What it is
Fixed fees and write-downs hide which work pays. Comparing standard value with billings, collections and the firm’s own cost of time shows which engagements and which types earn their place.
Each engagement gets realization, collection rate, effective rate per hour and contribution margin using the cost per hour you enter. Flags mark negative margins and realization below your target, and a roll-up by engagement type shows where pricing needs attention.
When to use it
- After busy season to review the year’s work.
- Before fee increases or fixed-fee pricing decisions.
- In partner reviews of client portfolios.
What’s inside
- 40 engagements with hours, standard value, billings, write-offs, direct costs and cash
- Realization, collection, effective rate, margin and margin percent
- Flags for negative margin and realization below target
- Roll-up by type with tie-out
Standard cited
This template follows Firm practice. It is written in our own words, except for phrases the standard requires the document to contain, with [bracketed placeholders] for client details, amounts in USD and dates as MM/DD/YYYY. Check it against the current standard and your firm’s methodology before use.
Questions
How is the cost per hour set?
You enter it. Use the firm’s own loaded cost of staff time from its financial records.
What is the contribution margin here?
Cash collected less hours times cost per hour less direct costs. It excludes overhead.
Why track write-offs?
They explain the gap between standard value and billings, and show where scope control is weak.
Related templates
- WIP and Billing Tracker (Excel)
- Engagement Fee Estimator (Excel)
- Staff Utilization and Realization Tracker (Excel)
- CPA Firm KPI Dashboard (Excel)
Last updated 11/05/2026. All free templates.