| Cover | Nov. 09, 2021 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Nov. 9, 2021 |
| Entity Registrant Name | Performant Financial Corporation |
| Entity File Number | 001-35628 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 20-0484934 |
| City Area Code | 925 |
| Local Phone Number | 960-4800 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 333 North Canyons Parkway |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 94551 |
| Entity Address, State or Province | CA |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Livermore |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | DE |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001550695 |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
