Government Contracting Q&A
100 direct answers to common questions about federal contracting, organized by what you need to know.
Process Questions
What happens after submission, evaluation, award procedures
Process Questions
How long does a GAO protest take to resolve?
GAO must issue a decision within 100 days of filing. Express options can reduce this to 65 days.
How long do I have to request a debriefing after losing a contract?
You must request a debriefing within 3 calendar days after receiving notice of exclusion from the competitive range or contract award.
How long does government proposal evaluation typically take?
Proposal evaluation typically takes 30-90 days for simpler procurements, but complex acquisitions can take 6 months or longer.
What is competitive range in government contracting?
Competitive range includes offerors who have a reasonable chance of award. Only these offerors participate in discussions before final evaluation.
What happens after I submit my proposal?
The government evaluates proposals against stated criteria, may conduct discussions with competitive range offerors, and then makes an award decision.
Can you negotiate terms on federal contracts?
In negotiated procurements (RFPs), discussions allow negotiation of technical approach and price. Sealed bids (IFBs) have no negotiation.
How does task order competition work under IDIQ contracts?
Task orders are competed among IDIQ holders via "fair opportunity" - all holders get notice and chance to submit unless an exception applies.
How do oral presentations work in government proposals?
Some solicitations include oral presentations where your team presents to evaluators. They're evaluated like written volumes and can substitute for or supplement written proposals.
What triggers a right to a debriefing?
Unsuccessful offerors in negotiated procurements can request debriefings. Pre-award debriefings are available if excluded from competitive range; post-award debriefings after contract award.
How are option years valued in federal contracts?
Option years are priced in the original proposal but only exercised and funded at the government's discretion. Total contract value typically includes option year pricing, though options aren't guaranteed to be exercised.
What does "estimated value" mean on a federal solicitation?
The estimated value represents the government's projection of what the contract will cost based on their requirements analysis, market research, and budget planning. It helps contractors assess opportunity size.
What is the micro-purchase threshold?
The micro-purchase threshold is $10,000 for most purchases ($2,000 for construction). Purchases below this threshold can be made without competition, often via government purchase cards.
How does the government determine price reasonableness?
Contracting officers use techniques like price comparison, market research, parametric analysis, and cost analysis to determine if prices are fair and reasonable.
How does best value evaluation work?
Best value considers both price and non-price factors. The government can pay more for a better technical solution if the premium is worth the added value.
What is a responsibility determination?
Before award, contracting officers verify the winning contractor is "responsible" - has adequate financial resources, capability, record of integrity, and is otherwise qualified.
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.
Can you protest a federal contract before it's awarded?
Yes. Pre-award protests challenge solicitation defects, evaluation criteria, or agency actions before contract award. They must be filed before the proposal due date for solicitation issues.
What is a Final Proposal Revision (FPR)?
The Final Proposal Revision is your updated proposal submitted after discussions conclude, representing your best and final offer. It's your last opportunity to address weaknesses and improve your competitive position.
What is award without discussions?
Award without discussions means the government selects a winner based on initial proposals without negotiations. The solicitation must state this intent. Submit your best offer initially since there's no revision opportunity.
What happens if no one bids on a federal contract?
If no bids are received, the agency may extend the due date, modify requirements, change acquisition strategy, or cancel and resolicit. No-bid situations often indicate unrealistic requirements or poor market outreach.
Need More Detailed Guidance?
Our comprehensive guides provide step-by-step instructions for every aspect of government contracting.
