Fair Isaac (FICO) 10-K 10 Nov 16 2016 FY Annual report Financial data

Document and Entity Information

Document and Entity Information - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016	Oct. 28, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016
Document And Entity Information [Abstract]
Document Type	10-K
Amendment Flag	false
Document Period End Date	Sep. 30, 2016
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2,016
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Trading Symbol	FICO
Entity Registrant Name	FAIR ISAAC CORP
Entity Central Index Key	814,547
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--09-30
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	Yes
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		30,940,696
Entity Public Float			$ 2,262,902,883

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 75,926	$ 86,120
Accounts receivable, net	167,786	158,773
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	23,926	41,709
Total current assets	267,638	286,602
Marketable securities available for sale	11,016	9,567
Other investments	10,920	10,958
Property and equipment, net	45,122	38,208
Goodwill	798,415	814,750
Intangible assets, net	33,619	47,321
Deferred income taxes	47,598	15,196
Other assets	6,724	7,561
Total assets	1,221,052	1,230,163
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable	22,952	19,852
Accrued compensation and employee benefits	71,216	54,368
Other accrued liabilities	27,780	30,958
Deferred revenue	47,129	46,697
Current maturities on debt	77,000	92,000
Total current liabilities	246,077	243,875
Long-term debt	494,000	516,000
Other liabilities	34,147	33,290
Total liabilities	774,224	793,165
Commitments and contingencies
Stockholders’ equity:
Preferred stock ($0.01 par value; 1,000 shares authorized; none issued and outstanding)	0	0
Common stock ($0.01 par value; 200,000 shares authorized, 88,857 shares issued and 30,935 and 31,290 shares outstanding at September 30, 2016 and September 30, 2015, respectively)	309	313
Paid-in-capital	1,185,076	1,152,789
Treasury stock, at cost (57,922 and 57,567 shares at September 30, 2016 and September 30, 2015, respectively)	(2,136,760)	(2,033,644)
Retained earnings	1,475,214	1,368,255
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	(77,011)	(50,715)
Total stockholders’ equity	446,828	436,998
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	$ 1,221,052	$ 1,230,163

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Pa

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Parenthetical) - $ / shares	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]
Preferred stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Preferred stock, shares authorized (in shares)	1,000,000	1,000,000
Preferred stock, issued (in shares)	0	0
Preferred stock, outstanding (in shares)	0	0
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Common stock, shares authorized (in shares)	200,000,000	200,000,000
Common stock, shares issued (in shares)	88,857,000	88,857,000
Common stock, shares outstanding (in shares)	30,935,000	31,290,000
Treasury stock, shares	57,922,000	57,567,000

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCO

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands		12 Months Ended
		Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014
Revenues:
Transactional and maintenance		$ 605,919	$ 564,232	$ 527,563
Professional services		169,738	151,773	149,834
License		105,699	122,776	111,588
Total revenues		881,356	838,781	788,985
Operating expenses:
Cost of revenues	[1]	265,173	270,535	249,281
Research and development		103,669	98,824	83,435
Selling, general and administrative	[1]	328,940	300,002	278,203
Amortization of intangible assets	[1]	13,982	13,673	11,917
Restructuring and acquisition-related		0	18,242	4,281
Total operating expenses		711,764	701,276	627,117
Operating income		169,592	137,505	161,868
Interest expense, net		(26,633)	(29,150)	(28,550)
Other income (expense), net		1,610	883	(187)
Income before income taxes		144,569	109,238	133,131
Provision for income taxes		35,121	22,736	38,252
Net income		109,448	86,502	94,879
Other comprehensive loss:
Foreign currency translation adjustments		(26,296)	(27,526)	(2,281)
Comprehensive income		$ 83,152	$ 58,976	$ 92,598
Basic earnings per share (in dollars per share)		$ 3.52	$ 2.75	$ 2.80
Shares used in computing basic earnings per share (in shares)		31,129	31,402	33,870
Diluted earnings per share (in dollars per share)		$ 3.39	$ 2.65	$ 2.72
Shares used in computing diluted earnings per share (in shares)		32,308	32,609	34,864
[1]	Cost of revenues and selling, general and administrative expenses exclude the amortization of intangible assets. See Note 7.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOC

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	Total	Common Stock	Paid-in- Capital	Treasury Stock	Retained Earnings	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
Beginning Balance (in shares) at Sep. 30, 2013		34,786
Beginning Balance at Sep. 30, 2013	$ 530,677	$ 348	$ 1,110,198	$ (1,751,057)	$ 1,192,096	$ (20,908)
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Share-based compensation	36,362		36,362
Issuance of treasury stock under employee stock plans (in shares)		911
Issuance of treasury stock under employee stock plans	6,554	$ 9	(23,278)	29,823
Tax effect from share-based payment arrangements	6,035		6,035
Repurchases of common stock (in shares)		(3,650)
Repurchases of common stock	(214,898)	$ (37)		(214,861)
Dividends paid	(2,714)				(2,714)
Net income	94,879				94,879
Foreign currency translation adjustments	(2,281)					(2,281)
Ending Balance (in shares) at Sep. 30, 2014		32,047
Ending Balance at Sep. 30, 2014	454,614	$ 320	1,129,317	(1,936,095)	1,284,261	(23,189)
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Share-based compensation	45,308		45,308
Issuance of treasury stock under employee stock plans (in shares)		954
Issuance of treasury stock under employee stock plans	(1,203)	$ 10	(34,366)	33,153
Tax effect from share-based payment arrangements	12,530		12,530
Repurchases of common stock (in shares)		(1,711)
Repurchases of common stock	(130,719)	$ (17)		(130,702)
Dividends paid	(2,508)				(2,508)
Net income	86,502				86,502
Foreign currency translation adjustments	(27,526)					(27,526)
Ending Balance (in shares) at Sep. 30, 2015		31,290
Ending Balance at Sep. 30, 2015	436,998	$ 313	1,152,789	(2,033,644)	1,368,255	(50,715)
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Share-based compensation	55,509		55,509
Issuance of treasury stock under employee stock plans (in shares)		980
Issuance of treasury stock under employee stock plans	(12,127)	$ 10	(47,406)	35,269
Tax effect from share-based payment arrangements	24,184		24,184
Repurchases of common stock (in shares)		(1,335)
Repurchases of common stock	(138,399)	$ (14)		(138,385)
Dividends paid	(2,489)				(2,489)
Net income	109,448				109,448
Foreign currency translation adjustments	(26,296)					(26,296)
Ending Balance (in shares) at Sep. 30, 2016		30,935
Ending Balance at Sep. 30, 2016	$ 446,828	$ 309	$ 1,185,076	$ (2,136,760)	$ 1,475,214	$ (77,011)

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income	$ 109,448	$ 86,502	$ 94,879
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization	31,633	33,889	32,632
Share-based compensation	55,509	45,308	36,362
Deferred income taxes	(26,007)	(5,934)	(16,026)
Tax effect from share-based payment arrangements	24,184	12,530	6,035
Excess tax benefits from share-based payment arrangements	(25,037)	(13,795)	(6,808)
Provision of doubtful accounts	2,011	0	1,485
Net (gain) loss on sales of property and equipment	6	2,210	(10)
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable	(18,225)	(4,602)	(13,649)
Prepaid expenses and other assets	12,848	(15,462)	(1,754)
Accounts payable	564	(3,672)	3,174
Accrued compensation and employee benefits	17,079	(1,506)	17,450
Other liabilities	(4,282)	4,113	15,566
Deferred revenue	5,500	(6,604)	5,698
Net cash provided by operating activities	185,231	132,977	175,034
Cash flows from investing activities:
Purchases of property and equipment	(21,969)	(24,999)	(12,590)
Cash paid for acquisitions, net of cash acquired	(5,683)	(56,992)	(7,253)
Distribution from cost method investees	37	75	0
Net cash used in investing activities	(27,615)	(81,916)	(19,843)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from revolving line of credit	122,000	249,000	145,000
Payments on revolving line of credit and other short-term loans	(99,000)	(116,000)	(61,000)
Payments on senior notes	(60,000)	(71,000)	(8,000)
Proceeds from issuance of treasury stock under employee stock plans	17,828	18,258	18,851
Taxes paid related to net share settlement of equity awards	(29,955)	(19,461)	(12,297)
Dividends paid	(2,489)	(2,508)	(2,714)
Repurchases of common stock	(138,399)	(130,719)	(217,039)
Excess tax benefits from share-based payment arrangements	25,037	13,795	6,808
Net cash used in financing activities	(164,978)	(58,635)	(130,391)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash	(2,832)	(11,381)	(2,903)
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	(10,194)	(18,955)	21,897
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year	86,120	105,075	83,178
Cash and cash equivalents, end of year	75,926	86,120	105,075
Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information:
Cash paid for income taxes, net of refunds of $11,363, $1,592 and $3,424 during the years ended September 30, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively	10,855	33,752	22,367
Cash paid for interest	26,884	30,470	28,209
Supplemental disclosures of non-cash investing and financing activities:
Purchase of property and equipment included in accounts payable	$ 3,287	$ 436	$ 363

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CAS7

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014
Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract]
Cash paid for income taxes, refunds	$ 11,363	$ 1,592	$ 3,424

Nature of Business and Summary

Nature of Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Nature of Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	Nature of Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Fair Isaac Corporation Incorporated under the laws of the State of Delaware, Fair Isaac Corporation (“FICO”) is a provider of analytic, software and data management products and services that enable businesses to automate, improve and connect decisions. FICO provides a range of analytical solutions, credit scoring and credit account management products and services to banks, credit reporting agencies, credit card processing agencies, insurers, retailers, healthcare organizations and public agencies. In these consolidated financial statements, FICO is referred to as “we,” “us,” “our,” or “the Company.” Principles of Consolidation and Basis of Presentation The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of FICO and its subsidiaries. All intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated. Use of Estimates We make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and the disclosures made in the accompanying notes. For example, we use estimates in determining the collectibility of accounts receivable; the appropriate levels of various accruals; labor hours in connection with fixed-fee service contracts; the amount of our tax provision and the realizability of deferred tax assets. We also use estimates in determining the remaining economic lives and carrying values of acquired intangible assets, property and equipment, and other long-lived assets. In addition, we use assumptions to estimate the fair value of reporting units and share-based compensation. Actual results may differ from our estimates. Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and cash equivalents consist of cash in banks and investments with an original maturity of 90 days or less at time of purchase. Fair Value of Financial Instruments The fair value of certain of our financial instruments, including cash and cash equivalents, receivables, other current assets, accounts payable, accrued compensation and employee benefits, other accrued liabilities and amounts outstanding under our revolving line of credit, approximate their carrying amounts because of the short-term maturity of these instruments. The fair values of our cash and cash equivalents and marketable security investments are disclosed in Note 4. The fair value of our derivative instruments is disclosed in Note 5. The fair value of our senior notes is disclosed in Note 10. Investments Management determines the appropriate classification of our investments in marketable debt and equity securities at the time of purchase, and re-evaluates this designation at each balance sheet date. While it is our intent to hold debt securities to maturity, our investments in U.S. government obligations and marketable equity and debt securities that have readily determinable fair values are classified as available-for-sale, as the sale of such securities may be required prior to maturity to implement management strategies. Therefore, such securities are carried at fair value with unrealized gains or losses related to these securities included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). The fair value of marketable securities is based upon inputs including quoted prices for identical or similar assets. Realized gains and losses are included in other income (expense), net on the consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income. The cost of investments sold is based on the specific identification method. Losses resulting from other than temporary declines in fair value are charged to operations. Investments with remaining maturities over one year are classified as long-term investments. Our investments in equity securities of companies over which we do not have significant influence are accounted for under the cost method. The investment is originally recorded at cost and adjusted for additional contributions or distributions. Management periodically reviews cost-method investments for instances where fair value is less than the carrying amount and the decline in value is determined to be other than temporary. If the decline in value is judged to be other than temporary, the carrying amount of the security is written down to fair value and the resulting loss is charged to operations. We currently do not have investments in which we own 20% to 50% and exercise significant influence over operating and financial policies, therefore we do not account for any investment under the equity method. Concentration of Risk Financial instruments that potentially expose us to concentrations of risk consist primarily of cash and cash equivalents, marketable securities and accounts receivable, which are generally not collateralized. Our policy is to place our cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities with high quality financial institutions, commercial corporations and government agencies in order to limit the amount of credit exposure. We have established guidelines relative to diversification and maturities for maintaining safety and liquidity. We generally do not require collateral from our customers, but our credit extension and collection policies include analyzing the financial condition of potential customers, establishing credit limits, monitoring payments, and aggressively pursuing delinquent accounts. We maintain allowances for potential credit losses. A significant portion of our revenues are derived from the sales of products and services to the consumer credit and banking industries. Property and Equipment Property and equipment are recorded at cost less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Major renewals and improvements are capitalized, while repair and maintenance costs are expensed as incurred. Depreciation and amortization charges are calculated using the straight-line method over the following estimated useful lives: Estimated Useful Life Data processing equipment and software 3 years Office furniture and equipment 3 to 7 years Leasehold improvements Shorter of estimated useful life or lease term The cost and accumulated depreciation for property and equipment sold, retired or otherwise disposed of are removed from the applicable accounts and resulting gains or losses are recorded in our consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income. Depreciation and amortization on property and equipment totaled $17.7 million , $20.2 million and $20.7 million during fiscal 2016, 2015 and 2014 , respectively. Internal-Use Software Costs incurred to develop internal-use software during the application development stage are capitalized and reported at cost. Application development stage costs generally include costs associated with internal-use software configuration, coding, installation and testing. Costs of significant upgrades and enhancements that result in additional functionality are also capitalized whereas costs incurred for maintenance and minor upgrades and enhancements are expensed as incurred. Capitalized costs are amortized using the straight-line method over two to three years. Software development costs required to be capitalized for internal-use software have not been material to date. Capitalized Software and Research and Development Costs Software development costs relating to products to be sold in the normal course of business are expensed as incurred as research and development costs until technological feasibility is established. Technological feasibility for our products occurs approximately concurrently with the general release of our products; accordingly, we have not capitalized any development or production costs. Costs we incur to maintain and support our existing products after the general release of the product are expensed in the period they are incurred and included in research and development costs in our consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income. Goodwill, Acquisition Intangibles and Other Long-Lived Assets Goodwill represents the excess of cost over the fair value of identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed in business combinations. We assess goodwill for impairment for each of our reporting units on an annual basis during the fourth quarter using a July 1 measurement date unless circumstances require a more frequent measurement. We have determined that our reporting units are the same as our reportable segments. When evaluating goodwill for impairment, we may first perform an assessment qualitatively whether it is more likely than not that a reporting unit's carrying amount exceeds its fair value, referred to as a "step zero" approach. If, based on the review of the qualitative factors, we determine it is not more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying value, we would bypass the two-step impairment test. Events and circumstances we consider in performing the "step zero" qualitative assessment include macro-economic conditions, market and industry conditions, internal cost factors, share price fluctuations, and the operational stability and the overall financial performance of the reporting units. If we conclude that it is more likely than not that a reporting unit's fair value is less than its carrying amount, we would perform the first step (“step one”) of the two-step impairment test and calculate the estimated fair value of the reporting unit by using discounted cash flow valuation models and by comparing our reporting units to guideline publicly-traded companies. These methods require estimates of our future revenues, profits, capital expenditures, working capital, and other relevant factors, as well as selecting appropriate guideline publicly-traded companies for each reporting unit. We estimate these amounts by evaluating historical trends, current budgets, operating plans, industry data, and other relevant factors. For fiscal 2016 and 2015, we performed a step zero qualitative analysis for our annual assessment of goodwill impairment. After evaluating and weighing all relevant events and circumstances, we concluded that it is not more likely than not that the fair value of any of our reporting units was less their carrying amounts. Consequently, we did not perform a step one quantitative analysis in fiscal 2016 and 2015. For fiscal 2014, we elected to proceed directly to the step one quantitative analysis rather than perform the step zero qualitative assessment. There was a substantial excess of fair value over carrying value for each of our reporting units and we determined goodwill was not impaired for any of our reporting units. We amortize our finite-lived intangible assets which result from our acquisitions over the following estimated useful lives: Estimated Useful Life Completed technology 4 to 10 years Customer contracts and relationships 5 to 15 years Trade names 1 to 3 years Our intangible assets that have finite useful lives and other long-lived assets are assessed for potential impairment when there is evidence that events and circumstances related to our financial performance and economic environment indicate the carrying amount of the assets may not be recoverable. When impairment indicators are identified, we test for impairment using undiscounted cash flows. If such tests indicate impairment, then we measure and record the impairment as the difference between the carrying value of the asset and the fair value of the asset. We did not recognize any impairment charges on intangible assets that have finite useful lives or other long-lived assets in fiscal 2016, 2015 and 2014 . Revenue Recognition Software Licenses Software license fee revenue is recognized when persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, software is made available to our customers, the fee is fixed or determinable and collection is probable. The determination of whether fees are fixed or determinable and collection is probable involves the use of judgment. If at the outset of an arrangement we determine that the arrangement fee is not fixed or determinable, revenue is deferred until the arrangement fee becomes fixed or determinable, assuming all other revenue recognition criteria have been met. If at the outset of an arrangement we determine that collectability is not probable, revenue is deferred until the earlier of when collectability becomes probable or the receipt of payment. If there is uncertainty as to the customer’s acceptance of our deliverables, revenue is not recognized until the earlier of receipt of customer acceptance, expiration of the acceptance period, or when we can demonstrate we meet the acceptance criteria. We evaluate contract terms and customer information to ensure that these criteria are met prior to our recognition of license fee revenue. We use the residual method to recognize revenue when a software arrangement includes one or more elements to be delivered at a future date provided the following criteria are met: (i) vendor-specific objective evidence (“VSOE”) of the fair value does not exist for one or more of the delivered items but exists for all undelivered elements, (ii) all other applicable revenue recognition criteria are met and (iii) the fair value of all of the undelivered elements is less than the arrangement fee. VSOE of fair value is based on the normal pricing practices for those products and services when sold separately by us and customer renewal rates for post-contract customer support services. Under the residual method, the fair value of the undelivered elements is deferred and the remaining portion of the arrangement fee is recognized as revenue. If evidence of the fair value of one or more undelivered elements does not exist, the revenue is deferred and recognized when delivery of those elements occurs or when fair value can be established. Changes to the elements in a software arrangement, the ability to identify VSOE for those elements, the fair value of the respective elements, and change to a product’s estimated life cycle could materially impact the amount of earned and unearned revenue. Revenues from post-contract customer support services, such as software maintenance, are recognized on a straight-line basis over the term of the support period. The majority of our software maintenance agreements provide technical support as well as unspecified software product upgrades and releases when and if made available by us during the term of the support period. Transactional-Based Revenues Transactional-based revenue is recognized when persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, fees are fixed or determinable, and collection is probable. Revenues from our credit scoring, data processing, data management and internet delivery services are recognized as these services are performed. Revenues from transactional or unit-based license fees under software license arrangements, network service and internally-hosted software agreements are recognized based on minimum contractual amounts or on system usage that exceeds minimum contractual amounts. Certain of our transactional-based revenues are based on transaction or active account volumes as reported by our clients. In instances where volumes are reported to us in arrears, we estimate volumes based on preliminary customer transaction information or average actual reported volumes for an immediate trailing period. Differences between our estimates and actual final volumes reported are recorded in the period in which actual volumes are reported. We have not experienced material variances between our estimates and actual reported volumes in the past and anticipate that we will be able to continue to make reasonable estimates in the future. If for some reason we were unable to reasonably estimate transaction volumes in the future, revenue may be deferred until actual customer data is received, and this could have a material impact on our consolidated results of operations. Consulting Services We provide consulting, training, model development and software integration services under both hourly-based time and materials and fixed-priced contracts. Revenues from these services are generally recognized as the services are performed. For fixed-price service contracts, we use a proportionate performance model with hours as the input method of attribution to determine progress towards completion, with consideration also given to output measures, such as contract milestones, when applicable. In such instances, management is required to estimate the total estimated hours of the project. Adjustments to estimates are made in the period in which the facts requiring such revisions become known and, accordingly, recognized revenues and profits are subject to revisions as the contract progresses to completion. Estimated losses, if any, are recorded in the period in which current estimates of total contract revenue and contract costs indicate a loss. If substantive uncertainty related to customer acceptance of services exists, we defer the associated revenue until the contract is completed. We have not experienced material variances between our estimates and actual hours in the past and anticipate that we will be able to continue to make reasonable estimates in the future. If for some reason we are unable to accurately estimate the input measures, revenue would be deferred until the contract is complete, and this could have a material impact on our consolidated results of operations. Services that are sold in connection with software license arrangements generally qualify for separate accounting from the license element because they do not involve significant production, modification or customization of our products and are not otherwise considered to be essential to the functionality of our software. In arrangements where the professional services do not qualify for separate accounting from the license element, the combined software license and professional services revenue are recognized based on contract accounting using either the percentage-of-completion or completed-contract method. Hosting Services We are an application service provider (“ASP”), where we provide hosting services that allow customers access to software that resides on our servers. The ASP model typically includes an up-front fee and a monthly commitment from the customer that commences upon completion of the implementation through the remainder of the customer life. The up-front fee is the initial setup fee, or the implementation fee. The monthly commitment includes, but is not limited to, a fixed monthly fee or a transactional fee based on system usage that exceeds monthly minimums. Revenue is recognized from ASP transactions when there is persuasive evidence of an arrangement, the service has been provided to the customer, the amount of fees is fixed or determinable and the collection of our fees is probable. We do not view the activities of signing the contract or providing initial setup services as discrete earnings events. Revenue is typically deferred until the date the customer commences use of our services, at which point the up-front fees are recognized ratably over the expected life of the customer relationship. ASP transactional fees are recorded monthly as earned. Multiple-Deliverable Arrangements including Non-Software When we enter into a multiple-deliverable arrangement that includes non-software, each deliverable is accounted for as a separate unit of accounting if the following criteria are met: (i) the delivered item or items have value to the customer on a standalone basis and (ii) for an arrangement that includes a general right of return relative to the delivered item(s), delivery or performance of the undelivered item(s) is considered probable and substantially in our control. We consider a deliverable to have standalone value if we sell this item separately or if the item is sold by another vendor or could be resold by the customer ; for example, we conclude professional services offered along with our SaaS subscription services typically have standalone value using this criteria. Further, our revenue arrangements generally do not include a general right of return relative to delivered products. Revenue for multiple element arrangements is allocated to the software and non-software deliverables based on a relative selling price. We use VSOE in our allocation of arrangement consideration when it is available. We define VSOE as a median price of recent standalone transactions that are priced within a narrow range, as defined by us. If a product or service is seldom sold separately, it is unlikely that we can determine VSOE. In circumstances when VSOE does not exist, we then assess whether we can obtain third-party evidence (“TPE”) of the selling price. It may be difficult for us to obtain sufficient information on competitor pricing to substantiate TPE and therefore we may not always be able to use TPE. When we are unable to establish selling price using VSOE or TPE, we use estimated selling price (“ESP”) in our allocation of arrangement consideration. The objective of ESP is to determine the price at which we would transact if the product or service were sold by us on a standalone basis. Our determination of ESP involves weighting several factors based on the specific facts and circumstances of each arrangement. The factors include, but are not limited to, geographies, market conditions, gross margin objectives, pricing practices and controls, customer segment pricing strategies and the product lifecycle. Gross vs. Net Revenue Reporting We apply accounting guidance to determine whether we report revenue for certain transactions based upon the gross amount billed to the customer, or the net amount retained by us. In accordance with the guidance we record revenue on a gross basis for sales in which we have acted as the principal and on a net basis for those sales in which we have in substance acted as an agent or broker in the transaction. Business Combinations Accounting for our acquisitions requires us to recognize, separately from goodwill, the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed at their acquisition-date fair values. Goodwill as of the acquisition date is measured as the excess of consideration transferred and the net of the acquisition-date fair values of the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed. While we use our best estimates and assumptions to accurately value assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the acquisition date, our estimates are inherently uncertain and subject to refinement. As a result, during the measurement period, which may be up to one year from the acquisition date, we record adjustments to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed with the corresponding offset to goodwill. Upon the conclusion of the measurement period or final determination of the values of assets acquired or liabilities assumed, whichever comes first, any subsequent adjustments are recorded to our consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income. Accounting for business combinations requires our management to make significant estimates and assumptions, especially at the acquisition date including our estimates for intangible assets, contractual obligations assumed, pre-acquisition contingencies and contingent consideration, where applicable. If we cannot reasonably determine the fair value of a pre-acquisition contingency (non-income tax related) by the end of the measurement period, we will recognize an asset or a liability for such pre-acquisition contingency if: (i) it is probable that an asset existed or a liability had been incurred at the acquisition date and (ii) the amount of the asset or liability can be reasonably estimated. Although we believe the assumptions and estimates we have made in the past have been reasonable and appropriate, they are based in part on historical experience and information obtained from the management of the acquired companies and are inherently uncertain. Subsequent to the measurement period, changes in our estimates of such contingencies will affect earnings and could have a material effect on our results of operations and financial position. Examples of critical estimates in valuing certain of the intangible assets we have acquired include but are not limited to: (i) future expected cash flows from software license sales, support agreements, consulting contracts, other customer contracts and acquired developed technologies and patents; (ii) expected costs to develop the in-process research and development into commercially viable products and estimated cash flows from the projects when completed; and (iii) the acquired company’s brand and competitive position, as well as assumptions about the period of time the acquired brand will continue to be used in the combined company’s product portfolio. Unanticipated events and circumstances may occur that may affect the accuracy or validity of such assumptions, estimates or actual results. In addition, uncertain tax positions and tax related valuation allowances assumed in connection with a business combination are initially estimated as of the acquisition date. We reevaluate these items quarterly based upon facts and circumstances that existed as of the acquisition date with any adjustments to our preliminary estimates being recorded to goodwill provided that we are within the measurement period. Subsequent to the measurement period or our final determination of the tax allowance’s or contingency’s estimated value, whichever comes first, changes to these uncertain tax positions and tax related valuation allowances will affect our provision for income taxes in our consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income and could have a material impact on our results of operations and financial position. Income Taxes We estimate our income taxes based on the various jurisdictions where we conduct business, which involves significant judgment in determining our income tax provision. We estimate our current tax liability using currently enacted tax rates and laws and assess temporary differences that result from differing treatments of certain items for tax and accounting purposes. These differences result in deferred tax assets and liabilities recorded on our balance sheet using the currently enacted tax rates and laws that will apply to taxable income for the years in which those tax assets are expected to be realized or settled. We then assess the likelihood our deferred tax assets will be realized and to the extent we believe realization is not more likely than not, we establish a valuation allowance. When we establish a valuation allowance or increase this allowance in an accounting period, we record a corresponding income tax expense in our consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income. In assessing the need for the valuation allowance, we consider future taxable income in the jurisdictions we operate; our ability to carry back tax attributes to prior years; an analysis of our deferred tax assets and the periods over which they will be realizable; and ongoing prudent and feasible tax planning strategies. An increase in the valuation allowance would have an adverse impact, which could be material, on our income tax provision and net income in the period in which we record the increase. We recognize and measure benefits for uncertain tax positions using a two-step approach. The first step is to evaluate the tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return by determining if the technical merits of the tax position indicate it is more likely than not that the tax position will be sustained upon audit, including resolution of any related appeals or litigation processes. For tax positions more likely than not of being sustained upon audit, the second step is to measure the tax benefit as the largest amount more than 50% likely of being realized upon settlement. Significant judgment is required to evaluate uncertain tax positions and they are evaluated on a quarterly basis. Our evaluations are based upon a number of factors, including changes in facts or circumstances, changes in tax law, correspondence with tax authorities during the course of audits and effective settlement of audit issues. Changes in the recognition or measurement of uncertain tax positions could result in material increases or decreases in our income tax expense in the period in which we make the change, which could have a material impact on our effective tax rate and operating results. A description of our accounting policies associated with tax-related contingencies and valuation allowances assumed as part of a business combination is provided under “Business Combinations” above. Earnings per Share Basic earnings per share are computed on the basis of the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the period under measurement. Diluted earnings per share are based on the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding and potential common shares. Potential common shares result from the assumed exercise of outstanding stock options or other potentially dilutive equity instruments, when they are dilutive under the treasury stock method. Comprehensive Income Comprehensive income is the change in our equity (net assets) during each period from transactions and other events and circumstances from non-owner sources. It includes net income, foreign currency translation adjustments and unrealized gains and losses on our investments in marketable securities, net of tax. Foreign Currency and Derivative Financial Instruments We have determined that the functional currency of each foreign operation is the local currency. Assets and liabilities denominated in their local foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars at the exchange rate on the balance sheet date. Revenues and expenses are translated at average rates of exchange prevailing during the period. Foreign currency translation adjustments are accumulated as a separate component of consolidated stockholders’ equity. We utilize derivative instruments to manage market risks associated with fluctuations in certain foreign currency exchange rates as they relate to specific balances of accounts receivable and cash denominated in foreign currencies. We principally utilize foreign currency forward contracts to protect against market risks arising in the normal course of business. Our policies prohibit the use of derivative instruments for the sole purpose of trading for profit on price fluctuations or to enter into contracts that intentionally increase our underlying exposure. All of our foreign currency forward contracts have maturity periods of less than three months. At the end of the reporting period, foreign-currency-denominated assets and liabilities are remeasured into the functional currencies of the reporting entities at current market rates. The change in value from this remeasurement is reported as a foreign exchange gain or loss for that period in other income (expense), net in the accompanying consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income. We recorded transactional foreign exchange gains (losses) of $0.2 million , $0.0 million (less than $100,000) and $(1.0) million during fiscal 2016, 2015 and 2014 , respectively. Share-Based Compensation We measure stock-based compensation cost at the grant date based on the fair value of the award and recognize it as expense, net of estimated forfeitures, over the vesting or service period, as applicable, of the stock award (generally three to four years). See Note 14 for further discussion of our share-based employee benefit plans. Advertising and Promotion Costs Advertising and promotion costs are expensed as incurred and are included in selling, general and administrative expenses in the accompanying consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income. Advertising and promotion costs totaled $3.6 million , $3.7 million and $3.8 million in fiscal 2016, 2015 and 2014 , respectively. New Accounting Pronouncements Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements In November 2015, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued ASU No. 2015-17, “ Income Taxes (Topic 740): Balance Sheet Classification of Deferred Taxes ” (“ASU 2015-17”). ASU 2015-17 simplifies the presentation of deferred income taxes and requires that deferred tax liabilities and assets be classified as noncurrent in a classified statement of financial position. ASU 2015-17 applies to all entities that present a classified statement of financial position. ASU 2015-17 may be applied either prospectively to all deferred tax liabilities and assets or retrospectively to all periods presented. ASU 2015-17 is effective for fiscal years and inter

Business Combinations

Business Combinations	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Business Combinations	Business Combinations On May 19, 2016, we acquired 100% of the equity of QuadMetrics for $5.7 million in cash. QuadMetrics is a provider of enterprise security assessment analytics. We expect that this acquisition will help accelerate our efforts to provide a suite of complementary cyber-related analytics solutions to market. QuadMetrics has been included in our operating results since the acquisition date. The pro forma impact of this acquisition was not deemed material to our results of operations. In fiscal 2015, we acquired 100% of the equity of TONBELLER for $59.6 million in cash. We recorded $14.9 million of intangible assets, which are being amortized using the straight-line method over a weighted average useful life of approximately 4.9 years . The goodwill of $46.1 million was allocated to our Applications segment and was not deductible for tax purposes. In fiscal 2014, we acquired 100% of the common stock of InfoCentricity for $8.2 million in cash.

Cash, Cash Equivalents and Mark

Cash, Cash Equivalents and Marketable Securities Available for Sale	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Abstract]
Cash, Cash Equivalents and Marketable Securities Available for Sale	Cash, Cash Equivalents and Marketable Securities Available for Sale The following is a summary of cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities available for sale at September 30, 2016 and 2015 : September 30, 2016 September 30, 2015 Amortized Cost Gross Unrealized Gains Fair Value Amortized Cost Gross Unrealized Gains Fair Value (In thousands) Cash and Cash Equivalents: Cash $ 75,486 $ — $ 75,486 $ 85,681 $ — $ 85,681 Money market funds 440 — 440 439 — 439 Total $ 75,926 $ — $ 75,926 $ 86,120 $ — $ 86,120 Long-term Marketable Securities: Marketable equity securities $ 9,598 $ 1,418 $ 11,016 $ 8,691 $ 876 $ 9,567 The long-term marketable equity securities represent securities held under a supplemental retirement and savings plan for senior management employees, which are distributed upon termination or retirement of the employees.

Fair Value Measurements

Fair Value Measurements	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value Measurements	Fair Value Measurements Fair value is defined as the price that would be received from the sale of an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. The accounting guidance establishes a three-level hierarchy for disclosure that is based on the extent and level of judgment used to estimate the fair value of assets and liabilities. • Level 1 — uses unadjusted quoted prices that are available in active markets for identical assets or liabilities. Our Level 1 assets are comprised of money market funds and certain equity securities. • Level 2 — uses inputs other than quoted prices included in Level 1 that are either directly or indirectly observable through correlation with market data. These include quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active; and inputs to valuation models or other pricing methodologies that do not require significant judgment because the inputs used in the model, such as interest rates and volatility, can be corroborated by readily observable market data. We do not have any assets that are valued using inputs identified under a Level 2 hierarchy as of September 30, 2016 and 2015 . • Level 3 — uses one or more significant inputs that are unobservable and supported by little or no market activity, and that reflect the use of significant management judgment. Level 3 assets and liabilities include those whose fair value measurements are determined using pricing models, discounted cash flow methodologies or similar valuation techniques, and significant management judgment or estimation. We do not have any assets or liabilities that are valued using inputs identified under a Level 3 hierarchy as of September 30, 2016 and 2015 . The following table represents financial assets that we measured at fair value on a recurring basis at September 30, 2016 and 2015 : September 30, 2016 Active Markets for Identical Instruments (Level 1) Fair Value as of September 30, 2016 (In thousands) Assets: Cash equivalents (1) $ 440 $ 440 Marketable securities (2) 11,016 11,016 Total $ 11,456 $ 11,456 September 30, 2015 Active Markets for Identical Instruments (Level 1) Fair Value as of September 30, 2015 (In thousands) Assets: Cash equivalents (1) $ 439 $ 439 Marketable securities (2) 9,567 9,567 Total $ 10,006 $ 10,006 (1) Included in cash and cash equivalents on our balance sheet at September 30, 2016 and 2015 . Not included in this table are cash deposits of $75.5 million and $85.7 million at September 30, 2016 and 2015 , respectively. (2) Represents securities held under a supplemental retirement and savings plan for certain officers and senior management employees, which are distributed upon termination or retirement of the employees. Included in long-term marketable securities on our balance sheet at September 30, 2016 and 2015 . Where applicable, we use quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities to determine fair value. This pricing applies to our Level 1 investments. To the extent quoted prices in active markets for assets or liabilities are not available, the valuation techniques used to measure the fair values of our financial assets incorporate market inputs, which include reported trades, broker/dealer quotes, benchmark yields, issuer spreads, benchmark securities and other inputs derived from or corroborated by observable market data. This methodology would apply to our Level 2 investments. We have not changed our valuation techniques in measuring the fair value of any financial assets and liabilities during the period. For the fair value of our derivative instruments and senior notes, see Note 5 and Note 10, respectively.

Derivative Financial Instrument

Derivative Financial Instruments	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Derivative Financial Instruments	Derivative Financial Instruments We use derivative instruments to manage risks caused by fluctuations in foreign exchange rates. The primary objective of our derivative instruments is to protect the value of foreign-currency-denominated receivable and cash balances from the effects of volatility in foreign exchange rates that might occur prior to conversion to their functional currencies. We principally utilize foreign currency forward contracts, which enable us to buy and sell foreign currencies in the future at fixed exchange rates and economically offset changes in foreign exchange rates. We routinely enter into contracts to offset exposures denominated in the British pound, Euro and Canadian dollar. Foreign-currency-denominated receivable and cash balances are remeasured at foreign exchange rates in effect on the balance sheet date with the effects of changes in foreign exchange rates reported in other income (expense), net. The forward contracts are not designated as hedges and are marked to market through other income (expense), net. Fair value changes in the forward contracts help mitigate the changes in the value of the remeasured receivable and cash balances attributable to changes in foreign exchange rates. The forward contracts are short-term in nature and typically have average maturities at inception of less than three months . The following tables summarize our outstanding foreign currency forward contracts, by currency at September 30, 2016 and 2015 : September 30, 2016 Contract Amount Fair Value Foreign Currency US$ US$ (In thousands) Sell foreign currency: Euro (EUR) EUR 7,850 $ 8,743 — Buy foreign currency: British pound (GBP) GBP 7,721 $ 10,000 — September 30, 2015 Contract Amount Fair Value Foreign Currency US$ US$ (In thousands) Sell foreign currency: Canadian dollar (CAD) CAD 2,750 $ 2,045 $ — Euro (EUR) EUR 5,600 $ 6,296 — Buy foreign currency: British pound (GBP) GBP 6,943 $ 10,550 — The foreign currency forward contracts were entered into on September 30 of each fiscal year; therefore, their fair value was $0 at September 30, 2016 and 2015 . Gains (losses) on derivative financial instruments are recorded in our consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income as a component of other income (expense), net. These amounts are shown below for the years ended September 30, 2016, 2015 and 2014 : Year Ended September 30, 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) Gain (loss) on foreign currency forward contracts $ (2,911 ) $ (62 ) $ 256

Receivables

Receivables	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Receivables [Abstract]
Receivables	Receivables Receivables at September 30, 2016 and 2015 consisted of the following: September 30, 2016 2015 (In thousands) Billed $ 124,731 $ 114,464 Unbilled (1) 45,247 46,435 169,978 160,899 Less: allowance for doubtful accounts (2,192 ) (2,126 ) Receivables, net $ 167,786 $ 158,773 (1) Represents revenue recorded in excess of amounts billable pursuant to contract provisions and generally become billable at contractually specified dates or upon the attainment of milestones. Unbilled amounts are expected to be realized within one year. Activity in the allowance for doubtful accounts was as follows: Year Ended September 30, 2016 2015 (In thousands) Balance, beginning of year $ 2,126 $ 2,927 Add: expense 2,011 — Less: write-offs (net of recoveries) (1,945 ) (801 ) Balance, end of year $ 2,192 $ 2,126

Goodwill and Intangible Assets

Goodwill and Intangible Assets	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Goodwill and Intangible Assets	Goodwill and Intangible Assets Intangible assets that are subject to amortization consisted of the following at September 30, 2016 and 2015 : September 30, 2016 September 30, 2015 (In thousands, except average life) Gross Carrying Amount Accumulated Amortization Net Average Life Gross Carrying Amount Accumulated Amortization Net Average Life Completed technology $ 84,184 $ (70,368 ) $ 13,816 5 $ 87,820 $ (67,769 ) $ 20,051 5 Customer contracts and relationships 64,592 (45,034 ) 19,558 12 65,762 (38,930 ) 26,832 12 Trade names 575 (330 ) 245 3 576 (138 ) 438 3 $ 149,351 $ (115,732 ) $ 33,619 8 $ 154,158 $ (106,837 ) $ 47,321 8 Amortization expense associated with our intangible assets, which has been reflected as a separate operating expense caption within the accompanying consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income, consisted of the following during fiscal 2016, 2015 and 2014 : Year Ended September 30, 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) Cost of revenues $ 7,300 $ 7,594 $ 7,371 Selling, general and administrative expenses 6,682 6,079 4,546 Total $ 13,982 $ 13,673 $ 11,917 In the table above, cost of revenues reflects our amortization of completed technology, and selling, general and administrative expenses reflect our amortization of other intangible assets. Estimated future intangible asset amortization expense associated with intangible assets existing at September 30, 2016 , was as follows (in thousands): Year Ended September 30, 2017 $ 12,846 2018 6,398 2019 5,882 2020 3,611 2021 2,405 Thereafter 2,477 Total $ 33,619 The following table summarizes changes to goodwill during fiscal 2016 and 2015 , both in total and as allocated to our operating segments. We have not recognized any goodwill impairment losses to date. Applications Scores Decision Management Software Total (In thousands) Balance at September 30, 2014 $ 560,295 $ 146,648 $ 72,985 $ 779,928 Addition from acquisitions 46,149 — — 46,149 Foreign currency translation adjustment (9,679 ) — (1,648 ) (11,327 ) Balance at September 30, 2015 596,765 146,648 71,337 814,750 Addition from acquisitions 3,857 — — 3,857 Adjustment related to prior acquisitions 283 — — 283 Foreign currency translation adjustment (18,185 ) — (2,290 ) (20,475 ) Balance at September 30, 2016 $ 582,720 $ 146,648 $ 69,047 $ 798,415

Composition of Certain Financia

Composition of Certain Financial Statement Captions	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Composition of Certain Financial Statement Captions	Composition of Certain Financial Statement Captions The following table presents the composition of property and equipment at September 30, 2016 and 2015 : September 30, 2016 2015 (In thousands) Property and equipment: Data processing equipment and software $ 84,761 $ 71,841 Office furniture and equipment 16,847 14,750 Leasehold improvements 25,152 23,269 Less: accumulated depreciation and amortization (81,638 ) (71,652 ) Total $ 45,122 $ 38,208

Revolving Line of Credit

Revolving Line of Credit	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Revolving Line of Credit	Revolving Line of Credit In December 2014 we refinanced our $200 million unsecured revolving line of credit, increasing our borrowing capacity to $400 million with a syndicate of banks that expires on December 30, 2019 . Proceeds from the credit facility can be used for working capital and general corporate purposes and may also be used for the refinancing of existing debt, acquisitions, and the repurchase of our common stock. Interest on amounts borrowed under the credit facility is based on (i) a base rate, which is the greater of (a) the prime rate and (b) the Federal Funds rate plus 0.500% and (c) the one-month LIBOR rate plus 1.000% , plus, in each case, an applicable margin, or (ii) an adjusted LIBOR rate plus an applicable margin. The applicable margin for base rate borrowings ranges from 0% to 0.875% and for LIBOR borrowings ranges from 1.000% to 1.875% and is determined based on our consolidated leverage ratio. In addition, we must pay credit facility fees. The credit facility contains certain restrictive covenants including maintaining a minimum fixed charge ratio of 2.5 and a maximum consolidated leverage ratio of 3.0 , subject to a step up to 3.5 following certain permitted acquisitions. The credit agreement also contains other covenants typical of unsecured facilities. As of September 30, 2016 , we had $255.0 million in borrowings outstanding at a weighted average interest rate of 1.661% , of which $250.0 million was classified as a long-term liability and recorded in long-term debt within the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. We were in compliance with all financial covenants under this credit facility as of September 30, 2016 .

Senior Notes

Senior Notes	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Senior Notes	Senior Notes On May 7, 2008, we issued $275 million of senior notes in a private placement to a group of institutional investors (the “2008 Senior Notes”). The 2008 Senior Notes were issued in four series as follows: Series Amount Interest Rate Maturity Date (In millions) A $ 41.0 6.37 % May 7, 2013 B $ 40.0 6.37 % May 7, 2015 C $ 63.0 6.71 % May 7, 2015 D $ 131.0 7.18 % May 7, 2018 On July 14, 2010, we issued $245 million of senior notes in a private placement to a group of institutional investors (the “2010 Senior Notes” and, with the 2008 Senior Notes, the “Senior Notes”). The 2010 Senior Notes were issued in four series as follows: Series Amount Interest Rate Maturity Date (In millions) E $ 60.0 4.72 % July 14, 2016 F $ 72.0 5.04 % July 14, 2017 G $ 28.0 5.42 % July 14, 2019 H $ 85.0 5.59 % July 14, 2020 We were and are required to pay the entire unpaid principal balances of each note series on its maturity date except for Series B notes, which required annual principal payments of $8.0 million starting on May 7, 2011 and ending on May 7, 2015. The Senior Notes require interest payments semi-annually and contain certain restrictive covenants, including the maintenance of consolidated net debt to consolidated EBITDA ratio and a fixed charge coverage ratio. The purchase agreements for the Senior Notes also contain certain covenants typical of unsecured facilities. As of September 30, 2016 , we were in compliance with all financial covenants. The following table presents the principal amounts, carrying amounts and fair values for the Senior Notes at September 30, 2016 and 2015 : September 30, 2016 September 30, 2015 Principal Carrying Amounts Fair Value Principal Carrying Amounts Fair Value (In thousands) (In thousands) The 2008 Senior Notes $ 131,000 $ 131,000 $ 139,902 $ 131,000 $ 131,000 $ 144,009 The 2010 Senior Notes $ 185,000 $ 185,000 $ 195,715 $ 245,000 $ 245,000 $ 257,563 We measure the fair value of the Senior Notes based on Level 2 inputs, which include quoted market prices and interest rate spreads of similar securities. Future principal payments for the Senior Notes are as follows (in thousands): Year Ended September 30, 2017 $ 72,000 2018 131,000 2019 28,000 2020 85,000 Total $ 316,000

Employee Benefit Plans

Employee Benefit Plans	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Employee Benefit Plans	Employee Benefit Plans Defined Contribution Plans We sponsor the Fair Isaac Corporation 401(k) plan for eligible employees in the U.S. Under this plan, eligible employees may contribute up to 25% of compensation, not to exceed statutory limits. We also provide a company matching contribution. Investment in FICO common stock is not an option under this plan. Our contributions into all 401(k) plans, including former acquired company sponsored plans that have since merged into the Fair Isaac Corporation 401(k) plan or have been frozen, totaled $7.3 million , $7.1 million and $6.3 million during fiscal 2016, 2015 and 2014 , respectively. Employee Incentive Plans We maintain various employee incentive plans for the benefit of eligible employees, including officers. The awards generally are based on the achievement of certain financial and performance objectives subject to the discretion of management. Total expenses under our employee incentive plans were $40.0 million , $20.3 million and $25.0 million during fiscal 2016, 2015 and 2014 , respectively.

Restructuring Expenses

Restructuring Expenses	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]
Restructuring Expenses	Restructuring Expenses There was no restructuring expense incurred during fiscal 2016. During fiscal 2015, we incurred net charges totaling $17.5 million consisting of $13.6 million in facilities charges associated with vacating excess leased space in Roseville, Minnesota and San Rafael, California, and $3.9 million in severance charges due to the elimination of 97 positions throughout the company. Cash payments for all the facilities charges will be paid by the end of our fiscal 2020. Cash payments for all the severance costs were paid by the end of the third quarter of our fiscal 2016. During fiscal 2014, we incurred net charges totaling $4.1 million consisting of $0.2 million in facilities charges and $3.9 million in severance charges due to the elimination of 88 positions primarily in the U.S. Cash payments for all the restructuring charges were paid by the end of the second quarter of our fiscal 2015. The following tables summarize our restructuring accruals associated with the above actions. The current portion and non-current portion was recorded in other accrued current liabilities and other liabilities, respectively, within the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. Accrual at September 30, 2014 Expense Additions Cash Payments Non-cash Settlements Accrual at September 30, 2015 (In thousands) Facilities charges $ 92 $ 13,571 $ (92 ) $ (576 ) $ 12,995 Employee separation 170 3,908 (1,673 ) — 2,405 262 $ 17,479 $ (1,765 ) $ (576 ) 15,400 Less: current portion (262 ) (5,570 ) Non-current $ — $ 9,830 Accrual at September 30, 2015 Expense Additions Cash Payments Non-cash Settlements Accrual at September 30, 2016 (In thousands) Facilities charges $ 12,995 $ — $ (3,762 ) $ — $ 9,233 Employee separation 2,405 — (2,405 ) — — 15,400 $ — $ (6,167 ) $ — 9,233 Less: current portion (5,570 ) (4,266 ) Non-current $ 9,830 $ 4,967

Income Taxes

Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Taxes	Income Taxes The provision for income taxes was as follows during fiscal 2016, 2015 and 2014 : Year ended September 30, 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) Current: Federal $ 50,631 $ 23,646 $ 42,570 State 2,900 (5,381 ) 4,221 Foreign 7,597 10,405 7,487 61,128 28,670 54,278 Deferred: Federal (23,592 ) (5,004 ) (15,401 ) State (225 ) 1,422 (1,093 ) Foreign (2,190 ) (2,352 ) 468 (26,007 ) (5,934 ) (16,026 ) Total provision $ 35,121 $ 22,736 $ 38,252 The foreign provision was based on foreign pre-tax earnings of $33.0 million , $45.2 million and $43.3 million in fiscal 2016, 2015 and 2014 , respectively. Current foreign tax expense related to foreign tax withholdings was $6.5 million , $5.3 million and $7.7 million in fiscal 2016, 2015 and 2014 , respectively. Foreign withholding tax and related foreign tax credits are included in current tax expense above. Deferred tax assets and liabilities at September 30, 2016 and 2015 were as follows: September 30, 2016 2015 (In thousands) Deferred tax assets: Net operating loss carryforward $ 16,122 $ 17,650 Foreign tax credit carryforward 14,590 — Research credit carryforward 6,132 5,759 Accrued bonus 13,807 5,400 Investments 619 1,042 Accrued compensation 1,328 1,834 Share-based compensation 27,203 23,741 Deferred revenue 1,467 979 Accrued lease costs 3,406 5,009 Property and equipment 3,348 3,249 Other 7,728 5,613 95,750 70,276 Less valuation allowance (15,145 ) (13,882 ) Total deferred tax assets 80,605 56,394 Deferred tax liabilities: Intangible assets (28,056 ) (30,286 ) Prepaid expense (3,959 ) (3,877 ) Other (992 ) (993 ) Total deferred tax liabilities (33,007 ) (35,156 ) Deferred tax assets, net $ 47,598 $ 21,238 Based upon the level of historical taxable income and projections for future taxable income over the periods that the deferred tax assets will reverse, management believes it is more likely than not that we will realize the benefits of the deferred tax assets, net of the existing valuation allowance at September 30, 2016. As of September 30, 2016 , we had available U.S. federal, state and foreign net operating loss (“NOL”) carryforwards of approximately $20.2 million , $0.3 million , and $34.7 million , respectively. The U.S. NOLs were acquired in connection with our acquisitions of Braun in fiscal 2005, Adeptra in fiscal 2012, and Infoglide in fiscal 2013. The U.S. federal NOL carryforward will expire at various dates beginning in fiscal 2020 , if not utilized. The state NOL carryforward will begin to expire at various dates beginning in fiscal 2021 , if not utilized. The Luxembourg NOL carryforward does not have an expiration date. The $34.7 million of foreign NOL includes $25.5 million related to China. Due to a limited ability to utilize the China NOLs a full valuation allowance has been recorded on the China NOLs, resulting in no tax benefit. Utilization of the U.S. federal and state NOL are subject to an annual limitation due to the “change in ownership” provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and similar state provisions. In fiscal 2016 we generated excess foreign tax credits associated with dividends received from two of our foreign subsidiaries. The associated deferred tax asset of $14.6 million can be carried forward for up to 10 years. Management believes it is more likely than not that we will realize the benefit of this deferred tax asset and therefore no valuation allowance has been recorded to offset the future benefit of these credits. We also have available excess California state research credit of approximately $6.1 million . The California state research credit does not have an expiration date; however, based on enacted law and expected future cash taxes, we have recorded a valuation allowance of $6.1 million . A reconciliation of the provision for income taxes, with the amount computed by applying the U.S. federal statutory income tax rate ( 35% in fiscal 2016, 2015 and 2014) to income before provision for income taxes for fiscal 2016, 2015 and 2014 is shown below: Year Ended September 30, 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) Income tax provision at U.S. federal statutory rate $ 50,599 $ 38,233 $ 46,595 State income taxes, net of U.S. federal benefit 2,244 1,719 2,832 Foreign tax rate differential (4,661 ) (5,279 ) (4,592 ) Intercompany interest (1,223 ) (1,260 ) (1,246 ) Research credits (4,398 ) (2,104 ) (302 ) Domestic production deduction (3,726 ) (1,607 ) (3,141 ) Federal and state audit settlements (248 ) (5,806 ) (5,886 ) Foreign (1,702 ) (3,109 ) (1,654 ) Valuation allowance 1,262 1,805 3,888 Foreign Tax Credit (3,286 ) (1,296 ) 150 Other 260 1,440 1,608 Recorded income tax provision $ 35,121 $ 22,736 $ 38,252 The increase in our effective tax rate in fiscal 2016 compared to fiscal 2015 was due primarily to the favorable settlement of the fiscal 2006-2009 state audits and the favorable settlement of the 2010 foreign transfer pricing assessment in fiscal 2015, partially offset by an increase in the foreign tax credit associated with the repatriation of income from the United Kingdom and Brazil and the Domestic Production Activities Deduction in fiscal 2016. The decrease in our effective tax rate in fiscal 2015 compared to fiscal 2014 was due primarily to the favorable settlement of the fiscal 2006-2009 state audits, the favorable settlement of the 2010 foreign transfer pricing assessment, as well as the December 2014 reenactment of the calendar 2014 U.S. Federal Research and Development Credit, which resulted in a catch up adjustment for the R&D credit during fiscal 2015. In fiscal 2016 and 2015, the foreign taxes consist of local country permanent items and prior years’ true ups. As of September 30, 2016, we have not made a provision for U.S. or additional foreign withholding taxes on approximately $45.3 million of the excess of the amount for financial reporting over the tax basis of investments in foreign subsidiaries. We intend to reinvest the earnings of its non-U.S. subsidiaries in those operations indefinitely, except where we are able to repatriate these earnings to the United States without material incremental tax provision. The determination and estimation of the future income tax consequences in all relevant taxing jurisdictions involves the application of highly complex tax laws in the countries involved, particularly in the United States, and is based on our tax profile in the year of earnings repatriation. Accordingly, it is not practicable to estimate the amount of deferred tax liability related to investments in these foreign subsidiaries. Unrecognized Tax Benefit for Uncertain Tax Positions We conduct business globally and, as a result, file income tax returns in the U.S. federal jurisdiction and various state and foreign jurisdictions. In the normal course of business, we are subject to examination by taxing authorities. With few exceptions, we are no longer subject to U.S. federal, state, local, or foreign income tax examinations for fiscal years prior to 2013. We concluded the audit by the California Franchise Tax Board for fiscal 2012 and 2013, and did not have any adjustments related to those audits that resulted in a material change to our consolidated financial statements. We are currently under audit by New York State and New York City for fiscal 2011, 2012 and 2013. We do not anticipate any adjustments related to those audits that will result in a material change to our consolidated financial statements. A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits is as follows: Year Ended September 30, 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) Gross unrecognized tax benefits at beginning of year $ 4,634 $ 4,554 $ 9,009 Gross increases for tax positions in prior years 1,004 1,725 2,468 Gross decreases for tax positions in prior years (117 ) (3 ) (967 ) Gross increases based on tax positions related to the current year 1,310 582 923 Decreases for settlements and payments (32 ) (2,224 ) (6,879 ) Gross unrecognized tax benefits at end of year $ 6,799 $ 4,634 $ 4,554 We had $6.8 million of total unrecognized tax benefits as of September 30, 2016 , including $6.0 million of tax benefits that, if recognized, would impact the effective tax rate. Although the timing and outcome of audit settlements are uncertain, it is unlikely there will be a reduction of the uncertain tax benefits in the next 12 months. We recognize interest expense related to unrecognized tax benefits and penalties as part of the provision for income taxes in our consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income. We recognize interest earned related to income tax matters as interest income in our consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income. As of September 30, 2016 , we have accrued interest of $0.3 million related to the unrecognized tax benefits.

Stock-Based Employee Benefit Pl

Stock-Based Employee Benefit Plans	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Stock-Based Employee Benefit Plans	Stock-Based Employee Benefit Plans Description of Stock Option and Share Plans We maintain the 2012 Long-Term Incentive Plan (the “2012 Plan”) under which we are authorized to issue equity awards, including stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock awards, stock unit awards and other stock-based awards. All employees, consultants and advisors of FICO or any subsidiary, as well as all non-employee directors are eligible to receive awards under the 2012 Plan. We also have one other long-term incentive plan under which awards are currently outstanding: the 1992 Long-term Incentive Plan, which was adopted in February 1992 and expired in February 2012. Stock option awards have a maximum term of seven years. Stock option awards and restricted stock unit awards not subject to market conditions vest ratably over three or four years. Restricted stock unit awards subject to market conditions vest annually over a period of three years based on achievement of specified criteria. At September 30, 2016 , there were 3,438,986 shares available for issuance under the 2012 Plan. Description of Employee Stock Purchase Plan Under our Employee Stock Purchase Plan (the “Purchase Plan”), we are authorized to issue up to 5,062,500 shares of common stock to eligible employees. Employees may have up to 10% of their base salary withheld through payroll deductions to purchase FICO common stock during semi-annual offering periods. The purchase price of the stock is 85% of the fair market value on the exercise date (the last day of each offering period). Offering period means approximately six -month periods commencing (a) on the first trading day on or after January 1 and terminating on the last trading day in the following June, and (b) on the first trading day on or after July 1 and terminating on the last trading day in the following December. The Purchase Plan was suspended effective January 1, 2009 and employees cannot contribute to the Purchase Plan until the suspension is repealed. At September 30, 2016 , there were 2,707,966 shares available for issuance. We satisfy stock option exercises, vesting of restricted stock units and the Purchase Plan issuances from treasury shares. Share-Based Compensation Expense and related income tax benefits We recorded share-based compensation expense of $55.5 million , $45.3 million and $36.4 million in fiscal years 2016, 2015 and 2014 , respectively. The total tax benefit related to this share-based compensation expense was $18.7 million , $16.1 million and $13.0 million in fiscal 2016, 2015 and 2014 , respectively. As of September 30, 2016 , there was $80.3 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested share-based compensation arrangements granted under all equity compensation plans. Total unrecognized compensation cost will be adjusted for future changes in estimated forfeitures. We expect to recognize that cost over a weighted average period of 2.44 years. In fiscal 2016 we received $17.8 million in cash from stock option exercises, with the tax benefit realized for the tax deductions from these exercises of $15.3 million . Stock-Based Activity Stock Options We estimate the fair value of stock options granted using the Black-Scholes option valuation model and we amortize the fair value on a straight-line basis over the vesting period. We used the following assumptions to estimate the fair value of our stock options during fiscal 2016, 2015 and 2014 : Year Ended September 30, 2016 2015 2014 Stock Options: Average expected term (years) 4.83 4.18 4.04 Expected volatility (range) 35.3 - 36.4 % 34.5 - 35.3 % 34.6 - 35.6 % Weighted average volatility 36.0 % 34.6 % 35.1 % Risk-free interest rate (range) 1.21 - 1.49 % 1.33 - 1.48 % 0.76 - 1.16 % Average expected dividend yield 0.09 % 0.14 % 0.16 % Expected dividend yield (range) 0.09 - 0.10 % 0.11 - 0.14 % 0.16 - 0.17 % Expected Volatility. We estimate the volatility of our common stock at the date of grant based on a combination of the implied volatility of publicly traded options on our common stock and our historical volatility rate. Expected Term. The expected term represents the period that our stock options are expected to be outstanding. We estimate the expected term based on historical experience of similar awards, giving consideration to the contractual terms of the stock-based awards, vesting schedules and expectations of future employee behavior. Dividends. The dividend yield assumption is based on historical dividend payouts. Risk-Free Interest Rate. The risk-free interest rate assumption is based on observed interest rates appropriate for the term of our employee options. Forfeitures. We use historical data to estimate pre-vesting option forfeitures and record share-based compensation expense only for those awards that are expected to vest. The following table summarizes option activity during fiscal 2016 : Shares Weighted- average Exercise Price Weighted- average Remaining Contractual Term Aggregate Intrinsic Value (In thousands) (In years) (In thousands) Outstanding at October 1, 2015 2,024 $ 46.94 Granted 36 94.84 Exercised (521 ) 34.25 Forfeited (18 ) 50.29 Outstanding at September 30, 2016 1,521 $ 52.37 3.79 $ 109,873 Exercisable at September 30, 2016 985 $ 44.92 3.24 $ 78,461 Vested and expected to vest at September 30, 2016 1,497 $ 52.04 3.77 $ 108,573 The weighted average fair value of options granted were $31.06 , $21.66 and $15.50 during fiscal 2016, 2015 and 2014 , respectively. The aggregate intrinsic value of options outstanding at September 30, 2016 was calculated as the difference between the exercise price of the underlying options and the market price of our common stock for the 1.5 million outstanding shares, which had exercise prices lower than the $124.59 market price of our common stock at September 30, 2016 . The total intrinsic value of options exercised was $41.3 million , $24.3 million and $13.8 million during fiscal 2016, 2015 and 2014 , respectively, determined as of the date of exercise. Restricted Stock Units The fair value of restricted stock units (“RSUs”) granted is the closing market price of our common stock on the date of grant adjusted for the expected dividend yield. We amortize the fair value on a straight-line basis over the vesting period. The following table summarizes the RSUs activity during fiscal 2016 : Shares Weighted-average Grant-date Fair Value (In thousands) Outstanding at October 1, 2015 1,319 $ 58.51 Granted 575 94.77 Released (526 ) 52.47 Forfeited (157 ) 69.52 Outstanding at September 30, 2016 1,211 $ 76.93 The weighted average fair value of the RSUs granted were $94.77 , $73.93 and $56.23 during fiscal 2016, 2015 and 2014 , respectively. The total intrinsic value of the RSUs that vested was $49.8 million , $38.5 million and $27.6 million during fiscal 2016, 2015 and 2014 , respectively, determined as of the date of vesting. Performance Share Units Performance share units (“PSUs”) are granted to our senior officers and earned based on pre-established performance goals approved by the Leadership Development and Compensation Committee of our Board of Directors for any given performance period. The range of payout is zero to 200% of the number of granted PSUs, based on the outcome of the performance conditions. The fair value of the PSUs is the closing market price of our common stock on the date of grant adjusted for the expected dividend yield. We amortize the fair value on a straight-line basis over the vesting period, based on the performance condition that is probable of achievement that would result in the vesting of the most shares. The Company reassesses the probability at each reporting period and recognizes the cumulative effect of the change in estimate in the period of change. As of September 30, 2016 , the Company believed the performance condition of the PSUs granted during fiscal year 2016 had been achieved at 166.77% of target value, however, the final determination has not yet been made by the Leadership Development and Compensation Committee. The following table summarizes the PSUs activity during fiscal 2016 : Shares Weighted- average Grant-date Fair Value (In thousands) Outstanding at October 1, 2015 281 $ 53.70 Granted 105 91.74 Released (156 ) 49.36 Outstanding at September 30, 2016 230 $ 73.99 The weighted average fair value of the PSUs granted were $91.74 , $71.86 and $56.63 during fiscal 2016, 2015 and 2014 , respectively. The total intrinsic value of the PSUs that vested was $14.0 million , $9.7 million and $4.9 million during fiscal 2016, 2015 and 2014 , respectively, determined as of the date of vesting. Market Share Units Market share units (“MSUs”) are granted to our senior officers and earned based on our total shareholder return relative to the Russell 3000 Index over performance periods of one , two and three years. We estimate the fair value of MSUs granted using the Monte Carlo valuation model and attribute the cost separately for each vesting tranche of the award. In addition, we do not reverse the compensation cost solely because the market condition is not satisfied, and the award is therefore not exercisable or retained by the employee, provided the requisite service is rendered. We used the following assumptions to estimate the fair value of our MSUs during fiscal 2016, 2015 and 2014 : Year Ended September 30, 2016 2015 2014 Expected volatility in FICO’s stock price 24.1 % 26.6 % 33.9 % Expected volatility in Russell 3000 Index 12.8 % 12.2 % 17.3 % Correlation between FICO and the Russell 3000 Index 60.2 % 55.9 % 68.0 % Risk-free interest rate 1.25 % 1.10 % 0.68 % Average expected dividend yield 0.09 % 0.14 % 0.16 % The expected volatility was determined based on daily historical movements in our stock price and the Russell 3000 index for the three years preceding the grant date. The correlation between FICO and the Russell 3000 Index was determined based on historical daily stock price movements for the three years preceding the grant date. The dividend yield was determined using the historical dividend payout and a trailing twelve month closing stock price on the grant date. The risk-free rate was determined based on U.S. Treasury zero-coupon yields over the three -year performance period. The following table summarizes the MSUs activity during fiscal 2016 : Shares Weighted- average Grant-date Fair Value (In thousands) Outstanding at October 1, 2015 129 $ 88.65 Granted 114 100.63 Released (101 ) 85.65 Outstanding at September 30, 2016 142 $ 100.40 The weighted average fair value of the MSUs granted were $100.63 , $101.85 and $68.47 during fiscal 2016, 2015 and 2014 , respectively. The total intrinsic value of the MSUs that vested was $9.2 million and $1.7 million during fiscal 2016 and 2015, respectively, determined as of the date of vesting.

Earnings per Share

Earnings per Share	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Earnings per Share	Earnings per Share The following table presents reconciliations for the numerators and denominators of basic and diluted earnings per share (“EPS”) during fiscal 2016, 2015 and 2014 : Year Ended September 30, 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands, except per share data) Numerator for basic and diluted earnings per share — net income $ 109,448 $ 86,502 $ 94,879 Denominator — share: Basic weighted-average shares 31,129 31,402 33,870 Effect of dilutive securities 1,179 1,207 994 Diluted weighted-average shares 32,308 32,609 34,864 Earnings per share: Basic $ 3.52 $ 2.75 $ 2.80 Diluted $ 3.39 $ 2.65 $ 2.72 The computation of diluted EPS excludes options to purchase approximately 9,000 , 138,000 , and 11,000 shares of common stock for fiscal 2016, 2015 and 2014 , respectively, because the exercise prices of the options exceeded the average market price of our common stock in these fiscal years and their inclusion would be antidilutive.

Related Party Transactions

Related Party Transactions	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Related Party Transactions [Abstract]
Related Party Transactions	Related Party Transactions We have a $10 million investment in convertible preferred stock of a private company. The company is developing a range of products focused on revenue cycle activities for hospitals and healthcare providers. Related party revenue was immaterial for the years ended September 30, 2016, 2015 and 2014 . The accounts receivable balance from this company was not significant as of September 30, 2016 and 2015 .

Segment Information

Segment Information	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Segment Information	Segment Information We are organized into the following three operating segments, each of which is a reportable segment, to align with internal management of our worldwide business operations based on product offerings. • Applications. This segment includes pre-configured decision management applications designed for a specific type of business problem or process — such as marketing, account origination, customer management, fraud, collections and insurance claims management — as well as associated professional services. These applications are available to our customers as on-premises software, and many are available as hosted, software-as-a-service (“SaaS”) applications through the FICO ® Analytic Cloud. • Scores. This segment includes our business-to-business scoring solutions, our myFICO® solutions for consumers and associated professional services. Our scoring solutions give our clients access to analytics that can be easily integrated into their transaction streams and decision-making processes. Our scoring solutions are distributed through major credit reporting agencies, as well as services through which we provide our scores to clients directly. • Decision Management Software (formerly“Tools” ) . This segment is composed of analytic and decision management software tools that clients can use to create their own custom decision management applications, our new FICO ® Decision Management Suite, as well as associated professional services. These tools are available to our customers as on-premises software or through the FICO ® Analytic Cloud. Our Chief Executive Officer evaluates segment financial performance based on segment revenues and segment operating income. Segment operating expenses consist of direct and indirect costs principally related to personnel, facilities, consulting, travel and depreciation. Indirect costs are allocated to the segments generally based on relative segment revenues, fixed rates established by management based upon estimated expense contribution levels and other assumptions that management considers reasonable. We do not allocate broad-based incentive expense, share-based compensation expense, restructuring and acquisition-related expense, amortization expense, various corporate charges and certain other income and expense measures to our segments. These income and expense items are not allocated because they are not considered in evaluating the segment’s operating performance. Our Chief Executive Officer does not evaluate the financial performance of each segment based on its respective assets or capital expenditures; rather, depreciation amounts are allocated to the segments from their internal cost centers as described above. The following tables summarize segment information for fiscal 2016, 2015 and 2014 : Year Ended September 30, 2016 Applications Scores Decision Management Software Unallocated Corporate Expenses Total (In thousands) Segment revenues: Transactional and maintenance $ 328,472 $ 233,655 $ 43,792 $ — $ 605,919 Professional services 138,775 4,185 26,778 — 169,738 License 65,395 3,219 37,085 — 105,699 Total segment revenues 532,642 241,059 107,655 — 881,356 Segment operating expense (364,371 ) (55,975 ) (111,315 ) (110,612 ) (642,273 ) Segment operating income (loss) $ 168,271 $ 185,084 $ (3,660 ) $ (110,612 ) $ 239,083 Unallocated share-based compensation expense (55,509 ) Unallocated amortization expense (13,982 ) Operating income 169,592 Unallocated interest expense, net (26,633 ) Unallocated other income, net 1,610 Income before income taxes $ 144,569 Depreciation expense $ 11,852 $ 814 $ 3,657 $ 1,328 $ 17,651 Year Ended September 30, 2015 Applications Scores Decision Management Software Unallocated Corporate Expenses Total (In thousands) Segment revenues: Transactional and maintenance $ 320,596 $ 200,426 $ 43,210 $ — $ 564,232 Professional services 124,562 2,901 24,310 — 151,773 License 81,116 3,680 37,980 — 122,776 Total segment revenues 526,274 207,007 105,500 — 838,781 Segment operating expense (366,666 ) (55,793 ) (111,850 ) (89,744 ) (624,053 ) Segment operating income (loss) $ 159,608 $ 151,214 $ (6,350 ) $ (89,744 ) 214,728 Unallocated share-based compensation expense (45,308 ) Unallocated amortization expense (13,673 ) Unallocated restructuring and acquisition-related expenses (18,242 ) Operating income 137,505 Unallocated interest expense, net (29,150 ) Unallocated other income, net 883 Income before income taxes $ 109,238 Depreciation expense $ 13,861 $ 921 $ 3,087 $ 2,347 $ 20,216 Year Ended September 30, 2014 Applications Scores Decision Management Software Unallocated Corporate Expenses Total (In thousands) Segment revenues: Transactional and maintenance $ 313,316 $ 178,023 $ 36,224 $ — $ 527,563 Professional services 121,100 2,784 25,950 — 149,834 License 69,840 5,662 36,086 — 111,588 Total segment revenues 504,256 186,469 98,260 — 788,985 Segment operating expense (334,762 ) (44,187 ) (94,057 ) (101,551 ) (574,557 ) Segment operating income $ 169,494 $ 142,282 $ 4,203 $ (101,551 ) 214,428 Unallocated share-based compensation expense (36,362 ) Unallocated amortization expense (11,917 ) Unallocated restructuring and acquisition-related expenses (4,281 ) Operating income 161,868 Unallocated interest expense, net (28,550 ) Unallocated other expense, net (187 ) Income before income taxes $ 133,131 Depreciation expense $ 14,451 $ 851 $ 2,752 $ 2,661 $ 20,715 Our revenues and percentage of revenues by reportable market segments were as follows for fiscal 2016, 2015 and 2014 , the majority of which were derived from the sale of products and services within the banking (including consumer credit) industry: Year Ended September 30, 2016 2015 2014 (Dollars in thousands) Applications $ 532,642 61 % $ 526,274 63 % $ 504,256 64 % Scores 241,059 27 % 207,007 25 % 186,469 24 % Decision Management Software 107,655 12 % 105,500 12 % 98,260 12 % Total $ 881,356 100 % $ 838,781 100 % $ 788,985 100 % Within our Applications segment our fraud solutions accounted for 20% , 23% and 23% of total revenues in each of fiscal 2016, 2015 and 2014 , respectively, and our customer management solutions accounted for 9% , 9% and 10% of total revenues, in each of these periods, respectively. Our revenues and percentage of revenues on a geographical basis are summarized below for fiscal 2016, 2015 and 2014 : Year Ended September 30, 2016 2015 2014 (Dollars in thousands) United States $ 567,443 64 % $ 505,109 60 % $ 457,270 58 % United Kingdom 86,485 10 % 93,855 11 % 98,784 12 % Other countries 227,428 26 % 239,817 29 % 232,931 30 % Total $ 881,356 100 % $ 838,781 100 % $ 788,985 100 % During fiscal 2016, 2015 and 2014 , no individual customer accounted for 10% or more of our total revenues; however, we derive a substantial portion of revenues from our contracts with the three major credit reporting agencies, TransUnion, Equifax and Experian. Revenues collectively generated by agreements with these customers accounted for 19% , 16% and 15% of our total revenues in fiscal 2016, 2015 and 2014 , respectively. At September 30, 2016 and 2015 , no individual customer accounted for 10% or more of total consolidated receivables. Our property and equipment, net, on a geographical basis are summarized below at September 30, 2016 and 2015 . At September 30, 2016 and 2015 , no individual country outside the U.S. accounted for 10% or more of total consolidated net property and equipment. September 30, 2016 2015 (Dollars in thousands) United States $ 36,083 80 % $ 29,949 78 % International 9,039 20 % 8,259 22 % Total $ 45,122 100 % $ 38,208 100 %

Commitments

Commitments	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Commitments	Commitments Minimum future commitments under non-cancelable operating leases and other obligations were as follows at September 30, 2016 : Year Ended September 30, Future Minimum Lease Commitments (In thousands) 2017 $ 22,069 2018 20,890 2019 17,806 2020 9,541 2021 6,004 Thereafter 13,966 Total $ 90,276 Lease Commitments The above amounts have contractual sublease commitments totaling $0.6 million from fiscal 2017 to 2019. We occupy the majority of our facilities under non-cancelable operating leases with lease terms in excess of one year. Such facility leases generally provide for annual increases based upon the Consumer Price Index or fixed increments. Rent expense under operating leases, including month-to-month leases, totaled $17.6 million , $20.7 million and $19.4 million during fiscal 2016, 2015 and 2014 , respectively. Other Commitments In the ordinary course of business, we enter into contractual purchase obligations and other agreements that are legally binding and specify certain minimum payment terms. We are also a party to a management agreement with 23 of our executives providing for certain payments and other benefits in the event of a qualified change in control of FICO, coupled with a termination of the officer during the following year.

Contingencies

Contingencies	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Contingencies	Contingencies We are in disputes with certain customers regarding amounts owed in connection with the sale of certain of our products and services. We also have had claims asserted by former employees relating to compensation and other employment matters. We are also involved in various other claims and legal actions arising in the ordinary course of business. We record litigation accruals for legal matters which are both probable and estimable. For legal proceedings for which there is a reasonable possibility of loss (meaning those losses for which the likelihood is more than remote but less than probable), we have determined we do not have material exposure on an aggregate basis.

Guarantees

Guarantees	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Guarantees [Abstract]
Guarantees	Guarantees In the ordinary course of business, we are not subject to potential obligations under guarantees , except for standard indemnification and warranty provisions that are contained within many of our customer license and service agreements and certain supplier agreements, including underwriter agreements, as well as standard indemnification agreements that we have executed with certain of our officers and directors, and give rise only to the disclosure in the consolidated financial statements. In addition, we continue to monitor the conditions that are subject to the guarantees and indemnifications to identify whether it is probable that a loss has occurred, and would recognize any such losses under the guarantees and indemnifications when those losses are estimable. Indemnification and warranty provisions contained within our customer license and service agreements and certain supplier agreements are generally consistent with those prevalent in our industry. The duration of our product warranties generally does not exceed 90 days following delivery of our products. We have not incurred significant obligations under customer indemnification or warranty provisions historically and do not expect to incur significant obligations in the future. Accordingly, we do not maintain accruals for potential customer indemnification or warranty-related obligations. The indemnification agreements that we have executed with certain of our officers and directors would require us to indemnify such officers and directors in certain instances. We have not incurred obligations under these indemnification agreements historically and do not expect to incur significant obligations in the future. Accordingly, we do not maintain accruals for potential officer or director indemnification obligations. The maximum potential amount of future payments that we could be required to make under the indemnification provisions in our customer license and service agreements, and officer and director agreements is unlimited.

Supplementary Financial Data (U

Supplementary Financial Data (Unaudited)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Supplementary Financial Data (Unaudited)	Supplementary Financial Data (Unaudited) The following table presents selected unaudited consolidated financial results for each of the eight quarters in the two-year period ended September 30, 2016 . In the opinion of management, this unaudited information has been prepared on the same basis as the audited information and includes all adjustments (consisting of only normal recurring adjustments, except as noted below) necessary for a fair statement of the consolidated financial information for the period presented. Quarter Ended September 30, June 30, March 31, December 31, (In thousands, except per share data) Revenues $ 235,824 $ 238,778 $ 206,678 $ 200,076 Cost of revenues (1) 74,298 66,384 62,298 62,193 Gross profit 161,526 172,394 144,380 137,883 Net income $ 32,104 $ 34,987 $ 23,116 $ 19,241 Earnings per share (2): Basic $ 1.04 $ 1.12 $ 0.74 $ 0.62 Diluted $ 1.00 $ 1.08 $ 0.72 $ 0.59 Shares used in computing earnings per share: Basic 30,916 31,149 31,268 31,185 Diluted 32,221 32,313 32,262 32,436 Quarter Ended September 30, June 30, March 31, December 31, (In thousands, except per share data) Revenues $ 232,756 $ 209,366 $ 207,109 $ 189,550 Cost of revenues (1) 67,042 66,202 70,991 66,300 Gross profit 165,714 143,164 136,118 123,250 Net income $ 33,319 $ 19,906 $ 18,870 $ 14,407 Earnings per share (2): Basic $ 1.07 $ 0.64 $ 0.60 $ 0.45 Diluted $ 1.03 $ 0.62 $ 0.58 $ 0.43 Shares used in computing earnings per share: Basic 31,214 31,118 31,335 31,936 Diluted 32,494 32,363 32,448 33,128 (1) Cost of revenues excludes amortization expense of $1.7 million , $1.9 million , $1.9 million , $1.9 million , $1.8 million , $1.9 million , $1.9 million and $1.8 million for the quarters ended September 30, 2016 , June 30, 2016 , March 31, 2016 , December 31, 2015 , September 30, 2015 , June 30, 2015 , March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014 , respectively. (2) Earnings per share is computed independently for each of the quarters presented. Therefore, the sum of the quarterly per share amounts may not equal the totals for the respective years.

Nature of Business and Summar29

Nature of Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Principles of Consolidation and Basis of Presentation	Principles of Consolidation and Basis of Presentation The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of FICO and its subsidiaries. All intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated.
Use of Estimates	Use of Estimates We make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and the disclosures made in the accompanying notes. For example, we use estimates in determining the collectibility of accounts receivable; the appropriate levels of various accruals; labor hours in connection with fixed-fee service contracts; the amount of our tax provision and the realizability of deferred tax assets. We also use estimates in determining the remaining economic lives and carrying values of acquired intangible assets, property and equipment, and other long-lived assets. In addition, we use assumptions to estimate the fair value of reporting units and share-based compensation. Actual results may differ from our estimates.
Cash and Cash Equivalents	Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and cash equivalents consist of cash in banks and investments with an original maturity of 90 days or less at time of purchase.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments	Fair Value of Financial Instruments The fair value of certain of our financial instruments, including cash and cash equivalents, receivables, other current assets, accounts payable, accrued compensation and employee benefits, other accrued liabilities and amounts outstanding under our revolving line of credit, approximate their carrying amounts because of the short-term maturity of these instruments.
Investments	Investments Management determines the appropriate classification of our investments in marketable debt and equity securities at the time of purchase, and re-evaluates this designation at each balance sheet date. While it is our intent to hold debt securities to maturity, our investments in U.S. government obligations and marketable equity and debt securities that have readily determinable fair values are classified as available-for-sale, as the sale of such securities may be required prior to maturity to implement management strategies. Therefore, such securities are carried at fair value with unrealized gains or losses related to these securities included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). The fair value of marketable securities is based upon inputs including quoted prices for identical or similar assets. Realized gains and losses are included in other income (expense), net on the consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income. The cost of investments sold is based on the specific identification method. Losses resulting from other than temporary declines in fair value are charged to operations. Investments with remaining maturities over one year are classified as long-term investments. Our investments in equity securities of companies over which we do not have significant influence are accounted for under the cost method. The investment is originally recorded at cost and adjusted for additional contributions or distributions. Management periodically reviews cost-method investments for instances where fair value is less than the carrying amount and the decline in value is determined to be other than temporary. If the decline in value is judged to be other than temporary, the carrying amount of the security is written down to fair value and the resulting loss is charged to operations. We currently do not have investments in which we own 20% to 50% and exercise significant influence over operating and financial policies, therefore we do not account for any investment under the equity method.
Concentration of Risk	Concentration of Risk Financial instruments that potentially expose us to concentrations of risk consist primarily of cash and cash equivalents, marketable securities and accounts receivable, which are generally not collateralized. Our policy is to place our cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities with high quality financial institutions, commercial corporations and government agencies in order to limit the amount of credit exposure. We have established guidelines relative to diversification and maturities for maintaining safety and liquidity. We generally do not require collateral from our customers, but our credit extension and collection policies include analyzing the financial condition of potential customers, establishing credit limits, monitoring payments, and aggressively pursuing delinquent accounts. We maintain allowances for potential credit losses. A significant portion of our revenues are derived from the sales of products and services to the consumer credit and banking industries.
Property and Equipment	Property and Equipment Property and equipment are recorded at cost less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Major renewals and improvements are capitalized, while repair and maintenance costs are expensed as incurred. Depreciation and amortization charges are calculated using the straight-line method over the following estimated useful lives: Estimated Useful Life Data processing equipment and software 3 years Office furniture and equipment 3 to 7 years Leasehold improvements Shorter of estimated useful life or lease term The cost and accumulated depreciation for property and equipment sold, retired or otherwise disposed of are removed from the applicable accounts and resulting gains or losses are recorded in our consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income.
Internal-use Software	Internal-Use Software Costs incurred to develop internal-use software during the application development stage are capitalized and reported at cost. Application development stage costs generally include costs associated with internal-use software configuration, coding, installation and testing. Costs of significant upgrades and enhancements that result in additional functionality are also capitalized whereas costs incurred for maintenance and minor upgrades and enhancements are expensed as incurred. Capitalized costs are amortized using the straight-line method over two to three years. Software development costs required to be capitalized for internal-use software have not been material to date.
Capitalized Software and Research and Development Costs	Capitalized Software and Research and Development Costs Software development costs relating to products to be sold in the normal course of business are expensed as incurred as research and development costs until technological feasibility is established. Technological feasibility for our products occurs approximately concurrently with the general release of our products; accordingly, we have not capitalized any development or production costs. Costs we incur to maintain and support our existing products after the general release of the product are expensed in the period they are incurred and included in research and development costs in our consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income.
Goodwill and Intangible Assets	Goodwill, Acquisition Intangibles and Other Long-Lived Assets Goodwill represents the excess of cost over the fair value of identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed in business combinations. We assess goodwill for impairment for each of our reporting units on an annual basis during the fourth quarter using a July 1 measurement date unless circumstances require a more frequent measurement. We have determined that our reporting units are the same as our reportable segments. When evaluating goodwill for impairment, we may first perform an assessment qualitatively whether it is more likely than not that a reporting unit's carrying amount exceeds its fair value, referred to as a "step zero" approach. If, based on the review of the qualitative factors, we determine it is not more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying value, we would bypass the two-step impairment test. Events and circumstances we consider in performing the "step zero" qualitative assessment include macro-economic conditions, market and industry conditions, internal cost factors, share price fluctuations, and the operational stability and the overall financial performance of the reporting units. If we conclude that it is more likely than not that a reporting unit's fair value is less than its carrying amount, we would perform the first step (“step one”) of the two-step impairment test and calculate the estimated fair value of the reporting unit by using discounted cash flow valuation models and by comparing our reporting units to guideline publicly-traded companies. These methods require estimates of our future revenues, profits, capital expenditures, working capital, and other relevant factors, as well as selecting appropriate guideline publicly-traded companies for each reporting unit. We estimate these amounts by evaluating historical trends, current budgets, operating plans, industry data, and other relevant factors. For fiscal 2016 and 2015, we performed a step zero qualitative analysis for our annual assessment of goodwill impairment. After evaluating and weighing all relevant events and circumstances, we concluded that it is not more likely than not that the fair value of any of our reporting units was less their carrying amounts. Consequently, we did not perform a step one quantitative analysis in fiscal 2016 and 2015. For fiscal 2014, we elected to proceed directly to the step one quantitative analysis rather than perform the step zero qualitative assessment. There was a substantial excess of fair value over carrying value for each of our reporting units and we determined goodwill was not impaired for any of our reporting units. We amortize our finite-lived intangible assets which result from our acquisitions over the following estimated useful lives: Estimated Useful Life Completed technology 4 to 10 years Customer contracts and relationships 5 to 15 years Trade names 1 to 3 years
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets	Our intangible assets that have finite useful lives and other long-lived assets are assessed for potential impairment when there is evidence that events and circumstances related to our financial performance and economic environment indicate the carrying amount of the assets may not be recoverable. When impairment indicators are identified, we test for impairment using undiscounted cash flows. If such tests indicate impairment, then we measure and record the impairment as the difference between the carrying value of the asset and the fair value of the asset.
Revenue Recognition	Revenue Recognition Software Licenses Software license fee revenue is recognized when persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, software is made available to our customers, the fee is fixed or determinable and collection is probable. The determination of whether fees are fixed or determinable and collection is probable involves the use of judgment. If at the outset of an arrangement we determine that the arrangement fee is not fixed or determinable, revenue is deferred until the arrangement fee becomes fixed or determinable, assuming all other revenue recognition criteria have been met. If at the outset of an arrangement we determine that collectability is not probable, revenue is deferred until the earlier of when collectability becomes probable or the receipt of payment. If there is uncertainty as to the customer’s acceptance of our deliverables, revenue is not recognized until the earlier of receipt of customer acceptance, expiration of the acceptance period, or when we can demonstrate we meet the acceptance criteria. We evaluate contract terms and customer information to ensure that these criteria are met prior to our recognition of license fee revenue. We use the residual method to recognize revenue when a software arrangement includes one or more elements to be delivered at a future date provided the following criteria are met: (i) vendor-specific objective evidence (“VSOE”) of the fair value does not exist for one or more of the delivered items but exists for all undelivered elements, (ii) all other applicable revenue recognition criteria are met and (iii) the fair value of all of the undelivered elements is less than the arrangement fee. VSOE of fair value is based on the normal pricing practices for those products and services when sold separately by us and customer renewal rates for post-contract customer support services. Under the residual method, the fair value of the undelivered elements is deferred and the remaining portion of the arrangement fee is recognized as revenue. If evidence of the fair value of one or more undelivered elements does not exist, the revenue is deferred and recognized when delivery of those elements occurs or when fair value can be established. Changes to the elements in a software arrangement, the ability to identify VSOE for those elements, the fair value of the respective elements, and change to a product’s estimated life cycle could materially impact the amount of earned and unearned revenue. Revenues from post-contract customer support services, such as software maintenance, are recognized on a straight-line basis over the term of the support period. The majority of our software maintenance agreements provide technical support as well as unspecified software product upgrades and releases when and if made available by us during the term of the support period. Transactional-Based Revenues Transactional-based revenue is recognized when persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, fees are fixed or determinable, and collection is probable. Revenues from our credit scoring, data processing, data management and internet delivery services are recognized as these services are performed. Revenues from transactional or unit-based license fees under software license arrangements, network service and internally-hosted software agreements are recognized based on minimum contractual amounts or on system usage that exceeds minimum contractual amounts. Certain of our transactional-based revenues are based on transaction or active account volumes as reported by our clients. In instances where volumes are reported to us in arrears, we estimate volumes based on preliminary customer transaction information or average actual reported volumes for an immediate trailing period. Differences between our estimates and actual final volumes reported are recorded in the period in which actual volumes are reported. We have not experienced material variances between our estimates and actual reported volumes in the past and anticipate that we will be able to continue to make reasonable estimates in the future. If for some reason we were unable to reasonably estimate transaction volumes in the future, revenue may be deferred until actual customer data is received, and this could have a material impact on our consolidated results of operations. Consulting Services We provide consulting, training, model development and software integration services under both hourly-based time and materials and fixed-priced contracts. Revenues from these services are generally recognized as the services are performed. For fixed-price service contracts, we use a proportionate performance model with hours as the input method of attribution to determine progress towards completion, with consideration also given to output measures, such as contract milestones, when applicable. In such instances, management is required to estimate the total estimated hours of the project. Adjustments to estimates are made in the period in which the facts requiring such revisions become known and, accordingly, recognized revenues and profits are subject to revisions as the contract progresses to completion. Estimated losses, if any, are recorded in the period in which current estimates of total contract revenue and contract costs indicate a loss. If substantive uncertainty related to customer acceptance of services exists, we defer the associated revenue until the contract is completed. We have not experienced material variances between our estimates and actual hours in the past and anticipate that we will be able to continue to make reasonable estimates in the future. If for some reason we are unable to accurately estimate the input measures, revenue would be deferred until the contract is complete, and this could have a material impact on our consolidated results of operations. Services that are sold in connection with software license arrangements generally qualify for separate accounting from the license element because they do not involve significant production, modification or customization of our products and are not otherwise considered to be essential to the functionality of our software. In arrangements where the professional services do not qualify for separate accounting from the license element, the combined software license and professional services revenue are recognized based on contract accounting using either the percentage-of-completion or completed-contract method. Hosting Services We are an application service provider (“ASP”), where we provide hosting services that allow customers access to software that resides on our servers. The ASP model typically includes an up-front fee and a monthly commitment from the customer that commences upon completion of the implementation through the remainder of the customer life. The up-front fee is the initial setup fee, or the implementation fee. The monthly commitment includes, but is not limited to, a fixed monthly fee or a transactional fee based on system usage that exceeds monthly minimums. Revenue is recognized from ASP transactions when there is persuasive evidence of an arrangement, the service has been provided to the customer, the amount of fees is fixed or determinable and the collection of our fees is probable. We do not view the activities of signing the contract or providing initial setup services as discrete earnings events. Revenue is typically deferred until the date the customer commences use of our services, at which point the up-front fees are recognized ratably over the expected life of the customer relationship. ASP transactional fees are recorded monthly as earned. Multiple-Deliverable Arrangements including Non-Software When we enter into a multiple-deliverable arrangement that includes non-software, each deliverable is accounted for as a separate unit of accounting if the following criteria are met: (i) the delivered item or items have value to the customer on a standalone basis and (ii) for an arrangement that includes a general right of return relative to the delivered item(s), delivery or performance of the undelivered item(s) is considered probable and substantially in our control. We consider a deliverable to have standalone value if we sell this item separately or if the item is sold by another vendor or could be resold by the customer ; for example, we conclude professional services offered along with our SaaS subscription services typically have standalone value using this criteria. Further, our revenue arrangements generally do not include a general right of return relative to delivered products. Revenue for multiple element arrangements is allocated to the software and non-software deliverables based on a relative selling price. We use VSOE in our allocation of arrangement consideration when it is available. We define VSOE as a median price of recent standalone transactions that are priced within a narrow range, as defined by us. If a product or service is seldom sold separately, it is unlikely that we can determine VSOE. In circumstances when VSOE does not exist, we then assess whether we can obtain third-party evidence (“TPE”) of the selling price. It may be difficult for us to obtain sufficient information on competitor pricing to substantiate TPE and therefore we may not always be able to use TPE. When we are unable to establish selling price using VSOE or TPE, we use estimated selling price (“ESP”) in our allocation of arrangement consideration. The objective of ESP is to determine the price at which we would transact if the product or service were sold by us on a standalone basis. Our determination of ESP involves weighting several factors based on the specific facts and circumstances of each arrangement. The factors include, but are not limited to, geographies, market conditions, gross margin objectives, pricing practices and controls, customer segment pricing strategies and the product lifecycle. Gross vs. Net Revenue Reporting We apply accounting guidance to determine whether we report revenue for certain transactions based upon the gross amount billed to the customer, or the net amount retained by us. In accordance with the guidance we record revenue on a gross basis for sales in which we have acted as the principal and on a net basis for those sales in which we have in substance acted as an agent or broker in the transaction.
Business Combinations	Business Combinations Accounting for our acquisitions requires us to recognize, separately from goodwill, the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed at their acquisition-date fair values. Goodwill as of the acquisition date is measured as the excess of consideration transferred and the net of the acquisition-date fair values of the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed. While we use our best estimates and assumptions to accurately value assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the acquisition date, our estimates are inherently uncertain and subject to refinement. As a result, during the measurement period, which may be up to one year from the acquisition date, we record adjustments to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed with the corresponding offset to goodwill. Upon the conclusion of the measurement period or final determination of the values of assets acquired or liabilities assumed, whichever comes first, any subsequent adjustments are recorded to our consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income. Accounting for business combinations requires our management to make significant estimates and assumptions, especially at the acquisition date including our estimates for intangible assets, contractual obligations assumed, pre-acquisition contingencies and contingent consideration, where applicable. If we cannot reasonably determine the fair value of a pre-acquisition contingency (non-income tax related) by the end of the measurement period, we will recognize an asset or a liability for such pre-acquisition contingency if: (i) it is probable that an asset existed or a liability had been incurred at the acquisition date and (ii) the amount of the asset or liability can be reasonably estimated. Although we believe the assumptions and estimates we have made in the past have been reasonable and appropriate, they are based in part on historical experience and information obtained from the management of the acquired companies and are inherently uncertain. Subsequent to the measurement period, changes in our estimates of such contingencies will affect earnings and could have a material effect on our results of operations and financial position. Examples of critical estimates in valuing certain of the intangible assets we have acquired include but are not limited to: (i) future expected cash flows from software license sales, support agreements, consulting contracts, other customer contracts and acquired developed technologies and patents; (ii) expected costs to develop the in-process research and development into commercially viable products and estimated cash flows from the projects when completed; and (iii) the acquired company’s brand and competitive position, as well as assumptions about the period of time the acquired brand will continue to be used in the combined company’s product portfolio. Unanticipated events and circumstances may occur that may affect the accuracy or validity of such assumptions, estimates or actual results. In addition, uncertain tax positions and tax related valuation allowances assumed in connection with a business combination are initially estimated as of the acquisition date. We reevaluate these items quarterly based upon facts and circumstances that existed as of the acquisition date with any adjustments to our preliminary estimates being recorded to goodwill provided that we are within the measurement period. Subsequent to the measurement period or our final determination of the tax allowance’s or contingency’s estimated value, whichever comes first, changes to these uncertain tax positions and tax related valuation allowances will affect our provision for income taxes in our consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income and could have a material impact on our results of operations and financial position.
Income Taxes	Income Taxes We estimate our income taxes based on the various jurisdictions where we conduct business, which involves significant judgment in determining our income tax provision. We estimate our current tax liability using currently enacted tax rates and laws and assess temporary differences that result from differing treatments of certain items for tax and accounting purposes. These differences result in deferred tax assets and liabilities recorded on our balance sheet using the currently enacted tax rates and laws that will apply to taxable income for the years in which those tax assets are expected to be realized or settled. We then assess the likelihood our deferred tax assets will be realized and to the extent we believe realization is not more likely than not, we establish a valuation allowance. When we establish a valuation allowance or increase this allowance in an accounting period, we record a corresponding income tax expense in our consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income. In assessing the need for the valuation allowance, we consider future taxable income in the jurisdictions we operate; our ability to carry back tax attributes to prior years; an analysis of our deferred tax assets and the periods over which they will be realizable; and ongoing prudent and feasible tax planning strategies. An increase in the valuation allowance would have an adverse impact, which could be material, on our income tax provision and net income in the period in which we record the increase. We recognize and measure benefits for uncertain tax positions using a two-step approach. The first step is to evaluate the tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return by determining if the technical merits of the tax position indicate it is more likely than not that the tax position will be sustained upon audit, including resolution of any related appeals or litigation processes. For tax positions more likely than not of being sustained upon audit, the second step is to measure the tax benefit as the largest amount more than 50% likely of being realized upon settlement. Significant judgment is required to evaluate uncertain tax positions and they are evaluated on a quarterly basis. Our evaluations are based upon a number of factors, including changes in facts or circumstances, changes in tax law, correspondence with tax authorities during the course of audits and effective settlement of audit issues. Changes in the recognition or measurement of uncertain tax positions could result in material increases or decreases in our income tax expense in the period in which we make the change, which could have a material impact on our effective tax rate and operating results. A description of our accounting policies associated with tax-related contingencies and valuation allowances assumed as part of a business combination is provided under “Business Combinations” above.
Earnings per Share	Earnings per Share Basic earnings per share are computed on the basis of the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the period under measurement. Diluted earnings per share are based on the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding and potential common shares. Potential common shares result from the assumed exercise of outstanding stock options or other potentially dilutive equity instruments, when they are dilutive under the treasury stock method.
Comprehensive Income	Comprehensive Income Comprehensive income is the change in our equity (net assets) during each period from transactions and other events and circumstances from non-owner sources. It includes net income, foreign currency translation adjustments and unrealized gains and losses on our investments in marketable securities, net of tax.
Foreign Currency and Derivative Financial Instruments	Foreign Currency and Derivative Financial Instruments We have determined that the functional currency of each foreign operation is the local currency. Assets and liabilities denominated in their local foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars at the exchange rate on the balance sheet date. Revenues and expenses are translated at average rates of exchange prevailing during the period. Foreign currency translation adjustments are accumulated as a separate component of consolidated stockholders’ equity. We utilize derivative instruments to manage market risks associated with fluctuations in certain foreign currency exchange rates as they relate to specific balances of accounts receivable and cash denominated in foreign currencies. We principally utilize foreign currency forward contracts to protect against market risks arising in the normal course of business. Our policies prohibit the use of derivative instruments for the sole purpose of trading for profit on price fluctuations or to enter into contracts that intentionally increase our underlying exposure. All of our foreign currency forward contracts have maturity periods of less than three months. At the end of the reporting period, foreign-currency-denominated assets and liabilities are remeasured into the functional currencies of the reporting entities at current market rates. The change in value from this remeasurement is reported as a foreign exchange gain or loss for that period in other income (expense), net in the accompanying consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income.
Share-Based Compensation	Share-Based Compensation We measure stock-based compensation cost at the grant date based on the fair value of the award and recognize it as expense, net of estimated forfeitures, over the vesting or service period, as applicable, of the stock award (generally three to four years).
Advertising and Promotion Costs	Advertising and Promotion Costs Advertising and promotion costs are expensed as incurred and are included in selling, general and administrative expenses in the accompanying consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income.
New Accounting Pronouncements	New Accounting Pronouncements Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements In November 2015, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued ASU No. 2015-17, “ Income Taxes (Topic 740): Balance Sheet Classification of Deferred Taxes ” (“ASU 2015-17”). ASU 2015-17 simplifies the presentation of deferred income taxes and requires that deferred tax liabilities and assets be classified as noncurrent in a classified statement of financial position. ASU 2015-17 applies to all entities that present a classified statement of financial position. ASU 2015-17 may be applied either prospectively to all deferred tax liabilities and assets or retrospectively to all periods presented. ASU 2015-17 is effective for fiscal years and interim periods within those fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2016. We elected to early adopt the standard prospectively as of March 31, 2016, which did not have a significant impact on our consolidated financial statements. Recent Accounting Pronouncements Not Yet Adopted In October 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-16, “ Income Taxes (Topic 740): Intra-Entity Transfers of Assets Other Than Inventory ” (“ASU 2016-16”). ASU 2016-16 requires an entity to recognize the income tax consequences of an intra-entity transfer of an asset other than inventory when the transfer occurs. The guidance is effective for fiscal years and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2017, which means it will be effective for our fiscal year beginning October 1, 2018. ASU 2016-16 should be applied on a modified retrospective basis through a cumulative-effect adjustment directly to retained earnings at the beginning of the period of adoption. Early adoption is permitted in the first interim period of an entity's annual financial statements. We are currently evaluating the timing of our adoption and the impact that the updated standard will have on our consolidated financial statements. In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-09, “ Compensation - Stock Compensation (Topic 718): Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accountin g” (“ASU 2016-09”). ASU 2016-09 simplifies several aspects of the accounting for share-based payment transactions, including the income tax consequences, classification of awards as either equity or liabilities, and classification on the statement of cash flows. ASU 2016-09 is effective for fiscal years and interim periods within those fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2016, which means it will be effective for our fiscal year beginning October 1, 2017. Early adoption is permitted. We plan to early adopt ASU 2016-09 on a prospective basis in the first quarter of our fiscal 2017 (the quarter ended December 31, 2016), which is expected to have an impact on the recording of excess tax benefits and deficiencies in our consolidated balance sheets and consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income, as well as our operating and financing cash flows on our consolidated statements of cash Flows. The magnitude of such impact is dependent upon our future grants of stock-based compensation, our future stock price in relation to the fair value of awards on grant date and the exercise behavior of the our stock option holders. In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-02, “ Leases (Topic 842) ” (“ASU 2016-02”), which requires lessees to put most leases on their balance sheets but recognize the expenses on their income statements in a manner similar to current practice. ASU 2016-02 states that a lessee would recognize a lease liability for the obligation to make lease payments and a right-to-use asset for the right to use the underlying asset for the lease term. ASU 2016-02 is effective for fiscal years and interim periods within those fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, which means it will be effective for our fiscal year beginning October 1, 2019. Early adoption is permitted. We are currently evaluating the timing of our adoption and the impact that the updated standard will have on our consolidated financial statements. In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-09, “ Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606) ” (“ASU 2014-09”). ASU 2014-09 requires an entity to recognize the amount of revenue to which it expects to be entitled for the transfer of promised goods or services to customers. ASU 2014-09 will replace most existing revenue recognition guidance in U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles when it becomes effective and permits the use of either the retrospective or cumulative effect transition method. The guidance also requires additional disclosure about the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from customer contracts. In August 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-14, “ Deferral of the Effective Date ” (“ASU 2015-14”), which defers the effective date for ASU 2014-09 by one year. For public entities, the guidance in ASU 2014-09 will be effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017 (including interim reporting periods within those periods), which means it will be effective for our fiscal year beginning October 1, 2018. Early adoption is permitted to the original effective date of December 15, 2016 (including interim reporting periods within those periods). We have not yet selected a transition method and we are currently evaluating the impact that the updated standard will have on our consolidated financial statements. In April 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-03, “ Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance ” (“ASU 2015-03”), which changes the presentation of debt issuance costs in financial statements. Under ASU 2015-03, an entity presents such costs in the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the related debt liability rather than as an asset. Amortization of the costs is reported as interest expense. ASU 2015-03 is effective for fiscal years and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2015, which means it is effective for our fiscal year beginning October 1, 2016. Early adoption was permitted. We do not believe that adoption of ASU 2015-03 will have a significant impact on our consolidated financial statements.

Nature of Business and Summar30

Nature of Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Estimated Useful Life of Property and Equipment	Depreciation and amortization charges are calculated using the straight-line method over the following estimated useful lives: Estimated Useful Life Data processing equipment and software 3 years Office furniture and equipment 3 to 7 years Leasehold improvements Shorter of estimated useful life or lease term
Estimated Useful Life of Definite-Lived Intangible Assets	We amortize our finite-lived intangible assets which result from our acquisitions over the following estimated useful lives: Estimated Useful Life Completed technology 4 to 10 years Customer contracts and relationships 5 to 15 years Trade names 1 to 3 years

Cash, Cash Equivalents and Ma31

Cash, Cash Equivalents and Marketable Securities Available for Sale (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Abstract]
Summary of Cash, Cash Equivalents and Marketable Securities Available for Sale	The following is a summary of cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities available for sale at September 30, 2016 and 2015 : September 30, 2016 September 30, 2015 Amortized Cost Gross Unrealized Gains Fair Value Amortized Cost Gross Unrealized Gains Fair Value (In thousands) Cash and Cash Equivalents: Cash $ 75,486 $ — $ 75,486 $ 85,681 $ — $ 85,681 Money market funds 440 — 440 439 — 439 Total $ 75,926 $ — $ 75,926 $ 86,120 $ — $ 86,120 Long-term Marketable Securities: Marketable equity securities $ 9,598 $ 1,418 $ 11,016 $ 8,691 $ 876 $ 9,567

Fair Value Measurements (Tables

Fair Value Measurements (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis	The following table represents financial assets that we measured at fair value on a recurring basis at September 30, 2016 and 2015 : September 30, 2016 Active Markets for Identical Instruments (Level 1) Fair Value as of September 30, 2016 (In thousands) Assets: Cash equivalents (1) $ 440 $ 440 Marketable securities (2) 11,016 11,016 Total $ 11,456 $ 11,456 September 30, 2015 Active Markets for Identical Instruments (Level 1) Fair Value as of September 30, 2015 (In thousands) Assets: Cash equivalents (1) $ 439 $ 439 Marketable securities (2) 9,567 9,567 Total $ 10,006 $ 10,006 (1) Included in cash and cash equivalents on our balance sheet at September 30, 2016 and 2015 . Not included in this table are cash deposits of $75.5 million and $85.7 million at September 30, 2016 and 2015 , respectively. (2) Represents securities held under a supplemental retirement and savings plan for certain officers and senior management employees, which are distributed upon termination or retirement of the employees. Included in long-term marketable securities on our balance sheet at September 30, 2016 and 2015 .

Derivative Financial Instrume33

Derivative Financial Instruments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Notional Amounts of Outstanding Derivative Positions	The following tables summarize our outstanding foreign currency forward contracts, by currency at September 30, 2016 and 2015 : September 30, 2016 Contract Amount Fair Value Foreign Currency US$ US$ (In thousands) Sell foreign currency: Euro (EUR) EUR 7,850 $ 8,743 — Buy foreign currency: British pound (GBP) GBP 7,721 $ 10,000 — September 30, 2015 Contract Amount Fair Value Foreign Currency US$ US$ (In thousands) Sell foreign currency: Canadian dollar (CAD) CAD 2,750 $ 2,045 $ — Euro (EUR) EUR 5,600 $ 6,296 — Buy foreign currency: British pound (GBP) GBP 6,943 $ 10,550 —
Schedule of Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) in Statement of Financial Performance	These amounts are shown below for the years ended September 30, 2016, 2015 and 2014 : Year Ended September 30, 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) Gain (loss) on foreign currency forward contracts $ (2,911 ) $ (62 ) $ 256

Receivables (Tables)

Receivables (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Receivables [Abstract]
Receivables	Receivables at September 30, 2016 and 2015 consisted of the following: September 30, 2016 2015 (In thousands) Billed $ 124,731 $ 114,464 Unbilled (1) 45,247 46,435 169,978 160,899 Less: allowance for doubtful accounts (2,192 ) (2,126 ) Receivables, net $ 167,786 $ 158,773 (1) Represents revenue recorded in excess of amounts billable pursuant to contract provisions and generally become billable at contractually specified dates or upon the attainment of milestones. Unbilled amounts are expected to be realized within one year.
Activity of Allowance for Doubtful Accounts	Activity in the allowance for doubtful accounts was as follows: Year Ended September 30, 2016 2015 (In thousands) Balance, beginning of year $ 2,126 $ 2,927 Add: expense 2,011 — Less: write-offs (net of recoveries) (1,945 ) (801 ) Balance, end of year $ 2,192 $ 2,126

Goodwill and Intangible Assets

Goodwill and Intangible Assets (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Intangible Assets Subject to Amortization	Intangible assets that are subject to amortization consisted of the following at September 30, 2016 and 2015 : September 30, 2016 September 30, 2015 (In thousands, except average life) Gross Carrying Amount Accumulated Amortization Net Average Life Gross Carrying Amount Accumulated Amortization Net Average Life Completed technology $ 84,184 $ (70,368 ) $ 13,816 5 $ 87,820 $ (67,769 ) $ 20,051 5 Customer contracts and relationships 64,592 (45,034 ) 19,558 12 65,762 (38,930 ) 26,832 12 Trade names 575 (330 ) 245 3 576 (138 ) 438 3 $ 149,351 $ (115,732 ) $ 33,619 8 $ 154,158 $ (106,837 ) $ 47,321 8
Schedule of Amortization Expense	Amortization expense associated with our intangible assets, which has been reflected as a separate operating expense caption within the accompanying consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income, consisted of the following during fiscal 2016, 2015 and 2014 : Year Ended September 30, 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) Cost of revenues $ 7,300 $ 7,594 $ 7,371 Selling, general and administrative expenses 6,682 6,079 4,546 Total $ 13,982 $ 13,673 $ 11,917
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense	Estimated future intangible asset amortization expense associated with intangible assets existing at September 30, 2016 , was as follows (in thousands): Year Ended September 30, 2017 $ 12,846 2018 6,398 2019 5,882 2020 3,611 2021 2,405 Thereafter 2,477 Total $ 33,619
Schedule of Goodwill	The following table summarizes changes to goodwill during fiscal 2016 and 2015 , both in total and as allocated to our operating segments. We have not recognized any goodwill impairment losses to date. Applications Scores Decision Management Software Total (In thousands) Balance at September 30, 2014 $ 560,295 $ 146,648 $ 72,985 $ 779,928 Addition from acquisitions 46,149 — — 46,149 Foreign currency translation adjustment (9,679 ) — (1,648 ) (11,327 ) Balance at September 30, 2015 596,765 146,648 71,337 814,750 Addition from acquisitions 3,857 — — 3,857 Adjustment related to prior acquisitions 283 — — 283 Foreign currency translation adjustment (18,185 ) — (2,290 ) (20,475 ) Balance at September 30, 2016 $ 582,720 $ 146,648 $ 69,047 $ 798,415

Composition of Certain Financ36

Composition of Certain Financial Statement Captions (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Property, Plant and Equipment	The following table presents the composition of property and equipment at September 30, 2016 and 2015 : September 30, 2016 2015 (In thousands) Property and equipment: Data processing equipment and software $ 84,761 $ 71,841 Office furniture and equipment 16,847 14,750 Leasehold improvements 25,152 23,269 Less: accumulated depreciation and amortization (81,638 ) (71,652 ) Total $ 45,122 $ 38,208

Senior Notes (Tables)

Senior Notes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Senior Notes	The 2008 Senior Notes were issued in four series as follows: Series Amount Interest Rate Maturity Date (In millions) A $ 41.0 6.37 % May 7, 2013 B $ 40.0 6.37 % May 7, 2015 C $ 63.0 6.71 % May 7, 2015 D $ 131.0 7.18 % May 7, 2018 The 2010 Senior Notes were issued in four series as follows: Series Amount Interest Rate Maturity Date (In millions) E $ 60.0 4.72 % July 14, 2016 F $ 72.0 5.04 % July 14, 2017 G $ 28.0 5.42 % July 14, 2019 H $ 85.0 5.59 % July 14, 2020
Principal Amounts Carrying amounts and Fair Values of Senior Notes	The following table presents the principal amounts, carrying amounts and fair values for the Senior Notes at September 30, 2016 and 2015 : September 30, 2016 September 30, 2015 Principal Carrying Amounts Fair Value Principal Carrying Amounts Fair Value (In thousands) (In thousands) The 2008 Senior Notes $ 131,000 $ 131,000 $ 139,902 $ 131,000 $ 131,000 $ 144,009 The 2010 Senior Notes $ 185,000 $ 185,000 $ 195,715 $ 245,000 $ 245,000 $ 257,563
Future Principal Payments For the Senior Notes	Future principal payments for the Senior Notes are as follows (in thousands): Year Ended September 30, 2017 $ 72,000 2018 131,000 2019 28,000 2020 85,000 Total $ 316,000

Restructuring Expenses (Tables)

Restructuring Expenses (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]
Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs	The following tables summarize our restructuring accruals associated with the above actions. The current portion and non-current portion was recorded in other accrued current liabilities and other liabilities, respectively, within the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. Accrual at September 30, 2014 Expense Additions Cash Payments Non-cash Settlements Accrual at September 30, 2015 (In thousands) Facilities charges $ 92 $ 13,571 $ (92 ) $ (576 ) $ 12,995 Employee separation 170 3,908 (1,673 ) — 2,405 262 $ 17,479 $ (1,765 ) $ (576 ) 15,400 Less: current portion (262 ) (5,570 ) Non-current $ — $ 9,830 Accrual at September 30, 2015 Expense Additions Cash Payments Non-cash Settlements Accrual at September 30, 2016 (In thousands) Facilities charges $ 12,995 $ — $ (3,762 ) $ — $ 9,233 Employee separation 2,405 — (2,405 ) — — 15,400 $ — $ (6,167 ) $ — 9,233 Less: current portion (5,570 ) (4,266 ) Non-current $ 9,830 $ 4,967

Income Taxes (Tables)

Income Taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Provision for Income Taxes	The provision for income taxes was as follows during fiscal 2016, 2015 and 2014 : Year ended September 30, 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) Current: Federal $ 50,631 $ 23,646 $ 42,570 State 2,900 (5,381 ) 4,221 Foreign 7,597 10,405 7,487 61,128 28,670 54,278 Deferred: Federal (23,592 ) (5,004 ) (15,401 ) State (225 ) 1,422 (1,093 ) Foreign (2,190 ) (2,352 ) 468 (26,007 ) (5,934 ) (16,026 ) Total provision $ 35,121 $ 22,736 $ 38,252
Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities	Deferred tax assets and liabilities at September 30, 2016 and 2015 were as follows: September 30, 2016 2015 (In thousands) Deferred tax assets: Net operating loss carryforward $ 16,122 $ 17,650 Foreign tax credit carryforward 14,590 — Research credit carryforward 6,132 5,759 Accrued bonus 13,807 5,400 Investments 619 1,042 Accrued compensation 1,328 1,834 Share-based compensation 27,203 23,741 Deferred revenue 1,467 979 Accrued lease costs 3,406 5,009 Property and equipment 3,348 3,249 Other 7,728 5,613 95,750 70,276 Less valuation allowance (15,145 ) (13,882 ) Total deferred tax assets 80,605 56,394 Deferred tax liabilities: Intangible assets (28,056 ) (30,286 ) Prepaid expense (3,959 ) (3,877 ) Other (992 ) (993 ) Total deferred tax liabilities (33,007 ) (35,156 ) Deferred tax assets, net $ 47,598 $ 21,238
Reconciliation Between Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate and Effective Tax Rate	A reconciliation of the provision for income taxes, with the amount computed by applying the U.S. federal statutory income tax rate ( 35% in fiscal 2016, 2015 and 2014) to income before provision for income taxes for fiscal 2016, 2015 and 2014 is shown below: Year Ended September 30, 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) Income tax provision at U.S. federal statutory rate $ 50,599 $ 38,233 $ 46,595 State income taxes, net of U.S. federal benefit 2,244 1,719 2,832 Foreign tax rate differential (4,661 ) (5,279 ) (4,592 ) Intercompany interest (1,223 ) (1,260 ) (1,246 ) Research credits (4,398 ) (2,104 ) (302 ) Domestic production deduction (3,726 ) (1,607 ) (3,141 ) Federal and state audit settlements (248 ) (5,806 ) (5,886 ) Foreign (1,702 ) (3,109 ) (1,654 ) Valuation allowance 1,262 1,805 3,888 Foreign Tax Credit (3,286 ) (1,296 ) 150 Other 260 1,440 1,608 Recorded income tax provision $ 35,121 $ 22,736 $ 38,252
Reconciliation of Beginning and Ending Amount of Unrecognized Tax Benefits	A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits is as follows: Year Ended September 30, 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) Gross unrecognized tax benefits at beginning of year $ 4,634 $ 4,554 $ 9,009 Gross increases for tax positions in prior years 1,004 1,725 2,468 Gross decreases for tax positions in prior years (117 ) (3 ) (967 ) Gross increases based on tax positions related to the current year 1,310 582 923 Decreases for settlements and payments (32 ) (2,224 ) (6,879 ) Gross unrecognized tax benefits at end of year $ 6,799 $ 4,634 $ 4,554

Stock-Based Employee Benefit 40

Stock-Based Employee Benefit Plans (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Assumptions Used to Estimate Fair Value of Stock Options	We used the following assumptions to estimate the fair value of our stock options during fiscal 2016, 2015 and 2014 : Year Ended September 30, 2016 2015 2014 Stock Options: Average expected term (years) 4.83 4.18 4.04 Expected volatility (range) 35.3 - 36.4 % 34.5 - 35.3 % 34.6 - 35.6 % Weighted average volatility 36.0 % 34.6 % 35.1 % Risk-free interest rate (range) 1.21 - 1.49 % 1.33 - 1.48 % 0.76 - 1.16 % Average expected dividend yield 0.09 % 0.14 % 0.16 % Expected dividend yield (range) 0.09 - 0.10 % 0.11 - 0.14 % 0.16 - 0.17 %
Summary of Option Activity	The following table summarizes option activity during fiscal 2016 : Shares Weighted- average Exercise Price Weighted- average Remaining Contractual Term Aggregate Intrinsic Value (In thousands) (In years) (In thousands) Outstanding at October 1, 2015 2,024 $ 46.94 Granted 36 94.84 Exercised (521 ) 34.25 Forfeited (18 ) 50.29 Outstanding at September 30, 2016 1,521 $ 52.37 3.79 $ 109,873 Exercisable at September 30, 2016 985 $ 44.92 3.24 $ 78,461 Vested and expected to vest at September 30, 2016 1,497 $ 52.04 3.77 $ 108,573
Summary of Restricted Stock Unit and Market Stock Unit Activity	The following table summarizes the RSUs activity during fiscal 2016 : Shares Weighted-average Grant-date Fair Value (In thousands) Outstanding at October 1, 2015 1,319 $ 58.51 Granted 575 94.77 Released (526 ) 52.47 Forfeited (157 ) 69.52 Outstanding at September 30, 2016 1,211 $ 76.93 The following table summarizes the MSUs activity during fiscal 2016 : Shares Weighted- average Grant-date Fair Value (In thousands) Outstanding at October 1, 2015 129 $ 88.65 Granted 114 100.63 Released (101 ) 85.65 Outstanding at September 30, 2016 142 $ 100.40
Summary of Performance Stock Unit Activity	The following table summarizes the PSUs activity during fiscal 2016 : Shares Weighted- average Grant-date Fair Value (In thousands) Outstanding at October 1, 2015 281 $ 53.70 Granted 105 91.74 Released (156 ) 49.36 Outstanding at September 30, 2016 230 $ 73.99
Assumptions Used to Estimate Fair Value of Market Stock Units	We used the following assumptions to estimate the fair value of our MSUs during fiscal 2016, 2015 and 2014 : Year Ended September 30, 2016 2015 2014 Expected volatility in FICO’s stock price 24.1 % 26.6 % 33.9 % Expected volatility in Russell 3000 Index 12.8 % 12.2 % 17.3 % Correlation between FICO and the Russell 3000 Index 60.2 % 55.9 % 68.0 % Risk-free interest rate 1.25 % 1.10 % 0.68 % Average expected dividend yield 0.09 % 0.14 % 0.16 %

Earnings per Share (Tables)

Earnings per Share (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Reconciliation of Numerators and Denominators of Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Share	The following table presents reconciliations for the numerators and denominators of basic and diluted earnings per share (“EPS”) during fiscal 2016, 2015 and 2014 : Year Ended September 30, 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands, except per share data) Numerator for basic and diluted earnings per share — net income $ 109,448 $ 86,502 $ 94,879 Denominator — share: Basic weighted-average shares 31,129 31,402 33,870 Effect of dilutive securities 1,179 1,207 994 Diluted weighted-average shares 32,308 32,609 34,864 Earnings per share: Basic $ 3.52 $ 2.75 $ 2.80 Diluted $ 3.39 $ 2.65 $ 2.72

Segment Information (Tables)

Segment Information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment	The following tables summarize segment information for fiscal 2016, 2015 and 2014 : Year Ended September 30, 2016 Applications Scores Decision Management Software Unallocated Corporate Expenses Total (In thousands) Segment revenues: Transactional and maintenance $ 328,472 $ 233,655 $ 43,792 $ — $ 605,919 Professional services 138,775 4,185 26,778 — 169,738 License 65,395 3,219 37,085 — 105,699 Total segment revenues 532,642 241,059 107,655 — 881,356 Segment operating expense (364,371 ) (55,975 ) (111,315 ) (110,612 ) (642,273 ) Segment operating income (loss) $ 168,271 $ 185,084 $ (3,660 ) $ (110,612 ) $ 239,083 Unallocated share-based compensation expense (55,509 ) Unallocated amortization expense (13,982 ) Operating income 169,592 Unallocated interest expense, net (26,633 ) Unallocated other income, net 1,610 Income before income taxes $ 144,569 Depreciation expense $ 11,852 $ 814 $ 3,657 $ 1,328 $ 17,651 Year Ended September 30, 2015 Applications Scores Decision Management Software Unallocated Corporate Expenses Total (In thousands) Segment revenues: Transactional and maintenance $ 320,596 $ 200,426 $ 43,210 $ — $ 564,232 Professional services 124,562 2,901 24,310 — 151,773 License 81,116 3,680 37,980 — 122,776 Total segment revenues 526,274 207,007 105,500 — 838,781 Segment operating expense (366,666 ) (55,793 ) (111,850 ) (89,744 ) (624,053 ) Segment operating income (loss) $ 159,608 $ 151,214 $ (6,350 ) $ (89,744 ) 214,728 Unallocated share-based compensation expense (45,308 ) Unallocated amortization expense (13,673 ) Unallocated restructuring and acquisition-related expenses (18,242 ) Operating income 137,505 Unallocated interest expense, net (29,150 ) Unallocated other income, net 883 Income before income taxes $ 109,238 Depreciation expense $ 13,861 $ 921 $ 3,087 $ 2,347 $ 20,216 Year Ended September 30, 2014 Applications Scores Decision Management Software Unallocated Corporate Expenses Total (In thousands) Segment revenues: Transactional and maintenance $ 313,316 $ 178,023 $ 36,224 $ — $ 527,563 Professional services 121,100 2,784 25,950 — 149,834 License 69,840 5,662 36,086 — 111,588 Total segment revenues 504,256 186,469 98,260 — 788,985 Segment operating expense (334,762 ) (44,187 ) (94,057 ) (101,551 ) (574,557 ) Segment operating income $ 169,494 $ 142,282 $ 4,203 $ (101,551 ) 214,428 Unallocated share-based compensation expense (36,362 ) Unallocated amortization expense (11,917 ) Unallocated restructuring and acquisition-related expenses (4,281 ) Operating income 161,868 Unallocated interest expense, net (28,550 ) Unallocated other expense, net (187 ) Income before income taxes $ 133,131 Depreciation expense $ 14,451 $ 851 $ 2,752 $ 2,661 $ 20,715
Revenues and Percentage of Revenues by Reportable Market Segments	Our revenues and percentage of revenues by reportable market segments were as follows for fiscal 2016, 2015 and 2014 , the majority of which were derived from the sale of products and services within the banking (including consumer credit) industry: Year Ended September 30, 2016 2015 2014 (Dollars in thousands) Applications $ 532,642 61 % $ 526,274 63 % $ 504,256 64 % Scores 241,059 27 % 207,007 25 % 186,469 24 % Decision Management Software 107,655 12 % 105,500 12 % 98,260 12 % Total $ 881,356 100 % $ 838,781 100 % $ 788,985 100 %
Revenues and Percentage of Revenues on Geographical Basis	Our revenues and percentage of revenues on a geographical basis are summarized below for fiscal 2016, 2015 and 2014 : Year Ended September 30, 2016 2015 2014 (Dollars in thousands) United States $ 567,443 64 % $ 505,109 60 % $ 457,270 58 % United Kingdom 86,485 10 % 93,855 11 % 98,784 12 % Other countries 227,428 26 % 239,817 29 % 232,931 30 % Total $ 881,356 100 % $ 838,781 100 % $ 788,985 100 %
Property and Equipment Net on Geographical Basis	Our property and equipment, net, on a geographical basis are summarized below at September 30, 2016 and 2015 . At September 30, 2016 and 2015 , no individual country outside the U.S. accounted for 10% or more of total consolidated net property and equipment. September 30, 2016 2015 (Dollars in thousands) United States $ 36,083 80 % $ 29,949 78 % International 9,039 20 % 8,259 22 % Total $ 45,122 100 % $ 38,208 100 %

Commitments (Tables)

Commitments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Minimum Future Commitments Under Non-Cancelable Operating Leases and Other Obligations	Minimum future commitments under non-cancelable operating leases and other obligations were as follows at September 30, 2016 : Year Ended September 30, Future Minimum Lease Commitments (In thousands) 2017 $ 22,069 2018 20,890 2019 17,806 2020 9,541 2021 6,004 Thereafter 13,966 Total $ 90,276

Supplementary Financial Data 44

Supplementary Financial Data (Unaudited) (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Selected Unaudited Consolidated Financial Results	The following table presents selected unaudited consolidated financial results for each of the eight quarters in the two-year period ended September 30, 2016 . In the opinion of management, this unaudited information has been prepared on the same basis as the audited information and includes all adjustments (consisting of only normal recurring adjustments, except as noted below) necessary for a fair statement of the consolidated financial information for the period presented. Quarter Ended September 30, June 30, March 31, December 31, (In thousands, except per share data) Revenues $ 235,824 $ 238,778 $ 206,678 $ 200,076 Cost of revenues (1) 74,298 66,384 62,298 62,193 Gross profit 161,526 172,394 144,380 137,883 Net income $ 32,104 $ 34,987 $ 23,116 $ 19,241 Earnings per share (2): Basic $ 1.04 $ 1.12 $ 0.74 $ 0.62 Diluted $ 1.00 $ 1.08 $ 0.72 $ 0.59 Shares used in computing earnings per share: Basic 30,916 31,149 31,268 31,185 Diluted 32,221 32,313 32,262 32,436 Quarter Ended September 30, June 30, March 31, December 31, (In thousands, except per share data) Revenues $ 232,756 $ 209,366 $ 207,109 $ 189,550 Cost of revenues (1) 67,042 66,202 70,991 66,300 Gross profit 165,714 143,164 136,118 123,250 Net income $ 33,319 $ 19,906 $ 18,870 $ 14,407 Earnings per share (2): Basic $ 1.07 $ 0.64 $ 0.60 $ 0.45 Diluted $ 1.03 $ 0.62 $ 0.58 $ 0.43 Shares used in computing earnings per share: Basic 31,214 31,118 31,335 31,936 Diluted 32,494 32,363 32,448 33,128 (1) Cost of revenues excludes amortization expense of $1.7 million , $1.9 million , $1.9 million , $1.9 million , $1.8 million , $1.9 million , $1.9 million and $1.8 million for the quarters ended September 30, 2016 , June 30, 2016 , March 31, 2016 , December 31, 2015 , September 30, 2015 , June 30, 2015 , March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014 , respectively. (2) Earnings per share is computed independently for each of the quarters presented. Therefore, the sum of the quarterly per share amounts may not equal the totals for the respective years.

Nature of Business and Summar45

Nature of Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Estimated Useful Life of Property and Equipment (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Data processing equipment and software
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, estimated useful life	3 years
Office furniture and equipment | Minimum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, estimated useful life	3 years
Office furniture and equipment | Maximum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, estimated useful life	7 years
Leasehold improvements
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, estimated useful life	Shorter of estimated useful life or lease term

Nature of Business and Summar46

Nature of Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Depreciation and amortization, property and equipment	$ 17.7	$ 20.2	$ 20.7
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Foreign Currency Transaction Gain (Loss), before Tax	0.2	0	(1)
Advertising and promotion costs	$ 3.6	$ 3.7	$ 3.8
Minimum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Stock option awards vesting period	3 years
Maximum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Stock option awards vesting period	4 years
Internal-use Software | Minimum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, estimated useful life	2 years
Internal-use Software | Maximum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, estimated useful life	3 years

Nature of Business and Summar47

Nature of Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Estimated Useful Life of Definite-Lived Intangible Assets (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Estimated useful life	8 years	8 years
Completed technology
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Estimated useful life	5 years	5 years
Completed technology | Minimum
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Estimated useful life	4 years
Completed technology | Maximum
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Estimated useful life	10 years
Customer contracts and relationships
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Estimated useful life	12 years	12 years
Customer contracts and relationships | Minimum
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Estimated useful life	5 years
Customer contracts and relationships | Maximum
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Estimated useful life	15 years
Trade names
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Estimated useful life	3 years	3 years
Trade names | Minimum
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Estimated useful life	1 year
Trade names | Maximum
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Estimated useful life	3 years

Business Combinations - Additio

Business Combinations - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	May 19, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2016
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Goodwill		$ 814,750	$ 779,928	$ 798,415
QuadMetrics
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Common stock acquired	100.00%
Cash consideration	$ 5,700
TONBELLER
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Common stock acquired		100.00%
Weighted average useful life		4 years 11 months
Goodwill		$ 46,100
Cash consideration		59,600
Intangible assets acquired		$ 14,900
InfoCentricity
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Common stock acquired			100.00%
Cash consideration			$ 8,200

Cash, Cash Equivalents and Ma49

Cash, Cash Equivalents and Marketable Securities Available for Sale - Summary of Cash, Cash Equivalents and Marketable Securities Available for Sale (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	$ 75,926	$ 86,120
Gross Unrealized Gains	0	0
Fair Value	75,926	86,120
Cash and Cash Equivalents | Cash
Cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	75,486	85,681
Gross Unrealized Gains	0	0
Fair Value	75,486	85,681
Cash and Cash Equivalents | Money market funds
Cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	440	439
Gross Unrealized Gains	0	0
Fair Value	440	439
Long-term Marketable Securities | Marketable equity securities
Cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	9,598	8,691
Gross Unrealized Gains	1,418	876
Fair Value	$ 11,016	$ 9,567

Fair Value Measurements - Finan

Fair Value Measurements - Financial Assets Measured at Fair Value on Recurring Basis (Detail) - Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring - USD ($) $ in Thousands		Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015
Assets:
Total		$ 11,456	$ 10,006
Cash
Assets:
Cash equivalents	[1]	440	439
Marketable securities
Assets:
Marketable securities	[2]	11,016	9,567
Active Markets for Identical Instruments (Level 1)
Assets:
Total		11,456	10,006
Active Markets for Identical Instruments (Level 1) | Cash
Assets:
Cash equivalents	[1]	440	439
Active Markets for Identical Instruments (Level 1) | Marketable securities
Assets:
Marketable securities	[2]	$ 11,016	$ 9,567
[1]	Included in cash and cash equivalents on our balance sheet at September 30, 2016 and 2015. Not included in this table are cash deposits of $75.5 million and $85.7 million at September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively.
[2]	Represents securities held under a supplemental retirement and savings plan for certain officers and senior management employees, which are distributed upon termination or retirement of the employees. Included in long-term marketable securities on our balance sheet at September 30, 2016 and 2015.

Fair Value Measurements - Fin51

Fair Value Measurements - Financial Assets Measured at Fair Value on Recurring Basis - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015
Cash
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Cash deposits	$ 75.5	$ 85.7

Derivative Financial Instrume52

Derivative Financial Instruments - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015
Derivative [Line Items]
Short-term forward contracts, average maturities at inception	3 months
Foreign Currency Forward Contracts
Derivative [Line Items]
Forward foreign currency contracts fair value	$ 0	$ 0

Derivative Financial Instrume53

Derivative Financial Instruments - Summary of Outstanding Forward Foreign Currency Contracts by Currency (Detail) - Foreign Currency Forward Contracts - Not Designated as Hedging Instrument € in Thousands, £ in Thousands, CAD in Thousands, $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2016GBP (£)	Sep. 30, 2016EUR (€)	Sep. 30, 2016USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2015CAD	Sep. 30, 2015GBP (£)	Sep. 30, 2015EUR (€)	Sep. 30, 2015USD ($)
Foreign Exchange Contracts To Sell Canadian Dollar For US Dollar | Short
Derivative [Line Items]
Contract amount of forward foreign currency contracts				CAD 2,750			$ 2,045
Fair value of forward foreign currency contracts to sell and buy foreign currency							0
Foreign Exchange Contracts To Sell European Euro for US Dollar | Short
Derivative [Line Items]
Contract amount of forward foreign currency contracts		€ 7,850	$ 8,743			€ 5,600	6,296
Fair value of forward foreign currency contracts to sell and buy foreign currency			0				0
Foreign Exchange Contracts To Purchase British Pounds With US Dollars | Long
Derivative [Line Items]
Contract amount of forward foreign currency contracts	£ 7,721		10,000		£ 6,943		10,550
Fair value of forward foreign currency contracts to sell and buy foreign currency			$ 0				$ 0

Derivative Financial Instrume54

Derivative Financial Instruments - Gains Losses on Derivative Financial Instruments Recorded in Consolidated Statements of Income (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014
Foreign Currency Forward Contracts
Derivative [Line Items]
Gain (loss) on foreign currency forward contracts	$ (2,911)	$ (62)	$ 256

Receivables - Summary of Recei

Receivables - Summary of Receivables (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014
Receivables [Abstract]
Billed		$ 124,731	$ 114,464
Unbilled	[1]	45,247	46,435
Receivables, Gross, Current, Total		169,978	160,899
Less: allowance for doubtful accounts		(2,192)	(2,126)	$ (2,927)
Receivables, net		$ 167,786	$ 158,773
[1]	Represents revenue recorded in excess of amounts billable pursuant to contract provisions and generally become billable at contractually specified dates or upon the attainment of milestones. Unbilled amounts are expected to be realized within one year.

Receivables - Activity of Allow

Receivables - Activity of Allowance for Doubtful Accounts (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable [Roll Forward]
Balance, beginning of year	$ 2,126	$ 2,927
Add: expense	2,011	0	$ 1,485
Less: write-offs (net of recoveries)	(1,945)	(801)
Balance, end of year	$ 2,192	$ 2,126	$ 2,927

Goodwill and Intangible Asset57

Goodwill and Intangible Assets - Intangible Assets Subject to Amortization (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross Carrying Amount	$ 149,351	$ 154,158
Accumulated Amortization	(115,732)	(106,837)
Total	$ 33,619	$ 47,321
Average Life	8 years	8 years
Completed technology
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross Carrying Amount	$ 84,184	$ 87,820
Accumulated Amortization	(70,368)	(67,769)
Total	$ 13,816	$ 20,051
Average Life	5 years	5 years
Customer contracts and relationships
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross Carrying Amount	$ 64,592	$ 65,762
Accumulated Amortization	(45,034)	(38,930)
Total	$ 19,558	$ 26,832
Average Life	12 years	12 years
Trade names
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross Carrying Amount	$ 575	$ 576
Accumulated Amortization	(330)	(138)
Total	$ 245	$ 438
Average Life	3 years	3 years

Goodwill and Intangible Asset58

Goodwill and Intangible Assets - Amortization Expense Associated with Intangible Assets (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2016

Jun. 30, 2016

Mar. 31, 2016

Dec. 31, 2015

Sep. 30, 2015

Jun. 30, 2015

Mar. 31, 2015

Dec. 31, 2014

Sep. 30, 2016

Sep. 30, 2015

Sep. 30, 2014

Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]

Amortization expense of intangible assets

$ 1,700

$ 1,900

$ 1,900

$ 1,900

$ 1,800

$ 1,900

$ 1,900

$ 1,800

$ 13,982

[1]

$ 13,673

[1]

$ 11,917

[1]

Cost of revenues

Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]

Amortization expense of intangible assets

7,300

7,594

7,371

Selling, general and administrative expenses

Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]

Amortization expense of intangible assets

$ 6,682

$ 6,079

$ 4,546

[1]

Cost of revenues and selling, general and administrative expenses exclude the amortization of intangible assets. See Note 7.

Goodwill and Intangible Asset59

Goodwill and Intangible Assets - Estimated Future Intangible Asset Amortization Expense (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015
Estimated future intangible asset amortization expense
2,017	$ 12,846
2,018	6,398
2,019	5,882
2,020	3,611
2,021	2,405
Thereafter	2,477
Total	$ 33,619	$ 47,321

Goodwill and Intangible Asset60

Goodwill and Intangible Assets - Summary of Changes to Goodwill (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	$ 814,750	$ 779,928
Addition from acquisitions	3,857	46,149
Adjustment related to prior acquisitions	283
Foreign currency translation adjustment	(20,475)	(11,327)
Ending Balance	798,415	814,750
Applications
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	596,765	560,295
Addition from acquisitions	3,857	46,149
Adjustment related to prior acquisitions	283
Foreign currency translation adjustment	(18,185)	(9,679)
Ending Balance	582,720	596,765
Scores
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	146,648	146,648
Addition from acquisitions	0	0
Adjustment related to prior acquisitions	0
Foreign currency translation adjustment	0	0
Ending Balance	146,648	146,648
Decision Management Software
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	71,337	72,985
Addition from acquisitions	0	0
Adjustment related to prior acquisitions	0
Foreign currency translation adjustment	(2,290)	(1,648)
Ending Balance	$ 69,047	$ 71,337

Composition of Certain Financ61

Composition of Certain Financial Statement Captions - Property and Equipment (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015
Property and equipment:
Data processing equipment and software	$ 84,761	$ 71,841
Office furniture and equipment	16,847	14,750
Leasehold improvements	25,152	23,269
Less: accumulated depreciation and amortization	(81,638)	(71,652)
Total	$ 45,122	$ 38,208

Revolving Line of Credit - Addi

Revolving Line of Credit - Additional Information (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016USD ($)	Nov. 30, 2014USD ($)
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Unsecured revolving line of credit	$ 400,000,000	$ 200,000,000
Revolving credit facility, expiration date	Dec. 30, 2019
Credit facility restrictive covenant, minimum fixed charge ratio	2.5
Credit facility restrictive covenant, maximum consolidated leverage ratio	3
Credit facility restrictive covenant, maximum consolidated leverage ratio step up	3.5
Borrowings outstanding	$ 255,000,000
Interest rate of borrowings outstanding	1.661%
Long-term debt
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Borrowings outstanding	$ 250,000,000
Federal Fund Rate
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Debt instrument basis spread on variable rate	0.50%
LIBOR
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Debt instrument basis spread on variable rate	1.00%
LIBOR | Minimum
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Debt instrument basis spread on variable rate	1.00%
LIBOR | Maximum
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Debt instrument basis spread on variable rate	1.875%
Base Rate | Minimum
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Debt instrument basis spread on variable rate	0.00%
Base Rate | Maximum
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Debt instrument basis spread on variable rate	0.875%

Senior Notes - Additional Infor

Senior Notes - Additional Information (Detail)	Sep. 30, 2016USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2015USD ($)	May 07, 2015USD ($)	Jul. 14, 2010USD ($)Contract	May 07, 2008USD ($)Contract
May 2008 Senior Notes
Debt Disclosure [Line Items]
Senior Notes issued in a private placement to a group of institutional investors	$ 131,000,000	$ 131,000,000			$ 275,000,000
Number of series of Senior Notes issued | Contract					4
Senior Notes issued in a private placement to a group of institutional investors, annual principal payment			$ 8,000,000
July 2010 Senior Notes
Debt Disclosure [Line Items]
Senior Notes issued in a private placement to a group of institutional investors	$ 185,000,000	$ 245,000,000		$ 245,000,000
Number of series of Senior Notes issued | Contract				4

Senior Notes - Summary of Senio

Senior Notes - Summary of Senior Notes (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Jul. 14, 2010	May 07, 2008
Series A
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Amount		$ 41
Interest rate		6.37%
Maturity date		May 7, 2013
Series B
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Amount		$ 40
Interest rate		6.37%
Maturity date		May 7, 2015
Series C
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Amount		$ 63
Interest rate		6.71%
Maturity date		May 7, 2015
Series D
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Amount		$ 131
Interest rate		7.18%
Maturity date		May 7, 2018
Series E
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Amount	$ 60
Interest rate	4.72%
Maturity date	Jul. 14, 2016
Series F
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Amount	$ 72
Interest rate	5.04%
Maturity date	Jul. 14, 2017
Series G
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Amount	$ 28
Interest rate	5.42%
Maturity date	Jul. 14, 2019
Series H
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Amount	$ 85
Interest rate	5.59%
Maturity date	Jul. 14, 2020

Senior Notes - Principal Amount

Senior Notes - Principal Amounts Carrying Amounts and Fair Values of Senior Notes (Detail) - USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015	Jul. 14, 2010	May 07, 2008
May 2008 Senior Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Principal	$ 131,000,000	$ 131,000,000		$ 275,000,000
Carrying amounts	131,000,000	131,000,000
Fair value	139,902,000	144,009,000
July 2010 Senior Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Principal	185,000,000	245,000,000	$ 245,000,000
Carrying amounts	185,000,000	245,000,000
Fair value	$ 195,715,000	$ 257,563,000

Senior Notes - Future Principal

Senior Notes - Future Principal Payments For Senior Notes (Detail) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2016USD ($)
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
2,017	$ 72,000
2,018	131,000
2,019	28,000
2,020	85,000
Total	$ 316,000

Employee Benefit Plans - Additi

Employee Benefit Plans - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Eligible employees contribution to 401(k) plan (up to 25%)	25.00%
Employer contributions into 401(k) plans	$ 7.3	$ 7.1	$ 6.3
Employee incentive plans expenses	$ 40	$ 20.3	$ 25

Restructuring Expenses - Additi

Restructuring Expenses - Additional Information (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2015USD ($)position	Sep. 30, 2014USD ($)position
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring charges	$ 0	$ 17,479,000	$ 4,100,000
Number of positions reduced | position		97	88
Facilities charges
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring charges	0	$ 13,571,000	$ 200,000
Employee separation
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring charges	$ 0	$ 3,908,000	$ 3,900,000

Restructuring Expenses - Summar

Restructuring Expenses - Summary of Restructuring Accruals and Certain Facility Closures (Detail) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	$ 15,400,000	$ 262,000
Expense additions	0	17,479,000	$ 4,100,000
Cash payments	(6,167,000)	(1,765,000)
Non-cash settlements	0	(576,000)
Ending balance	9,233,000	15,400,000	262,000
Less: current portion	(4,266,000)	(5,570,000)	(262,000)
Non-current	4,967,000	9,830,000	0
Facilities charges
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	12,995,000	92,000
Expense additions	0	13,571,000	200,000
Cash payments	(3,762,000)	(92,000)
Non-cash settlements	0	(576,000)
Ending balance	9,233,000	12,995,000	92,000
Employee separation
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	2,405,000	170,000
Expense additions	0	3,908,000	3,900,000
Cash payments	(2,405,000)	(1,673,000)
Non-cash settlements	0	0
Ending balance	$ 0	$ 2,405,000	$ 170,000

Income Taxes - Provision for In

Income Taxes - Provision for Income Taxes (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014
Current:
Federal	$ 50,631	$ 23,646	$ 42,570
State	2,900	(5,381)	4,221
Foreign	7,597	10,405	7,487
Current income tax	61,128	28,670	54,278
Deferred:
Federal	(23,592)	(5,004)	(15,401)
State	(225)	1,422	(1,093)
Foreign	(2,190)	(2,352)	468
Deferred income taxes	(26,007)	(5,934)	(16,026)
Total provision	$ 35,121	$ 22,736	$ 38,252

Income Taxes - Additional Infor

Income Taxes - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Foreign pretax earnings	$ 33,000	$ 45,200	$ 43,300
Current foreign tax expense related to foreign tax withholdings	6,500	5,300	$ 7,700
Foreign tax credit carryforward	$ 14,590	$ 0
Foreign tax credit carry forward year	10 years
U.S. federal statutory income tax rate	35.00%	35.00%	35.00%
Excess amount for financial reporting over tax basis of investments in foreign subsidiaries	$ 45,300
Unrecognized tax benefits	6,799	$ 4,634	$ 4,554	$ 9,009
Unrecognized tax benefits that would impact the effective tax rate if recognized	6,000
Unrecognized tax benefits, accrued interest	300
California Franchise Tax Board | Research Tax Credit Carryforward
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Excess state research credit	6,100
Valuation allowance	6,100
U.S. Federal
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Net operating loss carryforwards	$ 20,200
Net operating loss carryforwards expiration dates	2,020
State
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Net operating loss carryforwards	$ 300
Net operating loss carryforwards expiration dates	2,021
Foreign NOL carryforwards
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Net operating loss carryforwards	$ 34,700
Foreign NOL carryforwards | China
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Net operating loss carryforwards	$ 25,500

Income Taxes - Deferred Tax Ass

Income Taxes - Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015
Deferred tax assets:
Net operating loss carryforward	$ 16,122	$ 17,650
Foreign tax credit carryforward	14,590	0
Research credit carryforward	6,132	5,759
Accrued bonus	13,807	5,400
Investments	619	1,042
Accrued compensation	1,328	1,834
Share-based compensation	27,203	23,741
Deferred revenue	1,467	979
Accrued lease costs	3,406	5,009
Property and equipment	3,348	3,249
Other	7,728	5,613
Deferred tax assets, gross	95,750	70,276
Less valuation allowance	(15,145)	(13,882)
Total deferred tax assets	80,605	56,394
Deferred tax liabilities:
Intangible assets	(28,056)	(30,286)
Prepaid expense	(3,959)	(3,877)
Other	(992)	(993)
Total deferred tax liabilities	(33,007)	(35,156)
Deferred tax assets, net	$ 47,598	$ 21,238

Income Taxes - Reconciliation B

Income Taxes - Reconciliation Between Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate and Effective Tax Rate (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income tax provision at U.S. federal statutory rate	$ 50,599	$ 38,233	$ 46,595
State income taxes, net of U.S. federal benefit	2,244	1,719	2,832
Foreign tax rate differential	(4,661)	(5,279)	(4,592)
Intercompany interest	(1,223)	(1,260)	(1,246)
Research credits	(4,398)	(2,104)	(302)
Domestic production deduction	(3,726)	(1,607)	(3,141)
Federal and state audit settlements	(248)	(5,806)	(5,886)
Foreign	(1,702)	(3,109)	(1,654)
Valuation allowance	1,262	1,805	3,888
Foreign Tax Credit	(3,286)	(1,296)	150
Other	260	1,440	1,608
Total provision	$ 35,121	$ 22,736	$ 38,252

Income Taxes - Reconciliation o

Income Taxes - Reconciliation of Beginning and Ending Amount of Unrecognized Tax Benefits (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward]
Gross unrecognized tax benefits at beginning of year	$ 4,634	$ 4,554	$ 9,009
Gross increases for tax positions in prior years	1,004	1,725	2,468
Gross decreases for tax positions in prior years	(117)	(3)	(967)
Gross increases based on tax positions related to the current year	1,310	582	923
Decreases for settlements and payments	(32)	(2,224)	(6,879)
Gross unrecognized tax benefits at end of year	$ 6,799	$ 4,634	$ 4,554

Stock-Based Employee Benefit 75

Stock-Based Employee Benefit Plans - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense	$ 55.5	$ 45.3	$ 36.4
Tax benefit related to share-based compensation expense	18.7	$ 16.1	$ 13
Unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested share-based compensation arrangements	$ 80.3
Unrecognized compensation cost, weighted average recognition period	2 years 5 months 10 days
Cash received from stock option exercises	$ 17.8
Tax benefit realized from the stock option exercises	$ 15.3
Weighted average fair value of options granted (in dollars per share)	$ 31.06	$ 21.66	$ 15.50
Number of options that had exercise prices lower than the market price of common stock (in shares)	1,500,000
Market price of common stock (in dollars per share)	$ 124.59
Total intrinsic value of options exercised	$ 41.3	$ 24.3	$ 13.8
Restricted stock units and non-vested shares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Weighted average fair value of restricted stock units, performance stock units, and market stock units	$ 94.77	$ 73.93	$ 56.23
Total intrinsic value of restricted stock units, performance stock units, and market stock units	$ 49.8	$ 38.5	$ 27.6
Awards granted in period (in shares)	575,000
Restricted stock units subject to market conditions
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock option awards vesting period	3 years
Performance stock units (PSUs)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Weighted average fair value of restricted stock units, performance stock units, and market stock units	$ 91.74	$ 71.86	$ 56.63
Total intrinsic value of restricted stock units, performance stock units, and market stock units	$ 14	$ 9.7	$ 4.9
Performance condition payout (percent)	166.77%
Awards granted in period (in shares)	105,000
Market stock units (MSUs)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Weighted average fair value of restricted stock units, performance stock units, and market stock units	$ 100.63	$ 101.85	$ 68.47
Total intrinsic value of restricted stock units, performance stock units, and market stock units	$ 9.2	$ 1.7
Awards granted in period (in shares)	114,000
Market stock units (MSUs) | Performance period year one
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Performance period	1 year
Market stock units (MSUs) | Performance period year two
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Performance period	2 years
Market stock units (MSUs) | Performance period year three
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Performance period	3 years
Maximum
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock option awards vesting period	4 years
Maximum | Stock Options
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock option awards term	7 years
Stock option awards vesting period	4 years
Maximum | Restricted stock units not subject to market conditions
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock option awards vesting period	4 years
Maximum | Performance stock units (PSUs)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Performance condition payout (percent)	200.00%
Minimum
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock option awards vesting period	3 years
Minimum | Stock Options
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock option awards vesting period	3 years
Minimum | Restricted stock units not subject to market conditions
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock option awards vesting period	3 years
Minimum | Performance stock units (PSUs)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Performance condition payout (percent)	0.00%
2012 Long-Term Incentive Plan
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Shares available for grants under stock plan (in shares)	3,438,986
Employee Stock Purchase Plan
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Shares available for grants under stock plan (in shares)	2,707,966
Authorized shares of common stock for grant under stock plan (in shares)	5,062,500
Employee stock purchase plans, percentage of salary withheld through payroll deductions to purchase FICO common stock (up to 10%)	10.00%
Employee stock purchase plans, purchase price of the stock as a percentage of fair market value on the exercise date	85.00%
Employee stock purchase plans, offering period (in months)	6 months

Stock-Based Employee Benefit 76

Stock-Based Employee Benefit Plans - Assumptions Used to Estimate Fair Value of Stock Options (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Average expected term (years)	4 years 10 months	4 years 2 months 4 days	4 years 13 days
Expected volatility (range), minimum	35.30%	34.50%	34.60%
Expected volatility (range), maximum	36.40%	35.30%	35.60%
Weighted average volatility	36.00%	34.60%	35.10%
Risk free interest rate, minimum	1.21%	1.33%	0.76%
Risk free interest rate, maximum	1.49%	1.48%	1.16%
Average expected dividend yield	0.09%	0.14%	0.16%
Expected dividend yield (range), minimum	0.09%	0.11%	0.16%
Expected dividend yield (range), maximum	0.10%	0.14%	0.17%

Stock-Based Employee Benefit 77

Stock-Based Employee Benefit Plans - Summary of Option Activity (Detail) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016USD ($)$ / sharesshares
Shares
Outstanding at October 1, 2015 (in shares) | shares	2,024
Granted (in shares) | shares	36
Exercised (in shares) | shares	(521)
Forfeited (in shares) | shares	(18)
Outstanding at September 30, 2016 (in shares) | shares	1,521
Options exercisable at September 30, 2016 (in shares) | shares	985
Vested and expected to vest at September 30, 2016 (in shares) | shares	1,497
Weighted- average Exercise Price
Outstanding at October 1, 2014 (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	$ 46.94
Granted (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	94.84
Exercised (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	34.25
Forfeited (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	50.29
Outstanding at September 30, 2015 (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	52.37
Options exercisable at September 30, 2015 (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	44.92
Vested and expected to vest at September 30, 2015 (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	$ 52.04
Weighted- average Remaining Contractual Term
Outstanding at September 30, 2016	3 years 9 months 14 days
Exercisable at September 30, 2016	3 years 2 months 25 days
Vested and expected to vest at September 30, 2016	3 years 9 months 8 days
Aggregate Intrinsic Value
Outstanding at September 30, 2016 | $	$ 109,873
Exercisable at September 30, 2016 | $	78,461
Vested and expected to vest at September 30, 2016 | $	$ 108,573

Stock-Based Employee Benefit 78

Stock-Based Employee Benefit Plans - Summary of Restricted Stock Unit and Performance Stock Unit Activity (Detail) - $ / shares shares in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014
Restricted stock units (RSUs)
Shares
Outstanding at October 1, 2015 (in shares)	1,319
Granted (in shares)	575
Released (in shares)	(526)
Forfeited (in shares)	(157)
Outstanding at September 30, 2016 (in shares)	1,211	1,319
Weighted-average Grant-date Fair Value
Outstanding at October 1, 2015 (in dollars per share)	$ 58.51
Granted (in dollars per share)	94.77	$ 73.93	$ 56.23
Released (in dollars per share)	52.47
Forfeited (in dollars per share)	69.52
Outstanding at September 30, 2016 (in dollars per share)	$ 76.93	$ 58.51
Performance stock units (PSUs)
Shares
Outstanding at October 1, 2015 (in shares)	281
Granted (in shares)	105
Released (in shares)	(156)
Outstanding at September 30, 2016 (in shares)	230	281
Weighted-average Grant-date Fair Value
Outstanding at October 1, 2015 (in dollars per share)	$ 53.70
Granted (in dollars per share)	91.74	$ 71.86	56.63
Released (in dollars per share)	49.36
Outstanding at September 30, 2016 (in dollars per share)	$ 73.99	$ 53.70
Market stock units (MSUs)
Shares
Outstanding at October 1, 2015 (in shares)	129
Granted (in shares)	114
Released (in shares)	(101)
Outstanding at September 30, 2016 (in shares)	142	129
Weighted-average Grant-date Fair Value
Outstanding at October 1, 2015 (in dollars per share)	$ 88.65
Granted (in dollars per share)	100.63	$ 101.85	$ 68.47
Released (in dollars per share)	85.65
Outstanding at September 30, 2016 (in dollars per share)	$ 100.40	$ 88.65

Stock-Based Employee Benefit 79

Stock-Based Employee Benefit Plans - Assumptions Used to Estimate Fair Value of Market Stock Units (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Average expected dividend yield	0.09%	0.14%	0.16%
Market stock units (MSUs)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Expected volatility in FICO’s stock price	24.10%	26.60%	33.90%
Expected volatility in Russell 3000 Index	12.80%	12.20%	17.30%
Correlation between FICO and the Russell 3000 Index	60.20%	55.90%	68.00%
Risk-free interest rate	1.25%	1.10%	0.68%
Average expected dividend yield	0.09%	0.14%	0.16%

Earnings per Share - Reconcilia

Earnings per Share - Reconciliation of Numerators and Denominators of Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Share (Detail) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended																12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016		Jun. 30, 2016		Mar. 31, 2016		Dec. 31, 2015		Sep. 30, 2015		Jun. 30, 2015		Mar. 31, 2015		Dec. 31, 2014		Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014
Numerator for basic and diluted earnings per share
Net income	$ 32,104		$ 34,987		$ 23,116		$ 19,241		$ 33,319		$ 19,906		$ 18,870		$ 14,407		$ 109,448	$ 86,502	$ 94,879
Denominator — share:
Basic weighted-average shares (in shares)	30,916		31,149		31,268		31,185		31,214		31,118		31,335		31,936		31,129	31,402	33,870
Effect of dilutive securities (in shares)																	1,179	1,207	994
Diluted weighted-average shares (in shares)	32,221		32,313		32,262		32,436		32,494		32,363		32,448		33,128		32,308	32,609	34,864
Earnings per share:
Basic (in dollars per share)	$ 1.04	[1]	$ 1.12	[1]	$ 0.74	[1]	$ 0.62	[1]	$ 1.07	[1]	$ 0.64	[1]	$ 0.60	[1]	$ 0.45	[1]	$ 3.52	$ 2.75	$ 2.80
Diluted (in dollars per share)	$ 1	[1]	$ 1.08	[1]	$ 0.72	[1]	$ 0.59	[1]	$ 1.03	[1]	$ 0.62	[1]	$ 0.58	[1]	$ 0.43	[1]	$ 3.39	$ 2.65	$ 2.72
[1]	Earnings per share is computed independently for each of the quarters presented. Therefore, the sum of the quarterly per share amounts may not equal the totals for the respective years.

Earnings per Share - Additional

Earnings per Share - Additional Information (Detail) - shares shares in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Options to purchase shares of common stock excluded in the computation of diluted earnings per share because their inclusion would be antidilutive (in shares)	9	138	11

Related Party Transactions - Ad

Related Party Transactions - Additional Information (Detail)	Sep. 30, 2016USD ($)
Related Party Transactions [Abstract]
Investment in convertible preferred stock in a private company	$ 10,000,000

Segment Information - Summary o

Segment Information - Summary of Segment Information (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2016		Sep. 30, 2015		Sep. 30, 2014
Segment revenues:
Transactional and maintenance									$ 605,919		$ 564,232		$ 527,563
Professional services									169,738		151,773		149,834
License									105,699		122,776		111,588
Total revenues	$ 235,824	$ 238,778	$ 206,678	$ 200,076	$ 232,756	$ 209,366	$ 207,109	$ 189,550	881,356		838,781		788,985
Segment operating expense									(711,764)		(701,276)		(627,117)
Operating income									169,592		137,505		161,868
Unallocated share-based compensation expense									(55,509)		(45,308)		(36,362)
Unallocated amortization expense	$ (1,700)	$ (1,900)	$ (1,900)	$ (1,900)	$ (1,800)	$ (1,900)	$ (1,900)	$ (1,800)	(13,982)	[1]	(13,673)	[1]	(11,917)	[1]
Unallocated restructuring and acquisition-related expenses									0		(18,242)		(4,281)
Unallocated interest expense, net									(26,633)		(29,150)		(28,550)
Unallocated other income (expense), net									1,610		883		(187)
Income before income taxes									144,569		109,238		133,131
Depreciation expense									17,651		20,216		20,715
Applications
Segment revenues:
Total revenues									532,642		526,274		504,256
Scores
Segment revenues:
Total revenues									241,059		207,007		186,469
Decision Management Software
Segment revenues:
Total revenues									107,655		105,500		98,260
Operating Segments
Segment revenues:
Segment operating expense									(642,273)		(624,053)		(574,557)
Operating income									239,083		214,728		214,428
Operating Segments | Applications
Segment revenues:
Transactional and maintenance									328,472		320,596		313,316
Professional services									138,775		124,562		121,100
License									65,395		81,116		69,840
Total revenues									532,642				504,256
Segment operating expense									(364,371)		(366,666)		(334,762)
Operating income									168,271		159,608		169,494
Depreciation expense									11,852		13,861		14,451
Operating Segments | Scores
Segment revenues:
Transactional and maintenance									233,655		200,426		178,023
Professional services									4,185		2,901		2,784
License									3,219		3,680		5,662
Total revenues									241,059				186,469
Segment operating expense									(55,975)		(55,793)		(44,187)
Operating income									185,084		151,214		142,282
Depreciation expense									814		921		851
Operating Segments | Decision Management Software
Segment revenues:
Transactional and maintenance									43,792		43,210		36,224
Professional services									26,778		24,310		25,950
License									37,085		37,980		36,086
Total revenues									107,655				98,260
Segment operating expense									(111,315)		(111,850)		(94,057)
Operating income									(3,660)		(6,350)		4,203
Depreciation expense									3,657		3,087		2,752
Unallocated Corporate Expenses
Segment revenues:
Segment operating expense									(110,612)		(89,744)		(101,551)
Operating income									(110,612)		(89,744)		(101,551)
Depreciation expense									$ 1,328		$ 2,347		$ 2,661
[1]	Cost of revenues and selling, general and administrative expenses exclude the amortization of intangible assets. See Note 7.

Segment Information - Revenues

Segment Information - Revenues And Percentage Of Revenues By Reportable Market Segments (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues	$ 235,824	$ 238,778	$ 206,678	$ 200,076	$ 232,756	$ 209,366	$ 207,109	$ 189,550	$ 881,356	$ 838,781	$ 788,985
Product Concentration Risk | Sales Revenue
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Concentration of risk, percentage									100.00%	100.00%	100.00%
Applications
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues									$ 532,642	$ 526,274	$ 504,256
Applications | Product Concentration Risk | Sales Revenue
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Concentration of risk, percentage									61.00%	63.00%	64.00%
Scores
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues									$ 241,059	$ 207,007	$ 186,469
Scores | Product Concentration Risk | Sales Revenue
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Concentration of risk, percentage									27.00%	25.00%	24.00%
Decision Management Software
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues									$ 107,655	$ 105,500	$ 98,260
Decision Management Software | Product Concentration Risk | Sales Revenue
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Concentration of risk, percentage									12.00%	12.00%	12.00%

Segment Information - Additiona

Segment Information - Additional Information (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016Segmentcountrycustomeragency	Sep. 30, 2015countrycustomer	Sep. 30, 2014customer
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Number of reportable segments | Segment	3
Geographic Concentration Risk
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Concentration of risk, percentage	100.00%	100.00%	100.00%
Sales Revenue | Product Concentration Risk
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Concentration of risk, percentage	100.00%	100.00%	100.00%
Sales Revenue | Product Concentration Risk | Applications
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Concentration of risk, percentage	61.00%	63.00%	64.00%
Sales Revenue | Product Concentration Risk | Applications | Fraud Solutions
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Concentration of risk, percentage	20.00%	23.00%	23.00%
Sales Revenue | Product Concentration Risk | Applications | Customer Management Solutions
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Concentration of risk, percentage	9.00%	9.00%	10.00%
Sales Revenue | Customer Concentration Risk
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Concentration of risk, percentage	19.00%	16.00%	15.00%
Concentration risk, number of customers	0	0	0
Number of credit reporting agencies substantial revenues derived from | agency	3
Accounts Receivable | Customer Concentration Risk
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Concentration risk, number of customers	0	0
Property Plant and Equipment | Geographic Concentration Risk
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Concentration risk, number of countries | country	0	0

Segment Information - Revenue86

Segment Information - Revenues and Percentage of Revenues on Geographical Basis (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues	$ 235,824	$ 238,778	$ 206,678	$ 200,076	$ 232,756	$ 209,366	$ 207,109	$ 189,550	$ 881,356	$ 838,781	$ 788,985
United States
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues									567,443	505,109	457,270
United Kingdom
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues									86,485	93,855	98,784
Other countries
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues									$ 227,428	$ 239,817	$ 232,931
Geographic Concentration Risk
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Concentration of risk, percentage									100.00%	100.00%	100.00%
Geographic Concentration Risk | United States | Sales Revenue
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Concentration of risk, percentage									64.00%	60.00%	58.00%
Geographic Concentration Risk | United Kingdom | Sales Revenue
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Concentration of risk, percentage									10.00%	11.00%	12.00%
Geographic Concentration Risk | Other countries | Sales Revenue
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Concentration of risk, percentage									26.00%	29.00%	30.00%

Segment Information - Property

Segment Information - Property and Equipment Net on Geographical Basis (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Property and equipment, net	$ 45,122	$ 38,208
United States
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Property and equipment, net	36,083	29,949
International
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Property and equipment, net	$ 9,039	$ 8,259
Product Concentration Risk | Sales Revenue
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Concentration of risk, percentage	100.00%	100.00%	100.00%
Geographic Concentration Risk
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Concentration of risk, percentage	100.00%	100.00%	100.00%
Geographic Concentration Risk | United States | Sales Revenue
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Concentration of risk, percentage	64.00%	60.00%	58.00%
Geographic Concentration Risk | United States | Property Plant and Equipment
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Concentration of risk, percentage	80.00%	78.00%
Geographic Concentration Risk | International | Property Plant and Equipment
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Concentration of risk, percentage	20.00%	22.00%
Applications | Product Concentration Risk | Sales Revenue
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Concentration of risk, percentage	61.00%	63.00%	64.00%

Commitments - Minimum Future Co

Commitments - Minimum Future Commitments Under Non Cancelable Operating Leases and Other Obligations (Detail) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2016USD ($)
Future Minimum Lease Commitments
2,017	$ 22,069
2,018	20,890
2,019	17,806
2,020	9,541
2,021	6,004
Thereafter	13,966
Total	$ 90,276

Commitments - Additional Inform

Commitments - Additional Information (Detail) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016USD ($)executive	Sep. 30, 2015USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2014USD ($)
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Future Minimum Sublease Rentals	$ 0.6
Rent expense under operating leases	$ 17.6	$ 20.7	$ 19.4
Number of executives in a management agreement providing for certain payments and other benefits in the event of a qualified change | executive	23

Guarantees - Additional Informa

Guarantees - Additional Information (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Maximum
Product Warranty [Line Items]
Duration of product warranties	90 days

Supplementary Financial Data 91

Supplementary Financial Data (Unaudited) - Selected Unaudited Consolidated Financial Results (Detail) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended																12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016		Jun. 30, 2016		Mar. 31, 2016		Dec. 31, 2015		Sep. 30, 2015		Jun. 30, 2015		Mar. 31, 2015		Dec. 31, 2014		Sep. 30, 2016		Sep. 30, 2015		Sep. 30, 2014
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Revenues	$ 235,824		$ 238,778		$ 206,678		$ 200,076		$ 232,756		$ 209,366		$ 207,109		$ 189,550		$ 881,356		$ 838,781		$ 788,985
Cost of revenues	74,298	[1]	66,384	[1]	62,298	[1]	62,193	[1]	67,042	[1]	66,202	[1]	70,991	[1]	66,300	[1]	265,173	[2]	270,535	[2]	249,281	[2]
Gross profit	161,526		172,394		144,380		137,883		165,714		143,164		136,118		123,250
Net income	$ 32,104		$ 34,987		$ 23,116		$ 19,241		$ 33,319		$ 19,906		$ 18,870		$ 14,407		$ 109,448		$ 86,502		$ 94,879
Earnings per share:
Basic (in dollars per share)	$ 1.04	[3]	$ 1.12	[3]	$ 0.74	[3]	$ 0.62	[3]	$ 1.07	[3]	$ 0.64	[3]	$ 0.60	[3]	$ 0.45	[3]	$ 3.52		$ 2.75		$ 2.80
Diluted (in dollars per share)	$ 1	[3]	$ 1.08	[3]	$ 0.72	[3]	$ 0.59	[3]	$ 1.03	[3]	$ 0.62	[3]	$ 0.58	[3]	$ 0.43	[3]	$ 3.39		$ 2.65		$ 2.72
Shares used in computing earnings per share:
Basic weighted-average shares (in shares)	30,916		31,149		31,268		31,185		31,214		31,118		31,335		31,936		31,129		31,402		33,870
Diluted (in shares)	32,221		32,313		32,262		32,436		32,494		32,363		32,448		33,128		32,308		32,609		34,864
[1]	Cost of revenues excludes amortization expense of $1.7 million, $1.9 million, $1.9 million, $1.9 million, $1.8 million, $1.9 million, $1.9 million and $1.8 million for the quarters ended September 30, 2016, June 30, 2016, March 31, 2016, December 31, 2015, September 30, 2015, June 30, 2015, March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, respectively.
[2]	Cost of revenues and selling, general and administrative expenses exclude the amortization of intangible assets. See Note 7.
[3]	Earnings per share is computed independently for each of the quarters presented. Therefore, the sum of the quarterly per share amounts may not equal the totals for the respective years.

Supplementary Financial Data 92

Supplementary Financial Data (Unaudited) - Selected Unaudited Consolidated Financial Results - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2016

Jun. 30, 2016

Mar. 31, 2016

Dec. 31, 2015

Sep. 30, 2015

Jun. 30, 2015

Mar. 31, 2015

Dec. 31, 2014

Sep. 30, 2016

Sep. 30, 2015

Sep. 30, 2014

Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]

Amortization expense

$ 1,700

$ 1,900

$ 1,900

$ 1,900

$ 1,800

$ 1,900

$ 1,900

$ 1,800

$ 13,982

[1]

$ 13,673

[1]

$ 11,917

[1]

[1]

Cost of revenues and selling, general and administrative expenses exclude the amortization of intangible assets. See Note 7.