XL EagleResponsibility determination
Responsibility determination. Before awarding a contract, the contracting officer must decide that the apparent winner is 'responsible.' That means it has adequate financial resources, can meet the schedule, has a satisfactory performance and integrity record, has the necessary organization, experience, equipment, and facilities, and is otherwise eligible.
Responsibility is different from responsiveness. Responsiveness asks whether the bid matches the solicitation, while responsibility asks whether the company can actually do the work. The CO may check SAM.gov, past performance systems, and financial information, or visit your facility.
Why it matters to a small contractor
Even with the lowest price, you can lose if the CO doubts you can perform. Keep your SAM.gov record current, be ready to show proof of financing, equipment, and staff, and answer CO questions quickly. If you are small and found not responsible, you can ask SBA for a Certificate of Competency.
Example
A new small firm is the low bidder on a large mowing contract. The contracting officer asks for proof of equipment and a bank letter. The firm provides lease agreements for mowers and a line of credit letter, and is found responsible.
Responsibility determination: common questions
What is the difference between responsive and responsible?
Responsive means your bid conforms to the solicitation. Responsible means your company is capable of doing the work.
What happens if a small business is found not responsible?
The contracting officer generally must refer the matter to SBA, which can issue a Certificate of Competency.
Want the contract without the paperwork? Send XL Eagle your price on an open government job. We write and submit the bid under our registrations, free to you. Find open jobs →