DLH (DLHC) 10-Q 4 Feb 15 2015 Q1 Quarterly report Financial data

Document_and_Entity_Informatio

Document and Entity Information	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Jan. 31, 2015
Document and Entity Information
Entity Registrant Name	DLH Holdings Corp.
Entity Central Index Key	785557
Document Type	10-Q
Document Period End Date	31-Dec-14
Amendment Flag	FALSE
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2015
Document Fiscal Period Focus	Q1
Current Fiscal Year End Date	-21
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Filer Category	Smaller Reporting Company
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		9,631,043

CONSOLIDATED_STATEMENTS_OF_OPE

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Income Statement [Abstract]
Revenue	$15,682	$14,477
Direct expenses	13,149	12,365
Gross margin	2,533	2,112
General and administrative expenses	2,251	2,020
Depreciation and amortization	23	26
Income from operations	259	66
Other income (expense) net	-36	67
Income before income taxes	223	133
Income tax expense	-89	0
Net income	$134	$133
Net income per share, basic and diluted (in dollars per share)	$0.01	$0.01
Weighted average common shares outstanding
Basic (in shares)	9,601	9,494
Diluted (in shares)	10,048	9,549

CONSOLIDATED_BALANCE_SHEETS

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$3,758	$3,908
Accounts receivable, net	12,277	12,372
Deferred taxes, net	84	84
Other current assets	610	510
Total current assets	16,729	16,874
Equipment and improvements, net	134	63
Deferred taxes, net	4,424	4,513
Goodwill	8,595	8,595
Other long-term assets	17	27
Total assets	29,899	30,072
CURRENT LIABILITIES
Accrued payroll	11,066	11,465
Accounts payable, accrued expenses, and other current liabilities	4,570	4,746
Total current liabilities	15,636	16,211
LONG TERM LIABILITIES
Other long term liability	13	15
Total liabilities	15,649	16,226
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Preferred stock, $.10 par value; authorized 5,000 shares, none issued and outstanding	0	0
Common stock, $.001 par value; authorized 40,000 shares; issued 9,634 at December 31, 2014 and 9,568 at September 30, 2014, outstanding 9,631 at December 31, 2014 and 9,566 at September 30, 2014	10	10
Additional paid-in capital	76,356	76,083
Accumulated deficit	-62,110	-62,244
Treasury stock, 3 shares at cost at December 31, 2014 and 2 shares at cost at September 30, 2014	-6	-3
Total shareholders’ equity	14,250	13,846
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY	$29,899	$30,072

CONSOLIDATED_BALANCE_SHEETS_Pa

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Parenthetical) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]
Preferred stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$0.10	$0.10
Preferred stock, authorized shares	5,000,000	5,000,000
Preferred stock, issued shares	0	0
Preferred stock, outstanding shares	0	0
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$0.00	$0.00
Common stock, authorized shares	40,000,000	40,000,000
Common stock, issued shares	9,634,000	9,568,000
Common stock, outstanding shares	9,631,000	9,566,000
Treasury stock, shares	3,000	2,000

CONSOLIDATED_STATEMENTS_OF_CAS

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract]
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	$89	$0
Operating activities
Net income	134	133
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash used in operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization including financing costs	23	36
Change in fair value of derivative financial instruments	0	-99
Stock based compensation expense	273	217
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of divested business:
Accounts receivable	95	-1,258
Other current assets	-100	-62
Other assets	0	1,030
Accounts payable, accrued payroll, accrued expenses and other current liabilities	-575	-697
Other long term assets/(liabilities)	8	-2
Net cash used in operating activities	-53	-702
Investing activities
Purchase of equipment and improvements	-94	-6
Net cash used in investing activities	-94	-6
Financing activities
Net (payments)/borrowing on bank loan payable	0	-11
Proceeds from exercise of warrants	0	52
Repayments of capital lease obligations	0	-14
Net repayment on convertible debentures	0	-140
Repurchased shares of common stock held as treasury stock	-3	-21
Net cash used in financing activities	-3	-134
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents	-150	-842
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	3,908	3,408
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	3,758	2,566
Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information
Cash paid during the period for interest	10	92
Cash paid during the period for income taxes	$0	$0

Basis_of_Presentation

Basis of Presentation	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Basis of Presentation	Basis of Presentation
	The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements include the accounts of DLH and its subsidiaries, all of which are wholly owned. All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. The accompanying financial statements have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, these statements do not include all of the information and footnotes required by generally accepted accounting principles for complete financial statements. In the opinion of management, all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring accruals) considered necessary for a fair presentation have been included. Operating results for the quarter ended December 31, 2014 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the year ending September 30, 2015. For further information, refer to the consolidated financial statements and footnotes thereto included in the Company's Annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended September 30, 2014 filed on December 10, 2014.

Business_Overview

Business Overview	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Business Overview	Business Overview
	For more than 25 years, DLH Holdings Corp. ("DLH"), has provided professional services to the U.S. Government. Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, DLH employs over 1,200 skilled technicians, logisticians, engineers, healthcare and support personnel at more than 25 locations around the United States. DLH’s operating subsidiary, DLH Solutions, Inc., is organized into two broad integrated revenue streams: Healthcare Delivery Solutions and Logistics & Technical Services. Our customers, a majority of whom are within the Departments of Defense ("DoD") and Veterans Affairs ("DVA"), benefit from proven business process management processes, technical excellence and differentiation, and cost management. The remaining portion of DLH's business is comprised of customers within the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Departments of Justice, Agriculture, Interior and Federal Emergency Management Agency, at locations throughout the United States.
	DLH Holdings Corp. (together with its subsidiaries, "DLH" or the "Company" and also referred to as "we," "us" and "our") manages its operations from its principal executive offices at 1776 Peachtree Street, Atlanta, Georgia 30309.
	Presently, the Company derives all of its revenue from agencies of the Federal government. A major customer is defined as a customer from whom the Company derives at least 10% of its revenues. In each of the fiscal quarters ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, revenue from the U.S. Government accounted, either directly or indirectly, for 100% of the Company’s total revenue. Within the U.S. Government, our largest customer continues to be the Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA), at 97% of revenue for the three months ended December 31, 2014 and 2013. In addition, substantially all accounts receivable, including unbilled accounts receivable, are from agencies of the U.S. Government as of December 31, 2014 and 2013. We believe that the credit risk associated with our receivables is limited due to the creditworthiness of these customers. See Note 5, Supporting Financial Information-Accounts Receivable.
	DLH remains dependent upon the continuation of its relationship with the DVA. As of December 31, 2014, awards from the DVA have anticipated periods of performance ranging from approximately two to up to four years. These agreements are subject to the Federal Acquisition Regulations. While there can be no assurance as to the actual amount of services that the Company will ultimately provide to the DVA under its current contract, we believe that our strong working relationship and our effective service delivery support ongoing performance for the contract term. The Company's results of operations, cash flows and financial condition would be materially adversely affected in the event that we were unable to continue our relationships with the DVA.

New_Accounting_Pronouncements

New Accounting Pronouncements	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Accounting Changes and Error Corrections [Abstract]
New Accounting Pronouncements	New Accounting Pronouncements
	In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued guidance outlining a single comprehensive model for entities to use in accounting for revenue arising from contracts with customers that supersedes most current revenue recognition guidance. This guidance requires an entity to recognize revenue when it transfers promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. Additionally, this guidance expands related disclosure requirements. The effective date of these revisions is for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016, with early application not permitted. The Company is evaluating the impact of this guidance.
	In June 2014, the FASB issued guidance related to accounting for share-based payments for certain performance stock awards. The effective date of this guidance is for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2015, with early adoption permitted. The Company is evaluating the impact of this guidance.
	In August 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued guidance regarding management's going concern evaluations. The guidance requires management to evaluate, at each interim and annual reporting period, whether there are conditions or events that raise substantial doubt about the entity’s ability to continue as a going concern within one year after the date the financial statements are issued, and provide related disclosures. The guidance is effective for all entities for annual periods ending after December 15, 2016, and for annual and interim periods thereafter, and early adoption is permitted. We do not believe the standard will have a material impact on our financial statement disclosures.

Reclassifications

Reclassifications	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Reclassifications	Reclassifications
	Certain reclassifications may be made to the prior period financial statements to conform to the current period presentation. Such reclassifications have no effect on previously reported results of operations or accumulated deficit.

Supporting_Financial_Informati

Supporting Financial Information Supporting Financial Information	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Supporting Financial Information	Supporting Financial Information
	Accounts Receivable
						(in thousands)
					December 31,					September 30,
			Ref			2014					2014
	Billed receivables					$	2,189				$	2,569
	Unbilled receivables		(a)			10,088					9,803
	Total accounts receivable					12,277					12,372
	Less: Allowance for doubtful accounts		(b)			—					—
	Accounts receivable, net					$	12,277				$	12,372
	Ref (a): Includes $9.3 million related to retroactive billings submitted to incorporate the impact of relevant wage determinations on certain contracts. Revenues related to these retroactive billings were recognized in fiscal 2008 in accordance with GAAP, as follows: (1) the Company developed and calculated an amount for such prior period services and had a contractual right to bill for such amounts under its arrangements, which was formalized in a contract modification (2) there were no remaining unfulfilled conditions for approval of such billings and (3) collectibility was reasonably assured based on historical practices with, and contractual requirements of, the DVA. The related direct costs, principally comprised of salaries and benefits, were accrued to match the recognized reimbursements from the Federal agency; upon approval, wages will be processed for payment to the employees. During the year ended September 30, 2008, DLH recognized revenues of $10.8 million revenue related to these non-recurring adjustments, of which $1.5 million was subsequently billed and collected. DLH had ongoing interactions with the customer during fiscal 2014, and we submitted a claim to the DVA in September 2014 seeking a final determination by the DVA’s contracting officer of the amount due to DLH and immediate payment of such amount. Although the timing cannot be guaranteed, at present, the Company expects to bill and collect such amounts within the next twelve months. The remaining $0.8 million and $0.5 million of unbilled accounts receivable at December 31, 2014 and September 30, 2014, respectively, relates to current operations.
	Ref (b): Accounts receivable are non-interest bearing, unsecured and carried at fair value, which is net of an allowance for doubtful accounts. We evaluate our receivables on a quarterly basis and determine whether an allowance is appropriate based on specific collection issues. Our allowance for doubtful accounts was zero at both December 31, 2014 and September 30, 2014.
	Other Current Assets
						(in thousands)
					December 31,					September 30,
			Ref			2014					2014
	Workers' compensation receivable		(a)			$	197				$	199
	Prepaid insurance expense					105					176
	Other prepaid expenses					308					135
	Total other current assets					$	610				$	510
	Ref (a): As part of the Company’s discontinued PEO operations, DLH had a workers’ compensation program with Zurich American Insurance Company (“Zurich”) which covered the period from March 22, 2002 through November 16, 2003, inclusive. DLH estimates that the remaining workers compensation receivable of approximately $0.2 million will be received within the next twelve months.
	Accrued Payroll
						(in thousands)
					December 31,					September 30,
			Ref			2014					2014
	Accrued current payroll					$	1,890				$	2,440
	Accrued payroll related to unbilled accounts receivable		(a)			9,176					9,025
	Total accrued payroll					$	11,066				$	11,465
	Ref (a): Includes $8.7 million related to retroactive billings submitted to incorporate the impact of relevant wage determinations on certain contracts. The remaining $0.5 million and $0.3 million of accrued payroll for unbilled accounts receivable at December 31, 2014 and September 30, 2014, respectively, relates to current operations.
	Equipment and Improvements, net
						(in thousands)
					December 31,					September 30,
			Ref			2014					2014
	Furniture and equipment					$	139				$	139
	Computer equipment					220					126
	Computer software					430					430
	Leasehold improvements					24					24
						813					719
	Less accumulated depreciation and amortization					(679		)			(656		)
	Equipment and improvements, net		(a)			$	134				$	63
	Ref (a): Equipment and improvements are stated at cost. Depreciation and amortization are provided using the straight-line method over the estimated useful asset lives (3 to 5) and the shorter of the initial lease term or estimated useful life for leasehold improvements. Maintenance and repair costs are expensed as incurred.
	Accounts Payable, Accrued Expenses, and Other Current Liabilities
						(in thousands)
					December 31,					September 30,
			Ref			2014					2014
	Accounts payable					$	599				$	779
	Accrued benefits					816					720
	Accrued bonus and incentive compensation					97					693
	Accrued workers compensation insurance					1,106					767
	Other accrued expenses					489					339
	Payroll tax accrual		(a)			1,463					1,448
	Total accrued expenses and other current liabilities					$	4,570				$	4,746
	Ref (a): From 2006 through 2009, DLH received notices from the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) claiming taxes, interest and penalties due related to payroll taxes. These notices are predominantly related to the former PEO operations which were sold in fiscal 2003. The liability includes estimated accrued penalties and interest totaling approximately $644 thousand.
	Other Income (Expense)
			(in thousands)
			Three Months Ended
			December 31,
		Ref	2014				2014
	Interest expense, net		$	(24	)		$	(22	)
	Amortization of deferred financing costs		—				(10		)
	Change in value of financial instruments	(a)	—				99
	Miscellaneous other expense, net		(12		)		—
	Total other income (expense), net		(36		)		67
	Ref (a): Represents the adjustment to fair value of embedded conversion feature and warrants related to the Company's convertible debentures. Such instruments did not meet the requirements for qualified hedge accounting under GAAP. See Note 12 regarding maturity and closure of the convertible debentures.

Liquidity

Liquidity	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Abstract]
Liquidity	Liquidity
	At December 31, 2014, the Company had cash and cash equivalents of approximately $3.8 million, net working capital of approximately $1.1 million, and an accumulated deficit of approximately $(62.1) million. For the three months ended December 31, 2014, the Company realized operating income of approximately $259 thousand and net income of approximately $134 thousand, as compared to operating income and net income of $66 thousand and $133 thousand respectively for the three months ended December 31, 2013.
	The Company has a credit facility with a lending institution which provides a maximum amount of $6 million and includes a maximum amount available under the unbilled facility of $1 million. The current term of the credit facility expires on July 29, 2015 and thereafter shall automatically renew on each anniversary date thereof for subsequent twelve month terms unless terminated by either party. Presently, the maximum availability under this loan facility is $3 million, subject to eligible accounts receivable, excluding retroactive billings.  The interest rate on the Accounts Receivable portion of the loan was 4.0% at December 31, 2014, and September 30, 2014.  The interest rate on the Unbilled Accounts portion was 4.0% at December 31, 2014, and September 30, 2014. At December 31, 2014, our unused loan availability was approximately $2.6 million, comprised of a $1.4 million letter of credit reserve and $1.2 million of unused loan capacity. DLH required no borrowing on the credit facility during first quarter ended December 31, 2014.
	Management believes, at present, that: (a) cash and cash equivalents of approximately $3.8 million as of December 31, 2014; (b) the amount available under its line of credit (which is limited to the amount of eligible assets); and (c) planned operating cash flow should be sufficient to support the Company's operations for twelve months from the date of these financial statements.

Significant_Accounting_Policie

Significant Accounting Policies	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Significant Accounting Policies	Significant Accounting Policies
	Use of Estimates
	The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Significant estimates include valuation of goodwill, expected settlement amounts of accounts receivable, valuation allowances established against accounts receivable and deferred tax assets, and measurement of loss development on workers’ compensation claims. Actual results could differ from those estimates. In particular, a material reduction in the fair value of goodwill would have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position and results of operations.
	Revenue Recognition
	DLH’s revenue is derived from professional and other specialized service offerings to US Government agencies through a variety of contracts, some of which are fixed-price in nature and/or sourced through Federal Supply Schedules administered by the General Services Administration (“GSA”) at fixed unit rates or hourly arrangements. We generally operate as a prime contractor, but have also entered into contracts as a subcontractor. The recognition of revenue from fixed rates is based upon objective criteria that generally do not require significant estimates that may change over time. DLH recognizes and records revenue on government contracts when it is realized, or realizable, and earned. DLH considers these requirements met when: (a) persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists; (b) the services have been delivered to the customer; (c) the sales price is fixed or determinable and free of contingencies or significant uncertainties; and (d) collectibility is reasonably assured.
	Goodwill
	DLH continues to review its goodwill for possible impairment or loss of value at least annually or more frequently upon the occurrence of an event or when circumstances indicate that a reporting unit’s carrying amount is greater than its fair value.  At September 30, 2014, we performed a goodwill impairment evaluation. We performed both a qualitative and quantitative assessment of factors to determine whether it was necessary to perform the goodwill impairment test. Based on the results of the work performed, the Company has concluded that no impairment loss was warranted at September 30, 2014. Factors including non-renewal of a major contract or other substantial changes in business conditions could have a material adverse effect on the valuation of goodwill in future periods and the resulting charge could be material to future periods’ results of operations. For the three months ended December 31, 2014, the Company determined that no change in business conditions occurred which would have a material adverse effect on the valuation of goodwill.  If an impairment write off of all the goodwill became necessary in future periods, a charge of up to $8.6 million would be expensed in the Consolidated Statement of Operations. All remaining goodwill is attributable to the DLH Solutions operating subsidiary.
	Income Taxes
	DLH accounts for income taxes in accordance with the liability method, whereby deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on the difference between the financial statement and tax bases of assets and liabilities, using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which the differences are expected to reverse. Deferred tax assets are reflected on the consolidated balance sheet when it is determined that it is more likely than not that the asset will be realized. This guidance also requires that deferred tax assets be reduced by a valuation allowance if it is more likely than not that some or all of the deferred tax asset will not be realized. 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. We had no uncertain tax positions at either December 31, 2014 and 2013. We report interest and penalties as a component of income tax expense. In the fiscal quarters ending December 31, 2014 and 2013, we recognized no interest and no penalties related to income taxes.
	The Company has adequate net operating loss carryforwards to offset against any taxable income in the current period. The Company has deferred tax assets before valuation allowance of $15.6 million and $15.7 million as of December 31, 2014 and September 30, 2014, respectively,. We have recorded a valuation allowance of $11.1 million as of December 31, 2014 and September 30, 2014. Tax years open for examination are 2011 and forward.
	Cash and Cash Equivalents
	We consider all highly liquid investments with an original maturity of three months or less when purchased to be cash equivalents. We maintain cash balances at financial institutions that are insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”) up to $250,000.  Deposits held with financial institutions may exceed the $250,000 limit.

Stockbased_Compensatin_Equity_

Stock-based Compensatin, Equity Grants, and Warrants	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Stock-based Compensation, Equity Grants, and Warrants	Stock-based compensation, equity grants, and warrants
	Stock-based compensation expense
	All grants of equity are presently made under the 2006 Long Term Incentive Plan. As of December 31, 2014, 0.9 million shares remained available for grant under the Plan. Options issued under the Plan are designated as either an incentive stock or a non-statutory stock option. No option may be granted with a term of more than 10 years from the date of grant. Exercisability of
	option awards may depend on achievement of certain performance measures determined by the Compensation Committee of our Board. Shares issued upon option exercise are newly issued shares.
	Stock-based compensation expense, shown in the table below, is recorded in general and administrative expenses included in our statement of operations:
			(in thousands)
			Three Months Ended
		Ref	December 31,
			2014			2013
	DLH employees		$	96		$	108
	Non-employee directors	(a)	177			109
	Total compensation expense		$	273		$	217
	Ref (a): Equity grants of restricted stock, in accordance with DLH compensation policy for non-employee directors. The shares vested immediately and stock expense was recognized accordingly.
	Unrecognized stock-based compensation expense
			(in thousands)
			Three Months Ended
			December 31,
		Ref	2014			2013
	Unrecognized expense for DLH employees	(a)	$	249		$	201
	Unrecognized expense for non-employee directors	(b)	125			150
	Total unrecognized expense		$	374		$	351
	Ref (a): Compensation expense for the portion of equity awards for which the requisite service has not been rendered is recognized as the requisite service is rendered. The compensation expense for that portion of awards has been based on the grant-date fair value of those awards as calculated for recognition purposes under applicable guidance.
	Ref (b): Unrecognized stock expense related to prior years equity grants of restricted stock to non-employee directors, based on performance criteria, in accordance with DLH compensation policy for non-employee directors. The shares will vest and expense will be recorded upon future satisfaction of specified performance.
	Stock option activity for the three months ended December 31, 2014
	The aggregate intrinsic value in the table below represents the total pretax intrinsic value (i.e., the difference between the Company’s closing stock price on the last trading day of the period and the exercise price, times the number of shares) that would have been received by the option holders had all option holders exercised their in the money options on those dates. This amount will change based on the fair market value of the Company’s stock.
							(in years)
							Weighted
					Weighted		Average	(in thousands)
			(in thousands)		Average		Remaining	Aggregate
			Number of		Exercise		Contractual	Intrinsic
		Ref	Shares		Price		Term	Value
	Options outstanding, September 30, 2014		2,380		$1.40		7.8	$	1,589
	Granted		—
	Cancelled	(a)	(44	)	$1.40
	Options outstanding, December 31, 2014		2,336		$1.40		7.5	$	1,727
	Ref (a): Shares canceled upon termination of employment or expiration of period to complete performance conditions.
	Stock options shares outstanding, vested and unvested for the period ended
			(in thousands)
			Number of Shares
			December 31,
		Ref	2014		2013
	Vested and exercisable		968		463
	Unvested	(a)	1,368		1,755
	Options outstanding		2,336		2,218
	Ref (a): Certain awards vest upon satisfaction of certain performance criteria.

Fair_Value_of_Financial_Instru

Fair Value of Financial Instruments	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value of Financial Instruments	Fair Value of Financial Instruments
	The Company has financial instruments, including accounts receivable, accounts payable, loan payable, notes payable, and accrued expense. Due to the short term nature of these instruments, DLH estimates that the fair value of all financial instruments at December 31, 2014 and September 30, 2014 does not differ materially from the aggregate carrying values of these financial instruments recorded in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.

Earnings_Per_Share

Earnings Per Share	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Earnings Per Share	Earnings Per Share
	Basic earnings per share is calculated by dividing income available to common shareholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding and restricted stock grants that vested or are likely to vest during the period. Diluted earnings per share is calculated by dividing income available to common shareholders by the weighted average number of basic common shares outstanding, adjusted to reflect potentially dilutive securities. Diluted earnings per share is calculated using the treasury stock method.
		(in thousands)
		Three Months Ended
		December 31,
		2014		2013
	Numerator:
	Net income	$	134	$	133
	Denominator:
	Denominator for basic net income per share - weighted-average outstanding shares	9,601		9,494
	Effect of dilutive securities:
	Stock options and restricted stock	447		55
	Denominator for diluted net income per share - weighted-average outstanding shares	10,048		9,549
	Net income per share - basic	$	0.01	$	0.01
	Net income per share - diluted	$	0.01	$	0.01

Commitment_and_Contingencies

Commitment and Contingencies	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES:	Commitments and Contingencies
	Contractual Obligations
				Payments Due By Period
	Obligations			Less than		3-Jan
	(Amounts in thousands)	Total		1 Year		Years
	Loan Payable (1)	$	—	$	—	$	—
	Operating Leases	260		122		138
	Total Obligations	$	260	$	122	$	138
	(1)     Represents the amounts recorded in respect of the loan payable due to Presidential Financial Corporation in accordance with the loan agreement. As of December 31, 2014 there were no outstanding amounts.
	Retroactive Billing Adjustments
	The Company continues to support the Government’s review of the detailed supporting calculations for the retroactive billings described in Note 5 and to negotiate an incremental final amount related to indirect costs and fees applied to these retroactive billings. The additional indirect costs and fees are estimated to be between $0.4 million and $0.6 million. The Company has developed these estimates under the same contractual provisions applied to the sites that were settled in 2008. However, because these amounts remain subject to government review, no assurances can be given that any amounts the Company may receive will be within the range specified above. Refer to Note 5, Accounts Receivable for further information.
	Workers Compensation
	We accrue workers compensation expense based on claims submitted, applying actuarial loss development factors to estimate the costs incurred but not yet recorded. Our accrued liability for claims development for the periods ended December 31, 2014 and September 30, 2014 was $1.1 million and $0.8 million, respectively.
	Legal Proceedings
	As a commercial enterprise and employer, the Company is subject to various claims and legal actions in the ordinary course of business. These matters can include professional liability, employment-relations issues, workers’ compensation, tax, payroll and employee-related matters, other commercial disputes arising in the course of its business, and inquiries and investigations by governmental agencies regarding our employment practices or other matters. The Company is not aware of any pending or threatened litigation that it believes is reasonably likely to have a material adverse effect on its results of operations, financial position or cash flows.

Equity_and_Convertible_Debentu

Equity and Convertible Debentures Financing	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Equity [Abstract]
Equity and Convertible Debentures Financing	Equity and Convertible Debentures Financing
	As has been previously disclosed, certain entities affiliated with Wynnefield Capital, Inc., the Company’s largest stockholder, owned convertible debentures in an aggregate principal amount of $350,000 and warrants to purchase an aggregate of 53,846 shares of common stock. These instruments were issued pursuant to a debenture purchase agreement in June 2011. The warrants were exercisable at a price of $0.96 until June 2016 and the conversion rate of the convertible debentures was $1.25.
	Upon maturity on October 28, 2013, the principal amount of $210,000 of convertible debentures was converted into 168,000 shares of common stock and the principal amount of $140,000 on the remaining debenture was repaid in full. In addition, in October 2013, the holders of the Warrants exercised such Warrants in full for 53,846 shares of common stock. A gain of $119 thousand was recognized, which represented the change in the fair value of the derivative immediately prior to conversion. Additionally, expense of $20 thousand was recorded in the three months ended December 31, 2013, related to fair valuation of the warrants. The accrued liability of $61 thousand with respect to the fair value of the warrants was reflected as additional paid in capital upon their exercise. The shares of the Company’s common stock issued upon conversion of the debentures were issued in reliance on the exemption from registration provided by Section 3(a)(9) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. The shares of the Company’s common stock issued upon exercise of the warrants were issued in reliance on the exemption from registration provided by Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

Subsequent_Events

Subsequent Events	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Subsequent Events [Abstract]
Subsequent Events	Subsequent Events:
	Management has evaluated subsequent events through the date that the Company's financial statements were issued. Based on this evaluation, the Company has determined that no subsequent events have occurred which require disclosure through the date that these financial statements were issued.

Significant_Accounting_Policie1

Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Use of Estimates	Use of Estimates
	The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Significant estimates include valuation of goodwill, expected settlement amounts of accounts receivable, valuation allowances established against accounts receivable and deferred tax assets, and measurement of loss development on workers’ compensation claims. Actual results could differ from those estimates. In particular, a material reduction in the fair value of goodwill would have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position and results of operations.
Revenue Recognition	Revenue Recognition
	DLH’s revenue is derived from professional and other specialized service offerings to US Government agencies through a variety of contracts, some of which are fixed-price in nature and/or sourced through Federal Supply Schedules administered by the General Services Administration (“GSA”) at fixed unit rates or hourly arrangements. We generally operate as a prime contractor, but have also entered into contracts as a subcontractor. The recognition of revenue from fixed rates is based upon objective criteria that generally do not require significant estimates that may change over time. DLH recognizes and records revenue on government contracts when it is realized, or realizable, and earned. DLH considers these requirements met when: (a) persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists; (b) the services have been delivered to the customer; (c) the sales price is fixed or determinable and free of contingencies or significant uncertainties; and (d) collectibility is reasonably assured.
Goodwill	Goodwill
	DLH continues to review its goodwill for possible impairment or loss of value at least annually or more frequently upon the occurrence of an event or when circumstances indicate that a reporting unit’s carrying amount is greater than its fair value.  At September 30, 2014, we performed a goodwill impairment evaluation. We performed both a qualitative and quantitative assessment of factors to determine whether it was necessary to perform the goodwill impairment test. Based on the results of the work performed, the Company has concluded that no impairment loss was warranted at September 30, 2014. Factors including non-renewal of a major contract or other substantial changes in business conditions could have a material adverse effect on the valuation of goodwill in future periods and the resulting charge could be material to future periods’ results of operations. For the three months ended December 31, 2014, the Company determined that no change in business conditions occurred which would have a material adverse effect on the valuation of goodwill.  If an impairment write off of all the goodwill became necessary in future periods, a charge of up to $8.6 million would be expensed in the Consolidated Statement of Operations. All remaining goodwill is attributable to the DLH Solutions operating subsidiary.
Income Taxes	Income Taxes
	DLH accounts for income taxes in accordance with the liability method, whereby deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on the difference between the financial statement and tax bases of assets and liabilities, using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which the differences are expected to reverse. Deferred tax assets are reflected on the consolidated balance sheet when it is determined that it is more likely than not that the asset will be realized. This guidance also requires that deferred tax assets be reduced by a valuation allowance if it is more likely than not that some or all of the deferred tax asset will not be realized. 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. We had no uncertain tax positions at either December 31, 2014 and 2013. We report interest and penalties as a component of income tax expense. In the fiscal quarters ending December 31, 2014 and 2013, we recognized no interest and no penalties related to income taxes.
	The Company has adequate net operating loss carryforwards to offset against any taxable income in the current period. The Company has deferred tax assets before valuation allowance of $15.6 million and $15.7 million as of December 31, 2014 and September 30, 2014, respectively,. We have recorded a valuation allowance of $11.1 million as of December 31, 2014 and September 30, 2014. Tax years open for examination are 2011 and forward.
Cash and Cash Equivalents	Cash and Cash Equivalents
	We consider all highly liquid investments with an original maturity of three months or less when purchased to be cash equivalents. We maintain cash balances at financial institutions that are insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”) up to $250,000.  Deposits held with financial institutions may exceed the $250,000 limit.

Supporting_Financial_Informati1

Supporting Financial Information (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Schedule of Accounts Receivable	Accounts Receivable
						(in thousands)
					December 31,					September 30,
			Ref			2014					2014
	Billed receivables					$	2,189				$	2,569
	Unbilled receivables		(a)			10,088					9,803
	Total accounts receivable					12,277					12,372
	Less: Allowance for doubtful accounts		(b)			—					—
	Accounts receivable, net					$	12,277				$	12,372
	Ref (a): Includes $9.3 million related to retroactive billings submitted to incorporate the impact of relevant wage determinations on certain contracts. Revenues related to these retroactive billings were recognized in fiscal 2008 in accordance with GAAP, as follows: (1) the Company developed and calculated an amount for such prior period services and had a contractual right to bill for such amounts under its arrangements, which was formalized in a contract modification (2) there were no remaining unfulfilled conditions for approval of such billings and (3) collectibility was reasonably assured based on historical practices with, and contractual requirements of, the DVA. The related direct costs, principally comprised of salaries and benefits, were accrued to match the recognized reimbursements from the Federal agency; upon approval, wages will be processed for payment to the employees. During the year ended September 30, 2008, DLH recognized revenues of $10.8 million revenue related to these non-recurring adjustments, of which $1.5 million was subsequently billed and collected. DLH had ongoing interactions with the customer during fiscal 2014, and we submitted a claim to the DVA in September 2014 seeking a final determination by the DVA’s contracting officer of the amount due to DLH and immediate payment of such amount. Although the timing cannot be guaranteed, at present, the Company expects to bill and collect such amounts within the next twelve months. The remaining $0.8 million and $0.5 million of unbilled accounts receivable at December 31, 2014 and September 30, 2014, respectively, relates to current operations.
	Ref (b): Accounts receivable are non-interest bearing, unsecured and carried at fair value, which is net of an allowance for doubtful accounts. We evaluate our receivables on a quarterly basis and determine whether an allowance is appropriate based on specific collection issues. Our allowance for doubtful accounts was zero at both December 31, 2014 and September 30, 2014.
Schedule of Other Current Assets	Other Current Assets
						(in thousands)
					December 31,					September 30,
			Ref			2014					2014
	Workers' compensation receivable		(a)			$	197				$	199
	Prepaid insurance expense					105					176
	Other prepaid expenses					308					135
	Total other current assets					$	610				$	510
	Ref (a): As part of the Company’s discontinued PEO operations, DLH had a workers’ compensation program with Zurich American Insurance Company (“Zurich”) which covered the period from March 22, 2002 through November 16, 2003, inclusive. DLH estimates that the remaining workers compensation receivable of approximately $0.2 million will be received within the next twelve months.
Schedule of Accrued Payroll	Accrued Payroll
						(in thousands)
					December 31,					September 30,
			Ref			2014					2014
	Accrued current payroll					$	1,890				$	2,440
	Accrued payroll related to unbilled accounts receivable		(a)			9,176					9,025
	Total accrued payroll					$	11,066				$	11,465
	Ref (a): Includes $8.7 million related to retroactive billings submitted to incorporate the impact of relevant wage determinations on certain contracts. The remaining $0.5 million and $0.3 million of accrued payroll for unbilled accounts receivable at December 31, 2014 and September 30, 2014, respectively, relates to current operations.
Equipment and Improvemnts, Net	Equipment and Improvements, net
						(in thousands)
					December 31,					September 30,
			Ref			2014					2014
	Furniture and equipment					$	139				$	139
	Computer equipment					220					126
	Computer software					430					430
	Leasehold improvements					24					24
						813					719
	Less accumulated depreciation and amortization					(679		)			(656		)
	Equipment and improvements, net		(a)			$	134				$	63
	Ref (a): Equipment and improvements are stated at cost. Depreciation and amortization are provided using the straight-line method over the estimated useful asset lives (3 to 5) and the shorter of the initial lease term or estimated useful life for leasehold improvements. Maintenance and repair costs are expensed as incurred.
Accounts Payable, Accrued Expenses, and Other Current Liabilities	Accounts Payable, Accrued Expenses, and Other Current Liabilities
						(in thousands)
					December 31,					September 30,
			Ref			2014					2014
	Accounts payable					$	599				$	779
	Accrued benefits					816					720
	Accrued bonus and incentive compensation					97					693
	Accrued workers compensation insurance					1,106					767
	Other accrued expenses					489					339
	Payroll tax accrual		(a)			1,463					1,448
	Total accrued expenses and other current liabilities					$	4,570				$	4,746
	Ref (a): From 2006 through 2009, DLH received notices from the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) claiming taxes, interest and penalties due related to payroll taxes. These notices are predominantly related to the former PEO operations which were sold in fiscal 2003. The liability includes estimated accrued penalties and interest totaling approximately $644 thousand.
Other Income (Expense)	Other Income (Expense)
			(in thousands)
			Three Months Ended
			December 31,
		Ref	2014				2014
	Interest expense, net		$	(24	)		$	(22	)
	Amortization of deferred financing costs		—				(10		)
	Change in value of financial instruments	(a)	—				99
	Miscellaneous other expense, net		(12		)		—
	Total other income (expense), net		(36		)		67
	Ref (a): Represents the adjustment to fair value of embedded conversion feature and warrants related to the Company's convertible debentures. Such instruments did not meet the requirements for qualified hedge accounting under GAAP. See Note 12 regarding maturity and closure of the convertible debentures.

Stockbased_Compensation_Equity

Stock-based Compensation, Equity Grants, and Warrants (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Stock-based Compensation Expense	Stock-based compensation expense
	All grants of equity are presently made under the 2006 Long Term Incentive Plan. As of December 31, 2014, 0.9 million shares remained available for grant under the Plan. Options issued under the Plan are designated as either an incentive stock or a non-statutory stock option. No option may be granted with a term of more than 10 years from the date of grant. Exercisability of
	option awards may depend on achievement of certain performance measures determined by the Compensation Committee of our Board. Shares issued upon option exercise are newly issued shares.
	Stock-based compensation expense, shown in the table below, is recorded in general and administrative expenses included in our statement of operations:
			(in thousands)
			Three Months Ended
		Ref	December 31,
			2014			2013
	DLH employees		$	96		$	108
	Non-employee directors	(a)	177			109
	Total compensation expense		$	273		$	217
	Ref (a): Equity grants of restricted stock, in accordance with DLH compensation policy for non-employee directors. The shares vested immediately and stock expense was recognized accordingly.
	Unrecognized stock-based compensation expense
			(in thousands)
			Three Months Ended
			December 31,
		Ref	2014			2013
	Unrecognized expense for DLH employees	(a)	$	249		$	201
	Unrecognized expense for non-employee directors	(b)	125			150
	Total unrecognized expense		$	374		$	351
	Ref (a): Compensation expense for the portion of equity awards for which the requisite service has not been rendered is recognized as the requisite service is rendered. The compensation expense for that portion of awards has been based on the grant-date fair value of those awards as calculated for recognition purposes under applicable guidance.
	Ref (b): Unrecognized stock expense related to prior years equity grants of restricted stock to non-employee directors, based on performance criteria, in accordance with DLH compensation policy for non-employee directors. The shares will vest and expense will be recorded upon future satisfaction of specified performance.
Stock Option Activity	Stock option activity for the three months ended December 31, 2014
	The aggregate intrinsic value in the table below represents the total pretax intrinsic value (i.e., the difference between the Company’s closing stock price on the last trading day of the period and the exercise price, times the number of shares) that would have been received by the option holders had all option holders exercised their in the money options on those dates. This amount will change based on the fair market value of the Company’s stock.
							(in years)
							Weighted
					Weighted		Average	(in thousands)
			(in thousands)		Average		Remaining	Aggregate
			Number of		Exercise		Contractual	Intrinsic
		Ref	Shares		Price		Term	Value
	Options outstanding, September 30, 2014		2,380		$1.40		7.8	$	1,589
	Granted		—
	Cancelled	(a)	(44	)	$1.40
	Options outstanding, December 31, 2014		2,336		$1.40		7.5	$	1,727
	Ref (a): Shares canceled upon termination of employment or expiration of period to complete performance conditions.
Stock Option Shares Outstanding, Vested and Expected to Vest	Stock options shares outstanding, vested and unvested for the period ended
			(in thousands)
			Number of Shares
			December 31,
		Ref	2014		2013
	Vested and exercisable		968		463
	Unvested	(a)	1,368		1,755
	Options outstanding		2,336		2,218
	Ref (a): Certain awards vest upon satisfaction of certain performance criteria.

Earnings_Per_Share_Tables

Earnings Per Share (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Diluted earnings per share	Earnings Per Share
	Basic earnings per share is calculated by dividing income available to common shareholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding and restricted stock grants that vested or are likely to vest during the period. Diluted earnings per share is calculated by dividing income available to common shareholders by the weighted average number of basic common shares outstanding, adjusted to reflect potentially dilutive securities. Diluted earnings per share is calculated using the treasury stock method.
		(in thousands)
		Three Months Ended
		December 31,
		2014		2013
	Numerator:
	Net income	$	134	$	133
	Denominator:
	Denominator for basic net income per share - weighted-average outstanding shares	9,601		9,494
	Effect of dilutive securities:
	Stock options and restricted stock	447		55
	Denominator for diluted net income per share - weighted-average outstanding shares	10,048		9,549
	Net income per share - basic	$	0.01	$	0.01
	Net income per share - diluted	$	0.01	$	0.01

Commitment_and_Contingencies_T

Commitment and Contingencies (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Contractual Obligation, Fiscal Year Maturity Schedule [Table Text Block]	Contractual Obligations
				Payments Due By Period
	Obligations			Less than		3-Jan
	(Amounts in thousands)	Total		1 Year		Years
	Loan Payable (1)	$	—	$	—	$	—
	Operating Leases	260		122		138
	Total Obligations	$	260	$	122	$	138
	(1)     Represents the amounts recorded in respect of the loan payable due to Presidential Financial Corporation in accordance with the loan agreement. As of December 31, 2014 there were no outstanding amounts.

Business_Overview_Details

Business Overview (Details)	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Minimum period for which entity has provided professional services to the U.S. Government (years)	25 years
Number of employees (employee)	1,200
Minimum number of locations in which entity operates (location)	25
Number of broad integrated revenue streams	2
US Government [Member] | Revenue concentration | Customer concentration
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Concentration risk percentage (percent)	100.00%	100.00%
DVA | Revenue concentration | Customer concentration
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Concentration risk percentage (percent)	97.00%	97.00%
DVA | Minimum
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Term of government contract	2 years
DVA | Maximum
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Term of government contract	4 years

Supporting_Financial_Informati2

Supporting Financial Information - Accounts Receivable (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2008	Sep. 30, 2014
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Total accounts receivable	$12,277,000			$12,372,000
Less: Allowance for doubtful accounts	0			0
Accounts Receivable, Net	12,277,000			12,372,000
Revenue	15,682,000	14,477,000
Billed Receivables
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Total accounts receivable	2,189,000			2,569,000
Unbilled Receivables
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Total accounts receivable	10,088,000			9,803,000
Retroactive Billings
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Total accounts receivable	9,300,000
Unbilled Accounts Receivable
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Total accounts receivable	800,000			500,000
DVA
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Contract revenue nonrecurring			10,800,000
Revenue			$1,500,000

Supporting_Financial_Informati3

Supporting Financial Information - Other Current Assets (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Workers' compensation receivable	$197	$199
Prepaid insurance expense	105	176
Other prepaid expenses	308	135
Other current assets	$610	$510

Supporting_Financial_Informati4

Supporting Financial Information - Accrued Payroll (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Accrued current payroll	$1,890	$2,440
Accrued payroll	11,066	11,465
Unbilled Receivables
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Accrued current payroll	9,176	9,025
Retroactive Billings
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Accrued current payroll	8,700
Accrued Payroll
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Accrued current payroll	$500	$300

Supporting_Financial_Informati5

Supporting Financial Information - Equipment and Improvements, net (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Furniture and equipment	139	$139
Computer equipment	220	126
Computer software	430	430
Leasehold improvements	24	24
Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross	813	719
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization	-679	-656
Equipment and improvements, net	134	$63
Minimum | Leasehold Improvements
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	3 years
Maximum | Leasehold Improvements
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	5 years

Supporting_Financial_Informati6

Supporting Financial Information - Accounts Payable, Accrued Expense and Other Current Liabilities (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Accounts payable	$599	$779
Accrued benefits	816	720
Accrued bonus and incentive compensation	97	693
Accrued workers compensation insurance	1,106	767
Other accrued expenses	489	339
Payroll tax accrual	1,463	1,448
Total accrued expenses and other current liabilities	4,570	4,746
Accrued interest and penalties	$644

Supporting_Financial_Informati7

Supporting Financial Information - Other Income (Expense) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Interest expense, net	($24)	($22)
Amortization of deferred financing costs	0	-10
Change in value of financial instruments	0	99
Misc other income (expense), net	-12	0
Other income (expense) net	($36)	$67

Liquidity_Details

Liquidity (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Abstract]
Cash and cash equivalents	$3,758,000	$2,566,000	$3,908,000	$3,408,000
Net working capital	1,100,000
Accumulated deficit	-62,110,000		-62,244,000
Operating income	259,000	66,000
Net income	134,000	133,000
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Amount of unused availability under the line	2,600,000
Line of Credit [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Maximum availability	6,000,000
Amount of unused availability under the line	1,200,000
Accounts receivables
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Maximum availability	3,000,000
Interest rate (percent)	4.00%		4.00%
Unbilled receivables
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Maximum availability	1,000,000
Interest rate (percent)	4.00%		4.00%
Letter of Credit [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Amount of unused availability under the line	$1,400,000

Significant_Accounting_Policie2

Significant Accounting Policies - Goodwill And Income Taxes (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014
Goodwill [Line Items]
Deferred tax assets	$15.60	$15.70
Valuation allowance	11.1
Maximum
Goodwill [Line Items]
Charge to be expensed, if an impairment of all the goodwill became necessary	$8.60

Stockbased_Compensation_Equity1

Stock-based Compensation, Equity Grants, and Warrants - Stock-based Compensation Expense (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
Share data in Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]
Total compensation expense	$273	$217
Total unrecognized expense	374	351
DLH Employees
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]
Total unrecognized expense	249	201
Non-employee Directors
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]
Total unrecognized expense	125	150
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses | DLH Employees
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]
Total compensation expense	96	108
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses | Non-employee Directors
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]
Total compensation expense	$177	$109
Long Term Incentive Plan 2006 | Employee Stock Option
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]
Number of shares available for grant	0.9
Expiration term	10 years

Stockbased_Compensation_Equity2

Stock-based Compensation, Equity Grants, and Warrants - Stock Option Activity (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Number of Shares
Outstanding at the beginning of the period (in shares)	2,380		2,218
Granted (in shares)	0
Cancelled (in shares)	-44
Outstanding at the end of the period (in shares)	2,336	2,380	2,218
Weighted Average Exercise Price
Outstanding at the beginning of the period (in dollars per share)	$1.40
Granted (in dollars per share)
Cancelled (in dollars per share)	$1.40
Outstanding at the end of the period (in dollars per share)	$1.40	$1.40
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term
Outstanding at the beginning of the period	7 years 6 months 11 days	7 years 9 months 18 days
Outstanding at the end of the period	7 years 6 months 11 days	7 years 9 months 18 days
Aggregate Intrinsic Value
Outstanding at the beginning of the period (in dollars)	$1,589
Outstanding at the end of the period (in dollars)	$1,727	$1,589

Stockbased_Compensation_Equity3

Stock-based Compensation, Equity Grants, and Warrants - Stock Options Outstanding, Vested and Unvested (Details)	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Vested and exercisable	968		463
Unvested	1,368		1,755
Option outstanding	2,336	2,380	2,218

Earnings_Per_Share_Details

Earnings Per Share (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Numerator [Abstract]
Net income	$134	$133
Denominator [Abstract]
Denominator for basic net income (loss) per share - weighted-average outstanding shares (shares)	9,601	9,494
Effect of dilutive securities:
Stock options and restricted stock (shares)	447	55
Denominator for diluted net income (loss) per share - weighted-average outstanding shares (shares)	10,048	9,549
Net income (loss) per share - basic (dollars per share)	$0.01	$0.01
Net income (loss) per share - diluted (dollars per share)	$0.01	$0.01

Commitment_and_Contingencies_D

Commitment and Contingencies (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Long-term Debt	$0
Long-term Debt, Less than 1 Year	0
Long-term Debt, 1-3 Years	0
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due	260,000
Operating Leases, Less than 1 Year	122,000
Operating Leases, 1-3 Years	138,000
Contractual Obligation	260,000
Contractual Obligation, Less than 1 Year	122,000
Contractual Obligation, 1-3 Years	138,000
Accrued workers compensation insurance	1,106,000	767,000
Minimum | DVA
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Estimated additional indirect costs and fees associated with contract modification pending final approval	400,000
Maximum | DVA
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Estimated additional indirect costs and fees associated with contract modification pending final approval	$600,000

Equity_and_Convertible_Debentu1

Equity and Convertible Debentures Financing (Details) (USD $)	0 Months Ended	1 Months Ended	3 Months Ended	0 Months Ended
	Oct. 28, 2013	Oct. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Jun. 01, 2011
Convertible debentures
EQUITY AND CONVERTIBLE DEBENTURES FINANCING
Repayments of Long-term Debt	$140,000
Debenture Purchase Agreement
EQUITY AND CONVERTIBLE DEBENTURES FINANCING
Gain (Loss) on Conversion of Convertible Instruments		119,000
Income (expense) recorded related to change in the fair value of financial instruments			20,000
Debenture Purchase Agreement | Warrant
EQUITY AND CONVERTIBLE DEBENTURES FINANCING
Warrants issued to Debenture Purchasers (in shares)				53,846
Debenture Purchase Agreement | Convertible debentures
EQUITY AND CONVERTIBLE DEBENTURES FINANCING
Aggregate principal amount of notes issued				350,000
Class of Warrant or Right Adjusted Exercise Price of Warrants or Rights			$1.25
Debenture Purchase Agreement | Common Stock | Convertible debentures
EQUITY AND CONVERTIBLE DEBENTURES FINANCING
Shares of common stock under conversion feature		168,000
Debenture Purchase Agreement | Warrant
EQUITY AND CONVERTIBLE DEBENTURES FINANCING
Warrants issued to Debenture Purchasers (in shares)		53,846
Class of Warrant or Right Adjusted Exercise Price of Warrants or Rights			$0.96
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	210,000
Accrued liability with respect to the warrants		$61,000