Government Contracting Q&A
100 direct answers to common questions about federal contracting, organized by what you need to know.
Timing Questions
How long things take, when to start, deadlines and schedules
Timing 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.
How long does CMMC certification take?
CMMC certification timeline depends on current cybersecurity maturity: well-prepared organizations may certify in 3-6 months, while others may need 12-18 months of preparation.
How long does FedRAMP authorization take?
FedRAMP authorization typically takes 12-18 months for Agency Authorization and 18-24 months for JAB Authorization.
When does past performance expire in CPARS?
CPARS evaluations remain in the system for 6 years from the date the evaluation was completed.
How long does CAGE code assignment take?
CAGE codes are typically assigned within 3-5 business days during SAM.gov registration.
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.
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 a security clearance take?
Security clearance processing times vary: Secret typically takes 3-6 months, Top Secret takes 6-12 months or longer.
When do Q4 federal spending opportunities get posted?
Q4 (July-September) solicitations typically start appearing in April-May, with peak posting in June-July for September awards.
How long does 8(a) certification take?
SBA 8(a) certification typically takes 90 days from submission of a complete application, though complex cases may take longer.
How long until a contract award appears on SAM.gov?
Contract awards typically appear on SAM.gov within 30 days of award, though some may take longer depending on agency reporting practices.
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