GAO Protest

A GAO protest is a written objection by an interested party to a solicitation, proposed award, or award of a federal contract filed with the Government Accountability Office (GAO). GAO is the primary forum for bid protests, handling over 2,000 protests annually. Protests must be filed within specific timeframes: challenges to solicitation terms before the closing date, and challenges to award decisions within 10 days of contract award or debriefing (whichever is later). Filing a timely GAO protest triggers an automatic stay of contract performance (CICA stay). GAO issues a decision within 100 days. If GAO sustains the protest, it may recommend corrective action such as reevaluation or resolicitation. Agencies can take voluntary corrective action at any time.