Government Contracting Q&A
100 direct answers to common questions about federal contracting, organized by what you need to know.
Popular Questions
How long does it take to form a joint venture for federal bidding?
Allow 2-6 months to properly form and register a joint venture. This includes legal formation, obtaining UEI, SAM registration, and potentially SBA certification review for small business JVs.
When are GSA Schedule sales reported?
GSA Schedule sales must be reported quarterly through the 72A system. Reports are due within 30 days after each quarter end. The Industrial Funding Fee (0.75%) is paid with these reports.
How do continuing resolutions affect federal contracting?
CRs maintain prior year funding levels, limiting new contracts and program changes. Existing contracts continue, but new large procurements may be delayed until regular appropriations pass.
When does the federal government fiscal year end?
The federal fiscal year ends September 30 and the new fiscal year begins October 1. Q4 (July-September) sees heavy contract activity as agencies obligate remaining funds before year-end.
When are federal contract awards announced publicly?
Contract awards are reported to FPDS within 3 business days of award and appear on SAM.gov and USASpending shortly after. Press releases for major awards often come within days to weeks of award.
How long before an RFP should you start capture?
Ideally 12-24 months before expected RFP release for major opportunities. Even 6 months provides time for relationship building, teaming, and capability positioning. Starting at RFP release is usually too late.
How long until new contracts appear on USASpending.gov?
Contract awards typically appear on USASpending.gov within 30-90 days of award. Initial reporting is through FPDS, which then feeds USASpending. Large agency backlogs can cause longer delays.
How long after contract award before work starts?
Work typically begins within 30 days of award, but some contracts specify immediate start or later dates. Always wait for official Notice to Proceed.
How long does it take to renew SAM.gov registration annually?
Annual SAM.gov renewal typically takes 5-10 business days for processing, assuming no changes to IRS-validated information.
When should I submit questions on a solicitation?
Submit questions as early as possible, but typically no later than halfway through the proposal period. Questions received later may not be answered in time.
Browse by Category
Timing Questions
How long things take, when to start, deadlines and schedules
23 answers
Eligibility Questions
Who qualifies, requirements, certifications and size standards
28 answers
Discovery Questions
Where to find opportunities, search strategies, data sources
27 answers
Money Questions
Contract values, pricing, costs, bonding and insurance
16 answers
Process Questions
What happens after submission, evaluation, award procedures
28 answers
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