---
title: Implementation Fees
description: Upfront non-refundable fees charged to configure a system, which generally do not transfer a distinct service to the customer. They must usually be de...
sidebar_position: 22
tags: ['asc-606', 'Billing']
---

# Implementation Fees

## The ASC 606 Standard

Upfront non-refundable fees charged to configure a system, which generally do not transfer a distinct service to the customer. They must usually be deferred and recognized over the life of the customer.

## The Real-World Scenario

You charge a $15,000 setup fee to configure a complex SaaS environment before the client's $2,000/month subscription officially begins.

## The Spreadsheet Breaking Point

Manually tracking the estimated life of the customer to correctly amortize non-distinct setup fees over years requires complex, easily broken cohort models.

## The Hidden Cost to the Bottom Line

Recognizing implementation fees upfront instead of deferring them is a massive audit red flag that will trigger immediate reversal.

## How GAAPX Eliminates the Risk

Automatically identifies non-distinct setup fees, defers them, and amortizes them flawlessly over the calculated customer relationship period.