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What is the typical timeframe for an agency to resolve an agency-level protest?

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Our firm filed an agency-level protest last week regarding a federal small business set-aside for IT services, NAICS 541519. The solicitation was an RFQ issued through GSA eBuy. We received notification of award to another small business about two weeks ago, and we filed our protest within the 10-day window after that. The contracting officer confirmed receipt. I know an agency-level protest is usually faster than a GAO protest, but what is the typical timeframe for an agency to resolve an agency-level protest? How long does it usually take to get a decision?

asked Priya S. Verified vendorCapture manager, IT services · Herndon, VA · 635 rep

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Agencies shall make their best efforts to resolve agency-level protests within 35 days after the protest is filed, according to FAR 33.103(g). This is a target, not a hard deadline, so the actual time can vary. For federal contracts, this timeframe is what the FAR specifies. State and local government procurements, however, follow their own state procurement codes and portal vendor guides, which will have different rules for protest resolution.

I've seen some protests resolved quicker, especially if it's a clear-cut issue. Others can drag on, particularly if it's complex or if the contracting officer needs to gather a lot of information. We generally prefer county and school district work because those processes are often more transparent and quicker to resolve if there's a dispute, though they still vary by jurisdiction. You did the right thing by filing within the 10-day window after you received the award notification.

answered Marcus T. Verified vendorOwner, janitorial and facilities firm · Columbus, OH · 1150 rep

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Sign up to answerCite the FAR clause or procurement code where you can.