Understanding the Simplified Acquisition Threshold: Key Legal Insights

Definition & Meaning

The simplified acquisition threshold refers to the monetary limit set by the federal government for certain procurement processes. As of now, this threshold is generally set at $100,000. However, for specific types of acquisitions, such as those related to contingency operations or defense against nuclear, biological, chemical, or radiological attacks, the limits increase:

  • $250,000 for contracts awarded and performed, or purchases made, within the United States.
  • $1 million for contracts awarded and performed, or purchases made, outside the United States.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Here are a couple of examples illustrating the simplified acquisition threshold:

  • A company bids on a government contract to supply office supplies within the U.S. valued at $150,000. Since this exceeds the $100,000 threshold, the company must follow more stringent procurement procedures.
  • A contractor is awarded a $900,000 contract to provide engineering services for a military project outside the U.S. This contract falls under the $1 million threshold, allowing for simplified procurement processes. (hypothetical example)

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Key Differences
Micro-Purchase Threshold The limit for small purchases without competitive quotes, generally set at $10,000. Lower than the simplified acquisition threshold, which is $100,000.
Small Business Set-Aside Contracts reserved for small businesses to promote competition. Focuses on business size rather than procurement limits.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are a contractor or business owner looking to engage in government procurement, consider the following steps:

  • Determine whether your contract exceeds the simplified acquisition threshold.
  • Familiarize yourself with the procurement process outlined in the Federal Acquisition Regulation.
  • Utilize legal form templates from US Legal Forms to streamline your compliance efforts.
  • If you find the process complex, consider consulting a legal professional for tailored advice.

Quick facts

Attribute Details
Standard Threshold $100,000
Domestic Contract Threshold $250,000
International Contract Threshold $1 million
Relevant Regulation 48 CFR 2.101

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

It is the monetary limit for certain federal procurement processes, typically set at $100,000.