantially the same and which have the same pattern of service. We recognize revenue over the performance period as a customer receives the benefits of our services. Disaggregation of Revenue In addition to our segment reporting, we disaggregate our revenues by service, contract type, customer type, and geography. Our operating segments represent the manner in which our Chief Executive Officer reviews our financial results, which is further discussed in "Note 3. Business Segments." Table 4.1: Revenue by Operating Segment and Service For the Year Ended September 30, 2021 2020 2019 (in thousands) U.S. Services Program administration $ 1,154,939 $ 945,125 $ 883,772 Assessments and appeals 138,297 141,446 136,109 Employment and children services 320,653 191,061 100,454 Other 48,221 51,642 56,153 Total U.S. Services 1,662,110 1,329,274 1,176,488 U.S. Federal Services Program administration 1,273,850 1,288,741 779,573 Technology solutions 278,232 169,259 160,342 Assessments and appeals 341,202 175,337 171,282 Total U.S. Federal Services 1,893,284 1,633,337 1,111,197 Outside the U.S. Workforce services 358,088 206,657 272,801 Assessments and appeals 225,314 218,704 252,447 Program administration 107,643 66,002 63,734 Other 8,046 7,563 10,148 Total Outside the U.S. 699,091 498,926 599,130 Total revenue $ 4,254,485 $ 3,461,537 $ 2,886,815 During fiscal year 2021, management changed the manner in which the products and services within the U.S. Services Segment are viewed. Accordingly, the business lines have been updated and historical balances adjusted to reflect our updated view of the business. Table 4.2: Revenue by Contract Type For the Year Ended September 30, 2021 2020 2019 (in thousands) Performance-based $ 1,416,562 $ 1,109,153 $ 1,193,075 Cost-plus 1,237,995 1,578,912 1,088,541 Fixed price 553,645 471,505 441,146 Time and materials 1,046,283 301,967 164,053 Total revenue $ 4,254,485 $ 3,461,537 $ 2,886,815 Table 4.3: Revenue by Customer Type For the Year Ended September 30, 2021 2020 2019 (in thousands) New York State government agencies $ 371,917 $ 355,282 $ 362,724 Other U.S. state government agencies 1,282,638 988,945 804,213 Total U.S. state government agencies 1,654,555 1,344,227 1,166,937 United States Federal Government agencies 1,805,131 1,559,165 1,040,980 International government agencies 663,180 467,185 558,599 Other, including local municipalities and commercial customers 131,619 90,960 120,299 Total revenue $ 4,254,485 $ 3,461,537 $ 2,886,815 Table 4.4: Revenue by Geography For the Year Ended September 30, 2021 2020 2019 (in thousands) United States $ 3,555,394 $ 2,962,611 $ 2,287,685 United Kingdom 286,432 246,334 293,695 Australia 244,995 147,156 198,795 Rest of world 167,664 105,436 106,640 Total revenue $ 4,254,485 $ 3,461,537 $ 2,886,815 Contract balances Differences in timing between revenue recognition and cash collection result in contract assets and contract liabilities. We classify these assets as accounts receivable — billed and billable and unbilled receivables; the liabilities are classified as deferred revenue. In many contracts, we bill our customers on a monthly basis shortly after the month end for work performed in that month and such balances are considered collectible and are included within accounts receivable — billed and billable. Exceptions to this pattern will arise for various reasons, including those listed below. • Under cost-plus contracts, we are typically required to estimate a contract's share of our general and administrative expenses. This share is based upon estimates of total costs which may vary over time. We typically invoice our customers at an agreed provisional billing rate which may differ from actual rates incurred. If our actual rates are higher than the provisional billing rates, an asset is recorded for this variance; if the provisional billing rates are higher than our actual rates, we record a liability. • Certain contracts include retainage balances, whereby revenue is earned but some portion of cash payments are held back by the customer for a period of time, typically to allow the customer to confirm the objective criteria laid out by the contract have been met. This balance is classified as accounts receivable - unbilled until restrictions on billing are lifted. As of September 30, 2021 and 2020, $10.4 million and $12.3 million, respectively, of our unbilled receivables related to amounts pursuant to contractual retainage provisions. • In certain contracts, we may receive funds from our customers prior to performing operations. These funds are typically referred to as "set-up costs" and reflect the need for us to make investments in infrastructure prior to providing a service. This investment in infrastructure is not a performance obligation which is distinct from the service that is subsequently provided and, as a result, revenue is not recognized based upon the establishment of this infrastructure, but rather over the course of the contractual relationship. The funds are initially recorded as deferred revenue and recognized over the term of the contract. Other contracts may not include set-up fees but will provide higher fees in earlier periods of the contract. The premium on these fees is deferred. • Some of our contracts, notably our employment services contracts in the Outside the U.S. Segment, include payments for desired outcomes, such as job placement and job retention, and these outcome payments occur over several months. We are required to estimate these outcome fees ahead of their realization and recognize this estimated fee over the period of delivery. During the year ended September 30, 2021, we recognized revenue of $45.9 million included in our deferred revenue balances at September 30, 2020. During the year ended September 30, 2020, we recognized revenue of $54.6 million included in our deferred revenue balances at September 30, 2019. Contract estimates We are required to use estimates in recognizing revenue from some of our contracts. As discussed in "Note 2. Significant Accounting Policies," the calculation of these estimates has been complicated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which has reduced our ability to use past results to estimate future performance. Some of our performance-based contract revenue is recognized based upon future outcomes defined in each contract. This is the case in many of our employment services contracts in the Outside the U.S. Segment, where we are paid as individuals attain employment goals, which may take many months to achieve. We recognize revenue on these contracts over the period of performance. Our estimates vary from contract to contract but may include estimates of the number of participants, the length of the contract, and the participants reaching employment milestones. We are required to estimate these outcome fees ahead of their collection and recognize this estimated fee over the period of delivery. In almost all of the jurisdictions in which we operate, the employment markets have experienced significant changes due to the COVID-19 pandemic. As the pandemic commenced, many employment opportunities were terminated. Our volume of new program participants is beginning to increase as governments shift their focus to addressing the residual impacts of the pandemic, such as the economy and unemployment, particularly in those countries where the pandemic has stabilized, and economies are beginning to reopen. Other performance-based contracts with future outcomes include those where we recognize an average effective rate per participant based upon the total volume of expected participants. In this instance, we are required to estimate the amount of discount applied to determine the average rate of revenue per participant. Our revised estimates of participant numbers are based upon our updated evaluation of probable future volumes. During the fiscal years ended September 30, 2021 and 2020, we recognized revenue from these performance-based fees of $104.7 million and $45.0 million, respectively. At September 30, 2021 and 2020, we recorded $48.7 million and $24.8 million, respectively, of these estimated outcome fees which will be collected only when we reach anticipated targets. This balance is included on our consolidated balance sheets within the related contract accounts. Changes to our estimates are recognized on a cumulative catch-up basis. For the year ended September 30, 2021 we reported a benefit to revenue and diluted earnings per share of $20.9 million and $0.24, respectively, from changes in estimates. The corresponding change in fiscal year 2020 was a reduction in revenue and diluted earnings per share of $9.2 million and $0.10, respectively. Remaining performance obligations As of September 30, 2021, we had approximately $550 million of remaining performance obligations. We anticipate that we will recognize revenue on approximately 49% of this balance within the next 12 months. This balance excludes contracts with an original duration of twelve months or less, including contracts with a penalty-free termination for convenience clause, and any variable consideration which is allocated entirely to future performance obligations, including variable transaction fees or fees tied directly to costs incurred.

Earnings Per Share

Earnings Per Share	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Earnings Per Share	EARNINGS PER SHARE Table 5: Weighted Average Number of Shares - Earnings Per Share For the Year Ended September 30, 2021 2020 2019 (in thousands) Basic weighted average shares outstanding 62,072 63,062 64,498 Dilutive effect of unvested RSUs and PSUs 293 260 322 Denominator for diluted earnings per share 62,365 63,322 64,820

Business Combinations

Business Combinations	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021
Business Combination and Asset Acquisition [Abstract]
Business Combinations	BUSINESS COMBINATIONS VES Group, Inc. (VES) On May 28, 2021, the Company acquired 100% of VES for an estimated cash purchase price of $1.36 billion (the "VES Acquisition"). The final purchase price is subject to adjustment and is expected to be finalized during 2022. This business was integrated into our U.S. Federal Services Segment and is expected to increase revenue attributable to providing independent and conflict-free clinical business process services ("BPS"). The VES Acquisition also supports our ongoing strategic priority of expansion into the U.S. Federal market and accelerates our clinical evolution to meet long-term demand for BPS with a clinical dimension. We entered into a new credit agreement to fund the Acquisition. See "Note 9 - Debt" for further details. The results of operations for VES are included in the consolidated results of Maximus, Inc. starting May 29, 2021. Table 6.1: VES Valuation Initial Allocation of Assets and Liabilities Adjustments Estimated Allocation (in thousands) Consideration paid: Cash consideration paid, net of cash acquired $ 1,360,231 $ — $ 1,360,231 Estimated additional cash payments 7,494 (2,859) 4,635 Estimated cash consideration, net of cash acquired 1,367,725 (2,859) 1,364,866 Assets acquired: Accounts receivable - billed, billable and unbilled $ 44,078 $ — $ 44,078 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 13,911 (5,956) 7,955 Property and equipment, net 9,113 — 9,113 Operating lease right-of-use assets 18,898 — 18,898 Intangible assets 664,000 — 664,000 Other assets 12,816 (5,650) 7,166 Total identifiable assets acquired 762,816 (11,606) 751,210 Liabilities assumed: Accounts payable and accrued compensation 42,978 (796) 42,182 Operating lease liabilities 18,898 — 18,898 Income taxes payable, current 6,196 (523) 5,673 Deferred income taxes 177,626 (6,129) 171,497 Other long-term liabilities 6,667 5,603 12,270 Total identifiable liabilities assumed 252,365 (1,845) 250,520 Net identifiable assets acquired 510,451 (9,761) 500,690 Goodwill 857,274 6,902 864,176 Net assets acquired $ 1,367,725 $ (2,859) $ 1,364,866 Goodwill represents the value of the assembled workforce and the enhanced knowledge, capabilities, and qualifications held by the business. This goodwill balance is not deductible for tax purposes. Our evaluation of the intangible assets acquired with VES has identified three assets. The assets were valued using methods which required a number of estimates and, accordingly, they are considered Level 3 measurements within the Accounting Standard Codification No. 820 (ASC 820) fair value methodology. • Customer relationships represent the value of the existing contractual relationships with the United States Federal Government. These were valued using the excess earnings method, which required us to utilize estimated future revenues and earnings from contracts and an appropriate rate of return. • VES maintains a provider network of third-party providers that assist in the performance of their clinical services. This network was valued using the cost method and income approach, which included both the cost of recreating such a network and the profits foregone during the time which would be required to recreate the network and an appropriate rate of return. • VES maintained proprietary technology which interacted with U.S. Federal Government systems, facilitated the transmission of examination data, and supported the performance of the contracts. We valued the technology using a relief-from-royalty method, which required us to estimate future revenues and an arm's length royalty rate that a third-party provider might use to supply this service and an appropriate rate of return. Table 6.2: VES Intangible Asset Values and Useful Lives Estimated Straight-Line Useful Life Estimated Fair Value (in thousands) Customer contracts and relationships 12 years $ 580,000 Provider network 12 years 57,000 Technology-based intangible assets 12 years 27,000 Total intangible assets $ 664,000 In connection with certain liabilities acquired in the VES acquisition, we established a liability of $12.0 million for a billing dispute between VES and its customer relating to prior year billings. Our exposure is partially offset by an indemnification asset of $6.0 million. In the event that this dispute is settled for less than $6.0 million, we will return the indemnification asset to the sellers and any difference between the settlement amount and $6.0 million. In the event that the settlement exceeds $6.0 million, we are entitled to utilize the indemnification asset, and if the settlement exceeds $12.0 million, pursue other recourse permitted under the purchase agreement. At this time $12.0 million remains our best estimate of this liability. In addition, we have established a tax liability of $12.3 million for uncertain tax positions within VES, partially offset by another indemnification asset of $7.2 million. Both indemnification assets are secured in third party escrow accounts and we have recourse to other funds in the event these contingencies exceed the escrow balances. From the acquisition date of May 28, 2021 through September 30, 2021, the acquired business, VES, contributed revenue of $186.6 million and gross profit of $53.5 million. Amortization of intangible assets for the same period was $18.4 million. As of September 30, 2021, we have completed our assessment of all acquired assets and liabilities assumed, except for incomes taxes and working capital true-up. The Federal division of Attain, LLC ("Attain") On March 1, 2021, the Company acquired 100% of Attain for a cash purchase price of $419.1 million. This business was integrated into our U.S. Federal Services Segment and is expected to strengthen our position to further design, develop, and deliver more innovative, impactful solutions and drive automation of processes to improve citizen engagement and the delivery of critical federal programs, as well as expand our presence in the U.S. Federal market. We utilized borrowings on the credit facility we had in place at the time, as well as cash on our balance sheet to fund the acquisition. The results of operations for Attain are included in our results from March 1, 2021. Table 6.3: Attain Valuation Allocation of Assets and Liabilities (in thousands) Consideration paid: Cash consideration paid, net of cash acquired $ 419,097 Assets acquired: Accounts receivable - billed, billable and unbilled 39,375 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 926 Operating lease right-of-use assets 24,960 Intangible assets 105,000 Other assets 74 Total identifiable assets acquired 170,335 Liabilities assumed: Accounts payable and other liabilities 28,863 Operating lease liabilities, less current portion 26,401 Total identifiable liabilities assumed 55,264 Net identifiable assets acquired 115,071 Goodwill 304,026 Net assets acquired $ 419,097 Goodwill represents the value of the assembled workforce and the enhanced knowledge, capabilities, and qualifications held by the business. This goodwill balance is expected to be deductible for tax purposes. The intangible assets acquired represent customer relationships. We estimated this balance using the excess earnings method (which is a Level 3 measurement within the ASC 820 fair value hierarchy) and used a number of estimates, including expected future revenue and earnings from the acquired business and an appropriate expected rate of return. We have assumed a useful economic life of 10 years, representing our expectation of the period over which we will receive the benefit. As of September 30, 2021, we have completed our assessment of all acquired assets and liabilities assumed. During the year ended September 30, 2021, the acquired business, Attain, contributed revenue of $136.1 million, and gross profit of $33.4 million. Proforma Results with VES and Attain The following table presents certain pro forma results for the year ended September 30, 2021 and 2020 as though the acquisitions of both VES and Attain had occurred on October 1, 2019, the first day of fiscal year 2020. The twelve month information is consistent with that utilized in our debt covenant calculations. This pro forma information is presented for information purposes only and is not necessarily indicative of the results that might have occurred if the acquisition had taken place on that date. The pro forma results below eliminate intercompany transactions, include amortization charges for acquired intangible assets, and estimates of interest expense based upon our total estimated borrowings, eliminate pre-acquisition transaction costs, and reflect corresponding changes in our provision for income taxes. Acquisition related costs incurred by Maximus, VES, and Attain have been excluded in the following pro forma results. These costs were $9.5 million, $52.2 million, and $0.3 million, respectively. Table 6.4: Unaudited Pro Forma Results - As if both VES and Attain Acquisitions Occurred on October 1, 2019 For the Year Ended September 30, 2021 2020 (in thousands, except per share amounts) Revenue $ 4,672,597 $ 4,013,994 Cost of revenue 3,566,894 3,107,493 Gross profit 1,105,703 906,501 Selling, general, and administrative expenses 553,048 485,903 Amortization of intangible assets 85,621 101,467 Operating income 467,034 319,131 Interest expense (37,410) (38,239) Other expense, net (2,414) (12,791) Income before income taxes 427,210 268,101 Provision for income taxes 102,045 64,328 Net income $ 325,165 $ 203,773 Earnings per share: Basic $ 5.24 $ 3.23 Diluted $ 5.21 $ 3.22 Weighted average shares outstanding: Basic 62,072 63,062 Diluted 62,365 63,322 Other acquisitions On September 14, 2021, we acquired 100% of the share capital of Connect Assist Holdings Limited ("Connect Assist") for an estimated purchase price of $21.1 million (£15.5 million British Pounds). We acquired this business to improve our contact center services and qualifications within the United Kingdom. The business will be integrated into our Outside the U.S. Segment. We have completed a preliminary assessment of all acquired assets and liabilities assumed. We recorded estimated goodwill and intangible assets of $11.1 million and $7.7 million, respectively, related to the acquisition. On August 21, 2020, we acquired 100% of the share capital of Index Root Korea Co. Ltd ("Index Root") for an estimated purchase price of $5.4 million (₩6.30 billion South Korean Won), which included acquisition-related contingent consideration estimated at $0.9 million (₩1.10 billion South Korean Won) based upon future earnings. We acquired Index Root to expand our geographic presence to South Korea. The business was integrated into our Outside the U.S. Segment. We have completed our assessment of all acquired assets and liabilities assumed. We recorded estimated goodwill and intangible assets of $5.1 million and $1.4 million, respectively, related to the acquisition. During the second quarter of fiscal year 2021, we concluded that payment of the contingent consideration was unlikely and, accordingly, a benefit of $1.0 million was recorded within our acquisition expenses. On February 28, 2020, we acquired 100% of the share capital of InjuryNet Australia Pty Limited ("InjuryNet") for a purchase price of $4.4 million ($6.7 million Australian Dollars), which included acquisition-related contingent consideration of $2.1 million ($3.1 million Australian Dollars) based upon future earnings. As of September 30, 2021, the contingent consideration has been paid in full. InjuryNet provides workplace medical services in Australia. The business was integrated into our Outside the U.S. Segment. We have completed our assessment of all acquired assets and liabilities assumed. We recorded estimated goodwill and intangible assets of $2.6 million and $0.9 million, respectively, related to the acquisition.

Goodwill

Goodwill	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Goodwill	GOODWILL Table 7: Changes in Goodwill by Segment U.S. Services U.S. Federal Services Outside the U.S. Total (in thousands) Balance as of September 30, 2019 $ 164,472 $ 382,618 $ 37,379 $ 584,469 Acquisitions — — 7,652 7,652 Disposal of Q2 Administrators, LLC — (899) — (899) Foreign currency translation — — 1,907 1,907 Balance as of September 30, 2020 164,472 381,719 46,938 593,129 Acquisitions — 1,168,202 11,741 1,179,943 Foreign currency translation — — 1,334 1,334 Balance as of September 30, 2021 $ 164,472 $ 1,549,921 $ 60,013 $ 1,774,406

Intangible Assets, Net

Intangible Assets, Net	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Intangible Assets, Net	INTANGIBLE ASSETS, NET Table 8.1: Details of Intangible Assets, Net As of September 30, 2021 2020 Cost Accumulated Intangible Cost Accumulated Intangible (in thousands) Customer contracts and relationships $ 928,069 $ 131,081 $ 796,988 $ 235,287 $ 90,302 $ 144,985 VES Provider network 57,000 1,583 55,417 — — — Technology-based intangible assets 32,307 5,544 26,763 5,631 4,723 908 Trademarks and trade names 4,503 4,503 — 4,479 4,479 — Total $ 1,021,879 $ 142,711 $ 879,168 $ 245,397 $ 99,504 $ 145,893 Table 8.2: Details of Weighted Average Remaining Lives As of September 30, 2021 Customer contracts and relationships 10.9 years VES Provider network 11.7 years Technology-based intangible assets 11.5 years Total 10.8 years Table 8.3: Details of Future Amortization Expense of Intangible Assets, Net As of September 30, 2021 (in thousands) Year ended September 30, 2022 $ 82,937 Year ended September 30, 2023 82,922 Year ended September 30, 2024 82,798 Year ended September 30, 2025 82,595 Year ended September 30, 2026 82,473 Thereafter 465,443 Total (1) $ 879,168 (1) This table does not include any estimated future amortization expense of intangible assets associated with the Aidvantage business acquired on October 6, 2021. Refer to Footnote 22 - Subsequent Events for more details on this acquisition.

Debt

Debt	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Debt	DEBT Table 9.1: Details of Debt As of September 30, 2021 2020 (in thousands) Term Loan A, due 2026 $ 1,086,250 $ — Term Loan B, due 2028 399,000 — Subsidiary loan agreements 38,281 28,895 Total debt principal 1,523,531 28,895 Less: Unamortized debt-issuance costs and discounts (13,839) — Total debt 1,509,692 28,895 Less: Current portion of long-term debt (80,555) (10,878) Long-term debt $ 1,429,137 $ 18,017 On May 28, 2021, we entered into a credit agreement with JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as Administrative Agent ("Credit Agreement"), which replaced our existing revolving credit facility. The Credit Agreement provided for the following three components. • $1.10 billion term loan facility ("Term Loan A") which matures on May 28, 2026; • $400.0 million term loan facility ("Term Loan B") which matures May 28, 2028; • $600.0 million revolving credit facility ("Revolver") which matures May 28, 2026. The interest rates applicable to loans under the Credit Agreement are floating rates based upon the London Interbank Offered Rate ("LIBOR") plus a margin. Term Loan A and the Revolver margins are dependent upon our leverage ratio. Term Loan B is set to LIBOR plus 2.00% subject to a floor of 0.50%. Since execution of the Credit Agreement, the interest rates for Term Loan A and the Revolver have been LIBOR plus 1.75%. After September 30, 2021, we may reduce our interest rates on both Term Loan A and the Revolver to LIBOR plus 1.50% based on the attainment of a total leverage ratio of 2.5 or better. The Company anticipates this rate adjustment in first quarter of fiscal year 2022, as the net total leverage ratio as of September 30, 2021 was 2.3. LIBOR is anticipated to be phased out over the next 18 months, and alternative benchmark rates have been identified in this agreement. This is the only significant arrangement within the Company that utilizes LIBOR. As of September 30, 2021, the annual effective interest rate, including original issue discount and amortization of debt issuance costs, was 2.05%. The Credit Agreement is available for general corporate purposes, including the funding of working capital, capital expenditures, and possible future acquisitions. In addition to borrowings, it allows us to continue to issue letters of credit when necessary. As of September 30, 2021, the company had no outstanding balance on the corporate Revolver. Under the terms of the Credit Agreement, the Company is required to comply with certain covenants, the terms of which are customary and include a net total leverage ratio and a net interest coverage ratio. The net total leverage ratio is calculated as total outstanding debt and contingent consideration liabilities less the greater of (a) unrestricted cash or (b) $75.0 million. With certain exceptions, the covenant requires the net total leverage ratio, as defined by the Credit Agreement to be less than 4.0, calculated over the previous twelve months. The net interest coverage ratio is calculated as EBITDA divided by interest expense, over the previous twelve months, all defined by the Credit Agreement. The covenant requires a net interest coverage ratio of 3.0 or greater. As of September 30, 2021, as defined by the Credit Agreement, the company calculated a net total leverage ratio of 2.3 and net interest coverage ratio of 17.0. The company was in compliance with all applicable covenants under the Credit Agreement as of September 30, 2021. We do not believe that the covenants represent a significant restriction to our ability to successfully operate the business or to pay our dividends. Costs incurred in establishing the Credit Agreement have been reported as a reduction to the gross debt balance and will be amortized over the respective lives of the arrangements. Prior to the completion of the acquisition of VES, we entered into a bridging loan facility to ensure that funds were available in the event that our new credit facility would not be available in time. We did not use this interim facility. The cost of this facility of $8.5 million was included within "other (expense)/income, net" on our consolidated statements of operations for the year ended September 30, 2021. In addition to the corporate Credit Agreement, we hold smaller credit facilities in Australia and the United Kingdom. These allow our businesses to borrow to meet any short-term working capital needs. Table 9.2: Details of Future Minimum Principal Payments Due Amount Due (in thousands) Year ended September 30, 2022 $ 83,303 Year ended September 30, 2023 72,898 Year ended September 30, 2024 93,455 Year ended September 30, 2025 93,375 Year ended September 30, 2026 801,500 Thereafter 379,000 Total Payments $ 1,523,531

Derivatives

Derivatives	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Derivatives	DERIVATIVES Interest Rate Derivative Instrument In June 2021, the Company entered into an interest rate swap agreement for a notional amount of $300.0 million, effective June 28, 2021, with an expiration date of May 28, 2026, which hedges the floating LIBOR on a portion of the term loan (Tranche A, $1.10 billion balance) under the Credit Agreement to a fixed rate of 0.986%. The Company elected to designate this interest rate swap as a cash flow hedge for accounting purposes. As of September 30, 2021, our derivative was in a $0.4 million net liability position and recorded in "other current liabilities" on our consolidated balance sheet. As this cash flow hedge is considered effective, any future gains and losses are reflected within Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income in the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income. No ineffectiveness was recorded on this contract during year ended September 30, 2021. Table 10: Losses on Derivatives For the Year Ended September 30, 2021 2020 2019 (in thousands) Loss recognized in AOCI on derivatives, net of tax $ (811) $ — $ — Amounts reclassified to earnings from accumulated other comprehensive loss 508 — — Net current period other comprehensive loss $ (303) $ — $ — Counterparty Risk The Company is exposed to credit losses in the event of nonperformance by the counterparty to our derivative instrument. Our counterparty has investment grade credit ratings; accordingly, we anticipate that the counterparty will be able to fully satisfy its obligations under the contracts. Our agreements outline the conditions upon which it or the counterparty are required to post collateral. As of September 30, 2021, there was no collateral posted with its counterparty related to the derivatives.

Fair Value

Fair Value	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value	FAIR VALUE The only asset the Company had as of September 30, 2021 that was recorded at fair value on a recurring basis is the deferred compensation asset, related to the portion invested in mutual funds. These mutual funds prices are quoted in active markets and therefore are classified as Level 1. As of September 30, 2021, the Company also has two liabilities recorded at fair value on a recurring basis, which are an interest rate swap and contingent consideration related to acquisitions. The Company obtains its Level 2 pricing inputs from its counterparty for the interest rate swap. Substantially all of these assumptions are observable in the marketplace throughout the full term of the instrument, can be derived from observable data, or are supported by observable levels at which transactions are executed in the marketplace. The contingent consideration liability is considered Level 3, as the inputs are not observable and based on internal assumptions. The fair values of receivables, prepaids, other assets, accounts payable, accrued costs, and other current liabilities approximate the carrying values as a result of the short-term nature of these instruments. The carrying value of debt was $1.51 billion and $28.9 million as of September 30, 2021 and 2020, respectively, approximates the fair value as the stated interest rates in the agreements are consistent with the current market rates used in notes with similar terms in the markets (Level 2 inputs). The outstanding debt as of September 30, 2021 was obtained on May 28, 2021. Other long-lived assets are reviewed when events indicate they may no longer be able to recover their value. Assets which we cease using or which do not appear able to generate sufficient future cash flows to support their values are reviewed and, where necessary, their value is written down. In this instance, the expense is reported in the same place where future expenses were anticipated to be recorded. For example, a fixed asset impairment would be recorded in depreciation expense. All the non-recurring fair values are considered Level 3, as the inputs are not observable and based on internal assumptions. During the years ending September 30, 2021, 2020, and 2019, we recorded impairment charges of $12.5 million, $1.2 million, and $3.7 million on long-lived assets within our U.S. Services and Outside the U.S. Services Segments relating to underperforming contracts. Table 11: Fair Value As of September 30, 2021 Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Balance (in thousands) Assets: Deferred compensation assets - Rabbi Trust $ 28,516 $ — $ — $ 28,516 Total assets $ 28,516 $ — $ — $ 28,516 Liabilities: Interest rate swap $ — $ 410 $ — $ 410 Contingent consideration — — 270 270 Total liabilities $ — $ 410 $ 270 $ 680

Leases

Leases	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021
Leases [Abstract]
Leases	LEASES Table 12.1: Details of Lease Costs For the Year Ended September 30, 2021 2020 (in thousands) Operating lease cost $ 111,246 $ 102,811 Short-term lease cost 7,044 9,140 Variable lease cost 11,124 13,310 Total operating lease costs $ 129,414 $ 125,261 Table 12.2: Future Minimum Lease Payments Under Non-cancelable Operating Leases Office Space Equipment Total (in thousands) Year ended September 30, 2022 $ 78,222 $ 4,067 $ 82,289 Year ended September 30, 2023 50,281 678 50,959 Year ended September 30, 2024 30,870 121 30,991 Year ended September 30, 2025 23,540 11 23,551 Year ended September 30, 2026 10,035 2 10,037 Thereafter 13,568 — 13,568 Total minimum lease payments 206,516 4,879 211,395 Less: Imputed interest (13,418) (129) (13,547) Total lease liabilities $ 193,098 $ 4,750 $ 197,848 Our weighted average remaining lease term as of September 30, 2021 is 3.6 years. For the years ended September 30, 2021 and 2020, the Company made cash payments of $96.9 million and $109.4 million for amounts included in our lease liabilities, respectively. New or amended leases resulted in additional right-of-use assets of $60.2 million and $72.7 million for the same periods, respectively.

Income taxes

Income taxes	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income taxes	INCOME TAXES Table 13.1: Components of Provision for Income Taxes For the Year Ended September 30, 2021 2020 2019 (in thousands) Current provision/(benefit): Federal $ 62,062 $ 65,735 $ 37,123 State and local 20,077 28,117 14,480 Foreign 16,919 (2,154) 12,561 Total current provision for income taxes 99,058 91,698 64,164 Deferred tax (benefit)/expense: Federal (2,527) (12,984) 12,627 State and local (590) (4,246) 3,013 Foreign (3,460) (1,915) (2,979) Total deferred tax (benefit)/expense (6,577) (19,145) 12,661 Provision for income taxes $ 92,481 $ 72,553 $ 76,825 Table 13.2: Components of Income before Provision for Income Taxes by Country For the Year Ended September 30, 2021 2020 2019 (in thousands) Domestic $ 339,647 $ 304,240 $ 280,092 Foreign 44,034 (17,178) 37,228 Income before provision for income taxes $ 383,681 $ 287,062 $ 317,320 Table 13.3: Reconciliation of Tax Expense at Statutory Rate to Actual Tax Expense For the Year Ended September 30, 2021 2020 2019 (dollars in thousands) Tax expense at statutory rate $ 80,573 $ 60,284 $ 66,637 Increase/(decrease) due to: State income taxes, net of federal benefit 18,350 17,480 14,825 Foreign taxation rate differentials 4,212 (463) 1,210 Non-deductible (benefit)/expense 2,254 2,200 2,682 Valuation allowance - foreign jurisdictions 2,285 916 — Tax credits (5,072) (4,149) (3,730) Toll tax — — (481) Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation (6,008) (2,038) (4,783) Other (4,113) (1,677) 465 Income tax expense $ 92,481 $ 72,553 $ 76,825 U.S Federal Statutory tax rate 21.0 % 21.0 % 21.0 % Effective tax rate 24.1 % 25.3 % 24.2 % Table 13.4: Components of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities As of September 30, 2021 2020 (in thousands) Deferred tax assets/(liabilities): Costs deductible in future periods $ 28,921 $ 24,127 Deferred revenue 7,878 8,054 Stock compensation 3,679 4,140 Net operating loss carryforwards 418 252 Amortization of goodwill and intangibles (203,094) (27,555) Capitalized software (11,343) (10,076) Accounts receivable - unbilled (15,317) (11,565) Property and equipment (910) (2,365) Prepaid expenses (7,913) (4,245) Other 4,033 (3,589) Net deferred tax liability $ (193,648) $ (22,822) Our deferred tax assets and liabilities are held in various national and international jurisdictions that do not allow right of offset. Accordingly, our presentation of deferred taxes on our consolidated balance sheets is split between jurisdictions that show a net deferred tax asset and a net deferred tax liability. Table 13.5: Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities By Jurisdiction Positions As of September 30, 2021 2020 (in thousands) Total of tax jurisdictions with net deferred tax assets $ 990 $ 1,915 Total of tax jurisdictions with net deferred tax liabilities (194,638) (24,737) Net deferred tax liabilities $ (193,648) $ (22,822) We consider our foreign earnings in excess of the earnings subject to the one-time transition tax to be indefinitely reinvested outside of the U.S. in accordance with the relevant accounting guidance for income taxes. Accordingly, no U.S. deferred taxes were recorded with respect to such earnings. As of September 30, 2021, our foreign subsidiaries held approximately $84.4 million of cash and cash equivalents in either U.S. Dollars or local currencies. The provision for income taxes includes all provision to return adjustments included in the year recognized in the financial statements. We account for uncertain tax positions by recognizing the financial statement effects of a tax position only when, based upon the technical merits, it is "more-likely-than-not" that the position will be sustained upon examination. The total amount of unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would affect our annual effective income tax rate was $12.6 million and $1.8 million at September 30, 2021 and 2020, respectively. We report interest and penalties as a component of income tax expense. In the fiscal years ended September 30, 2021, 2020, and 2019, we recognized interest expense relating to unrecognized tax benefits of less than $0.1 million in each year. The net liability balance at September 30, 2021 and 2020, includes approximately $2.1 million and less than $0.1 million, respectively, of interest and penalties. We recognize and present uncertain tax positions on a gross basis (i.e., without regard to likely offsets for deferred tax assets, deductions and/or credits that would result from payment of uncertain tax amounts). Table 13.6: Reconciliation of the Beginning and Ending Amounts of Potential Tax Benefits For the Year Ended September 30, 2021 2020 2019 (in thousands) Balance at beginning of year $ 1,798 $ 3,001 $ 721 Additions for acquired unrecognized tax benefits 11,244 — — Increases for tax positions taken in current year 300 770 2,280 Decreases for tax positions taken in current year (700) (1,973) — Balance at end of year $ 12,642 $ 1,798 $ 3,001 We file income tax returns in the U.S. federal jurisdiction and in various state and foreign jurisdictions. We are no longer subject to federal income tax examinations for years before 2018 and to state and local income tax examinations by tax authorities for years before 2016. In international jurisdictions, similar rules apply to filed income tax returns, although the tax examination limitations and requirements may vary. We are no longer subject to audit by tax authorities for foreign jurisdictions for years prior to 2017.

Equity

Equity	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021
Share-based Payment Arrangement [Abstract]
Equity	EQUITY Stock Compensation The Company grants restricted stock units ("RSUs") and performance stock units ("PSUs") to eligible participants under its 2017 Stock Incentive Plan, which was approved by the Board of Directors and stockholders. The RSUs granted to employees vest ratably over four Table 14.1: Restricted Stock Units and Performance Based Stock Units Restricted Stock Units Performance Stock Units Total Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Non-vested outstanding units as of September 30, 2020 642,411 — 642,411 $ 68.73 Granted 383,864 85,482 469,346 76.80 Cancelled/Forfeited (49,019) (478) (49,497) 73.82 Vested (346,813) — (346,813) 67.93 Non-vested outstanding units as of September 30, 2021 630,443 85,004 715,447 74.06 In addition to the non-vested shares, as part of individual elections made in the deferred compensation plan, certain directors and employees held approximately 268,000 vested but not issued awards as of September 30, 2021. These vested unissued units are included in outstanding shares for basic and diluted earnings per share, but are not reported as issued and outstanding in the Consolidated Balance Sheets and Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders' Equity. As of September 30, 2021, the intrinsic value of RSUs and PSUs expected to vest was $59.0 million. For the years ended September 30, 2021, 2020, and 2019, the Company recognized share-based compensation expenses of $28.6 million, $23.7 million, and $20.8 million, respectively. The income tax benefit recorded on these charges for the same years was $13.5 million, $8.0 million, and $9.9 million, respectively. The expenses related to share-based compensation awards are recorded in selling and administrative expenses. As of September 30, 2021, there was $45.7 million of total estimated unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested RSUs and PSUs. This cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 1.3 years. The weighted-average grant-date fair value of RSUs granted in years ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, was $74.26 and $66.96, respectively. The total fair value of RSUs vested during the years ended September 30, 2021, 2020 and 2019 was $28.9 million, $23.6 million, and $27.4 million, respectively. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Table 14.2: Details of Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss by Category Foreign currency translation adjustment Net unrealized loss on derivatives, net of tax Total (in thousands) Balance as of September 30, 2018 $ (36,953) $ — $ (36,953) Other comprehensive losses before reclassifications (8,427) — (8,427) Net current period other comprehensive losses (8,427) — (8,427) Balance as of September 30, 2019 (45,380) — (45,380) Other comprehensive income before reclassifications 2,742 — 2,742 Net current period other comprehensive income 2,742 — 2,742 Balance as of September 30, 2020 (42,638) — (42,638) Other comprehensive income before reclassifications 3,033 (811) 2,222 Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss — 508 508 Net current period other comprehensive income 3,033 (303) 2,730 Balance as of September 30, 2021 $ (39,605) $ (303) $ (39,908) Stock Repurchase Programs Under a resolution adopted in March 2020, the Board of Directors authorized the purchase, at management's discretion, of up to $200.0 million of our common stock. This supplemented a similar resolution adopted in June 2018. During the years ended September 30, 2021, 2020, and 2019, the Company purchased 0.1 million, 2.8 million, and 0.7 million common shares at a cost of $3.4 million, $167.0 million, and $46.8 million, respectively. As of September 30, 2021, $146.7 million remained available for future stock repurchases.

Cash And Cash Equivalents And R

Cash And Cash Equivalents And Restricted Cash	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021
Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents [Abstract]
Cash And Cash Equivalents And Restricted Cash	CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AND RESTRICTED CASH Table 15.1: Details of Cash and Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash As of September 30, 2021 2020 (in thousands) Cash and cash equivalents $ 135,061 $ 71,737 Restricted cash (1) 21,509 16,824 Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash $ 156,570 $ 88,561 (1) Restricted cash is recorded within "Prepaid expenses and other current assets" on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Table 15.2: Supplemental Disclosures of Cash Flow Information For the Year Ended September 30, 2021 2020 2019 (in thousands) Interest payments $ 14,539 $ 1,600 $ 2,500 Income tax payments 99,899 89,100 69,200

Accounts Receivable, Net

Accounts Receivable, Net	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021
Receivables [Abstract]
Accounts Receivable, Net	ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE, NET Table 16.1: Details of Accounts Receivable, Net As of September 30, 2021 2020 (in thousands) Billed and billable receivables $ 718,728 $ 628,922 Unbilled receivables 124,135 163,332 Allowance for credit losses (8,044) (6,051) Accounts receivable, net $ 834,819 $ 786,203 Table 16.2: Changes in Allowance for Credit Losses For the Year Ended September 30, 2021 2020 2019 (in thousands) Balance at beginning of period $ 6,051 $ 5,382 $ 4,285 Provision for estimated credit losses 11,038 12,976 4,018 Write-offs, net of recoveries (9,045) (12,307) (2,921) Balance at end of period $ 8,044 $ 6,051 $ 5,382

Property And Equipment, Net

Property And Equipment, Net	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Property And Equipment, Net	PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, NET Table 17: Details of Property and Equipment, Net As of September 30, 2021 2020 (in thousands) Land $ 1,738 $ 1,738 Building and improvements 11,981 11,846 Office furniture and equipment 254,102 239,057 Leasehold improvements 79,938 84,063 Property and equipment, at cost 347,759 336,704 Accumulated depreciation (285,132) (269,983) Property and equipment, net $ 62,627 $ 66,721 Depreciation expense for the years ended September 30, 2021, 2020, and 2019 was $34.1 million, $54.9 million, and $45.2 million, respectively.

Capitalized Software Costs, Net

Capitalized Software Costs, Net	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021
Research and Development [Abstract]
Capitalized Software Costs, Net	CAPITALIZED SOFTWARE COSTS, NET Table 18: Details of Capitalized Software, Net As of September 30, 2021 2020 (in thousands) Capitalized software $ 139,145 $ 120,677 Accumulated amortization (96,277) (82,644) Capitalized software, net $ 42,868 $ 38,033 Amortization expense related to capitalized software for the years ended September 30, 2021, 2020, and 2019 was $12.3 million, $9.6 million, and $7.2 million, respectively. The majority of this amortization was recorded within our "cost of revenue" on our consolidated statements of operations. The amortization totals above include $2.4 million and $0.6 million of costs which were capitalized and subsequently written off during the years ended September 30, 2021 and 2020, respectively. No comparable amount where recorded for the year ended September 30, 2019. These costs were related to contracts that were deemed unrecoverable. This expense was recorded within "cost of revenue" on our consolidated statements of operations.

Deferred Contract Costs, Net

Deferred Contract Costs, Net	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]
Deferred Contract Costs, Net	DEFERRED CONTRACT COSTS, NET Table 19: Details of Deferred Contracts Costs, Net As of September 30, 2021 2020 (in thousands) Deferred contract costs $ 67,209 $ 42,421 Accumulated amortization (30,723) (21,530) Total deferred contract costs, net $ 36,486 $ 20,891 Amortization expense related to deferred contract costs for the years ended September 30, 2021, 2020, and 2019 was $13.6 million, $6.8 million, and $9.9 million, respectively. These amounts were recorded within our "cost of revenue" on our consolidated statements of operations. The amortization totals above include $4.4 million, $0.6 million, and $3.7 million of costs which were capitalized and subsequently written off during the years ended September 30, 2021, 2020, and 2019, respectively. These costs were related to contracts in our U.S. Services and Outside the U.S. segments and are deemed unrecoverable. This expense was recorded within "cost of revenue" on our consolidated statements of operations.

Commitments and contingencies

Commitments and contingencies	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Commitments And Contingencies	COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES Performance Bonds Certain contracts require us to provide a surety bond as a guarantee of performance. As of September 30, 2021, we had performance bond commitments totaling $36.1 million. These bonds are typically renewed annually and remain in place until the contractual obligations are satisfied. Although the triggering events vary from contract to contract, in general, we would only be liable for the amount of these guarantees in the event of default in our performance of our obligations under each contract, the probability of which we believe is remote. Litigation We are subject to audits, investigations, and reviews relating to compliance with the laws and regulations that govern our role as a contractor to agencies and departments of federal, state, local, and foreign governments, and otherwise in connection with performing services in countries outside of the U.S. Adverse findings could lead to criminal, civil, or administrative proceedings, and we could be faced with penalties, fines, suspension, or debarment. Adverse findings could also have a material adverse effect on us because of our reliance on government contracts. We are subject to periodic audits by federal, state, local, and foreign governments for taxes. We are also involved in various claims, arbitrations, and lawsuits arising in the normal conduct of our business. These include but are not limited to bid protests, employment matters, contractual disputes, and charges before administrative agencies. Although we can give no assurance, based upon our evaluation and taking into account the advice of legal counsel, we do not believe that the outcome of any existing matter would likely have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial position, results of operations, or cash flows. Medicaid claims The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) asserted two disallowances against a state Medicaid agency. The state contested the first disallowance and ultimately settled that claim for approximately $7.3 million. The second disallowance of approximately $19.9 million is still being contested by the state. The state is seeking reimbursement from us for the first disallowance of $7.3 million and has indicated its intention to seek reimbursement of the second disallowance if its legal challenge is unsuccessful. From 2004 through 2009, we had a contract with the state agency in support of its school-based Medicaid claims. We entered into separate agreements with the school districts under which we assisted the districts with preparing and submitting claims to the state Medicaid agency which, in turn, submitted claims for reimbursement to CMS. The state has asserted that its agreement with us requires us to reimburse the state for the amounts owed to CMS. However, our agreements with the school districts require them to reimburse us for such amounts, and therefore we believe the school districts are responsible for any amounts that ultimately must be refunded to CMS. Although it is reasonably possible that a court could conclude we are responsible for the full balance of the disallowances, we believe our exposure in this matter is limited to our fees associated with this work and that the school districts will be responsible for the remainder. We have recorded a liability of our estimated fees earned from this engagement relating to the disallowances. We exited the federal healthcare-claiming business in 2009 and no longer provide the services at issue in this matter.

Employee Benefit Plans And Defe

Employee Benefit Plans And Deferred Compensation	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021
Retirement Benefits [Abstract]
Employee Benefit Plans And Deferred Compensation	EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS AND DEFERRED COMPENSATION We have 401(k) plans for the benefit of employees who meet certain eligibility requirements. The plans provide for Company match, specified Company contributions and discretionary Company contributions. For the years ended September 30, 2021, 2020, and 2019, we contributed $17.3 million, $13.2 million, and $12.3 million to the 401(k) plans, respectively. Outside the U.S., we have a number of defined contribution pension plans and other employee benefit plans. For the years ended September 30, 2021, 2020, and 2019, we contributed $22.8 million, $18.6 million, and $18.6 million to these plans, respectively. We also have a deferred compensation plan, which is a non-qualified plan available to a restricted number of highly compensated employees. The plan enables participants to defer compensation for tax purposes. These deferred employee contributions are held within a Rabbi Trust with investments directed by the respective employees. The assets of the Rabbi Trust are available to satisfy the claims of general creditors in the event of bankruptcy. The assets of the plan are sufficient to meet 90% of the liabilities as of September 30, 2021. The assets within the Rabbi Trust include $28.5 million invested in mutual funds that have quoted prices in active markets. These assets, as well as the related employee liabilities, are recorded at fair value, with changes in fair value being recorded in the consolidated statements of operations.

Subsequent Events

Subsequent Events	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021
Subsequent Events [Abstract]
Subsequent Events	SUBSEQUENT EVENTS On October 6, 2021, we completed the acquisition of the student loan servicing business from Navient, rebranded as Aidvantage. The purchase price consideration is contingent upon future operating results; we estimate that total payments will total approximately $15.3 million. We estimate intangibles associated with the acquisition to be approximately $14.9 million, which we expect to amortize over 27 months. We acquired this business to supplement our existing portfolio of services to the U.S. Department of Education. This business has been integrated into our U.S. Federal Services Segment. On October 8, 2021, our Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.28 for each share of our common stock outstanding. The dividend is payable on November 30, 2021, to shareholders of record on November 15, 2021. Based upon the number of shares outstanding, we anticipate a cash payment of approximately $17.3 million.

Significant Accounting Polici_2

Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Basis of Presentation	Basis of Presentation The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its wholly owned subsidiaries, and have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States, or U.S. GAAP, and the rules and regulations of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, or SEC. All intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. The consolidated financial statements and notes of the Company include its subsidiaries over which the Company has a controlling financial interest. The Company's fiscal year ends on September 30 and unless otherwise noted, references to fiscal year or fiscal are for fiscal years ended September 30. The accompanying consolidated financial statements present the financial position of the Company as of September 30, 2021 and 2020 and the Company's results of operations for fiscal 2021, 2020, and 2019.
Estimates	Estimates The preparation of these financial statements, in conformity with U.S. GAAP, requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the disclosure of contingent liabilities, and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses. At each reporting period end, we make estimates, including those related to revenue recognition and cost estimation on certain contracts, the realizability of goodwill, and amounts related to income taxes, certain accrued liabilities, and contingencies and litigation. We base our estimates on historical experience and expectations of the future that we believe to be reasonable. The economic and political effects of the COVID-19 global pandemic increase uncertainty, which has reduced our ability to use past results to estimate future performance. Accordingly, our estimates may be subject to greater volatility than has been the case in the past. • Our balance sheet includes a number of long-lived assets, including property and equipment, capitalized software, operating lease right-of-use assets, deferred contract costs, and intangible assets. These assets are depreciated or amortized over their estimated useful economic lives but are subject to impairment if events indicate that the carrying amounts may not be recoverable. • As disclosed in "Note 4. Revenue Recognition," revenue for some of our employment services contracts in the Outside the U.S. Segment is based upon achievement of future outcomes as defined in each contract. Specifically, we are paid as individuals attain employment goals, which may take many months to achieve. Revenue is recognized on these contracts over the period of performance. Employment markets worldwide suffered a significant shock during fiscal year 2020 due to COVID-19, which resulted in significant reductions in work performed and outcomes reached. Although we experienced some recovery in fiscal year 2021, this revenue remains volatile. • As disclosed in "Note 6. Business Combinations," we acquired three businesses during fiscal year 2021. For assets acquired and liabilities assumed, we are required to identify and recognize these balances at their fair value as of the date of acquisition.
Cash and Cash Equivalents	Cash and Cash Equivalents The company considers all highly liquid investments with an original maturity of three months or less when purchased to be cash equivalents. Restricted cash represents funds that are held in our bank accounts but which we are precluded from using for general business needs through contractual requirements; these requirements include serving as collateral bonds and letters of credit or where we hold funds on behalf of clients. We report our restricted cash balances within "prepaid expenses and other current assets" on our balance sheet.
Revenue Recognition	Revenue Recognition We recognize revenue as, or when, we satisfy performance obligations under a contract. We account for a contract when the parties approved the contract and are committed to perform on it, the rights of each party and the payment terms are identified, the contract has commercial substance, and it is probable that we will collect substantially all of the consideration. A performance obligation is a promise in a contract to transfer a distinct good or service, or a series of distinct goods or services, to a customer. The transaction price of a contract must be allocated to each performance obligation and recognized as the performance obligation is satisfied. Although our services may have many components, these components are not necessarily distinct performance obligations as they may be interdependent on or interrelated to each other. Where our contracts contain more than one performance obligation, we allocate the contract's transaction price to each performance obligation using our best estimate of the standalone selling price of each component. This method will vary from contract to contract. Where available, we utilize standalone selling prices of similar components. If this information is unavailable, we utilize a suitable metric to allocate selling price, such as costs incurred. In most cases, we view our performance obligations as promises to transfer a series of distinct services to our customer that are substantially the same and which have the same pattern of service. We recognize revenue over the performance period as a customer receives the benefits of our services. This continuous transfer of control is supported by the unilateral right of many of our customers to terminate contracts for convenience, without having to provide justification for this decision. Where we are reimbursed on a cost-plus basis, we recognize revenue based upon our costs incurred to date; where we are reimbursed on a fixed price basis, we recognize revenue based upon an appropriate output measure that may be time elapsed or another measure within the contract. When we have variable fees, such as revenue related to the volume of work or award fees, we allocate that revenue to the distinct periods of service to which they relate. In estimating our variable fees, we are required to constrain our estimates to the extent that it is probable that there will not be a significant reversal of cumulative revenue when the uncertainty is resolved. Other performance obligations are satisfied at a point in time, rather than over time. We recognize revenue only when the customer received control over the goods provided. Revenue recognition on these performance obligations does not require a significant level of judgment or estimation. Where we have contract modifications, these are reviewed to determine whether they should be accounted for as part of the original performance obligation or as a separate contract. Where the modification changes the scope or price and the additional performance obligations are at their standalone selling price, these services are considered a separate contract. Where there is a modification and the additional performance obligations are not at their standalone selling price, we consider whether those performance obligations are distinct from those already delivered. If services are distinct from those already provided, the contract is accounted for prospectively, as though the original contract had been terminated and a new arrangement entered into. Where the modification includes goods or services which are not distinct from those already provided, we record a cumulative adjustment to revenue based upon a remeasurement of progress towards the complete satisfaction of performance obligations not yet fully delivered.
Accounts Receivable-Billed, Billable, and Unbilled and Deferred Revenue	Accounts Receivable-Billed, Billable, and Unbilled and Deferred Revenue Billed receivables are balances where an invoice has been prepared and issued and is collectible under standard contract terms. Many of our clients require invoices to be prepared on a monthly basis. Where we anticipate that an invoice will be issued within a short period of time and where the funds are considered collectible within standard contract terms, we include this balance as billable accounts receivable. Both billed and billable balances are recorded at their face amount less an allowance for credit losses over the contractual payment terms of the receivable. The Company periodically reassesses these amounts by analyzing reasonably available information as of the balance sheet date, including the length of time that the receivable has been outstanding, historical bad debts and aging trends, and other general and contract specific factors.
Credit Risk	Credit RiskCredit risk has not historically been significant to our business due to the nature of our customers. For example, many of our U.S. state government agency programs receive significant federal funding. We believe that the credit risk associated with our receivables is limited due to the creditworthiness of our customers.
Business Combinations and Goodwill	Business Combinations and Goodwill The purchase price of an acquired business is allocated to tangible assets, separately identifiable intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed based upon their respective fair values. Any excess balance is recorded as goodwill. Costs incurred directly related to an acquisition, including legal, accounting, and valuation services, are expensed as incurred. Goodwill is not amortized but is subject to impairment testing on an annual basis, or more frequently if impairment indicators arise. Impairment testing is performed at the reporting unit level. A reporting unit is the operating segment, or a business one level below that operating segment (the component level) if discrete financial information is prepared and reviewed regularly by segment management. However, components are aggregated if they have similar economic characteristics. We have the option to assess qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, including goodwill. If we conclude that such an impairment is not more-likely-than-not in all cases, no impairment is recorded. If such an impairment is more-likely-than-not, or if we choose to bypass this qualitative assessment, an evaluation is performed by comparing the fair value of the relevant reporting unit to the carrying value, including goodwill, of the reporting unit. If the fair value of the reporting unit exceeds the carrying value, no impairment loss is recognized. However, if the carrying value of the reporting unit exceeds the fair value, the goodwill of the reporting unit is determined to be impaired. Our reporting units are consistent with our operating segments, U.S. Services, U.S. Federal Services, and Outside the U.S. We perform our annual impairment test as of July 1 of each year. We performed the annual impairment test using the qualitative assessment as of July 1, 2021, and concluded it was not more likely than not that the fair value of the reporting units was less than the carrying amounts.
Intangible Assets	Intangible Assets The majority of our intangible assets are acquired through business combinations. They are separately identified and recorded at fair value. We use judgment in identifying, valuing, and assigning a useful economic life to assets as they are acquired. The judgments required vary with the type of asset but may include projections of future results, estimated costs to recreate or replace assets, the cost of utilizing other, similar assets provided by a third party, and an appropriate cost of capital. Where appropriate, we utilize the services of a third-party specialist to assist us in these valuations. We amortize our intangible assets over their estimated useful lives on a straight-line basis. We believe this reflects the manner in which the value from our customer relationships, technology, and other assets is realized by the business.
Property and Equipment, Capitalized Software and Deferred Contract Costs	Property and equipment is recorded at cost. Depreciation is recorded over the assets' respective useful economic lives using the straight-line method, which are not to exceed 39 years for our buildings and 7 years for office furniture and equipment. Leasehold improvements are amortized over the shorter of their useful life or the remaining term of the lease. Repairs and maintenance costs are expensed as incurred.All of the Company's capitalized software represents development costs for software that is intended for our internal use. Direct costs of time and materials incurred for the development of application software for internal use are capitalized and amortized using the straight-line method over the estimated useful life of the software, ranging from three
Income Taxes	Income Taxes Deferred tax liabilities and assets are determined based on the difference between the financial statement and tax basis of assets and liabilities and are measured by applying enacted tax rates and laws for the taxable years in which those differences are expected to reverse. In addition, a valuation allowance is recorded if it is believed more likely than not that a deferred tax asset will not be fully realized. We recognize the financial statement benefit of a tax position only after determining that the relevant tax authority would "more likely than not" sustain the position following an audit. For tax positions meeting the "more likely than not" threshold, the amount recognized in the financial statements is the largest benefit that has a greater than 50 percent likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement with the relevant tax authority.
Foreign Currency	Foreign CurrencyFor all foreign operations, the functional currency is the local currency. The assets and liabilities of foreign operations are translated into U.S. Dollars at period-end exchange rates, and revenue and expenses are translated at average exchange rates for the year. The resulting cumulative translation adjustment is included in accumulated other comprehensive loss on our consolidated balance sheets. Gains and losses from foreign currency transactions are included in "other (expense)/income, net" on our consolidated statements of operations.
Contingencies	Contingencies From time to time, we are involved in legal proceedings, including contract and employment claims. We assess the likelihood of any adverse judgments or outcomes to these contingencies, as well as potential ranges of probable losses and establish reserves accordingly. The amount of reserves required may change in future periods due to new developments in each matter or changes in approach to a matter, such as a change in settlement strategy. We are also subject to audits by our government clients on many of our contracts based upon measures such as costs incurred or transactions processed. These audits may take place several years after a contract has been completed. We maintain reserves where we believe the loss is probable and we are able to estimate any potential liability.
Fair Value Measurements	Fair Value Measurements U.S. GAAP provides a framework for measuring fair value, establishes a fair value hierarchy of the valuation techniques used to measure the fair value, and requires certain disclosures relating to fair value measurements. Fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between marketplace participants. The three-tier fair value hierarchy which prioritizes the inputs used in measuring fair value is as follows: • Level 1 - Observable inputs such as quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that a Company has ability to access; • Level 2 - Inputs, other than the quoted market prices included in Level 1, which are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly; and • Level 3 - Unobservable inputs for the asset or liability which is typically based on an entity's own assumptions when there is little, if any, related market data available. The Company evaluates assets and liabilities subject to fair value measurements on a recurring and non-recurring basis to determine the appropriate level to classify them for each reporting period. This determination requires significant judgments to be made by the Company. The fair values of receivables, prepaids, other assets, accounts payable, accrued costs, and other current liabilities approximate the carrying values as a result of the short-term nature of these instruments. The Company holds investments in a Rabbi Trust on behalf of our deferred compensation plan. These assets are recorded on our consolidated balance sheets at fair value under the heading of "Deferred compensation plan assets." These assets have quoted prices in active markets (Level 1). See "Note 21. Employee Benefit Plans and Deferred Compensation" for further details. We recorded contingent consideration payment related to acquisitions that may be paid between now and 2022. The related liabilities are recorded on our consolidated balance sheets at estimated fair value under the heading "Other liabilities" and updated on a quarterly basis as an acquisition-related expense or benefit. The valuation of this liability is derived from internal estimates of future performance and not from inputs that are observable (Level 3). See "Note 6. Business Combinations" for further details.
Leases	Leases We enter into contractual arrangements primarily for the use of real estate facilities, information technology equipment, and certain other equipment. These arrangements contain a lease when we control the underlying asset and have the right to obtain substantially all of the economic benefits or outputs from the asset. Where contracts include both lease and non-lease components, we do not typically separate the non-lease components in our accounting. The majority of our leases are operating leases. At the inception of a lease, we recognize a liability for future minimum lease payments based upon the present value of those payments. • In identifying our future minimum lease payments, we do not include variable lease costs, such as those for maintenance or utilities. These are recorded as lease expenses in the period in which they are incurred. • In identifying future lease payments, we do not include short-term leases, identified as those with an initial term of twelve months or less. • Lease options are included within our lease liability only where it is reasonably certain that we will utilize those periods of the lease and incur the related costs. • In calculating the fair value of our lease liability, we utilize an estimate of our collateralized incremental borrowing rate. This estimate is based upon publicly-available information adjusted for company, country, and lease specific factors. The weighted average incremental borrowing rate utilized as of September 30, 2021 was 3.4%. Over the course of a lease, the lease liability is reduced as scheduled lease payments are made and increased as the implied interest charges are added. Our right-of-use asset is based upon the lease liability at the contract inception but is adjusted over the life of the lease by lease prepayments, additional costs or lease incentives. The right-of-use asset is amortized on a straight-line basis over the lease term, offset by the interest accretion recorded on the lease liability.
Stock Compensation Plan	Stock Compensation Plan We grant both restricted stock units ("RSUs") and performance stock units ("PSUs") to eligible participants under our 2017 Equity Incentive Plan, which was approved by the Board of Directors and stockholders. The fair value of each RSU is equal to the market price of our common stock at the date of the grant, which is expensed ratably over the vesting period. The RSUs granted vest ratably over one four We have issued two types of PSUs. Half of those issued will vest after three years based upon the business reaching certain profit metrics. The expense for these awards is based upon the share price at the date of grant and the number of awards which we expect to vest based upon anticipated performance. The other PSUs are based upon the performance of our stock price against the S&P MidCap 400. The fair value for these awards was based upon a fair value calculated at the grant date. These awards are expensed over three years. Additionally, we have a retirement provision whereby we recognize total compensation expense of the awards for eligible participants through the end of their service period.
Derivative Instruments	Derivative Instruments The Company uses derivative instruments to manage interest rate exposure. All derivative instruments must be recorded on the balance sheet at fair value. Currently, the Company is using an interest rate swap contract to lock a portion of the variability of the interest payments on long-term debt. The Company elected to designate these derivative instruments as cash flow hedges in accordance with ASC 815-20, Derivatives – Hedging . For derivative contracts designated as cash flow hedges, the effective portion of changes in the fair value of the derivative is recorded to accumulated other comprehensive income and is reclassified to earnings when the underlying forecasted transaction affects earnings. Cash flows from derivative instruments are included in net cash provided by operating activities in the consolidated statements of cash flows. The Company reassesses the probability of the underlying forecasted transactions occurring on a quarterly basis.
Recent Accounting Standards	Recent Accounting Standards Accounting Standards Recently Adopted In August 2018, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued ASU No. 2018-15, Intangibles - Goodwill and Other - Internal-Use Software (Subtopic 350-40) - Customer's Accounting for Implementation Costs Incurred in a Cloud Computing Arrangement That Is a Service Contract . This accounting guidance requires customers in cloud-computing arrangements to identify and defer certain implementation costs in a manner broadly consistent with that of existing guidance on the costs to develop or obtain internal-use software. Costs capitalized under this guidance will be expensed over the term of the cloud computing arrangement. We adopted this guidance on October 1, 2020, using a prospective approach. In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-13, Financial Instruments - Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments . This update introduces a new model for recognizing credit losses on financial instruments, including losses on accounts receivable. This update replaced the existing incurred loss impairment model with an expected loss model. We adopted this guidance on October 1, 2020, with no material impact to our financial statements. In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU No. 2017-04, Simplifying the Test for Goodwill Impairment . This standard will not change the manner in which we would identify a goodwill impairment but would change any subsequent calculation of an impairment charge. We adopted this standard on October 1, 2020. The effect of this new standard will depend upon the outcome of future goodwill impairment tests.

Business Segments (Tables)

Business Segments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Schedule of financial information for each of the Company's business segments	Table 3.1: Results of Operation by Business Segment (1) For the Year Ended September 30, 2021 2020 2019 Amount % (2) Amount % (2) Amount % (2) (dollars in thousands) Revenue: U.S. Services $ 1,662,110 $ 1,329,274 $ 1,176,488 U.S. Federal Services 1,893,284 1,633,337 1,111,197 Outside the U.S. 699,091 498,926 599,130 Revenue $ 4,254,485 $ 3,461,537 $ 2,886,815 Gross profit: U.S. Services $ 408,050 24.6 % $ 360,272 27.1 % $ 344,109 29.2 % U.S. Federal Services 432,551 22.8 % 318,925 19.5 % 242,070 21.8 % Outside the U.S. 106,374 15.2 % 31,805 6.4 % 85,005 14.2 % Gross profit $ 946,975 22.3 % $ 711,002 20.5 % $ 671,184 23.2 % Selling, general, and administrative expenses: U.S. Services $ 153,609 9.2 % $ 132,489 10.0 % $ 123,275 10.5 % U.S. Federal Services 243,485 12.9 % 186,023 11.4 % 126,128 11.4 % Outside the U.S. 86,248 12.3 % 65,938 13.2 % 68,944 11.5 % Gain on sale of business (4) — NM (1,718) NM — NM Other (3) 10,746 NM 4,358 NM 2,676 NM Selling, general, and administrative expenses $ 494,088 11.6 % $ 387,090 11.2 % $ 321,023 11.1 % Operating income: U.S. Services $ 254,441 15.3 % $ 227,783 17.1 % $ 220,834 18.8 % U.S. Federal Services 189,066 10.0 % 132,902 8.1 % 115,942 10.4 % Outside the U.S. 20,126 2.9 % (34,133) (6.8) % 16,061 2.7 % Amortization of intangible assets (44,357) NM (35,634) NM (33,054) NM Gain on sale of business (4) — NM 1,718 NM — NM Other (3) (10,746) NM (4,358) NM (2,676) NM Operating income $ 408,530 9.6 % $ 288,278 8.3 % $ 317,107 11.0 % Depreciation and amortization: U.S. Services $ 20,350 1.2 % $ 20,951 1.6 % $ 18,466 1.6 % U.S. Federal Services 12,986 0.7 % 25,153 1.5 % 16,802 1.5 % Outside the U.S. 13,025 1.9 % 18,423 3.7 % 17,136 2.9 % Depreciation and amortization $ 46,361 1.1 % $ 64,527 1.9 % $ 52,404 1.8 % (1) Expenses that are not specifically included in the segments are included in other categories, including amortization of intangible assets and the direct costs of acquisitions. These costs are excluded from measuring each segment's operating performance. (2) Percentage of respective segment revenue. Percentages not considered meaningful are marked "NM." (3) Other selling, general, and administrative expenses includes credits and costs that are not allocated to a particular segment. This includes expenses incurred as part of our acquisitions, as well as potential acquisitions which have not been or may not be completed. Our results for the year ended September 30, 2021, included $9.5 million of expenses relating to the acquisitions of Attain, LLC, and VES Group, Inc. For more information, see "Note 6. Business Combinations." (4) During fiscal year 2020, we sold Q2 Administrators LLC, a subsidiary within our U.S. Federal Services Segment, resulting in a gain.
Schedule of identifiable assets by segment	Table 3.2: Assets by Segment As of September 30, 2021 2020 (in thousands) U.S. Services $ 701,565 $ 702,728 U.S. Federal Services 2,863,581 937,477 Outside the U.S. 324,899 224,532 Corporate 228,920 159,965 Assets $ 4,118,965 $ 2,024,702
Schedule of long-lived assets by geography	Table 3.3: Long-Lived Assets by Geography As of September 30, 2021 2020 (in thousands) United States $ 276,754 $ 255,346 Australia 17,105 30,183 Canada 20,637 24,522 United Kingdom 11,914 7,610 Rest of World 5,172 1,071 Total $ 331,582 $ 318,732

Revenue Recognition (Tables)

Revenue Recognition (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]
Disaggregation of Revenue	Table 4.1: Revenue by Operating Segment and Service For the Year Ended September 30, 2021 2020 2019 (in thousands) U.S. Services Program administration $ 1,154,939 $ 945,125 $ 883,772 Assessments and appeals 138,297 141,446 136,109 Employment and children services 320,653 191,061 100,454 Other 48,221 51,642 56,153 Total U.S. Services 1,662,110 1,329,274 1,176,488 U.S. Federal Services Program administration 1,273,850 1,288,741 779,573 Technology solutions 278,232 169,259 160,342 Assessments and appeals 341,202 175,337 171,282 Total U.S. Federal Services 1,893,284 1,633,337 1,111,197 Outside the U.S. Workforce services 358,088 206,657 272,801 Assessments and appeals 225,314 218,704 252,447 Program administration 107,643 66,002 63,734 Other 8,046 7,563 10,148 Total Outside the U.S. 699,091 498,926 599,130 Total revenue $ 4,254,485 $ 3,461,537 $ 2,886,815 During fiscal year 2021, management changed the manner in which the products and services within the U.S. Services Segment are viewed. Accordingly, the business lines have been updated and historical balances adjusted to reflect our updated view of the business. Table 4.2: Revenue by Contract Type For the Year Ended September 30, 2021 2020 2019 (in thousands) Performance-based $ 1,416,562 $ 1,109,153 $ 1,193,075 Cost-plus 1,237,995 1,578,912 1,088,541 Fixed price 553,645 471,505 441,146 Time and materials 1,046,283 301,967 164,053 Total revenue $ 4,254,485 $ 3,461,537 $ 2,886,815 Table 4.3: Revenue by Customer Type For the Year Ended September 30, 2021 2020 2019 (in thousands) New York State government agencies $ 371,917 $ 355,282 $ 362,724 Other U.S. state government agencies 1,282,638 988,945 804,213 Total U.S. state government agencies 1,654,555 1,344,227 1,166,937 United States Federal Government agencies 1,805,131 1,559,165 1,040,980 International government agencies 663,180 467,185 558,599 Other, including local municipalities and commercial customers 131,619 90,960 120,299 Total revenue $ 4,254,485 $ 3,461,537 $ 2,886,815 Table 4.4: Revenue by Geography For the Year Ended September 30, 2021 2020 2019 (in thousands) United States $ 3,555,394 $ 2,962,611 $ 2,287,685 United Kingdom 286,432 246,334 293,695 Australia 244,995 147,156 198,795 Rest of world 167,664 105,436 106,640 Total revenue $ 4,254,485 $ 3,461,537 $ 2,886,815

Earnings Per Share (Tables)

Earnings Per Share (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Weighted average number of shares used to compute earnings per share	Table 5: Weighted Average Number of Shares - Earnings Per Share For the Year Ended September 30, 2021 2020 2019 (in thousands) Basic weighted average shares outstanding 62,072 63,062 64,498 Dilutive effect of unvested RSUs and PSUs 293 260 322 Denominator for diluted earnings per share 62,365 63,322 64,820

Business Combinations (Tables)

Business Combinations (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021
Business Combination and Asset Acquisition [Abstract]
Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed	Table 6.1: VES Valuation Initial Allocation of Assets and Liabilities Adjustments Estimated Allocation (in thousands) Consideration paid: Cash consideration paid, net of cash acquired $ 1,360,231 $ — $ 1,360,231 Estimated additional cash payments 7,494 (2,859) 4,635 Estimated cash consideration, net of cash acquired 1,367,725 (2,859) 1,364,866 Assets acquired: Accounts receivable - billed, billable and unbilled $ 44,078 $ — $ 44,078 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 13,911 (5,956) 7,955 Property and equipment, net 9,113 — 9,113 Operating lease right-of-use assets 18,898 — 18,898 Intangible assets 664,000 — 664,000 Other assets 12,816 (5,650) 7,166 Total identifiable assets acquired 762,816 (11,606) 751,210 Liabilities assumed: Accounts payable and accrued compensation 42,978 (796) 42,182 Operating lease liabilities 18,898 — 18,898 Income taxes payable, current 6,196 (523) 5,673 Deferred income taxes 177,626 (6,129) 171,497 Other long-term liabilities 6,667 5,603 12,270 Total identifiable liabilities assumed 252,365 (1,845) 250,520 Net identifiable assets acquired 510,451 (9,761) 500,690 Goodwill 857,274 6,902 864,176 Net assets acquired $ 1,367,725 $ (2,859) $ 1,364,866 Table 6.3: Attain Valuation Allocation of Assets and Liabilities (in thousands) Consideration paid: Cash consideration paid, net of cash acquired $ 419,097 Assets acquired: Accounts receivable - billed, billable and unbilled 39,375 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 926 Operating lease right-of-use assets 24,960 Intangible assets 105,000 Other assets 74 Total identifiable assets acquired 170,335 Liabilities assumed: Accounts payable and other liabilities 28,863 Operating lease liabilities, less current portion 26,401 Total identifiable liabilities assumed 55,264 Net identifiable assets acquired 115,071 Goodwill 304,026 Net assets acquired $ 419,097
Schedule of Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets Weighted Average Remaining Lives	Table 6.2: VES Intangible Asset Values and Useful Lives Estimated Straight-Line Useful Life Estimated Fair Value (in thousands) Customer contracts and relationships 12 years $ 580,000 Provider network 12 years 57,000 Technology-based intangible assets 12 years 27,000 Total intangible assets $ 664,000
Schedule of Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information	The pro forma results below eliminate intercompany transactions, include amortization charges for acquired intangible assets, and estimates of interest expense based upon our total estimated borrowings, eliminate pre-acquisition transaction costs, and reflect corresponding changes in our provision for income taxes. Acquisition related costs incurred by Maximus, VES, and Attain have been excluded in the following pro forma results. These costs were $9.5 million, $52.2 million, and $0.3 million, respectively. Table 6.4: Unaudited Pro Forma Results - As if both VES and Attain Acquisitions Occurred on October 1, 2019 For the Year Ended September 30, 2021 2020 (in thousands, except per share amounts) Revenue $ 4,672,597 $ 4,013,994 Cost of revenue 3,566,894 3,107,493 Gross profit 1,105,703 906,501 Selling, general, and administrative expenses 553,048 485,903 Amortization of intangible assets 85,621 101,467 Operating income 467,034 319,131 Interest expense (37,410) (38,239) Other expense, net (2,414) (12,791) Income before income taxes 427,210 268,101 Provision for income taxes 102,045 64,328 Net income $ 325,165 $ 203,773 Earnings per share: Basic $ 5.24 $ 3.23 Diluted $ 5.21 $ 3.22 Weighted average shares outstanding: Basic 62,072 63,062 Diluted 62,365 63,322

Goodwill (Tables)

Goodwill (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of changes in the carrying amount of goodwill	Table 7: Changes in Goodwill by Segment U.S. Services U.S. Federal Services Outside the U.S. Total (in thousands) Balance as of September 30, 2019 $ 164,472 $ 382,618 $ 37,379 $ 584,469 Acquisitions — — 7,652 7,652 Disposal of Q2 Administrators, LLC — (899) — (899) Foreign currency translation — — 1,907 1,907 Balance as of September 30, 2020 164,472 381,719 46,938 593,129 Acquisitions — 1,168,202 11,741 1,179,943 Foreign currency translation — — 1,334 1,334 Balance as of September 30, 2021 $ 164,472 $ 1,549,921 $ 60,013 $ 1,774,406

Intangible Assets, Net (Tables)

Intangible Assets, Net (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets	Table 8.1: Details of Intangible Assets, Net As of September 30, 2021 2020 Cost Accumulated Intangible Cost Accumulated Intangible (in thousands) Customer contracts and relationships $ 928,069 $ 131,081 $ 796,988 $ 235,287 $ 90,302 $ 144,985 VES Provider network 57,000 1,583 55,417 — — — Technology-based intangible assets 32,307 5,544 26,763 5,631 4,723 908 Trademarks and trade names 4,503 4,503 — 4,479 4,479 — Total $ 1,021,879 $ 142,711 $ 879,168 $ 245,397 $ 99,504 $ 145,893 Table 8.2: Details of Weighted Average Remaining Lives As of September 30, 2021 Customer contracts and relationships 10.9 years VES Provider network 11.7 years Technology-based intangible assets 11.5 years Total 10.8 years
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense	Table 8.3: Details of Future Amortization Expense of Intangible Assets, Net As of September 30, 2021 (in thousands) Year ended September 30, 2022 $ 82,937 Year ended September 30, 2023 82,922 Year ended September 30, 2024 82,798 Year ended September 30, 2025 82,595 Year ended September 30, 2026 82,473 Thereafter 465,443 Total (1) $ 879,168 (1) This table does not include any estimated future amortization expense of intangible assets associated with the Aidvantage business acquired on October 6, 2021. Refer to Footnote 22 - Subsequent Events for more details on this acquisition.

Debt (Tables)

Debt (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Debt	Table 9.1: Details of Debt As of September 30, 2021 2020 (in thousands) Term Loan A, due 2026 $ 1,086,250 $ — Term Loan B, due 2028 399,000 — Subsidiary loan agreements 38,281 28,895 Total debt principal 1,523,531 28,895 Less: Unamortized debt-issuance costs and discounts (13,839) — Total debt 1,509,692 28,895 Less: Current portion of long-term debt (80,555) (10,878) Long-term debt $ 1,429,137 $ 18,017
Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt	Table 9.2: Details of Future Minimum Principal Payments Due Amount Due (in thousands) Year ended September 30, 2022 $ 83,303 Year ended September 30, 2023 72,898 Year ended September 30, 2024 93,455 Year ended September 30, 2025 93,375 Year ended September 30, 2026 801,500 Thereafter 379,000 Total Payments $ 1,523,531

Derivatives (Tables)

Derivatives (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Losses on Derivatives	Table 10: Losses on Derivatives For the Year Ended September 30, 2021 2020 2019 (in thousands) Loss recognized in AOCI on derivatives, net of tax $ (811) $ — $ — Amounts reclassified to earnings from accumulated other comprehensive loss 508 — — Net current period other comprehensive loss $ (303) $ — $ —

Fair Value (Tables)

Fair Value (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Schedule of Fair Value of Assets and Liabilities	Table 11: Fair Value As of September 30, 2021 Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Balance (in thousands) Assets: Deferred compensation assets - Rabbi Trust $ 28,516 $ — $ — $ 28,516 Total assets $ 28,516 $ — $ — $ 28,516 Liabilities: Interest rate swap $ — $ 410 $ — $ 410 Contingent consideration — — 270 270 Total liabilities $ — $ 410 $ 270 $ 680

Leases (Tables)

Leases (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021
Leases [Abstract]
Lease Costs	Table 12.1: Details of Lease Costs For the Year Ended September 30, 2021 2020 (in thousands) Operating lease cost $ 111,246 $ 102,811 Short-term lease cost 7,044 9,140 Variable lease cost 11,124 13,310 Total operating lease costs $ 129,414 $ 125,261
Future Minimum Lease Payments	Table 12.2: Future Minimum Lease Payments Under Non-cancelable Operating Leases Office Space Equipment Total (in thousands) Year ended September 30, 2022 $ 78,222 $ 4,067 $ 82,289 Year ended September 30, 2023 50,281 678 50,959 Year ended September 30, 2024 30,870 121 30,991 Year ended September 30, 2025 23,540 11 23,551 Year ended September 30, 2026 10,035 2 10,037 Thereafter 13,568 — 13,568 Total minimum lease payments 206,516 4,879 211,395 Less: Imputed interest (13,418) (129) (13,547) Total lease liabilities $ 193,098 $ 4,750 $ 197,848

Income taxes (Tables)

Income taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Provision for income taxes	Table 13.1: Components of Provision for Income Taxes For the Year Ended September 30, 2021 2020 2019 (in thousands) Current provision/(benefit): Federal $ 62,062 $ 65,735 $ 37,123 State and local 20,077 28,117 14,480 Foreign 16,919 (2,154) 12,561 Total current provision for income taxes 99,058 91,698 64,164 Deferred tax (benefit)/expense: Federal (2,527) (12,984) 12,627 State and local (590) (4,246) 3,013 Foreign (3,460) (1,915) (2,979) Total deferred tax (benefit)/expense (6,577) (19,145) 12,661 Provision for income taxes $ 92,481 $ 72,553 $ 76,825
Components of income from continuing operations before income taxes	Table 13.2: Components of Income before Provision for Income Taxes by Country For the Year Ended September 30, 2021 2020 2019 (in thousands) Domestic $ 339,647 $ 304,240 $ 280,092 Foreign 44,034 (17,178) 37,228 Income before provision for income taxes $ 383,681 $ 287,062 $ 317,320
Reconciliation of tax provision using the federal statutory income tax rate to reported provision	Table 13.3: Reconciliation of Tax Expense at Statutory Rate to Actual Tax Expense For the Year Ended September 30, 2021 2020 2019 (dollars in thousands) Tax expense at statutory rate $ 80,573 $ 60,284 $ 66,637 Increase/(decrease) due to: State income taxes, net of federal benefit 18,350 17,480 14,825 Foreign taxation rate differentials 4,212 (463) 1,210 Non-deductible (benefit)/expense 2,254 2,200 2,682 Valuation allowance - foreign jurisdictions 2,285 916 — Tax credits (5,072) (4,149) (3,730) Toll tax — — (481) Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation (6,008) (2,038) (4,783) Other (4,113) (1,677) 465 Income tax expense $ 92,481 $ 72,553 $ 76,825 U.S Federal Statutory tax rate 21.0 % 21.0 % 21.0 % Effective tax rate 24.1 % 25.3 % 24.2 %
Significant items comprising the Company's deferred tax assets and liabilities	Table 13.4: Components of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities As of September 30, 2021 2020 (in thousands) Deferred tax assets/(liabilities): Costs deductible in future periods $ 28,921 $ 24,127 Deferred revenue 7,878 8,054 Stock compensation 3,679 4,140 Net operating loss carryforwards 418 252 Amortization of goodwill and intangibles (203,094) (27,555) Capitalized software (11,343) (10,076) Accounts receivable - unbilled (15,317) (11,565) Property and equipment (910) (2,365) Prepaid expenses (7,913) (4,245) Other 4,033 (3,589) Net deferred tax liability $ (193,648) $ (22,822) Our deferred tax assets and liabilities are held in various national and international jurisdictions that do not allow right of offset. Accordingly, our presentation of deferred taxes on our consolidated balance sheets is split between jurisdictions that show a net deferred tax asset and a net deferred tax liability. Table 13.5: Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities By Jurisdiction Positions As of September 30, 2021 2020 (in thousands) Total of tax jurisdictions with net deferred tax assets $ 990 $ 1,915 Total of tax jurisdictions with net deferred tax liabilities (194,638) (24,737) Net deferred tax liabilities $ (193,648) $ (22,822)
Schedule of reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of gross unrecognized tax benefits	Table 13.6: Reconciliation of the Beginning and Ending Amounts of Potential Tax Benefits For the Year Ended September 30, 2021 2020 2019 (in thousands) Balance at beginning of year $ 1,798 $ 3,001 $ 721 Additions for acquired unrecognized tax benefits 11,244 — — Increases for tax positions taken in current year 300 770 2,280 Decreases for tax positions taken in current year (700) (1,973) — Balance at end of year $ 12,642 $ 1,798 $ 3,001

Equity (Tables)

Equity (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021
Share-based Payment Arrangement [Abstract]
Summary of the Company's RSU activity	Table 14.1: Restricted Stock Units and Performance Based Stock Units Restricted Stock Units Performance Stock Units Total Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Non-vested outstanding units as of September 30, 2020 642,411 — 642,411 $ 68.73 Granted 383,864 85,482 469,346 76.80 Cancelled/Forfeited (49,019) (478) (49,497) 73.82 Vested (346,813) — (346,813) 67.93 Non-vested outstanding units as of September 30, 2021 630,443 85,004 715,447 74.06
Schedule of Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss by Category	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Table 14.2: Details of Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss by Category Foreign currency translation adjustment Net unrealized loss on derivatives, net of tax Total (in thousands) Balance as of September 30, 2018 $ (36,953) $ — $ (36,953) Other comprehensive losses before reclassifications (8,427) — (8,427) Net current period other comprehensive losses (8,427) — (8,427) Balance as of September 30, 2019 (45,380) — (45,380) Other comprehensive income before reclassifications 2,742 — 2,742 Net current period other comprehensive income 2,742 — 2,742 Balance as of September 30, 2020 (42,638) — (42,638) Other comprehensive income before reclassifications 3,033 (811) 2,222 Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss — 508 508 Net current period other comprehensive income 3,033 (303) 2,730 Balance as of September 30, 2021 $ (39,605) $ (303) $ (39,908)

Cash And Cash Equivalents And_2

Cash And Cash Equivalents And Restricted Cash (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021
Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents [Abstract]
Schedule of Cash and Cash Equivalents	Table 15.1: Details of Cash and Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash As of September 30, 2021 2020 (in thousands) Cash and cash equivalents $ 135,061 $ 71,737 Restricted cash (1) 21,509 16,824 Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash $ 156,570 $ 88,561 (1) Restricted cash is recorded within "Prepaid expenses and other current assets" on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
Restrictions on Cash and Cash Equivalents	Table 15.1: Details of Cash and Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash As of September 30, 2021 2020 (in thousands) Cash and cash equivalents $ 135,061 $ 71,737 Restricted cash (1) 21,509 16,824 Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash $ 156,570 $ 88,561 (1) Restricted cash is recorded within "Prepaid expenses and other current assets" on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
Supplementary Cash Flow Information	Table 15.2: Supplemental Disclosures of Cash Flow Information For the Year Ended September 30, 2021 2020 2019 (in thousands) Interest payments $ 14,539 $ 1,600 $ 2,500 Income tax payments 99,899 89,100 69,200

Accounts Receivable, Net (Table

Accounts Receivable, Net (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021
Receivables [Abstract]
Details of Accounts Receivable	Table 16.1: Details of Accounts Receivable, Net As of September 30, 2021 2020 (in thousands) Billed and billable receivables $ 718,728 $ 628,922 Unbilled receivables 124,135 163,332 Allowance for credit losses (8,044) (6,051) Accounts receivable, net $ 834,819 $ 786,203
Schedule of Accounts Receivable	Table 16.2: Changes in Allowance for Credit Losses For the Year Ended September 30, 2021 2020 2019 (in thousands) Balance at beginning of period $ 6,051 $ 5,382 $ 4,285 Provision for estimated credit losses 11,038 12,976 4,018 Write-offs, net of recoveries (9,045) (12,307) (2,921) Balance at end of period $ 8,044 $ 6,051 $ 5,382

Property And Equipment, Net (Ta

Property And Equipment, Net (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Schedule of property, plant and equipment	Table 17: Details of Property and Equipment, Net As of September 30, 2021 2020 (in thousands) Land $ 1,738 $ 1,738 Building and improvements 11,981 11,846 Office furniture and equipment 254,102 239,057 Leasehold improvements 79,938 84,063 Property and equipment, at cost 347,759 336,704 Accumulated depreciation (285,132) (269,983) Property and equipment, net $ 62,627 $ 66,721

Capitalized Software Costs, N_2

Capitalized Software Costs, Net (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021
Research and Development [Abstract]
Components of capitalized software	Table 18: Details of Capitalized Software, Net As of September 30, 2021 2020 (in thousands) Capitalized software $ 139,145 $ 120,677 Accumulated amortization (96,277) (82,644) Capitalized software, net $ 42,868 $ 38,033

Deferred Contract Costs, Net (T

Deferred Contract Costs, Net (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]
Schedules of Deferred Contract Costs	Table 19: Details of Deferred Contracts Costs, Net As of September 30, 2021 2020 (in thousands) Deferred contract costs $ 67,209 $ 42,421 Accumulated amortization (30,723) (21,530) Total deferred contract costs, net $ 36,486 $ 20,891

Significant Accounting Polici_3

Significant Accounting Policies (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021business
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Number of businesses acquired	3
Operating lease, weighted average discount rate, percent	3.40%
Unrecognized compensation costs, period for recognition	1 year 3 months 18 days
Restricted Stock Units | Share-based Payment Arrangement, Tranche One
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Vesting period	1 year
Restricted Stock Units | Share-based Payment Arrangement, Tranche Two
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Vesting period	4 years
Restricted Stock Units | Share-based Payment Arrangement, Tranche Three
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Vesting period	5 years
Performance Stock Units
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Vesting period	3 years
Unrecognized compensation costs, period for recognition	3 years
Maximum | Restricted Stock Units
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Vesting period	5 years
Minimum | Restricted Stock Units
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Vesting period	4 years
Office Space | Maximum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, useful life	39 years
Office furniture | Maximum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, useful life	7 years
Software and Software Development Costs | Maximum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, useful life	8 years
Software and Software Development Costs | Minimum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, useful life	3 years

Business Segments - Financial i

Business Segments - Financial information by segment (Details) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021USD ($)statesegment	Sep. 30, 2020USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2019USD ($)
Financial information for each of the Company's business segments
Number of operating segments | segment	3
Number of states supported in unemployment insurance programs (more than) | state	15
Revenue:
Revenue	$ 4,254,485	$ 3,461,537	$ 2,886,815
Gross profit:
Gross profit	$ 946,975	$ 711,002	$ 671,184
Gross profit (as a percent)	22.30%	20.50%	23.20%
Selling, general, and administrative expenses:
Selling, general, and administrative expenses	$ 494,088	$ 387,090	$ 321,023
Selling, general, and administrative expense (as a percent)	11.60%	11.20%	11.10%
Gain on sale of a business	$ 0	$ (1,718)	$ 0
Operating income:
Operating income	$ 408,530	$ 288,278	$ 317,107
Operating income (as a percent)	9.60%	8.30%	11.00%
Amortization of Intangible Assets	$ (44,357)	$ (35,634)	$ (33,054)
Depreciation and amortization	$ 46,361	$ 64,527	$ 52,404
Depreciation and amortization (as a percent)	1.10%	1.90%	1.80%
Acquisition related costs	$ 9,500
Segment Reconciling Items
Selling, general, and administrative expenses:
Selling, general, and administrative expenses	10,746	$ 4,358	$ 2,676
Gain on sale of a business	0	(1,718)	0
Operating income:
Amortization of Intangible Assets	(44,357)	(35,634)	(33,054)
Other	(10,746)	(4,358)	(2,676)
Acquisition related costs	9,500
U.S. Services
Revenue:
Revenue	1,662,110	1,329,274	1,176,488
U.S. Services | Operating Segments
Revenue:
Revenue	1,662,110	1,329,274	1,176,488
Gross profit:
Gross profit	$ 408,050	$ 360,272	$ 344,109
Gross profit (as a percent)	24.60%	27.10%	29.20%
Selling, general, and administrative expenses:
Selling, general, and administrative expenses	$ 153,609	$ 132,489	$ 123,275
Selling, general, and administrative expense (as a percent)	9.20%	10.00%	10.50%
Operating income:
Operating income	$ 254,441	$ 227,783	$ 220,834
Operating income (as a percent)	15.30%	17.10%	18.80%
Depreciation and amortization	$ 20,350	$ 20,951	$ 18,466
Depreciation and amortization (as a percent)	1.20%	1.60%	1.60%
U.S. Federal Services
Revenue:
Revenue	$ 1,893,284	$ 1,633,337	$ 1,111,197
U.S. Federal Services | Operating Segments
Revenue:
Revenue	1,893,284	1,633,337	1,111,197
Gross profit:
Gross profit	$ 432,551	$ 318,925	$ 242,070
Gross profit (as a percent)	22.80%	19.50%	21.80%
Selling, general, and administrative expenses:
Selling, general, and administrative expenses	$ 243,485	$ 186,023	$ 126,128
Selling, general, and administrative expense (as a percent)	12.90%	11.40%	11.40%
Operating income:
Operating income	$ 189,066	$ 132,902	$ 115,942
Operating income (as a percent)	10.00%	8.10%	10.40%
Depreciation and amortization	$ 12,986	$ 25,153	$ 16,802
Depreciation and amortization (as a percent)	0.70%	1.50%	1.50%
Outside the U.S.
Revenue:
Revenue	$ 699,091	$ 498,926	$ 599,130
Outside the U.S. | Operating Segments
Revenue:
Revenue	699,091	498,926	599,130
Gross profit:
Gross profit	$ 106,374	$ 31,805	$ 85,005
Gross profit (as a percent)	15.20%	6.40%	14.20%
Selling, general, and administrative expenses:
Selling, general, and administrative expenses	$ 86,248	$ 65,938	$ 68,944
Selling, general, and administrative expense (as a percent)	12.30%	13.20%	11.50%
Operating income:
Operating income	$ 20,126	$ (34,133)	$ 16,061
Operating income (as a percent)	2.90%	(6.80%)	2.70%
Depreciation and amortization	$ 13,025	$ 18,423	$ 17,136
Depreciation and amortization (as a percent)	1.90%	3.70%	2.90%

Business Segments - Identifiabl

Business Segments - Identifiable assets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2020
Financial information for each of the Company's business segments
Assets	$ 4,118,965	$ 2,024,702
Corporate
Financial information for each of the Company's business segments
Assets	228,920	159,965
U.S. Services | Operating Segments
Financial information for each of the Company's business segments
Assets	701,565	702,728
U.S. Federal Services | Operating Segments
Financial information for each of the Company's business segments
Assets	2,863,581	937,477
Outside the U.S. | Operating Segments
Financial information for each of the Company's business segments
Assets	$ 324,899	$ 224,532

Business segments - Schedule of

Business segments - Schedule of Long-Lived Assets by Geographical Areas (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2020
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Total long-lived assets		$ 318,732
United States
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Total long-lived assets	$ 276,754	255,346
Australia
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Total long-lived assets	17,105	30,183
Canada
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Total long-lived assets	20,637	24,522
United Kingdom
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Total long-lived assets	11,914	7,610
Rest of world
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Total long-lived assets	$ 5,172	$ 1,071

Revenue Recognition - Disaggreg

Revenue Recognition - Disaggregation of Revenue (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	$ 4,254,485	$ 3,461,537	$ 2,886,815
United States
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	3,555,394	2,962,611	2,287,685
United Kingdom
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	286,432	246,334	293,695
Australia
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	244,995	147,156	198,795
Rest of world
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	167,664	105,436	106,640
Total U.S. state government agencies
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	1,654,555	1,344,227	1,166,937
New York State government agencies
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	371,917	355,282	362,724
Other U.S. state government agencies
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	1,282,638	988,945	804,213
United States Federal Government agencies
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	1,805,131	1,559,165	1,040,980
International government agencies
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	663,180	467,185	558,599
Other, including local municipalities and commercial customers
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	131,619	90,960	120,299
Performance-based
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	1,416,562	1,109,153	1,193,075
Cost-plus
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	1,237,995	1,578,912	1,088,541
Fixed price
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	553,645	471,505	441,146
Time and materials
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	1,046,283	301,967	164,053
U.S. Services
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	1,662,110	1,329,274	1,176,488
U.S. Federal Services
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	1,893,284	1,633,337	1,111,197
Outside the U.S.
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	699,091	498,926	599,130
Workforce services | Outside the U.S.
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	358,088	206,657	272,801
Program administration | U.S. Services
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	1,154,939	945,125	883,772
Program administration | U.S. Federal Services
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	1,273,850	1,288,741	779,573
Program administration | Outside the U.S.
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	107,643	66,002	63,734
Technology solutions | U.S. Federal Services
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	278,232	169,259	160,342
Assessments and appeals | U.S. Services
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	138,297	141,446	136,109
Assessments and appeals | U.S. Federal Services
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	341,202	175,337	171,282
Assessments and appeals | Outside the U.S.
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	225,314	218,704	252,447
Employment and children services | U.S. Services
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	320,653	191,061	100,454
Other | U.S. Services
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	48,221	51,642	56,153
Other | Outside the U.S.
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue	$ 8,046	$ 7,563	$ 10,148

Revenue Recognition - Narrative

Revenue Recognition - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2020
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Deferred revenue, revenue recognized	$ 45.9	$ 54.6
Cumulative catch-up adjustment to revenue from change in estimates	$ 20.9	$ (9.2)
Cumulative catch-up adjustment to diluted earnings per share from change in estimates (in dollars per share)	$ 0.24	$ (0.10)
Unbilled receivables
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Unbilled contracts receivable	$ 10.4	$ 12.3
Performance-based | Future Outcomes | Transferred over Time
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Deferred revenue, revenue recognized	104.7	45
Estimate of fees upon target	$ 48.7	$ 24.8

Revenue Recognition - Remaining

Revenue Recognition - Remaining Performance Obligation (Details) $ in Millions	Sep. 30, 2021USD ($)
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction [Line Items]
Revenue, remaining performance obligation, amount	$ 550
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Start Date [Axis]: 2021-10-01
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction [Line Items]
Revenue, remaining performance obligation, percentage	49.00%
Revenue, remaining performance obligation, expected timing of satisfaction, period	12 months

Earnings Per Share (Details)

Earnings Per Share (Details) - shares shares in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Basic weighted average shares outstanding (in shares)	62,072	63,062	64,498
Dilutive effect of unvested RSUs and PSUs (in shares)	293	260	322
Denominator for diluted earnings per share (in shares)	62,365	63,322	64,820
Antidilutive securities excluded from computation of earnings per share (in shares)	55	215	10

Business Combinations - Narrati

Business Combinations - Narrative (Details) $ in Thousands, ₩ in Millions, £ in Millions, $ in Millions	Sep. 30, 2021USD ($)	Sep. 14, 2021USD ($)	Sep. 14, 2021GBP (£)	May 28, 2021USD ($)asset	Mar. 01, 2021USD ($)	Aug. 21, 2020USD ($)	Aug. 21, 2020KRW (₩)	Feb. 28, 2020USD ($)	Feb. 28, 2020AUD ($)	Mar. 31, 2021USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2021USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2021USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2020USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2019USD ($)	Aug. 21, 2020KRW (₩)	Feb. 28, 2020AUD ($)
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Cash consideration paid, net of cash acquired												$ 1,798,915	$ 7,066	$ 436,839
Number of intangible assets acquired | asset				3
Amortization of intangible assets												$ 44,357	35,634	33,054
Estimated Straight-Line Useful Life												10 years 9 months 18 days
Revenue												$ 4,254,485	3,461,537	2,886,815
Gross profit												946,975	711,002	671,184
Acquisition related costs												9,500
Goodwill	$ 1,774,406										$ 1,774,406	1,774,406	$ 593,129	$ 584,469
VES Group, Inc.
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Percentage of voting equity interests acquired				100.00%
Cash consideration paid, net of cash acquired	1,360,231			$ 1,360,231
Liabilities arising from contingencies				12,000
Indemnification assets				6,000
Liability for uncertainty in income taxes				12,300
Revenue contributed from acquired business											186,600
Gross profit contributed from acquired business											53,500
Amortization of intangible assets											18,400
Estimated cash consideration, net of cash acquired	1,364,866			1,367,725
Acquisition related costs												52,200
Goodwill	864,176			857,274							864,176	864,176
Intangible assets	$ 664,000			664,000							$ 664,000	664,000
VES Group, Inc. | Indemnification Asset On Uncertain Tax Positions
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Indemnification assets				$ 7,200
Attain
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Percentage of voting equity interests acquired					100.00%
Estimated cash consideration, net of cash acquired					$ 419,097
Revenue												136,100
Gross profit												33,400
Acquisition related costs												$ 300
Goodwill					304,026
Intangible assets					$ 105,000
Attain | Customer Relationships
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Estimated Straight-Line Useful Life					10 years
Connect Assist
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Percentage of voting equity interests acquired		100.00%
Cash payment to acquire business		$ 21,100	£ 15.5
Goodwill		11,100
Intangible assets		$ 7,700
Index Root
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Percentage of voting equity interests acquired						100.00%									100.00%
Cash payment to acquire business						$ 5,400	₩ 6,300
Contingent consideration						900									₩ 1,100
Goodwill						5,100
Intangible assets						$ 1,400
Reversal of acquisition related costs										$ 1,000
InjuryNet
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Percentage of voting equity interests acquired								100.00%								100.00%
Cash payment to acquire business								$ 4,400	$ 6.7
Contingent consideration								2,100								$ 3.1
Goodwill								2,600
Intangible assets								$ 900

Business combinations - Schedul

Business combinations - Schedule of Asset Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, VES (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2021	May 28, 2021	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Initial Allocation of Assets and Liabilities
Cash consideration paid, net of cash acquired				$ 1,798,915	$ 7,066	$ 436,839
Goodwill	$ 1,774,406		$ 1,774,406	1,774,406	$ 593,129	$ 584,469
VES Group, Inc.
Initial Allocation of Assets and Liabilities
Cash consideration paid, net of cash acquired	1,360,231	$ 1,360,231
Estimated additional cash payments	4,635	7,494
Estimated cash consideration, net of cash acquired	1,364,866	1,367,725
Accounts receivable - billed, billable and unbilled	44,078	44,078	44,078	44,078
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	7,955	13,911	7,955	7,955
Property and equipment, net	9,113	9,113	9,113	9,113
Operating lease right-of-use assets	18,898	18,898	18,898	18,898
Intangible assets	664,000	664,000	664,000	664,000
Other assets	7,166	12,816	7,166	7,166
Total identifiable assets acquired	751,210	762,816	751,210	751,210
Accounts payable and other liabilities	42,182	42,978	42,182	42,182
Operating lease liabilities	18,898	18,898	18,898	18,898
Income taxes payable, current	5,673	6,196	5,673	5,673
Deferred income taxes	171,497	177,626	171,497	171,497
Other long-term liabilities	12,270	6,667	12,270	12,270
Total identifiable liabilities assumed	250,520	252,365	250,520	250,520
Net identifiable assets acquired	500,690	510,451	500,690	500,690
Goodwill	864,176	857,274	864,176	864,176
Net assets acquired	$ 1,364,866	$ 1,367,725	1,364,866	$ 1,364,866
Adjustments
Cash consideration paid, net of cash acquired			0
Estimated additional cash payments			(2,859)
Estimated cash consideration, net of cash acquired			(2,859)
Accounts receivable - billed, billable and unbilled			0
Prepaid expenses and other current assets			(5,956)
Property and equipment, net			0
Operating lease right-of-use assets			0
Intangible assets			0
Other assets			(5,650)
Total identifiable assets acquired			(11,606)
Accounts payable and other liabilities			(796)
Operating lease liabilities			0
Income taxes payable, current			(523)
Deferred income taxes			(6,129)
Other long-term liabilities			5,603
Total identifiable liabilities assumed			(1,845)
Net identifiable assets acquired			(9,761)
Goodwill			6,902
Net assets acquired			$ (2,859)

Business combinations - Sched_2

Business combinations - Schedule of the Valuation of the Intangible Assets Acquired (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	May 28, 2021	Sep. 30, 2021
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Estimated Straight-Line Useful Life		10 years 9 months 18 days
VES Group, Inc.
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Estimated Fair Value	$ 664,000
Customer contracts and relationships
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Estimated Straight-Line Useful Life		10 years 10 months 24 days
Customer contracts and relationships | VES Group, Inc.
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Estimated Straight-Line Useful Life	12 years
Estimated Fair Value	$ 580,000
Provider network
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Estimated Straight-Line Useful Life		11 years 8 months 12 days
Provider network | VES Group, Inc.
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Estimated Straight-Line Useful Life	12 years
Estimated Fair Value	$ 57,000
Technology-based intangible assets
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Estimated Straight-Line Useful Life		11 years 6 months
Technology-based intangible assets | VES Group, Inc.
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Estimated Straight-Line Useful Life	12 years
Estimated Fair Value	$ 27,000

Business combinations - Sched_3

Business combinations - Schedule of Asset Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Attain (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Mar. 01, 2021	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Initial Allocation of Assets and Liabilities
Goodwill		$ 1,774,406	$ 593,129	$ 584,469
Attain
Initial Allocation of Assets and Liabilities
Cash consideration paid, net of cash acquired	$ 419,097
Accounts receivable - billed, billable and unbilled	39,375
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	926
Operating lease right-of-use assets	24,960
Intangible assets	105,000
Other assets	74
Total identifiable assets acquired	170,335
Accounts payable and other liabilities	28,863
Operating lease liabilities	26,401
Total identifiable liabilities assumed	55,264
Net identifiable assets acquired	115,071
Goodwill	304,026
Net assets acquired	$ 419,097

Business combinations - Pro For

Business combinations - Pro Forma Results (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2020
Business Combination and Asset Acquisition [Abstract]
Revenue	$ 4,672,597	$ 4,013,994
Cost of revenue	3,566,894	3,107,493
Gross profit	1,105,703	906,501
Selling, general, and administrative expenses	553,048	485,903
Amortization of intangible assets	85,621	101,467
Operating income	467,034	319,131
Interest expense	(37,410)	(38,239)
Other expense, net	(2,414)	(12,791)
Income before income taxes	427,210	268,101
Provision for income taxes	102,045	64,328
Net income	$ 325,165	$ 203,773
Basic (in dollars per share)	$ 5.24	$ 3.23
Diluted (in dollars per share)	$ 5.21	$ 3.22
Basic (in shares)	62,072	63,062
Diluted (in shares)	62,365	63,322

Goodwill - Schedule of goodwill

Goodwill - Schedule of goodwill (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Balance at the beginning of the period	$ 593,129,000	$ 584,469,000
Acquisitions	1,179,943,000	7,652,000
Disposal of Q2 Administrators, LLC		(899,000)
Foreign currency translation	1,334,000	1,907,000
Balance at the end of the period	1,774,406,000	593,129,000	$ 584,469,000
Goodwill, impairment loss	0	0	0
U.S. Services
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Balance at the beginning of the period	164,472,000	164,472,000
Acquisitions	0	0
Disposal of Q2 Administrators, LLC		0
Foreign currency translation	0	0
Balance at the end of the period	164,472,000	164,472,000	164,472,000
U.S. Federal Services
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Balance at the beginning of the period	381,719,000	382,618,000
Acquisitions	1,168,202,000	0
Disposal of Q2 Administrators, LLC		(899,000)
Foreign currency translation	0	0
Balance at the end of the period	1,549,921,000	381,719,000	382,618,000
Outside the U.S.
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Balance at the beginning of the period	46,938,000	37,379,000
Acquisitions	11,741,000	7,652,000
Disposal of Q2 Administrators, LLC		0
Foreign currency translation	1,334,000	1,907,000
Balance at the end of the period	$ 60,013,000	$ 46,938,000	$ 37,379,000

Intangible Assets, Net - Compon

Intangible Assets, Net - Components of Intangible Assets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2020
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Cost	$ 1,021,879	$ 245,397
Accumulated Amortization	142,711	99,504
Intangible Assets, Net	879,168	145,893
Customer contracts and relationships
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Cost	928,069	235,287
Accumulated Amortization	131,081	90,302
Intangible Assets, Net	796,988	144,985
VES Provider network
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Cost	57,000	0
Accumulated Amortization	1,583	0
Intangible Assets, Net	55,417	0
Technology-based intangible assets
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Cost	32,307	5,631
Accumulated Amortization	5,544	4,723
Intangible Assets, Net	26,763	908
Trademarks and trade names
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Cost	4,503	4,479
Accumulated Amortization	4,503	4,479
Intangible Assets, Net	$ 0	$ 0

Intangible Assets, Net - Schedu

Intangible Assets, Net - Schedule of Weighted Average Remaining Lives (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Weighted average remaining life	10 years 9 months 18 days
Customer contracts and relationships
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Weighted average remaining life	10 years 10 months 24 days
Provider network
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Weighted average remaining life	11 years 8 months 12 days
Technology-based intangible assets
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Weighted average remaining life	11 years 6 months

Intangible Assets, Net - Estima

Intangible Assets, Net - Estimated Future Amortization Expense For Intangible Assets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2020
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net, Amortization Expense, Rolling Maturity [Abstract]
Year ended September 30, 2022	$ 82,937
Year ended September 30, 2023	82,922
Year ended September 30, 2024	82,798
Year ended September 30, 2025	82,595
Year ended September 30, 2026	82,473
Thereafter	465,443
Intangible Assets, Net	$ 879,168	$ 145,893

Debt - Schedule of Debt (Detail

Debt - Schedule of Debt (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2020
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total debt principal	$ 1,523,531	$ 28,895
Less: Unamortized debt-issuance costs and discounts	(13,839)	0
Total debt	1,509,692	28,895
Less: Current portion of long-term debt	(80,555)	(10,878)
Long-term debt	1,429,137	18,017
Secured Debt | Term Loan A, due 2026
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total debt principal	1,086,250	0
Secured Debt | Term Loan B, due 2028
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total debt principal	399,000	0
Subsidiary Loans
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total debt principal	$ 38,281	$ 28,895

Debt - Narrative (Details)

Debt - Narrative (Details)	May 28, 2021USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2021	Sep. 30, 2021USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2020USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2019USD ($)
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Annual effective interest rate			2.05%
Outstanding balance			$ 1,509,692,000	$ 28,895,000
Costs related to debt financing			$ 8,509,000	$ 0	$ 0
Secured Debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Floor interest rate	0.50%
Net total leverage ratio			2.3
Maximum amount netted against funded debt			$ (75,000,000)
Net total leverage ratio maximum			400.00%
Covenant, interest coverage ratio, minimum			300.00%
Covenant, interest coverage ratio			1700.00%
Secured Debt | Term Loan A, due 2026
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instrument, face amount	$ 1,100,000,000
Secured Debt | Term Loan A, due 2026 | LIBOR
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Basis spread on variable rate	1.75%
Net total leverage ratio	2.5
Secured Debt | Term Loan A, due 2026 | LIBOR | Forecast
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Basis spread on variable rate		1.50%
Secured Debt | Term Loan B, due 2028
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instrument, face amount	$ 400,000,000
Secured Debt | Term Loan B, due 2028 | LIBOR
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Basis spread on variable rate	2.00%
Line of Credit | Revolving Credit Facility
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Maximum borrowing capacity	$ 600,000,000
Outstanding balance			$ 0
Bridge Loan
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Costs related to debt financing			$ 8,500,000

Debt - Schedule of Repayments (

Debt - Schedule of Repayments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2020
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Year ended September 30, 2022	$ 83,303
Year ended September 30, 2023	72,898
Year ended September 30, 2024	93,455
Year ended September 30, 2025	93,375
Year ended September 30, 2026	801,500
Thereafter	379,000
Total Payments	$ 1,523,531	$ 28,895

Derivatives - Narrative (Detail

Derivatives - Narrative (Details) - USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2021	Jun. 28, 2021	May 28, 2021
Other Current Liabilities
Derivative [Line Items]
Fair value of derivative instrument	$ (400,000)
Five Year Term Loan | Secured Debt
Derivative [Line Items]
Debt instrument, face amount			$ 1,100,000,000
Interest Rate Swap
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative, notional amount		$ 300,000,000
Derivative, fixed interest rate		0.986%

Derivatives - Schedule of Losse

Derivatives - Schedule of Losses on Derivatives (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Derivative [Line Items]
Loss recognized in AOCI on derivatives, net of tax	$ 2,222	$ 2,742	$ (8,427)
Amounts reclassified to earnings from accumulated other comprehensive loss	508
Other comprehensive income/(losses)	2,730	2,742	(8,427)
Net unrealized loss on derivatives, net of tax
Derivative [Line Items]
Loss recognized in AOCI on derivatives, net of tax	(811)	0	0
Amounts reclassified to earnings from accumulated other comprehensive loss	508	0	0
Other comprehensive income/(losses)	$ (303)	$ 0	$ 0

Fair Value - Assets and Liabili

Fair Value - Assets and Liabilities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Financial information for each of the Company's business segments
Debt fair value	$ 1,510,000	$ 28,900
Fair Value, Recurring
Financial information for each of the Company's business segments
Total assets	28,516
Contingent consideration	270
Total liabilities	680
Fair Value, Recurring | Deferred compensation assets - Rabbi Trust
Financial information for each of the Company's business segments
Total assets	28,516
Fair Value, Recurring | Interest Rate Swap
Financial information for each of the Company's business segments
Interest rate swap	410
Level 1 | Fair Value, Recurring
Financial information for each of the Company's business segments
Total assets	28,516
Contingent consideration	0
Total liabilities	0
Level 1 | Fair Value, Recurring | Deferred compensation assets - Rabbi Trust
Financial information for each of the Company's business segments
Total assets	28,516
Level 1 | Fair Value, Recurring | Interest Rate Swap
Financial information for each of the Company's business segments
Interest rate swap	0
Level 2 | Fair Value, Recurring
Financial information for each of the Company's business segments
Total assets	0
Contingent consideration	0
Total liabilities	410
Level 2 | Fair Value, Recurring | Deferred compensation assets - Rabbi Trust
Financial information for each of the Company's business segments
Total assets	0
Level 2 | Fair Value, Recurring | Interest Rate Swap
Financial information for each of the Company's business segments
Interest rate swap	410
Level 3 | Fair Value, Recurring
Financial information for each of the Company's business segments
Total assets	0
Contingent consideration	270
Total liabilities	270
Level 3 | Fair Value, Recurring | Deferred compensation assets - Rabbi Trust
Financial information for each of the Company's business segments
Total assets	0
Level 3 | Fair Value, Recurring | Interest Rate Swap
Financial information for each of the Company's business segments
Interest rate swap	0
U.S. Services
Financial information for each of the Company's business segments
Impairment of long-lived assets held-for-use	$ 12,500	$ 1,200	$ 3,700

Leases - Lease Costs (Details)

Leases - Lease Costs (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2020
Leases [Abstract]
Operating lease cost	$ 111,246	$ 102,811
Short-term lease cost	7,044	9,140
Variable lease cost	11,124	13,310
Total operating lease costs	$ 129,414	$ 125,261

Leases - Remaining Lease Paymen

Leases - Remaining Lease Payments (Details) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2021USD ($)
Lessee, Lease, Description [Line Items]
Year ended September 30, 2022	$ 82,289
Year ended September 30, 2023	50,959
Year ended September 30, 2024	30,991
Year ended September 30, 2025	23,551
Year ended September 30, 2026	10,037
Thereafter	13,568
Total minimum lease payments	211,395
Less: Imputed interest	(13,547)
Total lease liabilities	197,848
Office Space
Lessee, Lease, Description [Line Items]
Year ended September 30, 2022	78,222
Year ended September 30, 2023	50,281
Year ended September 30, 2024	30,870
Year ended September 30, 2025	23,540
Year ended September 30, 2026	10,035
Thereafter	13,568
Total minimum lease payments	206,516
Less: Imputed interest	(13,418)
Total lease liabilities	193,098
Equipment
Lessee, Lease, Description [Line Items]
Year ended September 30, 2022	4,067
Year ended September 30, 2023	678
Year ended September 30, 2024	121
Year ended September 30, 2025	11
Year ended September 30, 2026	2
Thereafter	0
Total minimum lease payments	4,879
Less: Imputed interest	(129)
Total lease liabilities	$ 4,750

Leases - Narrative (Details)

Leases - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2020
Leases [Abstract]
Weighted average remaining lease term	3 years 7 months 6 days
Cash payment included in the measurement of lease liabilities	$ 96.9	$ 109.4
Operating lease liabilities arising from new or remeasured right-of-use assets	$ 60.2	$ 72.7

Income taxes - Provision for In

Income taxes - Provision for Income Taxes (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Current provision/(benefit):
Federal	$ 62,062	$ 65,735	$ 37,123
State and local	20,077	28,117	14,480
Foreign	16,919	(2,154)	12,561
Total current provision for income taxes	99,058	91,698	64,164
Deferred tax expense/(benefit):
Federal	(2,527)	(12,984)	12,627
State and local	(590)	(4,246)	3,013
Foreign	(3,460)	(1,915)	(2,979)
Total deferred tax (benefit)/expense	(6,577)	(19,145)	12,661
Income tax expense	$ 92,481	$ 72,553	$ 76,825

Income taxes - Schedule of Comp

Income taxes - Schedule of Components of Income From Continuing Operations before Income Taxes (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Income before income taxes:
Domestic	$ 339,647	$ 304,240	$ 280,092
Foreign	44,034	(17,178)	37,228
Income before provision for income taxes	$ 383,681	$ 287,062	$ 317,320

Income taxes - Reconciliation o

Income taxes - Reconciliation of Tax Provision Using the Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate to Reported Provision (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Reconciliation of actual provision for income taxes and provision for income taxes resulting from the use of federal statutory income tax
Tax expense at statutory rate	$ 80,573	$ 60,284	$ 66,637
State income taxes, net of federal benefit	18,350	17,480	14,825
Foreign taxation rate differentials	4,212	(463)	1,210
Non-deductible (benefit)/expense	2,254	2,200	2,682
Valuation allowance - foreign jurisdictions	2,285	916	0
Tax credits	(5,072)	(4,149)	(3,730)
Toll tax	0	0	(481)
Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation	(6,008)	(2,038)	(4,783)
Other	(4,113)	(1,677)	465
Income tax expense	$ 92,481	$ 72,553	$ 76,825
U.S Federal Statutory tax rate	21.00%	21.00%	21.00%
Effective tax rate	24.10%	25.30%	24.20%

Income taxes - Schedule of Defe

Income taxes - Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2020
Deferred tax assets/(liabilities):
Costs deductible in future periods	$ 28,921	$ 24,127
Deferred revenue	7,878	8,054
Stock compensation	3,679	4,140
Net operating loss carryforwards	418	252
Amortization of goodwill and intangibles	(203,094)	(27,555)
Capitalized software	(11,343)	(10,076)
Accounts receivable - unbilled	(15,317)	(11,565)
Property and equipment	(910)	(2,365)
Prepaid expenses	(7,913)	(4,245)
Other	4,033
Other		(3,589)
Net deferred tax liability	$ (193,648)	$ (22,822)

Income taxes - Schedule of Net

Income taxes - Schedule of Net Deferred Tax Position (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2020
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Total of tax jurisdictions with net deferred tax assets	$ 990	$ 1,915
Total of tax jurisdictions with net deferred tax liabilities	(194,638)	(24,737)
Net deferred tax liability	$ (193,648)	$ (22,822)

Income taxes - Narrative (Detai

Income taxes - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Net operating loss carryforwards
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 135,061	$ 71,737
Unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would affect the annual effective income tax rate	12,600	1,800
Interest and penalties included in net liability balance	2,100	100
Maximum
Net operating loss carryforwards
Interest expense recognized related to unrecognized tax benefits (less than)	100	$ 100	$ 100
Foreign Tax Authority
Net operating loss carryforwards
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 84,400

Income taxes - Summary of Incom

Income taxes - Summary of Income Tax Contingencies (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of gross unrecognized tax benefits
Balance at beginning of year	$ 1,798	$ 3,001	$ 721
Additions for acquired unrecognized tax benefits	11,244	0	0
Increases for tax positions taken in current year	300	770	2,280
Decreases for tax positions taken in current year	(700)	(1,973)	0
Balance at end of year	$ 12,642	$ 1,798	$ 3,001

Equity - Narrative (Details)

Equity - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019	Mar. 31, 2020
Stock-based compensation
Deferred vested award (in shares)	268
Intrinsic value vested	$ 59,000,000
Share-based compensation expense	28,600,000	$ 23,700,000	$ 20,800,000
Income tax benefit recognized	13,500,000	$ 8,000,000	$ 9,900,000
Unrecognized compensation cost	$ 45,700,000
Unrecognized compensation costs, period for recognition	1 year 3 months 18 days
Granted (in dollars per share)	$ 76.80
Stock repurchase programs, authorized amount				$ 200,000,000
Common shares repurchased (in shares)	100	2,800	700
Common shares repurchased, cost	$ 3,363,000	$ 166,959,000	$ 46,797,000
Amount remaining available for future stock repurchases	$ 146,700,000
Performance Stock Units
Stock-based compensation
Vesting period	3 years
Unrecognized compensation costs, period for recognition	3 years
Performance Stock Units | Minimum
Stock-based compensation
Vesting rights, percentage	0.00%
Performance Stock Units | Maximum
Stock-based compensation
Vesting rights, percentage	200.00%
Restricted Stock Units
Stock-based compensation
Granted (in dollars per share)		$ 74.26	$ 66.96
Total fair value	$ 28,900,000	$ 23,600,000	$ 27,400,000
Restricted Stock Units | Member of Board of Directors
Stock-based compensation
Vesting period	1 year
Restricted Stock Units | Minimum
Stock-based compensation
Vesting period	4 years
Restricted Stock Units | Maximum
Stock-based compensation
Vesting period	5 years

Equity - Summary of the Company

Equity - Summary of the Company's RSU Activity (Details) - $ / shares	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward]
Non-vested shares outstanding at the beginning of the period (in shares)	642,411
Granted (in shares)	469,346
Cancelled/Forfeited (in shares)	(49,497)
Vested (in shares)	(346,813)
Non-vested shares outstanding at the end of the period (in shares)	715,447	642,411
Weighted-Average Grant-Date Fair Value
Non-vested shares outstanding at the beginning of the period (in dollars per share)	$ 68.73
Granted (in dollars per share)	76.80
Cancelled/Forfeited (in dollars per share)	73.82
Vested (in dollars per share)	67.93
Non-vested shares outstanding at the end of the period (in dollars per share)	$ 74.06	$ 68.73
Restricted Stock Units
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward]
Non-vested shares outstanding at the beginning of the period (in shares)	642,411
Granted (in shares)	383,864
Cancelled/Forfeited (in shares)	(49,019)
Vested (in shares)	(346,813)
Non-vested shares outstanding at the end of the period (in shares)	630,443	642,411
Weighted-Average Grant-Date Fair Value
Granted (in dollars per share)		$ 74.26	$ 66.96
Performance Stock Units
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward]
Non-vested shares outstanding at the beginning of the period (in shares)	0
Granted (in shares)	85,482
Cancelled/Forfeited (in shares)	(478)
Vested (in shares)	0
Non-vested shares outstanding at the end of the period (in shares)	85,004	0

Equity - Schedule of Changes in

Equity - Schedule of Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss by Category (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Beginning balance	$ 1,241,819	$ 1,248,201	$ 1,086,419
Other comprehensive losses before reclassifications	2,222	2,742	(8,427)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss	508
Net current period other comprehensive income	2,730	2,742	(8,427)
Ending balance	1,480,329	1,241,819	1,248,201
Foreign currency translation adjustment
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Beginning balance	(42,638)	(45,380)	(36,953)
Other comprehensive losses before reclassifications	3,033	2,742	(8,427)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss	0
Net current period other comprehensive income	3,033	2,742	(8,427)
Ending balance	(39,605)	(42,638)	(45,380)
Net unrealized loss on derivatives, net of tax
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Beginning balance	0	0	0
Other comprehensive losses before reclassifications	(811)	0	0
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss	508	0	0
Net current period other comprehensive income	(303)	0	0
Ending balance	(303)	0	0
Total
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Beginning balance	(42,638)	(45,380)	(36,953)
Ending balance	$ (39,908)	$ (42,638)	$ (45,380)

Cash And Cash Equivalents And_3

Cash And Cash Equivalents And Restricted Cash - Schedule of Cash, Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019	Sep. 30, 2018
Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents [Abstract]
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 135,061	$ 71,737
Restricted cash	21,509	16,824
Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash	$ 156,570	$ 88,561	$ 116,492	$ 356,559

Cash And Cash Equivalents And_4

Cash And Cash Equivalents And Restricted Cash - Supplemental Cash Flow Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents [Abstract]
Interest payments	$ 14,539	$ 1,600	$ 2,500
Income tax payments	$ 99,899	$ 89,100	$ 69,200

Accounts Receivable, Net (Detai

Accounts Receivable, Net (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Allowance for credit losses	$ (8,044)	$ (6,051)
Accounts receivable, net	834,819	786,203
Accounts Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Roll Forward]
Balance at beginning of period	6,051	5,382	$ 4,285
Provision for estimated credit losses	11,038	12,976	4,018
Write-offs, net of recoveries	(9,045)	(12,307)	(2,921)
Balance at end of period	8,044	6,051	$ 5,382
Billed and billable receivables
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Accounts Receivable Gross	718,728	628,922
Unbilled receivables
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Accounts Receivable Gross	$ 124,135	$ 163,332

Property And Equipment, Net (De

Property And Equipment, Net (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, at cost	$ 347,759	$ 336,704
Accumulated depreciation	(285,132)	(269,983)
Property and equipment, net	62,627	66,721
Depreciation expense	34,100	54,900	$ 45,200
Land
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, at cost	1,738	1,738
Building and improvements
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, at cost	11,981	11,846
Office furniture and equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, at cost	254,102	239,057
Leasehold improvements
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, at cost	$ 79,938	$ 84,063

Capitalized Software Costs, N_3

Capitalized Software Costs, Net - Schedule of Components of Capitalized Computer Software (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Research and Development [Abstract]
Capitalized software	$ 139,145,000	$ 120,677,000
Accumulated amortization	(96,277,000)	(82,644,000)
Capitalized software, net	42,868,000	38,033,000
Capitalized software amortization expense	12,300,000	9,600,000	$ 7,200,000
Capitalized software written off	$ 2,400,000	$ 600,000	$ 0

Deferred Contract Costs, Net -

Deferred Contract Costs, Net - Schedule of Deferred Contract Costs (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Financial information for each of the Company's business segments
Deferred contract costs	$ 67,209	$ 42,421
Accumulated amortization	(30,723)	(21,530)
Total deferred contract costs, net	36,486	20,891
Amortization of deferred contract costs	13,600	6,800	$ 9,900
U.S. Services and Outside the U.S.
Financial information for each of the Company's business segments
Impairment loss on contract costs	$ 4,400	$ 600	$ 3,700

Commitments and contingencies -

Commitments and contingencies - Narrative (Details) $ in Millions	Sep. 30, 2021USD ($)
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Performance bond commitments	$ 36.1
Settled Litigation
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Disallowance	7.3
Pending Litigation
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Disallowance	$ 19.9

Employee Benefit Plans And De_2

Employee Benefit Plans And Deferred Compensation - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Percentage of liabilities that can be met plan assets	90.00%
Investments in mutual funds within the rabbi trust	$ 28.5
United States
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Employer contribution to defined contribution plans	17.3	$ 13.2	$ 12.3
Foreign Plan
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Employer contribution to defined contribution plans	$ 22.8	$ 18.6	$ 18.6

Subsequent Events (Details)

Subsequent Events (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions	Nov. 30, 2021	Oct. 08, 2021	Oct. 06, 2021
Common Stock | Forecast
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Payments of dividends	$ 17.3
Subsequent Event
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Cash dividend declared (in dollars per share)		$ 0.28
Navient | Subsequent Event
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Amortization period			27 months
Navient | Subsequent Event | Forecast
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Contingent consideration			$ 15.3
Intangible assets			$ 14.9

Uncategorized Items - mms-20210

Label	Element	Value
Accounting Standards Update [Extensible Enumeration]	us-gaap_AccountingStandardsUpdateExtensibleList	Accounting Standards Update 2014-09 [Member]