DLH (DLHC) 10-K 7 Dec 20 2020 FY Annual report Financial data

Document and Entity Information

Document and Entity Information - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020	Dec. 04, 2020	Mar. 31, 2020
Document and Entity Information
Entity Registrant Name	DLH Holdings Corp.
Entity Central Index Key	0000785557
Document Type	10-K
Document Period End Date	Sep. 30, 2020
Amendment Flag	false
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2020
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--09-30
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Filer Category	Non-accelerated Filer
Entity Small Business	true
Entity Emerging Growth Company	false
Entity Shell Company	false
Document Transition Report	false
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		12,531,906
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	No
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
ICFR Auditor Attestation Flag	true
Entity Public Float			$ 28,949,753

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPER

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Income Statement [Abstract]
Revenue	$ 209,185	$ 160,391
Contract costs	163,596	124,551
General and administrative costs	24,195	20,525
Acquisition costs	930	1,391
Depreciation and amortization	7,003	3,956
Total operating costs	195,724	150,423
Income from operations	13,461	9,968
Interest expense, net	3,441	2,473
Income before income taxes	10,020	7,495
Income tax expense	2,906	2,171
Net income	$ 7,114	$ 5,324
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Net income per share - basic (in dollars per share)	$ 0.58	$ 0.44
Net income per share - diluted (in dollars per share)	$ 0.54	$ 0.41
Weighted average common shares outstanding
Basic (in shares)	12,282	12,018
Diluted (in shares)	13,105	13,041

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 1,357	$ 1,790
Accounts receivable	32,541	23,226
Other current assets	3,499	1,831
Total current assets	37,397	26,847
Equipment and improvements, net	3,339	5,343
Operating leases right-of-use-assets	22,427
Deferred taxes, net	37	2,345
Goodwill	67,144	52,758
Intangible assets, net	52,612	41,208
Other long-term assets	606	757
Total assets	183,562	129,258
Current liabilities:
Debt obligations - current, net of deferred financing costs	6,727	0
Operating lease liabilities - current	2,045
Accrued payroll	10,611	8,852
Accounts payable, accrued expenses, and other current liabilities	28,578	20,633
Total current liabilities	47,961	29,485
Operating lease liabilities - long-term	21,620
Long-term portion of bank debt obligation	60,544	53,629
Other long-term liabilities	0	573
Total long-term liabilities	82,164	54,202
Total liabilities	130,125	83,687
SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Common stock, $0.001 par value; authorized 40,000 shares; issued and outstanding 12,404 and 12,036 at September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively	12	12
Additional paid-in capital	85,868	85,114
Accumulated deficit	(32,443)	(39,555)
Total shareholders’ equity	53,437	45,571
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity	$ 183,562	$ 129,258

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Pa

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Parenthetical) - $ / shares shares in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0.001	$ 0.001
Common stock, authorized shares (in shares)	40,000	40,000
Common stock, issued shares (in shares)	12,404	12,036
Common stock, outstanding shares (in shares)	12,404	12,036

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Operating activities
Net income	$ 7,114	$ 5,324
Depreciation and amortization	7,003	3,956
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Amortization of deferred financing costs	721	982
Stock based compensation expense	910	790
Deferred taxes, net	2,308	1,792
Non-cash gain from lease modification	(121)	0
Changes in operating assets and liabilities
Accounts receivable	(5,408)	617
Other current assets	(1,592)	(57)
Accrued payroll	489	178
Accounts payable, accrued expenses, and other current liabilities	7,188	5,262
Other long-term assets/liabilities	839	(805)
Net cash provided by operating activities	19,451	18,039
Investing activities
Business acquisition, net of cash acquired	(32,678)	(67,079)
Purchase of equipment and improvements	(152)	(405)
Net cash used in investing activities	(32,830)	(67,484)
Financing activities
Borrowing on senior debt	33,000	70,000
Repayments of senior debt	(19,000)	(21,708)
Repurchase of common stock	(211)	0
Payment of deferred financing costs	(898)	(3,451)
Proceeds from stock option exercise	55	39
Net cash provided by financing activities	12,946	44,880
Net change in cash and cash equivalents	(433)	(4,565)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year	1,790	6,355
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year	1,357	1,790
Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information
Cash paid during the year for interest	2,806	1,502
Cash paid during the year for income taxes	$ 917	$ 543

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAR

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	Total	Cumulative-effect adjustment for adoption of ASC 842	Common Stock	Treasury Stock	Additional Paid-In Capital	Accumulated Deficit	Accumulated DeficitCumulative-effect adjustment for adoption of ASC 842
Beginning Balance (shares) at Sep. 30, 2018			11,899	0
Beginning Balance at Sep. 30, 2018	$ 39,418		$ 12	$ 0	$ 84,285	$ (44,879)
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Expense related to director restricted stock unit (shares)			102
Expense related to director restricted stock unit	527				527
Expense related to employee stock options	263				263
Exercise of stock options (shares)			35
Exercise of stock options	39				39
Net income	$ 5,324					5,324
Ending Balance (shares) at Sep. 30, 2019	12,036		12,036	0
Ending Balance at Sep. 30, 2019	$ 45,571	$ (2)	$ 12	$ 0	85,114	(39,555)	$ (2)
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Expense related to director restricted stock unit (shares)			90
Expense related to director restricted stock unit	347				347
Expense related to employee stock options	$ 563				563
Exercise of stock options (shares)	395		395
Exercise of stock options	$ 55				55
Repurchases of common stock (in shares)				28
Repurchases of common stock	(113)			$ (113)
Cancellation of common stock (in shares)			(117)	(28)
Cancellation of common stock	(98)			$ 113	(211)
Net income	$ 7,114					7,114
Ending Balance (shares) at Sep. 30, 2020	12,404		12,404	0
Ending Balance at Sep. 30, 2020	$ 53,437		$ 12	$ 0	$ 85,868	$ (32,443)

Basis of Presentation

Basis of Presentation	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Basis of Presentation	Basis of Presentation The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of DLH Holdings Corp. and its subsidiaries (together with its subsidiaries, "DLH" or the "Company" and also referred to as "we," "us," and "our"), 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 U.S. generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP") and with the instructions to Form 10-K, Regulation S-X, and Regulation S-K.

Business Overview

Business Overview	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Business Overview	Business Overview The Company is a full-service provider of technology-enabled health and human services, providing solutions to three market focus areas: Defense and Veterans' Health Solutions, Human Solutions and Services, and Public Health and Life Sciences. We deliver domain-specific expertise, industry best-practices and innovations to customers across these markets leveraging seven core competencies: secure data analytics, clinical trials and laboratory services, case management, performance evaluation, system modernization, operational logistics and readiness, and strategic digital communications. The Company manages its operations from its principal executive offices in Atlanta, Georgia, and we have a complementary headquarters office in Silver Spring, Maryland. We employ over 2,200 skilled employees working in more than 30 locations throughout the United States and one location overseas. At present, the Company derives 98% of its revenue from agencies of the Federal government, primarily as a prime contractor but also as a subcontractor to other Federal prime contractors. A major customer is defined as a customer from whom the Company derives at least 10% of its revenues.

New Accounting Pronouncements

New Accounting Pronouncements	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020
Accounting Changes and Error Corrections [Abstract]
New Accounting Pronouncements	New Accounting Pronouncements In February 2016, the FASB issued new accounting guidance included in Accounting Standard Codification ("ASC") 842 related to leases. This new accounting guidance is intended to improve financial reporting about leasing transactions. This accounting standard will require organizations that lease assets, referred to as “Lessees”, to recognize on the balance sheet the assets and liabilities. Per ASU 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842), we determine if a contract contains a lease by identifying an asset and determining if we have the right to control the use of the identified asset for a period of time in exchange for consideration. A contract conveys the right to control the use of an identified asset when the lessee has the right to direct the use of the identified asset and obtain substantially all economic benefits from its use, throughout the period of its use. We also determine if a lease qualifies as an operating or finance lease. All Company leases at adoption were operating leases. The ASU also requires lessees to identify and separate lease and non-lease components. Per a practical expedient provided in the ASU, the Company elected not to separate lease and non-lease components. Upon lease commencement, the lease liability and right-of-use asset are recorded on the balance sheet. The lease liability is measured as the present value of future minimum lease payments, including all probable renewals, to be made during the lease term. The right-of-use asset is measured as the present value of future minimum lease payments to be made during the lease term, including all probable renewals, plus lease payments made to the lessor before or at lease commencement and indirect costs paid less incentives received. DLH adopted this standard on October 1, 2019 and recognized initial right of use assets and lease liabilities of $17.4 million and $18.0 million, respectively. At adoption, the Company elected several practical expediencies to facilitate the implementation of the new standard and did not recast comparative prior year information. As such, we did not reassess and include initial direct costs in the measurement of right-of-use assets, capitalize leases with terms of 12 months or less, nor reassess lease classification of existing leases. In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-13, Financial Instruments - Credit Losses, which requires companies to record an allowance for expected credit losses over the contractual term of certain financial assets, including short-term trade receivables and contract assets. Additionally, it expands disclosure requirements for credit quality of financial assets. ASU 2016-13 becomes effective for the Company in the first quarter of fiscal year 2021. We do not expect a material impact to our operating results, financial position, or cash flows as a result of adopting this new standard. In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-04, Simplifying the Test for Goodwill Impairment, which simplifies the accounting for goodwill impairments by eliminating step two from the goodwill impairment test. Instead, if the carrying amount of a reporting unit exceeds its fair value, an impairment loss shall be recognized in an amount equal to that excess, limited to the total amount of goodwill allocated to that reporting unit. ASU 2017-04 also clarifies that an entity should consider income tax effects from any tax-deductible goodwill on the carrying amount of the reporting unit when measuring the goodwill impairment loss, if applicable. The new standard is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019 for both interim and annual reporting periods. The Company adopted this standard in the first quarter of fiscal 2020 and adoption did not have an impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements. In March 2020, the FASB issued ASU 2020-04, Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848), which provides optional expedients and exceptions for the application of U.S. GAAP to contracts, hedging relationships, and other transactions that reference the London Interbank Offered Rate ("LIBOR") and other references rates expected to be discontinued due to reference rate reform. ASU 2020-04 became effective on March 12, 2020 for all entities meeting certain criteria. The Company may elect to apply the amendments using a prospective approach through December 31, 2022. The Company is currently assessing the impact of electing this standard on its consolidated financial statements and related disclosures and does not expect the impact to be material.

Significant Accounting Policies

Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020
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 and intangible assets, interest rate swaps, stock-based compensation, right-of-use assets, and liabilities, valuation allowances established against accounts receivable and deferred tax assets, and measurement of loss development on workers' compensation claims. We evaluate these estimates and judgments on an ongoing basis and base our estimates on historical experience, current and expected future outcomes, third-party evaluations, and various other assumptions that we believe are reasonable under the circumstances. The results of these estimates form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities as well as identifying and assessing the accounting treatment with respect to commitments and contingencies. We revise material accounting estimates if changes occur, such as more experience is acquired, additional information is obtained, or there is new information on which an estimate was or can be based. 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. We account for the effect of a change in accounting estimate during the period in which the change occurs. Fair Value of Financial Instruments The carrying amounts of the Company's cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, contract assets, accrued expenses, and accounts payable approximate fair value due to the short-term nature of these instruments. The fair values of the Company's debt instruments approximate fair value because the underlying interest rates approximate market rates that the Company could obtain for similar instruments at the balance sheet dates. Long-Lived Assets Our long-lived assets include equipment and improvements, intangible assets, and goodwill. The Company continues to review its long-lived assets 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. 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 7 years) and the shorter of the initial lease term or estimated useful life for leasehold improvements. Intangible assets (other than goodwill) are originally recorded at fair value and are amortized on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives of 10 years. Maintenance and repair costs are expensed as incurred. Leases Right-of-use assets are measured at the present value of future minimum lease payments, including all probable renewals, plus lease payments made to the lessor before or at lease commencement and indirect costs paid, less incentives received. Our right-of-use assets include long-term leases for facilities and equipment and are amortized over their respective lease terms. Goodwill At September 30, 2020, we performed a goodwill impairment evaluation on the year-end carrying value of approximately $67.1 million. We performed a qualitative 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, 2020, as no change in business conditions occurred which would have a material adverse effect on the valuation of goodwill. Our assessment incorporated effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, which is not expected to have a meaningful impact on our financial results. Notwithstanding this evaluation, 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. Similarly, there were no impairments during the prior year ended September 30, 2019. Income Taxes The Company 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 September 30, 2020 and 2019. We report interest and penalties as a component of income tax expense. For the years ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, we recognized no interest and no penalties related to income taxes. Stock-based Equity Compensation The Company uses the fair value-based method for stock-based equity compensation. Options issued 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. 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 common shares. All awards to employees and non-employees are recorded at fair value on the date of the grant and expensed over the period of vesting. The Company uses a binomial and Black Scholes option pricing model to estimate the fair value of each stock option at the date of grant. Any consideration paid by the option holders to purchase shares is credited to capital stock. 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. Earnings per Share Basic earnings per share is calculated by dividing income available to common shareholders by the weighted average number of common stock 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. Treasury Stock The Company periodically purchases its own common stock that is traded on public markets as part of announced stock repurchase programs. The repurchased common stock is classified as treasury stock on the consolidated balance sheets and held at cost. As of September 30, 2020, the Company did not hold any treasury stock. Preferred Stock Our certificate of incorporation authorizes the issuance of "blank check" preferred stock with such designations, rights and preferences as may be determined from time to time by our board of directors up to an aggregate of 5,000,000 shares of preferred stock. As of September 30, 2020, the Company has not issued any preferred stock. Interest Rate Swap The Company uses derivative financial instruments to manage interest rate risk associated with its variable debt. The Company's objective in using these interest rate derivatives is to manage its exposure to interest rate movements and reduce volatility of interest expense. The gains and losses due to changes in the fair value of the interest rate swap agreements completely offset changes in the fair value of the hedged portion of the underlying debt. Offsetting changes in fair value of both the interest rate swaps and the hedged portion of the underlying debt are recognized in interest expense in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. The Company does not hold or issue any derivative instrument for trading or speculative purposes. Risks & Uncertainties Management continues to evaluate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the industry and has concluded that while it is reasonably possible that the virus could have a negative effect on the Company’s financial position and the results of its operations, the specific impact is not readily determinable as of the date of these financial statements. The financial statements do not include any adjustments that might result from the outcome of this uncertainty.

Revenue Recognition

Revenue Recognition	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]
Revenue Recognition	Revenue Recognition We recognize revenue over time when there is a continuous transfer of control to our customer. For our U.S. government contracts, this continuous transfer of control to the customer is supported by clauses in the contract that allow the U.S. government to unilaterally terminate the contract for convenience, pay us for costs incurred plus a reasonable profit and take control of any work in process. When control is transferred over time, revenue is recognized based on the extent of progress towards completion of the performance obligation. For services contracts, we satisfy our performance obligations as services are rendered. We use a cost-based input method to measure progress. Contract costs include labor, material and allocable indirect expenses. For time-and-material contracts, we bill the customer per labor hour and per material, and revenue is recognized in the amount invoiced since the amount corresponds directly to the value of our performance to date. We consider control to transfer when we have a present right to payment. Essentially, all of our contracts satisfy their performance obligations over time. Contracts are often modified to account for changes in contract specifications and requirements. Contract modifications impact performance obligations when the modification either creates new or changes the existing enforceable rights and obligations. The effect of a contract modification on the transaction price and our measure of progress for the performance obligation to which it relates is recognized as an adjustment to revenue and profit cumulatively. Furthermore, a significant change in one or more estimates could affect the profitability of our contracts. We recognize adjustments in estimated profit on contracts in the period identified. For time-and-materials contracts, revenue is recognized to the extent of billable rates times hours delivered plus materials and other reimbursable costs incurred. Revenue for cost-reimbursable contracts is recorded as reimbursable costs are incurred, including an estimated share of the applicable contractual fees earned. Contract costs are expensed as incurred. Estimated losses are recognized when identified. Contract assets - Amounts are invoiced as work progresses in accordance with agreed-upon contractual terms. In part, revenue recognition occurs before we have the right to bill, resulting in contract assets. These contract assets are reported within receivables, net on our consolidated balance sheets and are invoiced in accordance with payment terms defined in each contract. Period end balances will vary from period to period due to agreed-upon contractual terms. Contract liabilities - Amounts are a result of billings in excess of costs incurred. The following table summarizes the contract balances recognized within the Company's consolidated balance sheets: (in thousands) September 30, September 30, September 30, 2020 2019 2018 Contract assets $ 7,943 $ 4,302 $ 214 Contract liabilities $ 200 $ 92 $ — The increase in contract assets and contract liabilities is primarily due to the acquisitions of Social & Scientific Systems, Inc ("S3") on June 7, 2019 and Irving Burton Associates, LLC. ("IBA") on September 30, 2020. Disaggregation of revenue from contracts with customers We disaggregate our revenue from contracts with customers by customer, contract type, as well as whether the Company acts as prime contractor or subcontractor. We believe these categories best depict how the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of our revenue and cash flows are affected by economic factors. The following series of tables present our revenue disaggregated by these categories: Revenue by customer: (in thousands) Year Ended September 30, 2020 2019 Department of Veterans Affairs $ 100,204 $ 91,949 Department of Health and Human Services 95,026 62,000 Other 13,955 6,442 Total revenue $ 209,185 $ 160,391 Revenue by contract type: (in thousands) Year Ended September 30, 2020 2019 Time and materials $ 147,509 $ 134,136 Cost reimbursable 58,091 23,200 Firm fixed price 3,585 3,055 Total revenue $ 209,185 $ 160,391 Revenue by whether the Company acts as a prime contractor or a subcontractor: (in thousands) Year Ended September 30, 2020 2019 Prime contractor $ 193,448 $ 154,207 Subcontractor 15,737 6,184 Total revenue $ 209,185 $ 160,391

Leases

Leases	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020
Leases [Abstract]
Leases	Leases We have leases for facilities and office equipment. Our lease liabilities are recognized as the present value of the future minimum lease payments over the lease term. Our right-of-use assets are recognized as the present value of the future minimum lease payments over the lease term less unamortized lease incentives and the balance remaining in deferred rent liability under ASC 840. Our lease payments consist of fixed and in-substance fixed amounts attributable to the use of the underlying asset over the lease term. Variable lease payments that do not depend on an index rate or are not in-substance fixed payments are excluded in the measurement of right-of-use assets and lease liabilities and are expensed in the period incurred. The incremental borrowing rate on our credit facility is used in determining the present value of future minimum lease payments. Some of our lease agreements include options to extend the lease term or terminate the lease. These options are accounted for in our right-of-use assets and lease liabilities when it is reasonably certain that the Company will extend the lease term or terminate the lease. The Company does not have any finance leases. Upon the adoption of ASC 842, we recorded operating lease right-of-use assets of $17.4 million, current and long-term operating lease liabilities of $3.6 million and $14.4 million, and a $2 thousand cumulative adjustment to accumulated deficit. The impact of adopting the standard on our consolidated balance sheet at October 1, 2019 is as follows: (in thousands) Ref September 30, 2019 ASC 842 Adjustments October 1, 2019 Long-term assets: Operating leases right-of-use assets $ — $ 17,398 $ 17,398 Current liabilities: Deferred rent liability - short-term (a) 44 (44) — Operating leases liabilities - current — 3,645 3,645 Long-term liabilities: Deferred rent liability - long-term (b) 276 (276) — Unamortized tenant improvement allowance (c) 297 (297) — Operating leases liabilities - long-term — 14,372 14,372 Shareholders' equity: Accumulated deficit (39,555) (2) (39,557) Ref (a): The balance of short-term deferred rent liability presented in our annual 10K report within accounts payable, accrued expenses, and other accrued liabilities on our consolidated balance sheet at September 30, 2019. Ref (b): The balance of long-term deferred rent liability presented in our annual 10K report within other long-term liabilities on our consolidated balance sheet at September 30, 2019. Ref (c): The balance of unamortized tenant improvement allowance presented in our annual 10K report within other long-term liabilities on our consolidated balance sheet at September 30, 2019. The Company executed a modification of a lease during the fiscal quarter ending December 31, 2019 and recognized adjustments to the right-of-use asset and lease liabilities in accordance with ASC 842. As a result of the modification, a gain of $0.1 million was recognized. The gain represents the difference between the change in values of the right-of-use-asset and lease liabilities, which were $7.3 million and $7.2 million, respectively. For the year ended September 30, 2020, the increase to right-of-use assets and lease liabilities related to the modification was $24.7 million and $25.2 million, respectively. For more information, refer to Note 7. Supporting Financial Information . As of September 30, 2020, operating leases for facilities and equipment have remaining lease terms of 0.6 to 10.5 years. The following table summarizes lease balances in our consolidated balance sheet at September 30, 2020: (in thousands) September 30, 2020 Operating lease right-of-use assets $ 22,427 Operating lease liabilities, current $ 2,045 Operating lease liabilities - long-term 21,620 Total operating lease liabilities $ 23,665 The Company subleases a portion of one of its leased facilities. The sublease is classified as an operating lease with respect to the underlying asset. The sublease was assumed from the acquisition in fiscal 2019. During the year ended September 30, 2020, the sublease was amended with the new terms commencing in July 2020. The sublease term is 5 years with two additional 1 year term extension options. The Company's lease costs are included within general and administrative costs in our Consolidated Statements of Operations. For the year ended September 30, 2020, total lease costs for our operating leases are as follows: (in thousands) Year Ended September 30, 2020 Operating $ 4,236 Short-term 155 Variable 63 Sublease income (271) Total lease costs $ 4,183 Other information related to our leases are as follows: Ref September 30, 2020 Weighted-average remaining lease term 9.1 years Weighted-average discount rate (a) 5.99 % Ref (a): Calculation based off of borrowing terms from senior credit facility. (in thousands) Year Ended September 30, 2020 Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities $ 3,586 Lease liabilities arising from obtaining right-of-use-assets $ 229 The Company's future minimum lease payments as of September 30, 2020 are as follows: For the Fiscal Year Ending September 30, (in thousands) 2021 $ 3,408 2022 3,501 2023 3,375 2024 3,251 2025 3,092 Thereafter 14,684 Total future minimum lease payments 31,311 Less: imputed interest (7,646) Present value of future minimum lease payments 23,665 Less: current portion of operating lease liabilities (2,045) Long-term operating lease liabilities $ 21,620 Under ASC 840, the Company's future minimum lease payments for the prior fiscal year ended September 30, 2019 were as follows: For the Fiscal Year Ending September 30, (in thousands) 2020 $ 3,484 2021 3,051 2022 3,136 2023 3,166 2024 3,100 Thereafter 16,945 Total future minimum lease payments $ 32,882

Supporting Financial Informatio

Supporting Financial Information	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Supporting Financial Information	Supporting Financial Information Accounts receivable (in thousands) September 30, September 30, Ref 2020 2019 Billed receivables $ 24,598 $ 18,924 Contract assets 7,943 4,302 Total accounts receivable 32,541 23,226 Less: Allowance for doubtful accounts (a) — — Accounts receivable, net $ 32,541 $ 23,226 Ref (a): Accounts receivable are non-interest bearing, unsecured and carried at net realizable value. We evaluate our receivables on a quarterly basis and determine whether an allowance is appropriate based on specific collection issues. 0 No allowance for doubtful accounts was deemed necessary at either September 30, 2020 or September 30, 2019. Other current assets (in thousands) September 30, September 30, 2020 2019 Prepaid insurance and benefits $ 665 $ 495 Other receivables 1,363 301 Prepaid expenses 1,471 1,035 Other current assets $ 3,499 $ 1,831 Equipment and improvements, net (in thousands) September 30, September 30, Ref 2020 2019 Furniture and equipment $ 958 $ 1,262 Computer equipment 1,171 1,043 Computer software 4,341 3,985 Leasehold improvements 1,595 1,595 Total equipment and improvements 8,065 7,885 Less accumulated depreciation and amortization (4,726) (2,542) Equipment and improvements, net (a) $ 3,339 $ 5,343 Ref (a): Depreciation and amortization was $2.2 million and $1.2 million for the years ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively. Intangible assets, net (in thousands) September 30, September 30, Ref 2020 2019 Intangible assets (a) Customer contracts and related customer relationships $ 45,600 $ 45,600 Covenants not to compete 480 480 Trade name 2,109 2,109 Acquired intangibles - IBA acquisition (b) 16,223 — Total intangible assets 64,412 48,189 Less accumulated amortization Customer contracts and related customer relationships (11,150) (6,590) Covenants not to compete (212) (164) Trade name (438) (227) Total accumulated amortization (11,800) (6,981) Intangible assets, net $ 52,612 $ 41,208 Ref (a): Total amount of amortization expense for the year ended September 30, 2020 and 2019 was $4.8 million and $2.7 million, respectively. Ref (b): The Company is currently valuing the acquired intangible assets from the IBA acquisition. The balances provided are an estimate and subject to revision. Please refer to Note 16 for more information. Estimated amortization expense for future years: (in thousands) Fiscal 2021 $ 6,441 Fiscal 2022 6,441 Fiscal 2023 6,441 Fiscal 2024 6,441 Fiscal 2025 6,441 Thereafter 20,407 Total amortization expense $ 52,612 Goodwill The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill for the years ended September 30, 2020 and 2019 are as follows: (in thousands) Ref Total Balance at September 30, 2018 $ 25,989 Increase from S3 acquisition 26,769 Balance at September 30, 2019 52,758 Preliminary increase from IBA acquisition (a) 14,386 Balance at September 30, 2020 $ 67,144 Ref (a): The Company is currently valuing the goodwill from the IBA acquisition. The balance provided is an estimate and subject to revision. Please refer to Note 16 for more information. Accounts payable, accrued expenses, and other current liabilities (in thousands) September 30, September 30, 2020 2019 Accounts payable $ 14,645 $ 10,054 Accrued benefits 2,833 2,252 Accrued bonus and incentive compensation 2,340 1,951 Accrued workers' compensation insurance 5,529 4,007 Other accrued expenses 3,231 2,369 Accounts payable, accrued expenses, and other current liabilities $ 28,578 $ 20,633 Debt Obligations (in thousands) September 30, September 30, 2020 2019 Bank term loan $ 70,000 $ 56,000 Less unamortized deferred financing cost (2,729) (2,371) Net bank debt obligation 67,271 53,629 Less current portion of term loan debt obligations (6,727) — Long-term portion of bank debt obligation $ 60,544 $ 53,629 Interest expense (in thousands) Year Ended September 30, Ref 2020 2019 Interest expense (a) $ (2,841) $ (1,512) Amortization of deferred financing costs (b) (721) (982) Other income (expense), net (c) 121 21 Interest expense, net $ (3,441) $ (2,473) Ref (a): Interest expense on borrowing Ref (b): Amortization of expenses related to term loan and revolving line of credit. For 2019, amortization included write-off of remaining deferred financing costs related to prior loan agreement that was terminated early.

Credit Facilities

Credit Facilities	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Abstract]
Credit Facilities	Credit Facilities A summary of our loan facility as of September 30, 2020 is as follows: ($ in Millions) As of September 30, 2020 Lender Arrangement Loan Balance Interest Maturity Date First National Bank of Pennsylvania Secured term loan (a) $ 70.0 LIBOR* + 3.5% 09/30/25 First National Bank of Pennsylvania Secured revolving line of credit (b) $ — LIBOR* + 3.5% 09/30/25 *LIBOR rate as of September 30, 2020 was 0.16%. As of September 30, 2020, our LIBOR rate is subject to a minimum floor of 0.5%. The floor affects interest payments for the periods after September 30, 2020 (a) Represents the principal amounts payable on our secured term loan. The $70.0 million secured term loan is secured by liens on substantially all of the assets of the Company. The principal of the term loan is payable in quarterly installments with the remaining balance due on September 30, 2025. The Credit Agreement requires compliance with a number of financial covenants and contains restrictions on our ability to engage in certain transactions. Among other matters, we must comply with limitations on: granting liens; incurring other indebtedness; maintenance of assets; investments in other entities and extensions of credit; mergers and consolidations; and changes in nature of business. The loan agreement also requires us to comply with certain quarterly financial covenants including: (i) a minimum fixed charge coverage ratio of at least 1.25 to 1.00, and (ii) a Funded Indebtedness to Adjusted EBITDA ratio not exceeding the ratio of 3.75:1.0 to 2.75:1.0 through maturity. Adjusted EBITDA ratio is calculated by dividing the Company's total interest-bearing debt by net income adjusted to exclude (i) interest and other expenses, (ii) provision for or benefit from income taxes, if any, (iii) depreciation and amortization, and (iv) non-recurring charges, losses or expenses to include transaction and non-cash equity expense. The term loan has an interest rate spread range from 2.5% to 4.5% depending on the funded indebtedness to adjusted EBITDA ratio. We are in compliance with all loan covenants and restrictions. We are required to pay quarterly amortization payments commencing in December 2020 through September 2025. The annual amount of principal amortization is based on a percentage of the loan balance at September 30, 2020. The annual amortization amounts are $7.0 million for fiscal years 2021 and 2022 and $8.75 million each for fiscal years 2023 - 2025. The quarterly payments are in equal installments. In addition to quarterly payments of the outstanding indebtedness, the loan agreement also requires annual payments of a percentage of excess cash flow, as defined in the loan agreement. The loan agreement states that an excess cash flow recapture payment must be made equal to (a) 75% of the excess cash flow for the immediately preceding fiscal year in which indebtedness to consolidated EBITDA ratio is greater than or equal to 2.50:1.0; (b) 50% of the excess cash flow for the immediately preceding fiscal year in which the funded indebtedness to consolidated EBITDA Ratio is less than 2.50:1.0 but greater than or equal to 1.5:1.0; or (c) 0% of the excess cash flow for the immediately preceding fiscal year in which the funded indebtedness to consolidated EBITDA Ratio is less than 1.5:1.0. In addition, the Company must make additional mandatory prepayment of amounts outstanding based on proceeds received from asset sales and sales of certain equity securities or other indebtedness. For additional information regarding the schedule of future payment obligations, please refer to Note 11 Commitments and Contingencies . On September 30, 2019, we executed a floating-to-fixed interest rate swap with First National Bank ("FNB") as counter party. The notional amount in the floating-to-fixed interest rate swap is $36 million that matures in 2024. The remaining outstanding balance of our term loan is subject to interest rate fluctuations and the minimum LIBOR floor. On the notional amount, the Company pays a base fixed rate of 1.61%, plus applicable credit spread. As a result, for the year ended September 30, 2020, interest expense increased by less than $0.2 million. (b) The secured revolving line of credit has a ceiling of up to $25.0 million. Borrowing on the line of credit is secured by liens on substantially all of the assets of the Company. The Company accessed funds from the revolving credit facility during the year, but has no outstanding balance at September 30, 2020.

Stock-based Compensation and Eq

Stock-based Compensation and Equity Grants	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020
Share-based Payment Arrangement [Abstract]
Stock-based Compensation and Equity Grants	Stock-based Compensation and Equity Grants Stock-based compensation expense Options issued under equity incentive plans were designated as either an incentive stock or a non-statutory stock option. No option was 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. As of September 30, 2020, there were 0.9 million shares available for grant. Stock-based compensation expense, shown in the table below, is recorded in general and administrative expenses included in our Consolidated Statements of Operations: (in thousands) Year Ended Ref September 30, 2020 2019 DLH employees $ 563 $ 263 Non-employee directors (a) 347 527 Total stock option expense $ 910 $ 790 Ref (a): In the first quarter of fiscal 2019, we issued 90,000 restricted stock units to the Company's non-employee directors, all of which vested as of September 30, 2020. The shares of common stock underlying such restricted stock units were issued on October 5, 2020. Equity grants of restricted stock units, in accordance with DLH compensation policy for non-employee directors, were made in the first quarter of fiscal 2020 totaling 63,177 restricted stock units. The restricted stock units were granted on October 1, 2020. Unrecognized stock-based compensation expense (in thousands) Year Ended September 30, Ref 2020 2019 Unrecognized expense for DLH employees (a) $ 2,633 $ 631 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. For options that vest based on the Company’s common stock achieving and maintaining defined market prices, the Company values the awards with a Monte Carlo binomial model that utilizes various probability factors and other criterion in establishing fair value of the grant. The related compensation expense is recognized over the derived service period determined in the valuation. On a weighted average basis, this expense is expected to be recognized within the next 4.58 years. Stock option activity for the year ended September 30, 2020: 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, 2019 2,134 $4.36 5.9 $ 4,815 Granted (a) 750 $6.74 — — Exercised (395) $0.99 — — Cancelled (360) $2.89 — — Options outstanding, September 30, 2020 2,129 — 7.4 $ 6,583 Ref (a): Utilizing a volatility of 50% along with assumptions of a 10-year term and the aforementioned 10-day stock price threshold results in an indicated range of value of the Options granted during the year ended September 30, 2020, as follows using the Monte Carlo and Black Scholes methods. Volatility 50% Vesting Expected Strike Stock Threshold Term Calculated Grant Date Ref Price Price Price (Years) Fair Value July 13, 2020 (a) $ 8.02 $ 8.02 Service 10 $ 4.69 July 13, 2020 $ 8.02 $ 8.02 $ 12.00 10 $ 4.79 July 13, 2020 $ 8.02 $ 8.02 $ 14.00 10 $ 4.76 July 13, 2020 $ 8.02 $ 8.02 $ 16.00 10 $ 4.76 Notes: Results based on 100,000 simulations Ref (a): Options granted vest after completion of a one-year service period. Stock options shares outstanding, vested and unvested for the years ended: (in thousands) Number of Shares September 30, Ref 2020 2019 Vested and exercisable (a) 1,213 1,300 Unvested (b) 916 834 Options outstanding 2,129 2,134 Ref (a): Weighted average exercise price of vested and exercisable shares was $2.25 and $1.51 at September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively. Aggregate intrinsic value was approximately $6.1 million and $3.9 million at September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively. Weighted average contractual term remaining was 4.6 years and 3.8 years at September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively.

Earnings Per Share

Earnings Per Share	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020
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) Year Ended September 30, 2020 2019 Numerator: Net income $ 7,114 $ 5,324 Denominator: Denominator for basic net income per share - weighted-average outstanding shares 12,282 12,018 Effect of dilutive securities: Stock options and restricted stock 823 1,023 Denominator for diluted net income per share - weighted-average outstanding shares 13,105 13,041 Net income per share - basic $ 0.58 $ 0.44 Net income per share - diluted $ 0.54 $ 0.41

Commitments and Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Commitments and Contingencies	Commitments and Contingencies Contractual Obligations as of September 30, 2020: Payments Due Per Fiscal Year Contractual obligations (Amounts in thousands) Total 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 Thereafter Debt obligations $ 70,000 $ 7,000 $ 7,000 $ 8,750 $ 8,750 $ 38,500 $ — Facility leases 31,002 3,317 3,418 3,292 3,199 3,092 14,684 Equipment operating leases 309 91 83 83 52 — — Total Contractual Obligations $ 101,311 $ 10,408 $ 10,501 $ 12,125 $ 12,001 $ 41,592 $ 14,684 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 as of September 30, 2020 and September 30, 2019 was approximately $5.5 million and $4.0 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.

Related Party Transactions

Related Party Transactions	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020
Related Party Transactions [Abstract]
Related Party Transactions	Related Party TransactionsThe Company has determined that for the years ended September 30, 2020 and 2019 and through the filing date of this report, there were no significant related party transactions that have occurred which require disclosure through the date that these consolidated financial statements were issued.

Income Taxes

Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Taxes	Income Taxes The Company accounts for income taxes in accordance with the liability method. Under this method, 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 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 will also set up a valuation allowance, reducing the carrying value of deferred tax assets if it is more likely than not that some or all of the deferred tax asset will not be realized, based on estimated future taxable income. Presently, the Company has no deferred tax asset valuation allowances. At September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively, the Company had federal net operating losses of approximately $7.4 million and $18.9 million. The Company utilized approximately $11.5 million of federal net operating losses to offset taxes otherwise currently due in 2020. The federal NOLs begin to expire in 2030 and continue to expire through 2033. The Company has no material state net operating losses carryforward. However, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act modifies the credit for prior-year minimum tax liability of corporations, including to accelerate the recovery of remaining minimum tax credits of a corporation for its 2019 taxable year from its 2021 taxable year and to permit a corporation to elect instead to recover 100 percent of any of its remaining minimum tax credits in its 2018 taxable year. The Company has AMT credits of $366 thousand as of the year ended September 30, 2020, of which 100 percent has been established as an income tax receivable in current assets. An analysis of the Company's deferred tax assets and liabilities is as follows: Year Ended September 30, (amounts in thousands) 2020 2019 Deferred income tax assets: Net operating loss carry forwards $ 1,554 $ 3,926 AMT credit carryforward — 183 Stock based compensation 140 140 Accrued expenses 1,698 1,666 Other items, net 258 45 Total deferred tax asset 3,650 5,960 Deferred tax liability: Equipment and intangible assets (3,613) (3,615) Net deferred tax asset $ 37 $ 2,345 The significant components of income tax expense for income taxes from continuing operations are summarized as follows: Year Ended September 30, (amounts in thousands) 2020 2019 Current expense $ 598 $ 379 Deferred expense 2,308 1,792 Total expense $ 2,906 $ 2,171 The following table indicates the significant differences between our income taxes at the federal statutory rate and the Company's effective tax rate for continuing operations: Year Ended September 30, (amounts in thousands) Ref 2020 2019 Federal statutory rate $ 2,104 $ 1,574 State taxes, net 554 407 Other permanent items 160 91 Deferred tax estimate adjustment 88 99 Total $ 2,906 $ 2,171

Quarterly Financial Data (Unaud

Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited)	Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) A summary of quarterly information is as follows (in thousands, except per share data) 2020 Quarters Ref First Second Third Fourth Revenue $ 52,238 $ 54,798 $ 51,459 $ 50,691 Income from operations 3,126 3,837 3,800 2,698 Interest expense, net (941) (906) (813) (781) Income before income taxes 2,185 2,931 2,987 1,917 Income tax expense 634 855 863 554 Net income $ 1,551 $ 2,076 $ 2,124 $ 1,363 Earnings per share: Basic $ 0.13 $ 0.17 $ 0.17 $ 0.11 Diluted $ 0.12 $ 0.16 $ 0.16 $ 0.10 2019 Quarters Ref First Second Third Fourth Revenue (a) $ 33,752 $ 33,756 $ 38,700 $ 54,183 Income from operations 2,557 2,327 1,690 3,394 Interest expense, net (177) (545) (562) (1,190) Income before income taxes 2,380 1,782 1,128 2,204 Income tax expense 690 517 325 639 Net income (loss) $ 1,690 $ 1,265 $ 803 $ 1,565 Earnings (loss) per share: Basic $ 0.14 $ 0.11 $ 0.07 $ 0.13 Diluted $ 0.13 $ 0.10 $ 0.06 $ 0.12 Ref (a): The inclusion of S3 for Fiscal 2019 impacts part of quarter three and all of quarter four versus the full year for Fiscal 2020.

Employee Benefit Plans

Employee Benefit Plans	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020
Retirement Benefits [Abstract]
Employee Benefits Plans	Employee Benefit PlansAs of September 30, 2020, the Company and its subsidiaries maintain a 401(k) Plan (the "401(k) Plan"), a defined contribution and supplemental pension plan for the benefit of its eligible employees. The Company may provide a discretionary matching contribution of a participant's elective contributions under the 401 (k) Plan. The Company recorded related expense of $1.2 million in fiscal 2020 and $577 thousand in fiscal year 2019. The increase was primarily due to headcount growth from the S3 acquisition. A participant is always fully vested in his or her elective contributions and vests in Company matching contributions over a four year period.

Business Combinations

Business Combinations	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Business Combinations	Business Combinations: Acquisition of Irving Burton Associates, LLC On September 30, 2020, the Company acquired 100% of the equity interests of IBA for a net preliminary purchase price of $32.7 million, inclusive of the preliminary working capital adjustment. The acquisition was financed through a combination of: • borrowings of $33 million under the Company’s amended senior credit facility • cash on hand to pay transaction expenses and financings costs of $1.8 million The acquisition of IBA is consistent with the Company’s growth strategy, as it provided contract diversification, addition of key capabilities and increased presence in the military health market. The estimated goodwill derived from this transaction is primarily due to these attributes. We have used the acquisition method of accounting for this transaction, whereby the assets acquired and liabilities assumed are recognized based upon their estimated fair values at the acquisition date. The preliminary base purchase price for IBA was $32 million adjusted to reflect acquired cash, assumed liabilities and preliminary net working capital adjustments. Subject to certain limitations and conditions, the Company will be indemnified by the seller for damages resulting from breaches or inaccuracies of the representations, warranties, and covenants of the seller and IBA as set forth in the Purchase Agreement. The Purchase Agreement further provides that escrow funds of an aggregate amount of approximately $0.4 million were established at closing. The Company does not expect to draw on these funds as both the buyer and seller have agreed on the final purchase price. A representations and warranties insurance policy has been purchased by the Company in connection with the Purchase Agreement, under which the Company may seek recourse for breaches of the seller’s representations and warranties to supplement the indemnity escrow. The representations and warranties insurance policy is subject to certain customary exclusions and a deductible. In accordance with ASU 2017-01, which was previously adopted, the Company is accounting for this transaction as an acquisition of a business. We have not completed the process of allocating the acquisition price to the fair value of the assets and liabilities of IBA at the acquisition date. We are awaiting the fair values of the intangibles assets from the third party valuation firm. The preliminary purchase price and its allocation are shown below. Based on the unaudited financial statements of IBA on September 30, 2020, we accounted for the total acquisition consideration and allocation of fair value to the related assets and liabilities on a preliminary basis as follows: (Amounts in thousands) Preliminary purchase price for IBA $ 32,706 Net assets acquired Cash and cash equivalents $ 28 Accounts receivable 3,907 Other current assets 124 Total current assets 4,059 Accounts payable and accrued expenses (758) Payroll liabilities (1,269) Other current liabilities (177) Net working capital 1,855 Equipment and improvements, net 28 Other long-term assets/liabilities 214 Net identifiable assets acquired 2,097 Goodwill and other identifiable intangible assets 30,609 Net assets acquired $ 32,706 All operating units are aggregated into a single reportable segment. The acquisition of IBA did not create an additional reportable segment as all operations report to a single Chief Operating Decision Maker (CODM), serve a similar customer base, and provide similar services within a common regulatory environment. The goodwill represents intellectual capital and the acquired workforce, of which both do not qualify as a separate intangible asset. The tax deductible goodwill is in the process of being calculated. The following table presents certain results for the years ended September 30, 2019 as though the acquisition of IBA had occurred on October 1, 2018. The unaudited pro forma information is presented for informational purposes only and is not necessarily indicative of our results if the acquisition had taken place on that date. The pro forma information was prepared by combining our reported historical results with the historical results of IBA for the pre-acquisition periods. In addition, the reported historical amounts were adjusted for the following items, net of associated tax effects: • The impact of acquisition financing. • The removal of certain IBA operations due to completed and nonrecurring contracts. • The impact of recording IBA's intangible asset amortization. • The impact of interest expense for the new credit facility. • The removal of transaction costs incurred by IBA for the acquisition. (unaudited) (in thousands) Year ended Year ended September 30, September 30, Pro forma results 2020 2019 Revenue $ 234,443 $ 228,117 Net income (loss) 7,170 2,464 Number of shares outstanding - basic 12,282 12,018 Number of shares outstanding - diluted 13,105 13,041 Basic earnings per share (loss) $ 0.58 $ 0.21 Diluted earnings per share (loss) $ 0.55 $ 0.19

Subsequent Events

Subsequent Events	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020
Subsequent Events [Abstract]
Subsequent Events	Subsequent EventsManagement has evaluated subsequent events through the date that the Company's consolidated financial statements were issued. Based on this evaluation, the Company has determined that no further subsequent events have occurred which require disclosure through the date that these consolidated financial statements were issued.

Significant Accounting Polici_2

Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Basis of Presentation	Basis of Presentation The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of DLH Holdings Corp. and its subsidiaries (together with its subsidiaries, "DLH" or the "Company" and also referred to as "we," "us," and "our"), 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 U.S. generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP") and with the instructions to Form 10-K, Regulation S-X, and Regulation S-K.
New Accounting Pronouncements	New Accounting Pronouncements In February 2016, the FASB issued new accounting guidance included in Accounting Standard Codification ("ASC") 842 related to leases. This new accounting guidance is intended to improve financial reporting about leasing transactions. This accounting standard will require organizations that lease assets, referred to as “Lessees”, to recognize on the balance sheet the assets and liabilities. Per ASU 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842), we determine if a contract contains a lease by identifying an asset and determining if we have the right to control the use of the identified asset for a period of time in exchange for consideration. A contract conveys the right to control the use of an identified asset when the lessee has the right to direct the use of the identified asset and obtain substantially all economic benefits from its use, throughout the period of its use. We also determine if a lease qualifies as an operating or finance lease. All Company leases at adoption were operating leases. The ASU also requires lessees to identify and separate lease and non-lease components. Per a practical expedient provided in the ASU, the Company elected not to separate lease and non-lease components. Upon lease commencement, the lease liability and right-of-use asset are recorded on the balance sheet. The lease liability is measured as the present value of future minimum lease payments, including all probable renewals, to be made during the lease term. The right-of-use asset is measured as the present value of future minimum lease payments to be made during the lease term, including all probable renewals, plus lease payments made to the lessor before or at lease commencement and indirect costs paid less incentives received. DLH adopted this standard on October 1, 2019 and recognized initial right of use assets and lease liabilities of $17.4 million and $18.0 million, respectively. At adoption, the Company elected several practical expediencies to facilitate the implementation of the new standard and did not recast comparative prior year information. As such, we did not reassess and include initial direct costs in the measurement of right-of-use assets, capitalize leases with terms of 12 months or less, nor reassess lease classification of existing leases. In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-13, Financial Instruments - Credit Losses, which requires companies to record an allowance for expected credit losses over the contractual term of certain financial assets, including short-term trade receivables and contract assets. Additionally, it expands disclosure requirements for credit quality of financial assets. ASU 2016-13 becomes effective for the Company in the first quarter of fiscal year 2021. We do not expect a material impact to our operating results, financial position, or cash flows as a result of adopting this new standard. In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-04, Simplifying the Test for Goodwill Impairment, which simplifies the accounting for goodwill impairments by eliminating step two from the goodwill impairment test. Instead, if the carrying amount of a reporting unit exceeds its fair value, an impairment loss shall be recognized in an amount equal to that excess, limited to the total amount of goodwill allocated to that reporting unit. ASU 2017-04 also clarifies that an entity should consider income tax effects from any tax-deductible goodwill on the carrying amount of the reporting unit when measuring the goodwill impairment loss, if applicable. The new standard is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019 for both interim and annual reporting periods. The Company adopted this standard in the first quarter of fiscal 2020 and adoption did not have an impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements. In March 2020, the FASB issued ASU 2020-04, Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848), which provides optional expedients and exceptions for the application of U.S. GAAP to contracts, hedging relationships, and other transactions that reference the London Interbank Offered Rate ("LIBOR") and other references rates expected to be discontinued due to reference rate reform. ASU 2020-04 became effective on March 12, 2020 for all entities meeting certain criteria. The Company may elect to apply the amendments using a prospective approach through December 31, 2022. The Company is currently assessing the impact of electing this standard on its consolidated financial statements and related disclosures and does not expect the impact to be material. In August 2020, the FASB issued ASU 2020-06, which amends the measurement and disclosure of convertible instruments, contracts in an entity's own equity, and EPS guidance. The guidance can be adopted using a modified retrospective method or a fully retrospective method. The amendments are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2021 for public entities, excluding those that are smaller reporting companies. For all other entities the amendments are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2023. The Company does not expect the update to have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements and related disclosures.
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 and intangible assets, interest rate swaps, stock-based compensation, right-of-use assets, and liabilities, valuation allowances established against accounts receivable and deferred tax assets, and measurement of loss development on workers' compensation claims. We evaluate these estimates and judgments on an ongoing basis and base our estimates on historical experience, current and expected future outcomes, third-party evaluations, and various other assumptions that we believe are reasonable under the circumstances. The results of these estimates form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities as well as identifying and assessing the accounting treatment with respect to commitments and contingencies. We revise material accounting estimates if changes occur, such as more experience is acquired, additional information is obtained, or there is new information on which an estimate was or can be based. 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. We account for the effect of a change in accounting estimate during the period in which the change occurs.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments	Fair Value of Financial Instruments The carrying amounts of the Company's cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, contract assets, accrued expenses, and accounts payable approximate fair value due to the short-term nature of these instruments. The fair values of the Company's debt instruments approximate fair value because the underlying interest rates approximate market rates that the Company could obtain for similar instruments at the balance sheet dates.
Long Lived Assets	Long-Lived Assets Our long-lived assets include equipment and improvements, intangible assets, and goodwill. The Company continues to review its long-lived assets 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. 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 7 years) and the shorter of the initial lease term or estimated useful life for leasehold improvements. Intangible assets (other than goodwill) are originally recorded at fair value and are amortized on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives of 10 years. Maintenance and repair costs are expensed as incurred. Leases Right-of-use assets are measured at the present value of future minimum lease payments, including all probable renewals, plus lease payments made to the lessor before or at lease commencement and indirect costs paid, less incentives received. Our right-of-use assets include long-term leases for facilities and equipment and are amortized over their respective lease terms.
Income Taxes	Income Taxes The Company 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
Share-based Equity Compensation	Stock-based Equity Compensation The Company uses the fair value-based method for stock-based equity compensation. Options issued 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. 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 common shares. All awards to employees and non-employees are recorded at fair value on the date of the grant and expensed over the period of vesting. The Company uses a binomial and Black Scholes option pricing model to estimate the fair value of each stock option at the date of grant. Any consideration paid by the option holders to purchase shares is credited to capital stock.
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.
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 stock 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
Treasury Stock and Preferred Stock	Treasury Stock The Company periodically purchases its own common stock that is traded on public markets as part of announced stock repurchase programs. The repurchased common stock is classified as treasury stock on the consolidated balance sheets and held at cost. As of September 30, 2020, the Company did not hold any treasury stock. Preferred Stock Our certificate of incorporation authorizes the issuance of "blank check" preferred stock with such designations, rights and preferences as may be determined from time to time by our board of directors up to an aggregate of 5,000,000 shares of preferred stock. As of September 30, 2020, the Company has not issued any preferred stock.
Interest Rate Swap	Interest Rate Swap The Company uses derivative financial instruments to manage interest rate risk associated with its variable debt. The Company's objective in using these interest rate derivatives is to manage its exposure to interest rate movements and reduce volatility of interest expense. The gains and losses due to changes in the fair value of the interest rate swap agreements completely offset changes in the fair value of the hedged portion of the underlying debt. Offsetting changes in fair value of both the interest rate swaps and the hedged portion of the underlying debt are recognized in interest expense in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. The Company does not hold or issue any derivative instrument for trading or speculative purposes.
Revenue Recognition	Revenue Recognition We recognize revenue over time when there is a continuous transfer of control to our customer. For our U.S. government contracts, this continuous transfer of control to the customer is supported by clauses in the contract that allow the U.S. government to unilaterally terminate the contract for convenience, pay us for costs incurred plus a reasonable profit and take control of any work in process. When control is transferred over time, revenue is recognized based on the extent of progress towards completion of the performance obligation. For services contracts, we satisfy our performance obligations as services are rendered. We use a cost-based input method to measure progress. Contract costs include labor, material and allocable indirect expenses. For time-and-material contracts, we bill the customer per labor hour and per material, and revenue is recognized in the amount invoiced since the amount corresponds directly to the value of our performance to date. We consider control to transfer when we have a present right to payment. Essentially, all of our contracts satisfy their performance obligations over time. Contracts are often modified to account for changes in contract specifications and requirements. Contract modifications impact performance obligations when the modification either creates new or changes the existing enforceable rights and obligations. The effect of a contract modification on the transaction price and our measure of progress for the performance obligation to which it relates is recognized as an adjustment to revenue and profit cumulatively. Furthermore, a significant change in one or more estimates could affect the profitability of our contracts. We recognize adjustments in estimated profit on contracts in the period identified. For time-and-materials contracts, revenue is recognized to the extent of billable rates times hours delivered plus materials and other reimbursable costs incurred. Revenue for cost-reimbursable contracts is recorded as reimbursable costs are incurred, including an estimated share of the applicable contractual fees earned. Contract costs are expensed as incurred. Estimated losses are recognized when identified. Contract assets - Amounts are invoiced as work progresses in accordance with agreed-upon contractual terms. In part, revenue recognition occurs before we have the right to bill, resulting in contract assets. These contract assets are reported within receivables, net on our consolidated balance sheets and are invoiced in accordance with payment terms defined in each contract. Period end balances will vary from period to period due to agreed-upon contractual terms. Contract liabilities - Amounts are a result of billings in excess of costs incurred. Disaggregation of revenue from contracts with customers

Revenue Recognition (Tables)

Revenue Recognition (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]
Schedule of Contract Balances Recognized on the Company's Consolidated Balance Sheets	The following table summarizes the contract balances recognized within the Company's consolidated balance sheets: (in thousands) September 30, September 30, September 30, 2020 2019 2018 Contract assets $ 7,943 $ 4,302 $ 214 Contract liabilities $ 200 $ 92 $ —
Schedule of Disaggregation of Revenue From Contracts with Customers	The following series of tables present our revenue disaggregated by these categories: Revenue by customer: (in thousands) Year Ended September 30, 2020 2019 Department of Veterans Affairs $ 100,204 $ 91,949 Department of Health and Human Services 95,026 62,000 Other 13,955 6,442 Total revenue $ 209,185 $ 160,391 Revenue by contract type: (in thousands) Year Ended September 30, 2020 2019 Time and materials $ 147,509 $ 134,136 Cost reimbursable 58,091 23,200 Firm fixed price 3,585 3,055 Total revenue $ 209,185 $ 160,391 Revenue by whether the Company acts as a prime contractor or a subcontractor: (in thousands) Year Ended September 30, 2020 2019 Prime contractor $ 193,448 $ 154,207 Subcontractor 15,737 6,184 Total revenue $ 209,185 $ 160,391

Leases (Tables)

Leases (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020
Leases [Abstract]
Schedule of Impact of Adopting Standard on Consolidated Balance Sheet	The impact of adopting the standard on our consolidated balance sheet at October 1, 2019 is as follows: (in thousands) Ref September 30, 2019 ASC 842 Adjustments October 1, 2019 Long-term assets: Operating leases right-of-use assets $ — $ 17,398 $ 17,398 Current liabilities: Deferred rent liability - short-term (a) 44 (44) — Operating leases liabilities - current — 3,645 3,645 Long-term liabilities: Deferred rent liability - long-term (b) 276 (276) — Unamortized tenant improvement allowance (c) 297 (297) — Operating leases liabilities - long-term — 14,372 14,372 Shareholders' equity: Accumulated deficit (39,555) (2) (39,557) Ref (a): The balance of short-term deferred rent liability presented in our annual 10K report within accounts payable, accrued expenses, and other accrued liabilities on our consolidated balance sheet at September 30, 2019. Ref (b): The balance of long-term deferred rent liability presented in our annual 10K report within other long-term liabilities on our consolidated balance sheet at September 30, 2019.
Schedule of Summarized Lease Balances in Consolidated Balance Sheet	The following table summarizes lease balances in our consolidated balance sheet at September 30, 2020: (in thousands) September 30, 2020 Operating lease right-of-use assets $ 22,427 Operating lease liabilities, current $ 2,045 Operating lease liabilities - long-term 21,620 Total operating lease liabilities $ 23,665
Schedule of Lease Costs and Other Information Related to Leases	The Company's lease costs are included within general and administrative costs in our Consolidated Statements of Operations. For the year ended September 30, 2020, total lease costs for our operating leases are as follows: (in thousands) Year Ended September 30, 2020 Operating $ 4,236 Short-term 155 Variable 63 Sublease income (271) Total lease costs $ 4,183 Other information related to our leases are as follows: Ref September 30, 2020 Weighted-average remaining lease term 9.1 years Weighted-average discount rate (a) 5.99 % Ref (a): Calculation based off of borrowing terms from senior credit facility. (in thousands) Year Ended September 30, 2020 Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities $ 3,586 Lease liabilities arising from obtaining right-of-use-assets $ 229
Schedule of Company's Future Lease Payments	The Company's future minimum lease payments as of September 30, 2020 are as follows: For the Fiscal Year Ending September 30, (in thousands) 2021 $ 3,408 2022 3,501 2023 3,375 2024 3,251 2025 3,092 Thereafter 14,684 Total future minimum lease payments 31,311 Less: imputed interest (7,646) Present value of future minimum lease payments 23,665 Less: current portion of operating lease liabilities (2,045) Long-term operating lease liabilities $ 21,620
Schedule of Company's Future Lease Payments Under ASC 840	Under ASC 840, the Company's future minimum lease payments for the prior fiscal year ended September 30, 2019 were as follows: For the Fiscal Year Ending September 30, (in thousands) 2020 $ 3,484 2021 3,051 2022 3,136 2023 3,166 2024 3,100 Thereafter 16,945 Total future minimum lease payments $ 32,882

Supporting Financial Informat_2

Supporting Financial Information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Schedule of Accounts Receivable	Accounts receivable (in thousands) September 30, September 30, Ref 2020 2019 Billed receivables $ 24,598 $ 18,924 Contract assets 7,943 4,302 Total accounts receivable 32,541 23,226 Less: Allowance for doubtful accounts (a) — — Accounts receivable, net $ 32,541 $ 23,226
Schedule of Other Current Assets	Other current assets (in thousands) September 30, September 30, 2020 2019 Prepaid insurance and benefits $ 665 $ 495 Other receivables 1,363 301 Prepaid expenses 1,471 1,035 Other current assets $ 3,499 $ 1,831
Schedule of Equipment and Improvements, Net	Equipment and improvements, net (in thousands) September 30, September 30, Ref 2020 2019 Furniture and equipment $ 958 $ 1,262 Computer equipment 1,171 1,043 Computer software 4,341 3,985 Leasehold improvements 1,595 1,595 Total equipment and improvements 8,065 7,885 Less accumulated depreciation and amortization (4,726) (2,542) Equipment and improvements, net (a) $ 3,339 $ 5,343
Schedule of Intangible Assets, Net	Intangible assets, net (in thousands) September 30, September 30, Ref 2020 2019 Intangible assets (a) Customer contracts and related customer relationships $ 45,600 $ 45,600 Covenants not to compete 480 480 Trade name 2,109 2,109 Acquired intangibles - IBA acquisition (b) 16,223 — Total intangible assets 64,412 48,189 Less accumulated amortization Customer contracts and related customer relationships (11,150) (6,590) Covenants not to compete (212) (164) Trade name (438) (227) Total accumulated amortization (11,800) (6,981) Intangible assets, net $ 52,612 $ 41,208 Ref (a): Total amount of amortization expense for the year ended September 30, 2020 and 2019 was $4.8 million and $2.7 million, respectively. Ref (b): The Company is currently valuing the acquired intangible assets from the IBA acquisition. The balances provided are an estimate and subject to revision. Please refer to Note 16 for more information.
Schedule of Estimated Future Amortization Expense of Finite-lived Intangibles	Estimated amortization expense for future years: (in thousands) Fiscal 2021 $ 6,441 Fiscal 2022 6,441 Fiscal 2023 6,441 Fiscal 2024 6,441 Fiscal 2025 6,441 Thereafter 20,407 Total amortization expense $ 52,612
Schedule of Goodwill	The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill for the years ended September 30, 2020 and 2019 are as follows: (in thousands) Ref Total Balance at September 30, 2018 $ 25,989 Increase from S3 acquisition 26,769 Balance at September 30, 2019 52,758 Preliminary increase from IBA acquisition (a) 14,386 Balance at September 30, 2020 $ 67,144 Ref (a): The Company is currently valuing the goodwill from the IBA acquisition. The balance provided is an estimate and subject to revision. Please refer to Note 16 for more information.
Schedule of Accounts Payable, Accrued Expenses, and Other Current Liabilities	Accounts payable, accrued expenses, and other current liabilities (in thousands) September 30, September 30, 2020 2019 Accounts payable $ 14,645 $ 10,054 Accrued benefits 2,833 2,252 Accrued bonus and incentive compensation 2,340 1,951 Accrued workers' compensation insurance 5,529 4,007 Other accrued expenses 3,231 2,369 Accounts payable, accrued expenses, and other current liabilities $ 28,578 $ 20,633
Schedule of Debt Obligations	Debt Obligations (in thousands) September 30, September 30, 2020 2019 Bank term loan $ 70,000 $ 56,000 Less unamortized deferred financing cost (2,729) (2,371) Net bank debt obligation 67,271 53,629 Less current portion of term loan debt obligations (6,727) — Long-term portion of bank debt obligation $ 60,544 $ 53,629
Schedule of Interest Expense	Interest expense (in thousands) Year Ended September 30, Ref 2020 2019 Interest expense (a) $ (2,841) $ (1,512) Amortization of deferred financing costs (b) (721) (982) Other income (expense), net (c) 121 21 Interest expense, net $ (3,441) $ (2,473) Ref (a): Interest expense on borrowing Ref (b): Amortization of expenses related to term loan and revolving line of credit. For 2019, amortization included write-off of remaining deferred financing costs related to prior loan agreement that was terminated early.

Credit Facilities (Tables)

Credit Facilities (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Abstract]
Schedule of Loan Facilities and Subordinated Debt Financing	A summary of our loan facility as of September 30, 2020 is as follows: ($ in Millions) As of September 30, 2020 Lender Arrangement Loan Balance Interest Maturity Date First National Bank of Pennsylvania Secured term loan (a) $ 70.0 LIBOR* + 3.5% 09/30/25 First National Bank of Pennsylvania Secured revolving line of credit (b) $ — LIBOR* + 3.5% 09/30/25 *LIBOR rate as of September 30, 2020 was 0.16%. As of September 30, 2020, our LIBOR rate is subject to a minimum floor of 0.5%. The floor affects interest payments for the periods after September 30, 2020

Stock-based Compensation and _2

Stock-based Compensation and Equity Grants (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020
Share-based Payment Arrangement [Abstract]
Schedule of Stock-based Compensation Expense	Stock-based compensation expense, shown in the table below, is recorded in general and administrative expenses included in our Consolidated Statements of Operations: (in thousands) Year Ended Ref September 30, 2020 2019 DLH employees $ 563 $ 263 Non-employee directors (a) 347 527 Total stock option expense $ 910 $ 790 Ref (a): In the first quarter of fiscal 2019, we issued 90,000 restricted stock units to the Company's non-employee directors, all of which vested as of September 30, 2020. The shares of common stock underlying such restricted stock units were issued on October 5, 2020. Equity grants of restricted stock units, in accordance with DLH compensation policy for non-employee directors, were made in the first quarter of fiscal 2020 totaling 63,177 restricted stock units. The restricted stock units were granted on October 1, 2020. Unrecognized stock-based compensation expense (in thousands) Year Ended September 30, Ref 2020 2019 Unrecognized expense for DLH employees (a) $ 2,633 $ 631
Schedule of Stock Option Activity	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, 2019 2,134 $4.36 5.9 $ 4,815 Granted (a) 750 $6.74 — — Exercised (395) $0.99 — — Cancelled (360) $2.89 — — Options outstanding, September 30, 2020 2,129 — 7.4 $ 6,583 Ref (a): Utilizing a volatility of 50% along with assumptions of a 10-year term and the aforementioned 10-day stock price threshold results in an indicated range of value of the Options granted during the year ended September 30, 2020, as follows using the Monte Carlo and Black Scholes methods.
Schedule of Stock Options, Valuation Assumptions	Volatility 50% Vesting Expected Strike Stock Threshold Term Calculated Grant Date Ref Price Price Price (Years) Fair Value July 13, 2020 (a) $ 8.02 $ 8.02 Service 10 $ 4.69 July 13, 2020 $ 8.02 $ 8.02 $ 12.00 10 $ 4.79 July 13, 2020 $ 8.02 $ 8.02 $ 14.00 10 $ 4.76 July 13, 2020 $ 8.02 $ 8.02 $ 16.00 10 $ 4.76 Notes: Results based on 100,000 simulations Ref (a): Options granted vest after completion of a one-year service period.
Schedule of Stock Option Shares Outstanding, Vested and Expected to Vest	Stock options shares outstanding, vested and unvested for the years ended: (in thousands) Number of Shares September 30, Ref 2020 2019 Vested and exercisable (a) 1,213 1,300 Unvested (b) 916 834 Options outstanding 2,129 2,134 Ref (a): Weighted average exercise price of vested and exercisable shares was $2.25 and $1.51 at September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively. Aggregate intrinsic value was approximately $6.1 million and $3.9 million at September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively. Weighted average contractual term remaining was 4.6 years and 3.8 years at September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively.

Earnings Per Share (Tables)

Earnings Per Share (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Schedule of Diluted Earnings Per Share	Diluted earnings per share is calculated using the treasury stock method. (in thousands) Year Ended September 30, 2020 2019 Numerator: Net income $ 7,114 $ 5,324 Denominator: Denominator for basic net income per share - weighted-average outstanding shares 12,282 12,018 Effect of dilutive securities: Stock options and restricted stock 823 1,023 Denominator for diluted net income per share - weighted-average outstanding shares 13,105 13,041 Net income per share - basic $ 0.58 $ 0.44 Net income per share - diluted $ 0.54 $ 0.41

Commitments and Contingencies (

Commitments and Contingencies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Contractual Obligations	Contractual Obligations as of September 30, 2020: Payments Due Per Fiscal Year Contractual obligations (Amounts in thousands) Total 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 Thereafter Debt obligations $ 70,000 $ 7,000 $ 7,000 $ 8,750 $ 8,750 $ 38,500 $ — Facility leases 31,002 3,317 3,418 3,292 3,199 3,092 14,684 Equipment operating leases 309 91 83 83 52 — — Total Contractual Obligations $ 101,311 $ 10,408 $ 10,501 $ 12,125 $ 12,001 $ 41,592 $ 14,684

Income Taxes (Tables)

Income Taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities	An analysis of the Company's deferred tax assets and liabilities is as follows: Year Ended September 30, (amounts in thousands) 2020 2019 Deferred income tax assets: Net operating loss carry forwards $ 1,554 $ 3,926 AMT credit carryforward — 183 Stock based compensation 140 140 Accrued expenses 1,698 1,666 Other items, net 258 45 Total deferred tax asset 3,650 5,960 Deferred tax liability: Equipment and intangible assets (3,613) (3,615) Net deferred tax asset $ 37 $ 2,345
Schedule of Significant Components of the Expense From Continuing Operations	The significant components of income tax expense for income taxes from continuing operations are summarized as follows: Year Ended September 30, (amounts in thousands) 2020 2019 Current expense $ 598 $ 379 Deferred expense 2,308 1,792 Total expense $ 2,906 $ 2,171
Schedule of Significant Differences Between the Income Taxes at Federal Statutory Rate and Effective Tax Rate	The following table indicates the significant differences between our income taxes at the federal statutory rate and the Company's effective tax rate for continuing operations: Year Ended September 30, (amounts in thousands) Ref 2020 2019 Federal statutory rate $ 2,104 $ 1,574 State taxes, net 554 407 Other permanent items 160 91 Deferred tax estimate adjustment 88 99 Total $ 2,906 $ 2,171

Quarterly Financial Data (Una_2

Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information	A summary of quarterly information is as follows (in thousands, except per share data) 2020 Quarters Ref First Second Third Fourth Revenue $ 52,238 $ 54,798 $ 51,459 $ 50,691 Income from operations 3,126 3,837 3,800 2,698 Interest expense, net (941) (906) (813) (781) Income before income taxes 2,185 2,931 2,987 1,917 Income tax expense 634 855 863 554 Net income $ 1,551 $ 2,076 $ 2,124 $ 1,363 Earnings per share: Basic $ 0.13 $ 0.17 $ 0.17 $ 0.11 Diluted $ 0.12 $ 0.16 $ 0.16 $ 0.10 2019 Quarters Ref First Second Third Fourth Revenue (a) $ 33,752 $ 33,756 $ 38,700 $ 54,183 Income from operations 2,557 2,327 1,690 3,394 Interest expense, net (177) (545) (562) (1,190) Income before income taxes 2,380 1,782 1,128 2,204 Income tax expense 690 517 325 639 Net income (loss) $ 1,690 $ 1,265 $ 803 $ 1,565 Earnings (loss) per share: Basic $ 0.14 $ 0.11 $ 0.07 $ 0.13 Diluted $ 0.13 $ 0.10 $ 0.06 $ 0.12 Ref (a): The inclusion of S3 for Fiscal 2019 impacts part of quarter three and all of quarter four versus the full year for Fiscal 2020.

Business Combinations (Tables)

Business Combinations (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Schedule of Total Acquisition Consideration and Allocation of Fair Value of Assets and Liabilities	The preliminary purchase price and its allocation are shown below. Based on the unaudited financial statements of IBA on September 30, 2020, we accounted for the total acquisition consideration and allocation of fair value to the related assets and liabilities on a preliminary basis as follows: (Amounts in thousands) Preliminary purchase price for IBA $ 32,706 Net assets acquired Cash and cash equivalents $ 28 Accounts receivable 3,907 Other current assets 124 Total current assets 4,059 Accounts payable and accrued expenses (758) Payroll liabilities (1,269) Other current liabilities (177) Net working capital 1,855 Equipment and improvements, net 28 Other long-term assets/liabilities 214 Net identifiable assets acquired 2,097 Goodwill and other identifiable intangible assets 30,609 Net assets acquired $ 32,706
Schedule of Pro Forma Results (unaudited)	(unaudited) (in thousands) Year ended Year ended September 30, September 30, Pro forma results 2020 2019 Revenue $ 234,443 $ 228,117 Net income (loss) 7,170 2,464 Number of shares outstanding - basic 12,282 12,018 Number of shares outstanding - diluted 13,105 13,041 Basic earnings per share (loss) $ 0.58 $ 0.21 Diluted earnings per share (loss) $ 0.55 $ 0.19

Business Overview (Details)

Business Overview (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020employeebusiness_arealocation	Sep. 30, 2019
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Number of market focus areas | business_area	3
Number of market core competencies | business_area	7
Number of employees (over) | employee	2,200
Customer Concentration | Revenue Concentration | Federal Government
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Concentration risk percentage	98.00%
Customer Concentration | Revenue Concentration | VA
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Concentration risk percentage	48.00%	57.00%
Customer Concentration | Revenue Concentration | HHS
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Concentration risk percentage	45.00%	39.00%
United States
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Number of locations in which the entity operates (more than) | location	30
Overseas
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Number of locations in which the entity operates (more than) | location	1

New Accounting Pronouncements (

New Accounting Pronouncements (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2020	Oct. 01, 2019
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Operating leases right-of-use assets	$ 22,427
Operating lease liability	$ 23,665
ASC 842
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Operating leases right-of-use assets		$ 17,400
Operating lease liability		$ 18,000

Significant Accounting Polici_3

Significant Accounting Policies (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019	Sep. 30, 2018
Goodwill [Line Items]
Finite-lived intangibles estimated useful lives	10 years
Goodwill	$ 67,144,000	$ 52,758,000	$ 25,989,000
Goodwill impairment loss	0
Uncertain tax positions	0	0
Tax interest	0	0
Tax penalties	0	$ 0
FDIC insurance limit amount	$ 250,000
Treasury stock (shares)	0
Authorized shares of preferred stock (shares)	5,000,000
Issued preferred stock (shares)	0
Employee Stock Option
Goodwill [Line Items]
Number of options that may be granted with a term of more than 10 years from date of grant (in shares)	0
Expiration term of options	10 years
Minimum
Goodwill [Line Items]
Estimated useful lives of property and equipment	3 years
Maximum
Goodwill [Line Items]
Estimated useful lives of property and equipment	7 years

Revenue Recognition - Contract

Revenue Recognition - Contract Balances (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019	Sep. 30, 2018
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]
Contract assets	$ 7,943	$ 4,302	$ 214
Contract liabilities	$ 200	$ 92	$ 0

Revenue Recognition - Disaggreg

Revenue Recognition - Disaggregation of Revenue (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020	Jun. 30, 2020	Mar. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019	Sep. 30, 2019	Jun. 30, 2019	Mar. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Total revenue	$ 50,691	$ 51,459	$ 54,798	$ 52,238	$ 54,183	$ 38,700	$ 33,756	$ 33,752	$ 209,185	$ 160,391
Prime contractor
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Total revenue									193,448	154,207
Subcontractor
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Total revenue									15,737	6,184
Time and materials
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Total revenue									147,509	134,136
Cost reimbursable
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Total revenue									58,091	23,200
Firm fixed price
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Total revenue									3,585	3,055
Department of Veterans Affairs
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Total revenue									100,204	91,949
Department of Health and Human Services
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Total revenue									95,026	62,000
Other
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Total revenue									$ 13,955	$ 6,442

Leases - Narrative (Details)

Leases - Narrative (Details) $ in Thousands	Oct. 01, 2019USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2019USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2020USD ($)sublease_option	Sep. 30, 2019USD ($)
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Operating leases right-of-use assets			$ 22,427
Operating lease liabilities, current			2,045
Operating lease liabilities - long-term			21,620
Accumulated deficit			32,443	$ 39,555
Accounting Standards Update [Extensible List]	us-gaap:AccountingStandardsUpdate201602Member
Gain recognized on lease modification			121	$ 0
Operating lease liability			23,665
Increase to right-of-use assets			24,700
Increase to lease liabilities			$ 25,200
Sublease term			5 years
Number of sublease extension options | sublease_option			2
Sublease option extension period			1 year
Facilities and Equipment | Minimum
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Remaining lease term			7 months 6 days
Facilities and Equipment | Maximum
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Remaining lease term			10 years 6 months
Lease Modification
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Operating leases right-of-use assets	$ 7,300
Gain recognized on lease modification		$ 100
Operating lease liability	7,200
Cumulative-effect adjustment for adoption of ASC 842
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Operating leases right-of-use assets	17,398
Operating lease liabilities, current	3,645
Operating lease liabilities - long-term	14,372
Accumulated deficit	$ 2

Leases - Impact of Adoption of

Leases - Impact of Adoption of Standard in Consolidated Balance Sheet (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2020	Oct. 01, 2019	Sep. 30, 2019
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Operating leases right-of-use assets	$ 22,427
Deferred rent liability - short-term			$ 44
Operating lease liabilities - current	2,045
Deferred rent liability - long-term			276
Unamortized tenant improvement allowance			297
Operating lease liabilities - long-term	21,620
Accumulated deficit	$ (32,443)		$ (39,555)
ASC 842 Adjustments
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Operating leases right-of-use assets		$ 17,398
Deferred rent liability - short-term		(44)
Operating lease liabilities - current		3,645
Deferred rent liability - long-term		(276)
Unamortized tenant improvement allowance		(297)
Operating lease liabilities - long-term		14,372
Accumulated deficit		(2)
October 1, 2019
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Operating leases right-of-use assets		17,398
Deferred rent liability - short-term		0
Operating lease liabilities - current		3,645
Deferred rent liability - long-term		0
Unamortized tenant improvement allowance		0
Operating lease liabilities - long-term		14,372
Accumulated deficit		$ (39,557)

Leases - Summary of Lease Balan

Leases - Summary of Lease Balances in Consolidated Balance Sheets (Details) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2020USD ($)
Leases [Abstract]
Operating lease right-of-use assets	$ 22,427
Operating lease liabilities, current	2,045
Operating lease liabilities - long-term	21,620
Total operating lease liabilities	$ 23,665

Leases - Lease Costs (Details)

Leases - Lease Costs (Details) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020USD ($)
Leases [Abstract]
Operating	$ 4,236
Short-term	155
Variable	63
Sublease income	(271)
Total lease costs	$ 4,183

Leases - Other Information Rela

Leases - Other Information Related to Leases (Details) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020USD ($)
Leases [Abstract]
Weighted-average remaining lease term	9 years 1 month 6 days
Weighted-average discount rate	5.99%
Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities	$ 3,586
Lease liabilities arising from obtaining right-of-use-assets	$ 229

Leases - Company's Future Minim

Leases - Company's Future Minimum Lease Payments (Details) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2020USD ($)
Leases [Abstract]
2021	$ 3,408
2022	3,501
2023	3,375
2024	3,251
2025	3,092
Thereafter	14,684
Total future minimum lease payments	31,311
Less: imputed interest	(7,646)
Total operating lease liabilities	23,665
Less: current portion of operating lease liabilities	(2,045)
Long-term operating lease liabilities	$ 21,620

Leases - Company's Future Min_2

Leases - Company's Future Minimum Lease Payments under ASC 840 (Details) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2019USD ($)
Leases [Abstract]
2021	$ 3,484
2021	3,051
2022	3,136
2023	3,166
2024	3,100
Thereafter	16,945
Total future minimum lease payments	$ 32,882

Supporting Financial Informat_3

Supporting Financial Information - Accounts Receivable (Details) - USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019	Sep. 30, 2018
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Billed receivables	$ 24,598,000	$ 18,924,000
Contract assets	7,943,000	4,302,000	$ 214,000
Total accounts receivable	32,541,000	23,226,000
Less: Allowance for doubtful accounts	0	0
Accounts receivable, net	$ 32,541,000	$ 23,226,000

Supporting Financial Informat_4

Supporting Financial Information - Other Current Assets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Prepaid insurance and benefits	$ 665	$ 495
Other receivables	1,363	301
Prepaid expenses	1,471	1,035
Other current assets	$ 3,499	$ 1,831

Supporting Financial Informat_5

Supporting Financial Information - Equipment and Improvements, net (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Furniture and equipment	$ 958	$ 1,262
Computer equipment	1,171	1,043
Computer software	4,341	3,985
Leasehold improvements	1,595	1,595
Total equipment and improvements	8,065	7,885
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization	(4,726)	(2,542)
Equipment and improvements, net	3,339	5,343
Depreciation	$ 2,200	$ 1,200

Supporting Financial Informat_6

Supporting Financial Information - Intangible Assets, Net (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Intangible assets, gross	$ 64,412	$ 48,189
Less accumulated amortization	(11,800)	(6,981)
Intangible assets, net	52,612	41,208
Amortization expense of intangibles	4,800	2,700
IBA
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Intangible assets, gross	16,223	0
Customer contracts and related customer relationships
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Intangible assets, gross	45,600	45,600
Less accumulated amortization	(11,150)	(6,590)
Covenants not to compete
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Intangible assets, gross	480	480
Less accumulated amortization	(212)	(164)
Trade name
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Intangible assets, gross	2,109	2,109
Less accumulated amortization	$ (438)	$ (227)

Supporting Financial Informat_7

Supporting Financial Information - Estimated Amortization Expense of Intangible Assets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Fiscal 2021	$ 6,441
Fiscal 2022	6,441
Fiscal 2023	6,441
Fiscal 2024	6,441
Fiscal 2025	6,441
Thereafter	20,407
Intangible assets, net	$ 52,612	$ 41,208

Supporting Financial Informat_8

Supporting Financial Information - Goodwill (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	$ 52,758	$ 25,989
Increase from acquisition	14,386	26,769
Ending balance	$ 67,144	$ 52,758

Supporting Financial Informat_9

Supporting Financial Information - Accounts Payable, Accrued Expense and Other Current Liabilities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Accounts payable	$ 14,645	$ 10,054
Accrued benefits	2,833	2,252
Accrued bonus and incentive compensation	2,340	1,951
Accrued workers' compensation insurance	5,529	4,007
Other accrued expenses	3,231	2,369
Accounts payable, accrued expenses, and other current liabilities	$ 28,578	$ 20,633

Supporting Financial Informa_10

Supporting Financial Information - Debt Obligations (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Net bank debt obligation	$ 70,000
Less current portion of term loan debt obligations	(6,727)	$ 0
Long-term portion of bank debt obligation	60,544	53,629
Secured Debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Bank term loan	70,000	56,000
Less unamortized deferred financing cost	(2,729)	(2,371)
Net bank debt obligation	67,271	53,629
Less current portion of term loan debt obligations	(6,727)	0
Long-term portion of bank debt obligation	$ 60,544	$ 53,629

Supporting Financial Informa_11

Supporting Financial Information - Interest Expense (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020	Jun. 30, 2020	Mar. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019	Sep. 30, 2019	Jun. 30, 2019	Mar. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Interest expense									$ (2,841)	$ (1,512)
Amortization of deferred financing costs									(721)	(982)
Other income (expense), net									121	21
Interest expense, net	$ (781)	$ (813)	$ (906)	$ (941)	$ (1,190)	$ (562)	$ (545)	$ (177)	$ (3,441)	$ (2,473)

Credit Facilities - Summary of

Credit Facilities - Summary of Loan Facilities and Subordinated Debt Financing (Details) - Secured Debt - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Loan Balance	$ 70,000,000	$ 56,000,000
Term loan
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Loan Balance	$ 70,000,000
Term loan | LIBOR
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instrument, basis spread on variable rate	0.035%
Debt instrument, interest rate, effective percentage	0.16%
Debt instrument, floor percentage	0.50%
Secured revolving line of credit
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Loan Balance	$ 0
Secured revolving line of credit | LIBOR
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instrument, basis spread on variable rate	0.035%
Debt instrument, interest rate, effective percentage	0.16%
Debt instrument, floor percentage	0.50%

Credit Facilities - Narrative (

Credit Facilities - Narrative (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2019USD ($)
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Debt annual amortization amount fiscal year 2021	$ 7,000,000
2022	7,000,000
2023	8,750,000
2024	8,750,000
2025	38,500,000
Interest Rate Swap
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Notional amount of floating-to-fix interest rate swap	$ 36,000,000
Fixed interest rate applicable to swaps	1.61%
Increase in interest expense	$ 200,000
Secured Debt
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Bank term loan	70,000,000	$ 56,000,000
Secured Debt | Term loan
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Secured term loan, face amount	$ 70,000,000
Fixed charge coverage ratio	1.25
Ratio of debt to EBITDA	2.75
Debt annual amortization amount fiscal year 2021	$ 7,000,000
2022	7,000,000
2023	8,750,000
2024	8,750,000
2025	8,750,000
Bank term loan	$ 70,000,000
Secured Debt | Term loan | Maximum
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Ratio of debt to EBITDA	3.75
Debt instrument, interest rate, effective percentage	4.50%
Secured Debt | Term loan | Minimum
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Debt instrument, interest rate, effective percentage	2.50%
Secured Debt | Term loan | Excess Cash Flow Greater Than or Equal to 2.50
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Percentage of excess cash flow for each year of funded indebtedness to adjusted EBITDA	75.00%
Ratio of funded indebtedness to adjusted EBIDTA	2.50
Secured Debt | Term loan | Excess Cash Flow Less Than 2.50 But Greater Than or Equal to 1.50
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Percentage of excess cash flow for each year of funded indebtedness to adjusted EBITDA	50.00%
Secured Debt | Term loan | Excess Cash Flow Less Than 2.50 But Greater Than or Equal to 1.50 | Maximum
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Ratio of funded indebtedness to adjusted EBIDTA	2.50
Secured Debt | Term loan | Excess Cash Flow Equal to 1.50
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Ratio of funded indebtedness to adjusted EBIDTA	1.5
Secured Debt | Term loan | Excess Cash Flow Less Than 1.50
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Percentage of excess cash flow for each year of funded indebtedness to adjusted EBITDA	0.00%
Ratio of funded indebtedness to adjusted EBIDTA	1.5
Secured Debt | Secured revolving line of credit
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Line of credit ceiling	$ 25,000,000
Bank term loan	0
Remaining borrowing availability	24,800,000
Secured Debt | Letters of credit
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Remaining borrowing availability	$ 5,000,000

Stock-based Compensation and _3

Stock-based Compensation and Equity Grants - Narrative (Details) - Employee Stock Option	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020shares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of options that may be granted with a term of more than 10 years from date of grant (in shares)	0
Expiration term of options	10 years
Number of shares available for grant (in shares)	900,000
2016 Omnibus Equity Incentive Plan
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of options that may be granted with a term of more than 10 years from date of grant (in shares)	0
Expiration term of options	10 years

Stock-based Compensation and _4

Stock-based Compensation and Equity Grants - Stock-based Compensation Expense (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]
Total compensation expense			$ 910	$ 790
DLH employees
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]
Unrecognized expense for DLH employees			$ 2,633	631
Weighted average period for recognition of compensation expense			4 years 6 months 29 days
DLH employees | Selling, General and Administrative Expenses
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]
Total compensation expense			$ 563	263
Non-employee directors | Restricted Stock Units
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]
Number of restricted stock units issued (in shares)	63,177	90,000
Number of restricted stocks vested in period (in shares)			90,000
Non-employee directors | Selling, General and Administrative Expenses
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]
Total compensation expense			$ 347	$ 527

Stock-based Compensation and _5

Stock-based Compensation and Equity Grants - Stock Option Activity (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	Jul. 13, 2020	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Number of Shares
Outstanding at September 30, 2019 (in shares)		2,134
Granted (in shares)		750
Exercised (in shares)		(395)
Cancelled (in shares)		(360)
Outstanding at September 30, 2020 (in shares)		2,129	2,134
Weighted Average Exercise Price
Outstanding at September 30, 2019 (in dollars per share)		$ 4.36
Granted (in dollars per share)		6.74
Exercised (in dollars per share)		0.99
Cancelled (in dollars per share)		2.89
Outstanding at September 30, 2020 (in dollars per share)		$ 0	$ 4.36
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (in years)
Outstanding at September 30, 2020		7 years 4 months 24 days	5 years 10 months 24 days
Aggregate Intrinsic Value
Outstanding at the September 30, 2019		$ 4,815
Options outstanding at September 30, 2020		$ 6,583	$ 4,815
Employee Stock Option
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Volatility rate	50.00%	50.00%
Term		10 years
Stock price threshold term		10 days

Stock-based Compensation and _6

Stock-based Compensation and Equity Grants - Stock Options Fair Value Assumptions (Details) - Employee Stock Option - $ / shares	Jul. 13, 2020	Sep. 30, 2020
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Volatility	50.00%	50.00%
Expected term (Years)		10 years
July 13, 2020
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Strike price (in dollars per share)	$ 8.02
Stock price (in dollars per share)	$ 8.02
Expected term (Years)	10 years
Calculated fair value (in dollars per share)	$ 4.69
July 13, 2020
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Strike price (in dollars per share)	8.02
Stock price (in dollars per share)	8.02
Vesting threshold price (in dollars per share)	$ 12
Expected term (Years)	10 years
Calculated fair value (in dollars per share)	$ 4.79
July 13, 2020
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Strike price (in dollars per share)	8.02
Stock price (in dollars per share)	8.02
Vesting threshold price (in dollars per share)	$ 14
Expected term (Years)	10 years
Calculated fair value (in dollars per share)	$ 4.76
July 13, 2020
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Strike price (in dollars per share)	8.02
Stock price (in dollars per share)	8.02
Vesting threshold price (in dollars per share)	$ 16
Expected term (Years)	10 years
Calculated fair value (in dollars per share)	$ 4.76
Service period	1 year

Stock-based Compensation and _7

Stock-based Compensation and Equity Grants - Stock Options Outstanding, Vested and Unvested (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Share-based Payment Arrangement [Abstract]
Vested and exercisable (in shares)	1,213	1,300
Unvested (in shares)	916	834
Options outstanding (in shares)	2,129	2,134
Weighted average exercise price of vested and exercisable shares (in dollars per share)	$ 2.25	$ 1.51
Aggregate intrinsic value of vested and exercisable shares	$ 6.1	$ 3.9
Weighted average contractual term remaining of vested and exercisable shares	4 years 7 months 6 days	3 years 9 months 18 days

Earnings Per Share (Details)

Earnings Per Share (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020	Jun. 30, 2020	Mar. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019	Sep. 30, 2019	Jun. 30, 2019	Mar. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Numerator:
Net income	$ 1,363	$ 2,124	$ 2,076	$ 1,551	$ 1,565	$ 803	$ 1,265	$ 1,690	$ 7,114	$ 5,324
Denominator:
Denominator for basic net income per share - weighted-average outstanding shares (in shares)									12,282	12,018
Effect of dilutive securities:
Stock options and restricted stock (in shares)									823	1,023
Denominator for diluted net income per share - weighted-average outstanding shares (in shares)									13,105	13,041
Net income per share - basic (in dollars per share)	$ 0.11	$ 0.17	$ 0.17	$ 0.13	$ 0.13	$ 0.07	$ 0.11	$ 0.14	$ 0.58	$ 0.44
Net income per share - diluted (in dollars per share)	$ 0.10	$ 0.16	$ 0.16	$ 0.12	$ 0.12	$ 0.06	$ 0.10	$ 0.13	$ 0.54	$ 0.41

Commitments and Contingencies -

Commitments and Contingencies - Contractual Obligations (Details) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2020USD ($)
Maturity of Debt Obligations
Net bank debt obligation	$ 70,000
2021	7,000
2022	7,000
2023	8,750
2024	8,750
2025	38,500
Thereafter	0
Maturity Operating Leases
Total future minimum lease payments	31,311
2021	3,408
2022	3,501
2023	3,375
2024	3,251
2025	3,092
Thereafter	14,684
Maturity Total Contractual Obligations
Total Contractual Obligations	101,311
2021	10,408
2022	10,501
2023	12,125
2024	12,001
2025	41,592
Thereafter	14,684
Facility leases
Maturity Operating Leases
Total future minimum lease payments	31,002
2021	3,317
2022	3,418
2023	3,292
2024	3,199
2025	3,092
Thereafter	14,684
Equipment operating leases
Maturity Operating Leases
Total future minimum lease payments	309
2021	91
2022	83
2023	83
2024	52
2025	0
Thereafter	$ 0

Commitments and Contingencies_2

Commitments and Contingencies - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Workers' compensation liability	$ 5.5	$ 4

Income Taxes - Narrative (Detai

Income Taxes - Narrative (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Income Tax Examination [Line Items]
Deferred tax assets valuation allowance	$ 0
ATM credits receivable as result of CARES Act	366,000
Federal
Income Tax Examination [Line Items]
Net operating losses	7,400,000	$ 18,900,000
Net operating losses utilized to offset taxes	$ 11,500,000

Income Taxes - Deferred Tax Ass

Income Taxes - Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Deferred income tax assets:
Net operating loss carry forwards	$ 1,554	$ 3,926
AMT credit carryforward	0	183
Stock based compensation	140	140
Accrued expenses	1,698	1,666
Other items, net	258	45
Total deferred tax asset	3,650	5,960
Deferred tax liability:
Equipment and intangible assets	(3,613)	(3,615)
Net deferred tax asset	$ 37	$ 2,345

Income Taxes - Components of In

Income Taxes - Components of Income Tax Expense (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020	Jun. 30, 2020	Mar. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019	Sep. 30, 2019	Jun. 30, 2019	Mar. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Current expense									$ 598	$ 379
Deferred expense									2,308	1,792
Total expense	$ 554	$ 863	$ 855	$ 634	$ 639	$ 325	$ 517	$ 690	$ 2,906	$ 2,171

Income Taxes - Effective Tax Ra

Income Taxes - Effective Tax Rate Reconciliation (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020	Jun. 30, 2020	Mar. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019	Sep. 30, 2019	Jun. 30, 2019	Mar. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Federal statutory rate									$ 2,104	$ 1,574
State taxes, net									554	407
Other permanent items									160	91
Deferred tax estimate adjustment									88	99
Total expense	$ 554	$ 863	$ 855	$ 634	$ 639	$ 325	$ 517	$ 690	$ 2,906	$ 2,171

Quarterly Financial Data (Una_3

Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020	Jun. 30, 2020	Mar. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019	Sep. 30, 2019	Jun. 30, 2019	Mar. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Revenue	$ 50,691	$ 51,459	$ 54,798	$ 52,238	$ 54,183	$ 38,700	$ 33,756	$ 33,752	$ 209,185	$ 160,391
Income from operations	2,698	3,800	3,837	3,126	3,394	1,690	2,327	2,557	13,461	9,968
Interest expense, net	(781)	(813)	(906)	(941)	(1,190)	(562)	(545)	(177)	(3,441)	(2,473)
Income before income taxes	1,917	2,987	2,931	2,185	2,204	1,128	1,782	2,380	10,020	7,495
Income tax expense	554	863	855	634	639	325	517	690	2,906	2,171
Net income	$ 1,363	$ 2,124	$ 2,076	$ 1,551	$ 1,565	$ 803	$ 1,265	$ 1,690	$ 7,114	$ 5,324
Basic (in dollars per share)	$ 0.11	$ 0.17	$ 0.17	$ 0.13	$ 0.13	$ 0.07	$ 0.11	$ 0.14	$ 0.58	$ 0.44
Diluted (in dollars per share)	$ 0.10	$ 0.16	$ 0.16	$ 0.12	$ 0.12	$ 0.06	$ 0.10	$ 0.13	$ 0.54	$ 0.41

Employee Benefit Plans (Details

Employee Benefit Plans (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Retirement Benefits [Abstract]
Defined contribution plan, recorded expense	$ 1,200	$ 577
Defined contribution plan, matching contributions period	4 years

Business Combinations - Narrati

Business Combinations - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Borrowings		$ 33,000	$ 70,000
Preliminary purchase price, net of cash acquired		$ 32,678	$ 67,079
IBA
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Percentage of equity interest acquired	100.00%	100.00%
Preliminary purchase price	$ 32,706
Transaction expenses and acquisition costs	1,800
Preliminary purchase price, net of cash acquired	32,000
Escrow funds	400	$ 400
IBA | Term loan | Secured Debt
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Borrowings	$ 33,000

Business Combinations - Total A

Business Combinations - Total Acquisition Consideration and Fair Value of Net Assets Acquired (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019	Sep. 30, 2018
Net assets acquired
Goodwill	$ 67,144	$ 52,758	$ 25,989
IBA
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Preliminary purchase price for IBA	32,706
Net assets acquired
Cash and cash equivalents	28
Accounts receivable	3,907
Other current assets	124
Total current assets	4,059
Accounts payable and accrued expenses	(758)
Payroll liabilities	(1,269)
Other current liabilities	(177)
Net working capital	1,855
Equipment and improvements, net	28
Other long-term assets/liabilities	214
Net identifiable assets acquired	2,097
Goodwill	30,609
Net assets acquired	$ 32,706

Business Combinations - Pro For

Business Combinations - Pro Forma Results (unaudited) (Details) - IBA - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Revenue	$ 234,443	$ 228,117
Net income (loss)	$ 7,170	$ 2,464
Number of shares outstanding - basic (in shares)	12,282	12,018
Number of shares outstanding - diluted (in shares)	13,105	13,041
Basic earnings per share (loss) (in dollars per share)	$ 0.58	$ 0.21
Diluted earnings per share (loss) (in dollars per share)	$ 0.55	$ 0.19