GSA Certified General Services Administration Specialist โ Questions and Answers
Question 1: When must federal employees generally obtain a travel authorization before traveling on official business?
- Only when travel costs are expected to exceed $500
- Only for international travel costing more than $5,000
- Within 30 days after completing travel
- Prior to incurring any travel expenses (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Prior to incurring any travel expenses
The Federal Travel Regulation requires that travel authorizations be obtained prior to traveling, as they must authorize the travel and anticipated expenses in advance.
Question 2: Under FAR Part 49, which type of termination entitles the contractor to receive the contract price for completed work plus allowable costs and profit on work in process?
- Termination for convenience (Correct answer)
- Partial termination
- Termination for cause
- Termination for default
Correct answer: Termination for convenience
Termination for the convenience of the government (FAR 49.2) entitles the contractor to allowable costs incurred plus profit on work performed.
Question 3: What does the Federal Risk and Authorization Management Program (FedRAMP) authorize?
- The security authorization of cloud service offerings for use by federal agencies (Correct answer)
- Risk waivers for IT procurements that cannot meet FISMA standards
- The procurement of foreign-made IT hardware for non-sensitive agency use
- The use of commercial off-the-shelf software in classified environments
Correct answer: The security authorization of cloud service offerings for use by federal agencies
FedRAMP provides a standardized approach to security authorization for cloud services, allowing agencies to leverage a 'do once, use many times' framework to authorize cloud providers for government use.
Question 4: A contractor delivers a final report that does not meet the specifications in the PWS. Under FAR 52.246-4, the Contracting Officer may:
- Approve the deliverable conditionally pending future correction
- Only assess deductions if the QASP explicitly lists this deficiency
- Automatically terminate the contract for default
- Reject the deliverable and require correction at no additional cost to the government (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Reject the deliverable and require correction at no additional cost to the government
FAR 52.246-4 (Inspection of Services) authorizes the government to reject nonconforming services and require reperformance at no additional cost.
Question 5: What type of federal building is subject to the requirements of the National Historic Preservation Act before disposal?
- Any building built before 1950
- Any building listed in or eligible for the National Register of Historic Places (Correct answer)
- Any building with a replacement value over $1 million
- Any building over 25 years old
Correct answer: Any building listed in or eligible for the National Register of Historic Places
Buildings listed in or eligible for the National Register of Historic Places require Section 106 consultation under the National Historic Preservation Act before disposal to consider effects on historic properties.
Question 6: What is the purpose of a 'highest and best use' analysis in federal property disposal?
- To identify the most economically beneficial use of a property to maximize proceeds from its sale or transfer (Correct answer)
- To determine which federal agency has the highest priority need for the property
- To evaluate environmental remediation requirements before sale
- To assess which disposal method will take the least amount of time
Correct answer: To identify the most economically beneficial use of a property to maximize proceeds from its sale or transfer
A highest and best use analysis evaluates how a property could be used to generate the greatest economic benefit, informing whether to sell, lease, or otherwise dispose of the asset.
Question 7: Under FAR 8.405, before placing an order exceeding $25,000 against a GSA MAS contract, the ordering contracting officer must:
- Issue a synopsis on SAM.gov
- Consider at least three schedule contractors (Correct answer)
- Request GSA headquarters authorization
- Obtain Small Business Administration approval
Correct answer: Consider at least three schedule contractors
FAR 8.405-2 requires ordering agencies to consider at least three MAS contractors when placing orders for services exceeding $25,000.
Question 8: What is the first step in the federal procurement process?
- Negotiation with vendors
- Awarding a contract
- Identifying the need and requirements (Correct answer)
- Sending invoices
Correct answer: Identifying the need and requirements
The procurement process begins with identifying the need and developing a requirements document to define the acquisition.
Question 9: Under FAR 19.502-2, what is the small business set-aside rule for acquisitions between $10,000 and the simplified acquisition threshold?
- Acquisitions are automatically set aside for small business if two or more small businesses can compete at fair market price (Correct answer)
- Only HUBZone set-asides apply in this range
- Set-asides are discretionary for this range
- A class deviation is required to set aside for small business
Correct answer: Acquisitions are automatically set aside for small business if two or more small businesses can compete at fair market price
FAR 19.502-2(a) mandates that acquisitions between $10,000 and the SAT are automatically reserved for small business if there is a reasonable expectation that two or more small businesses will compete.
Question 10: What is an Economy Act order and when is it used in GSA procurement?
- A simplified acquisition method for emergency purchases during declared disasters
- An order placed under the Economy and Efficiency in Government Act to reduce waste
- A type of purchase order reserved for purchases under the micro-purchase threshold
- An interagency agreement allowing one federal agency to perform work or provide services to another using the requesting agency's funds (Correct answer)
Correct answer: An interagency agreement allowing one federal agency to perform work or provide services to another using the requesting agency's funds
An Economy Act order (31 U.S.C. ยง 1535) allows one federal agency to obtain services or goods from another agency, with the requesting agency transferring funds to the performing agency.
Question 11: What is the difference between debarment and suspension in federal contracting?
- Suspension requires criminal conviction; debarment can be based on civil findings
- Debarment is indefinite; suspension is permanent
- Debarment applies only to prime contractors; suspension applies to subcontractors
- Suspension is a temporary exclusion pending investigation; debarment is a longer-term exclusion following a finding of cause (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Suspension is a temporary exclusion pending investigation; debarment is a longer-term exclusion following a finding of cause
Suspension is an immediate but temporary exclusion action taken while an investigation or legal proceeding is ongoing, while debarment is a longer exclusion (typically 3 years) based on established cause.
Question 12: Which program allows GSA to transfer federally owned buildings to local communities for public benefit uses such as homeless shelters?
- Community Development Block Grant Program
- Federal Surplus Real Property Program
- Historic Preservation Transfer Program
- Public Benefit Conveyance (PBC) Program (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Public Benefit Conveyance (PBC) Program
The Public Benefit Conveyance Program allows GSA to transfer surplus federal real property to state and local governments or nonprofits for specific public purposes at discounted or no cost.
Question 13: What is the primary function of GSA's Alliant 2 contract vehicle?
- To provide comprehensive IT products and services through a government-wide acquisition contract (GWAC) (Correct answer)
- To manage federal agency cloud migration projects
- To provide cybersecurity assessment services to civilian agencies
- To provide telecommunications services for federal agencies
Correct answer: To provide comprehensive IT products and services through a government-wide acquisition contract (GWAC)
Alliant 2 is a GWAC that provides federal agencies with a broad range of IT services, including emerging technologies, solutions integration, and IT support through a competitive pool of pre-vetted contractors.
Question 14: What is the significance of the Improper Payments Information Act (IPIA) for GSA contract managers?
- It mandates annual audits of all GSA contracts over $1 million
- It requires GSA to report all sole-source contract awards to Congress
- It establishes penalties for contractors who submit false invoices
- It requires agencies to identify, report, and reduce improper payments, including duplicate or erroneous contract payments (Correct answer)
Correct answer: It requires agencies to identify, report, and reduce improper payments, including duplicate or erroneous contract payments
IPIA requires federal agencies to identify programs at risk for improper payments, estimate error amounts, and report on corrective actions, including overpayments and underpayments on contracts.
Question 15: When evaluating offers under FAR Part 15 negotiated procurement, the concept of 'best value continuum' means:
- Technical factors always outweigh price
- The agency may trade off price and non-price factors based on the solicitation's stated evaluation criteria (Correct answer)
- Price is always the sole evaluation factor
- Lowest-priced technically acceptable (LPTA) must be used for all GSA contracts
Correct answer: The agency may trade off price and non-price factors based on the solicitation's stated evaluation criteria
The best value continuum allows agencies to determine the approach ranging from LPTA to tradeoffs between price and technical factors as specified in the solicitation.
Question 16: What is the role of a GSA Schedule Contracting Officer Representative (COR) for an agency task order?
- To negotiate the base Schedule contract on behalf of all agencies
- To certify vendor eligibility for Schedule participation
- To approve all modifications to the base Schedule contract
- To monitor contractor performance and serve as the technical liaison for a specific task order (Correct answer)
Correct answer: To monitor contractor performance and serve as the technical liaison for a specific task order
A COR monitors the contractor's technical performance on a specific task order, serves as the technical point of contact, and provides oversight to ensure contract requirements are met.
Question 17: What is a 'color of money' issue in federal financial management?
- A dispute over the fair market value of government property
- Using appropriated funds for a purpose inconsistent with the appropriation's designated use or restrictions (Correct answer)
- Differences in accounting treatment between cash and accrual methods
- Disagreements between agencies over interagency billing rates
Correct answer: Using appropriated funds for a purpose inconsistent with the appropriation's designated use or restrictions
A 'color of money' issue occurs when funds from one appropriation are used for purposes authorized under a different appropriation, violating the Purpose Statute (31 U.S.C. ยง 1301).
Question 18: During a post-award orientation, the contracting officer's primary goal is to:
- Renegotiate pricing terms with the contractor
- Ensure mutual understanding of contract requirements and responsibilities (Correct answer)
- Conduct a formal audit of the contractor's accounting system
- Modify the contract's period of performance
Correct answer: Ensure mutual understanding of contract requirements and responsibilities
Post-award orientations (FAR 42.5) aim to establish a mutual understanding of contract requirements and responsibilities to prevent problems.
Question 19: What is the primary purpose of the GSA's Working Capital Fund (WCF)?
- To provide a self-sustaining fund that finances GSA services charged back to customer agencies (Correct answer)
- To fund emergency disaster relief operations
- To manage the federal government's cash reserves
- To collect fees from private contractors for Schedule participation
Correct answer: To provide a self-sustaining fund that finances GSA services charged back to customer agencies
GSA's Working Capital Fund is a revolving fund that finances various shared services, with costs recovered through charges to customer agencies, making it self-sustaining without annual appropriations.
Question 20: What is the purpose of the Object Classification system in federal budget reporting?
- To categorize federal expenditures by the nature of the items purchased (e.g., personnel, contracts, equipment) (Correct answer)
- To classify federal agencies by their budget size
- To track budget execution against congressional earmarks
- To rank federal programs by their mission-critical status
Correct answer: To categorize federal expenditures by the nature of the items purchased (e.g., personnel, contracts, equipment)
The Object Classification system categorizes budget obligations by the type of goods or services purchased, providing transparency about what the government is spending money on.
Question 21: During contract closeout, which action MUST be completed before a fixed-price contract can be formally closed?
- All deliverables must be accepted and final payment made (Correct answer)
- The contractor must provide a 10-year records retention certification
- A formal Board of Contract Appeals ruling must be issued
- Contractor must submit a certified final overhead rate proposal
Correct answer: All deliverables must be accepted and final payment made
Contract closeout requires that all deliverables be accepted, disputes resolved, and final payment made before the contract file can be closed.
Question 22: What does the Digital Accountability and Transparency Act (DATA Act) require of federal agencies in relation to IT spending?
- Agencies must audit all IT contracts over $1 million annually
- Agencies must submit standardized financial data on all federal spending, including IT, to a publicly available platform (Correct answer)
- Agencies must publish their IT spending plans before the fiscal year begins
- Agencies must report any IT procurement exceeding the simplified acquisition threshold to OMB
Correct answer: Agencies must submit standardized financial data on all federal spending, including IT, to a publicly available platform
The DATA Act requires federal agencies to report standardized financial and spending data to USASpending.gov, making all federal outlays including IT spending publicly transparent and searchable.
Question 23: Which federal regulation governs the management of personal property acquired with federal funds?
- Title 40 U.S.C.
- FAR Part 45 (Correct answer)
- GSA Bulletin FMR B-34
- OMB Circular A-11
Correct answer: FAR Part 45
FAR Part 45 governs government property in the possession of contractors, including acquisition, management, and disposition of personal property.
Question 24: What is the purpose of a pre-award survey in federal contracting?
- To identify small business partners for a large prime contractor
- To survey current contractors about their satisfaction with agency administration
- To determine fair market pricing for a contract requirement
- To evaluate a prospective contractor's ability to perform a specific contract before award (Correct answer)
Correct answer: To evaluate a prospective contractor's ability to perform a specific contract before award
A pre-award survey is conducted by the government to assess a potential contractor's technical capability, financial resources, and management systems before making an award to a company with limited past performance.
Question 25: What is the purpose of GSA's Standard Level User Agreements (SLUAs) with customer agencies?
- To document the terms under which GSA will provide services and billing rates to customer agencies (Correct answer)
- To establish small business subcontracting targets for each agency
- To certify that agencies have completed required acquisition training
- To authorize agencies to use classified information systems
Correct answer: To document the terms under which GSA will provide services and billing rates to customer agencies
SLUAs establish the terms, conditions, and billing rates for GSA services provided to customer agencies, serving as the interagency agreement framework for service delivery.
Question 26: What is the 'rule of two' in the context of FAR 19.502-2 small business set-asides?
- Two contracting officers must approve a small business set-aside decision
- If there is a reasonable expectation of receiving offers from at least two responsible small businesses at a fair market price, the acquisition must be set aside for small businesses (Correct answer)
- No more than two small businesses may compete on a single set-aside
- A contracting officer must obtain at least two small business offers before proceeding with a set-aside
Correct answer: If there is a reasonable expectation of receiving offers from at least two responsible small businesses at a fair market price, the acquisition must be set aside for small businesses
The rule of two requires a CO to set aside an acquisition for small businesses if there is a reasonable expectation of receiving offers from at least two responsible small businesses at fair market prices.
Question 27: Which section of the Federal Acquisition Regulation governs the content requirements for solicitation documents issued by civilian agencies like GSA?
- FAR Part 14
- FAR Part 13
- FAR Part 15 (Correct answer)
- FAR Part 12
Correct answer: FAR Part 15
FAR Part 15 governs contracting by negotiation and specifies the content requirements for solicitations, including the source selection process and documentation.
Question 28: Under the Federal Travel Regulation, receipts are generally required for lodging expenses and any other individual expense exceeding:
- $100
- $25
- $75 (Correct answer)
- $50
Correct answer: $75
The FTR generally requires receipts for lodging and for any individual expense that exceeds $75 to support reimbursement claims.
Question 29: What does 'obligation' mean in the context of federal financial management?
- The transfer of funds from one agency to another through an interagency agreement
- The annual reporting of actual expenditures to OMB
- A legally binding commitment of federal funds, such as a contract or purchase order (Correct answer)
- The act of Congress appropriating funds to an agency
Correct answer: A legally binding commitment of federal funds, such as a contract or purchase order
An obligation is a binding legal commitment of federal funds, typically created when a contract is signed, a purchase order is issued, or a grant agreement is executed.
Question 30: A contractor submits a request for equitable adjustment (REA) after encountering a differing site condition. Under FAR 52.236-2, which party bears the burden of proving entitlement?
- A neutral third-party arbitrator
- The subcontractor who discovered the condition
- The government, because it owns the site
- The contractor, who must demonstrate the condition differed materially from what was indicated in contract documents (Correct answer)
Correct answer: The contractor, who must demonstrate the condition differed materially from what was indicated in contract documents
The contractor bears the burden of proving that a differing site condition existed, that it was materially different from what the contract indicated, and that it caused additional costs.
Question 31: What tool is used to evaluate contractor performance?
- SAM.gov
- NAICS Portal
- CPARS (Contractor Performance Assessment Reporting System) (Correct answer)
- FAR Database
Correct answer: CPARS (Contractor Performance Assessment Reporting System)
CPARS (Contractor Performance Assessment Reporting System) is a mandatory government-wide system used to document and evaluate contractor performance on federal contracts. It provides a standardized method for assessing a contractor's past performance, which is a critical factor in future source selections. The system captures objective and subjective evaluations, offering valuable insights into a contractor's reliability and quality of work.
Question 32: Which disposal method allows GSA to sell surplus federal real property through a public auction or sealed bid process?
- Negotiated Sale
- Exchange/Sale
- Competitive Sale (Correct answer)
- Public Benefit Conveyance
Correct answer: Competitive Sale
A Competitive Sale is the standard method for disposing of surplus federal real property through public auction or sealed bidding to ensure fair market value is received.
Question 33: What is the role of the Federal Real Property Council (FRPC)?
- To develop government-wide guidance on federal real property management and reduce the federal footprint (Correct answer)
- To negotiate federal building leases with private landlords
- To manage the National Park Service properties
- To oversee federal construction project budgets
Correct answer: To develop government-wide guidance on federal real property management and reduce the federal footprint
The FRPC, chaired by OMB, develops government-wide policies and performance measures for real property management and coordinates efforts to reduce the federal real property footprint.
Question 34: Which FAR clause authorizes the government to order changes within the general scope of a fixed-price supply contract?
- FAR 52.246-2 Inspection of Supplies
- FAR 52.233-1 Disputes
- FAR 52.249-2 Termination for Convenience
- FAR 52.243-1 Changes โ Fixed Price (Correct answer)
Correct answer: FAR 52.243-1 Changes โ Fixed Price
FAR 52.243-1 (Changes โ Fixed Price) grants the contracting officer authority to order changes within the contract's general scope.
Question 35: What is the primary purpose of the System for Award Management (SAM.gov) for federal vendors?
- To register as a federal contractor, maintain entity information, and be eligible to receive federal awards (Correct answer)
- To submit past performance evaluations for competitor analysis
- To file protests against contract awards with the GAO
- To apply for federal grants and loans
Correct answer: To register as a federal contractor, maintain entity information, and be eligible to receive federal awards
SAM.gov is the official government-wide registration system where entities must register and maintain current information to be eligible to receive federal contracts, grants, or other financial assistance.
Question 36: What is required before a federal agency can demolish a building that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places?
- Completion of the Section 106 consultation process under the National Historic Preservation Act (Correct answer)
- Congressional authorization and appropriations
- Approval from the GSA Administrator only
- A public referendum in the community where the building is located
Correct answer: Completion of the Section 106 consultation process under the National Historic Preservation Act
Section 106 of the NHPA requires federal agencies to consult with the State Historic Preservation Officer and other stakeholders to consider and mitigate effects on historic properties before demolition.
Question 37: Under FAR 15.404-1, the primary purpose of price analysis is to:
- Audit the contractor's labor rates against union agreements
- Determine whether the proposed price is fair and reasonable without evaluating cost elements (Correct answer)
- Validate the contractor's forward pricing rate agreements
- Review the contractor's internal cost accounting system
Correct answer: Determine whether the proposed price is fair and reasonable without evaluating cost elements
Price analysis evaluates the reasonableness of a proposed price by comparing it to market data, prior prices, or competitive offers without examining underlying cost elements.
Question 38: Which role ensures the contract meets agency objectives post-award?
- Finance Manager
- Chief Counsel
- Vendor
- Contracting Officerโs Representative (COR) (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Contracting Officerโs Representative (COR)
The Contracting Officer's Representative (COR) plays a vital role in post-award contract administration, acting as the technical liaison between the government and the contractor. The COR ensures that the contractor's performance aligns with the agency's objectives and technical requirements. They monitor daily operations, inspect deliverables, and provide technical guidance, all under the authority delegated by the Contracting Officer.
Question 39: What is the primary purpose of a Past Performance Information Retrieval System (PPIRS)/CPARS entry filed after contract completion?
- To satisfy the contractor's requirement to self-certify compliance
- To trigger debarment proceedings for poor performers
- To notify the SBA of small business performance outcomes
- To document contractor performance for use in future source selections (Correct answer)
Correct answer: To document contractor performance for use in future source selections
CPARS ratings are stored in PPIRS to provide source selection officials with past performance data when evaluating future proposals.
Question 40: What is the purpose of the Federal Real Property Profile (FRPP) database?
- To track contractor-owned equipment used on federal projects
- To manage federal vehicle fleet assignments
- To maintain a comprehensive inventory of all federal real property assets (Correct answer)
- To record all federal lease agreements with private landlords
Correct answer: To maintain a comprehensive inventory of all federal real property assets
The FRPP is a government-wide database that agencies use to report and track all federally owned and leased real property, supporting data-driven asset management decisions.
Question 41: Under the Federal Management Regulation (FMR), what is the first step agencies must take before disposing of excess personal property?
- Screen the property within the federal government for potential reutilization (Correct answer)
- Donate the property to a nonprofit organization
- Transfer the property to the General Services Administration
- Sell the property through a public auction
Correct answer: Screen the property within the federal government for potential reutilization
Before disposing of excess property, agencies must first screen it within the federal government to give other agencies the opportunity to reutilize the property, maximizing taxpayer value.
Question 42: What is the 'bona fide needs rule' in federal appropriations law?
- The requirement that all federal purchases must serve a genuine government mission need
- The standard that agency budget requests must be supported by documented workload data
- The requirement that all federal property must have a documented use before acquisition
- The rule that an appropriation may only be obligated to meet a legitimate need arising during the period for which the appropriation is available (Correct answer)
Correct answer: The rule that an appropriation may only be obligated to meet a legitimate need arising during the period for which the appropriation is available
The bona fide needs rule requires that a fiscal year's appropriation be used only for needs that legitimately arise during that fiscal year, not for future year requirements.
Question 43: The GSA Acquisition Manual (GSAM) supplements which overarching federal acquisition regulation?
- Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS)
- Code of Federal Regulations Title 48
- Office of Management and Budget Circular A-76
- Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR)
The GSAM is GSA's agency-specific supplement to the FAR, implementing and supplementing FAR requirements for GSA acquisitions.
Question 44: What is the purpose of the 'Competition in Contracting Act' (CICA) as implemented in FAR Part 6?
- To mandate that all contracts use sealed bidding procedures
- To require full and open competition in federal procurements unless a specific exception applies (Correct answer)
- To restrict foreign contractor participation in U.S. federal contracts
- To limit the number of bidders on any given solicitation
Correct answer: To require full and open competition in federal procurements unless a specific exception applies
CICA, implemented through FAR Part 6, requires federal agencies to use competitive procedures to the maximum extent practicable, with enumerated exceptions that must be documented.
Question 45: Under what conditions may federal agencies retain excess real property rather than reporting it to GSA?
- When the property is needed for future mission requirements within 12 months (Correct answer)
- Agencies must always report all excess real property immediately
- When the property is located outside the continental United States
- When the property has a fair market value below $50,000
Correct answer: When the property is needed for future mission requirements within 12 months
Agencies may hold property from excess reporting when there is a documented near-term mission need, but must justify retention and cannot hold property indefinitely without plans for use.
Question 46: The GSA Federal Supply Schedule program operates under what legal authority that allows ordering agencies to use schedule contracts without conducting separate competitions?
- 41 U.S.C. 152(3) โ Federal Supply Schedules exception to competition (Correct answer)
- FAR Part 36 construction contracting authority
- FAR Part 13 simplified acquisition
- The Competition in Contracting Act full and open competition mandate
Correct answer: 41 U.S.C. 152(3) โ Federal Supply Schedules exception to competition
41 U.S.C. 152(3) provides the statutory authority for the Federal Supply Schedule program, exempting schedule orders from separate full-and-open competition requirements.
Question 47: What is a 'transfer of funds' in federal appropriations law, and how does it differ from a reprogramming?
- A transfer moves money between fiscal years; reprogramming moves money between programs
- A transfer requires GAO approval; reprogramming requires OMB approval only
- A transfer is permanent; reprogramming is temporary and must be reversed by year-end
- A transfer moves money between different appropriation accounts with specific congressional authority; reprogramming shifts funds within the same account (Correct answer)
Correct answer: A transfer moves money between different appropriation accounts with specific congressional authority; reprogramming shifts funds within the same account
A transfer moves funds between separate appropriation accounts and requires specific statutory authority, while reprogramming shifts funds within the same appropriation account.
Question 48: What is the 'TechFAR Handbook' and who is its intended audience?
- A reference document for vendors seeking to understand federal IT security requirements
- A technical manual for IT systems administrators working for federal agencies
- An official OMB publication setting IT budget allocation percentages for agencies
- A guide for federal contracting professionals on applying FAR flexibilities to acquire digital services using agile and iterative development (Correct answer)
Correct answer: A guide for federal contracting professionals on applying FAR flexibilities to acquire digital services using agile and iterative development
The TechFAR Handbook helps federal acquisition professionals understand how to apply existing FAR flexibilities when buying digital services, particularly to support agile and iterative software development approaches.
Question 49: Which OMB circular provides the cost principles applicable to contracts with commercial organizations?
- OMB Circular A-87
- OMB Circular A-76
- FAR Part 31 / OMB Circular A-122 equivalent (Correct answer)
- OMB Circular A-21
Correct answer: FAR Part 31 / OMB Circular A-122 equivalent
FAR Part 31 incorporates cost principles for commercial organizations, establishing what costs are allowable, allocable, and reasonable for government contract pricing and audit purposes.
Question 50: What is the significance of the 'Freeze the Footprint' policy in federal property management?
- It prohibits federal agencies from acquiring new office space without demonstrating consolidation (Correct answer)
- It requires all federal properties to meet energy efficiency standards
- It prevents agencies from disposing of historic properties
- It freezes federal property valuations for budget purposes
Correct answer: It prohibits federal agencies from acquiring new office space without demonstrating consolidation
The Freeze the Footprint policy directed agencies not to increase their total office and warehouse space domestically, requiring them to consolidate before acquiring new space.
Question 51: What is a 'software license audit' and why is it important in federal IT management?
- An assessment of whether an agency's software licenses are sufficient for actual usage and whether the agency is over- or under-licensed (Correct answer)
- A GAO audit of an agency's IT budget execution
- A review of open-source software compliance with federal software standards
- An annual review of contractor-developed code for security vulnerabilities
Correct answer: An assessment of whether an agency's software licenses are sufficient for actual usage and whether the agency is over- or under-licensed
A software license audit examines whether agencies have appropriate licensing for their actual software use, preventing costly true-up payments for unlicensed software or waste from unused licenses.
Question 52: A contracting officer notices that a contractor's proposed subcontract constitutes 70% of the total contract value. Under FAR 44, the CO's primary concern should be:
- Whether the subcontract requires a separate SAM.gov registration
- Whether the subcontractor has a GSA Schedule contract
- Whether the prime contractor obtained competitive prices from the subcontractor (Correct answer)
- Whether the subcontractor is a small business
Correct answer: Whether the prime contractor obtained competitive prices from the subcontractor
FAR 44 requires the CO to review major subcontracts to ensure the prime obtained competitive prices, protecting the government's interest in fair pricing throughout the supply chain.
Question 53: Under FAR 8.405, when must federal agencies consider small businesses when placing orders against GSA Schedule contracts?
- Small businesses are automatically excluded from Schedule orders above $150,000
- Only for orders above $1 million
- Agencies must give preference to small business Schedule contractors whenever possible (Correct answer)
- Only when the agency has a specific small business set-aside goal
Correct answer: Agencies must give preference to small business Schedule contractors whenever possible
FAR 8.405-5 requires ordering activities to give preference to small business concerns when placing Schedule orders and to document why small businesses were not used when larger firms are selected.
Question 54: Which GSA program allows state and local governments to acquire surplus federal personal property?
- State Agency for Surplus Property (SASP) Program (Correct answer)
- Federal Supply Schedule Program
- Disaster Purchasing Program
- Cooperative Purchasing Program
Correct answer: State Agency for Surplus Property (SASP) Program
The SASP Program allows GSA to transfer surplus federal personal property to state agencies for surplus property, which then distribute it to eligible recipients including state and local governments.
Question 55: What is the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR)?
- A government accounting manual
- A budgetary tracking system
- An internal agency policy
- The main set of rules for government procurement (Correct answer)
Correct answer: The main set of rules for government procurement
The Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) is the principal set of regulations governing the acquisition process for all executive agencies of the U.S. federal government. It provides uniform policies and procedures for procurement, ensuring fairness, transparency, and efficiency in government contracting. Adherence to the FAR is mandatory for all federal agencies and contractors, serving as the foundational rulebook for federal purchasing.
Question 56: What is the primary purpose of the GSA City Pair Program (CPP)?
- To manage government-owned aircraft for agency use
- To establish routes for government cargo shipments
- To provide discounted airfares for federal government travelers on official business (Correct answer)
- To coordinate international travel for senior government officials
Correct answer: To provide discounted airfares for federal government travelers on official business
The City Pair Program (CPP) negotiates reduced, fixed-price airfares between city pairs specifically for federal employees traveling on official government business.
Question 57: Under FAR 15.403-1, certified cost or pricing data is required for negotiated contracts exceeding what threshold?
- $750,000
- $2.5 million
- $500,000
- $2 million (Correct answer)
Correct answer: $2 million
The Truth in Negotiations Act (TINA) requires certified cost or pricing data for negotiated contracts, modifications, and subcontracts exceeding $2 million.
Question 58: What is 'cost realism' analysis, and when is it typically required under FAR 15.404-1(d)?
- An audit of overhead rates used exclusively in fixed-price contracts
- A comparison of an offeror's prices against published market indices
- An evaluation to determine whether proposed costs are realistic for the work to be performed, used primarily in cost-reimbursement contracts (Correct answer)
- A review conducted after contract completion to verify actual costs incurred
Correct answer: An evaluation to determine whether proposed costs are realistic for the work to be performed, used primarily in cost-reimbursement contracts
Cost realism analysis assesses whether proposed costs are realistic and complete for the work described, and is mandatory for cost-reimbursement contracts to avoid unrealistically low bids.
Question 59: What type of GSA Schedule modification is used when a vendor needs to update its pricing due to an economic price adjustment clause?
- Economic Price Adjustment (EPA) modification (Correct answer)
- Supplemental agreement modification
- Unilateral modification
- Administrative modification
Correct answer: Economic Price Adjustment (EPA) modification
An Economic Price Adjustment modification is used to update Schedule pricing in accordance with the EPA clause, typically tied to published market indices or other approved adjustment mechanisms.
Question 60: What is the purpose of the Federal Acquisition Computer Network (FACNET)?
- To serve as an electronic contracting system for the synopsizing and soliciting of federal contract actions (Correct answer)
- To manage the federal government's IT acquisition contracts
- To track contractor performance evaluations government-wide
- To provide secure communications between federal contracting officers
Correct answer: To serve as an electronic contracting system for the synopsizing and soliciting of federal contract actions
FACNET was established to enable electronic transmission of synopses, solicitations, amendments, and awards, improving transparency and efficiency in federal contracting.
Question 61: Which of the following is a key benefit of using GSA Fleet leased vehicles over commercial rental vehicles for official travel?
- GSA Fleet vehicles can be used for personal travel by government employees
- GSA Fleet vehicles have no mileage limits for any official travel
- GSA Fleet vehicles are typically more cost-effective and include maintenance and fuel cards (Correct answer)
- GSA Fleet vehicles are exempt from all state registration requirements
Correct answer: GSA Fleet vehicles are typically more cost-effective and include maintenance and fuel cards
GSA Fleet leased vehicles are generally more cost-effective than commercial rentals because they include maintenance, fuel cards, and other services in their pricing structure.
Question 62: Which FAR clause requires contractors to maintain an adequate accounting system before award of a cost-reimbursement contract?
- FAR 52.216-7 (Correct answer)
- FAR 52.242-1
- FAR 52.215-10
- FAR 52.215-2
Correct answer: FAR 52.216-7
FAR 52.216-7 (Allowable Cost and Payment) requires that a contractor have an approved accounting system to bill on cost-reimbursable contracts.
Question 63: What is the purpose of the Federal Acquisition Regulation's requirement for obtaining a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) before paying contractors?
- To check the contractor's credit history before award
- To verify the contractor's small business status
- To verify that the contractor is a U.S. citizen
- To comply with IRS information reporting requirements and ensure contractor payments are properly reported (Correct answer)
Correct answer: To comply with IRS information reporting requirements and ensure contractor payments are properly reported
Collecting TINs ensures the government can report payments to the IRS as required by law, enabling proper tax reporting and compliance for federal contractor payments.
Question 64: What is a Continuing Resolution (CR) and how does it affect GSA procurement activities?
- A temporary funding measure that continues government operations at prior-year levels when annual appropriations are not enacted on time (Correct answer)
- A resolution passed by Congress to authorize emergency spending
- A multi-year budget plan that provides funding certainty for large capital projects
- A budget document submitted by GSA to OMB for new program funding
Correct answer: A temporary funding measure that continues government operations at prior-year levels when annual appropriations are not enacted on time
A CR is a temporary appropriations measure that allows government operations to continue at or near prior-year levels while Congress works on regular appropriations bills, limiting new program starts.
Question 65: What is the purpose of a Request for Proposal (RFP)?
- Solicit vendor proposals for evaluation (Correct answer)
- Provide employee benefits
- Settle contractor disputes
- Track office attendance
Correct answer: Solicit vendor proposals for evaluation
A Request for Proposal (RFP) is a formal document used by government agencies to invite vendors to submit detailed proposals for a specific project or service. It outlines the agency's requirements, evaluation criteria, and terms, allowing for a comprehensive comparison of potential solutions and vendors. This process ensures competitive bidding and helps select the most suitable contractor based on technical merit and cost.
Question 66: What is the GSA Fleet program's primary function?
- Managing federal employee relocation services
- Overseeing federal aviation assets
- Administering the federal motor vehicle accident claims process
- Providing interagency vehicle fleet management, leasing, and maintenance services (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Providing interagency vehicle fleet management, leasing, and maintenance services
GSA Fleet provides federal agencies with vehicle leasing, fleet management, maintenance, and fuel card services, helping agencies manage their vehicle assets cost-effectively.
Question 67: Under FAR 43.101, what distinguishes a 'change order' from a 'supplemental agreement'?
- A change order requires contractor consent; a supplemental agreement does not
- A change order is used only for construction contracts; supplemental agreements for services
- A supplemental agreement increases scope; a change order only decreases scope
- A change order is a unilateral contract modification within the changes clause; a supplemental agreement is bilateral (Correct answer)
Correct answer: A change order is a unilateral contract modification within the changes clause; a supplemental agreement is bilateral
A change order is a unilateral modification issued under the Changes clause without contractor agreement; a supplemental agreement requires mutual consent of both parties.
Question 68: What is a 'Declaration of Excess' in federal property management?
- An audit finding that an agency has more property than its mission requires
- A budget document requesting additional property funding
- A notification that a contractor has exceeded its property allowance
- A formal agency notification to GSA that property is no longer needed and available for transfer or disposal (Correct answer)
Correct answer: A formal agency notification to GSA that property is no longer needed and available for transfer or disposal
A Declaration of Excess is the formal process by which a federal agency notifies GSA that it has property it no longer needs, initiating the disposal or transfer process.
Question 69: What is the purpose of the Past Performance Information Retrieval System (PPIRS)?
- To store and retrieve contractor past performance evaluations used in source selection decisions (Correct answer)
- To manage vendor warranty and return claims on federal purchases
- To provide a database of contractor debarment and suspension records
- To track small business subcontracting compliance
Correct answer: To store and retrieve contractor past performance evaluations used in source selection decisions
PPIRS (now integrated into SAM.gov's CPARS) stores contractor performance assessments that contracting officers use when evaluating past performance as a source selection factor.
Question 70: Which document outlines the government's acquisition needs?
- Statement of Work (SOW) (Correct answer)
- Performance Report
- Request for Payment
- Security Clearance Form
Correct answer: Statement of Work (SOW)
A Statement of Work (SOW) details the tasks, deliverables, and expectations for the contract.
Question 71: What is a 'utilization review' in the context of federal real property management?
- An assessment of whether a facility is being used efficiently and at its intended capacity (Correct answer)
- A review of contractor performance on building management contracts
- An environmental compliance inspection of federal properties
- An audit of how federal funds are being spent on property maintenance
Correct answer: An assessment of whether a facility is being used efficiently and at its intended capacity
A utilization review assesses whether a federal facility is being used at an appropriate level relative to its capacity, identifying opportunities for consolidation or disposal.
Question 72: What is the primary federal statute that grants GSA authority over the management of federal real property?
- Federal Acquisition Streamlining Act of 1994
- Federal Property and Administrative Services Act of 1949 (Correct answer)
- Competition in Contracting Act of 1984
- Government Performance and Results Act of 1993
Correct answer: Federal Property and Administrative Services Act of 1949
The Federal Property and Administrative Services Act of 1949 established GSA and granted it authority to manage and dispose of federal real and personal property.
Question 73: What is the threshold below which agencies may use the simplified ordering procedures for GSA Schedule purchases?
- $10,000
- $25,000 (Correct answer)
- $2,500
- $150,000
Correct answer: $25,000
For Schedule orders at or below the micro-purchase threshold adjustments, simplified procedures apply, but for orders under the simplified acquisition threshold of $25,000, agencies can order directly without seeking additional quotes.
Question 74: The 'actual expense method' for travel per diem allows:
- Reimbursement of actual lodging costs up to 300% of the standard per diem rate
- Reimbursement of all travel expenses without any dollar limits
- Automatic reimbursement for all meals without requiring receipts
- Reimbursement based on actual costs when standard per diem is insufficient, with agency approval (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Reimbursement based on actual costs when standard per diem is insufficient, with agency approval
The actual expense method allows reimbursement of actual costs that exceed the standard per diem rate when justified and with prior agency approval.
Question 75: A contractor submits a final invoice marked 'Final' but the COR believes some deliverables are still outstanding. The CORRECT action is to:
- Pay the final invoice in full since the contractor certified completion
- Accept the invoice conditionally and withhold 10% as retainage
- Terminate the contract for default immediately
- Withhold payment and issue a deficiency notice identifying the outstanding deliverables (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Withhold payment and issue a deficiency notice identifying the outstanding deliverables
The CO should withhold payment and issue written notice identifying specific outstanding deliverables before accepting any final invoice.
Question 76: A contracting officer discovers that a contractor's invoices consistently lack required supporting documentation. The BEST corrective action is to:
- Immediately terminate the contract for default
- Reduce the contract price by 10% for non-compliance
- Issue a cure notice giving the contractor 10 days to correct the deficiency
- Withhold payment and issue a written notice specifying the deficiency (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Withhold payment and issue a written notice specifying the deficiency
Withholding payment and issuing a written deficiency notice is the appropriate first step when invoices lack required documentation.
Question 77: A GSA contract includes a liquidated damages clause. What is the primary legal purpose of liquidated damages in federal contracting?
- To compensate the government for overhead costs caused by delays
- To penalize a contractor for poor quality work
- To provide a pre-agreed measure of damages when actual harm is difficult to calculate (Correct answer)
- To allow the government to recover lost profits on future contracts
Correct answer: To provide a pre-agreed measure of damages when actual harm is difficult to calculate
Liquidated damages represent a reasonable pre-estimate of harm when actual damages from delay or non-performance would be difficult to ascertain.
Question 78: What tool helps users navigate the FAR system online?
- FedBizOps
- SAM.gov
- Acquisition.gov (Correct answer)
- FBO.gov
Correct answer: Acquisition.gov
Acquisition.gov is the official website that serves as a central hub for federal acquisition resources, including the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR). It provides users with easy access to the FAR, agency supplements, and other procurement-related information, making it an essential tool for navigating the complex federal contracting landscape. It acts as a comprehensive online portal for federal acquisition professionals.
Question 79: What does the acronym 'CCR' stand for in historical GSA procurement documentation, and what replaced it?
- Central Contractor Registry; replaced by SAM.gov (Correct answer)
- Contractor Compliance Report; replaced by CPARS
- Contract Change Request; replaced by SF-30
- Cost Claim Record; replaced by WAWF
Correct answer: Central Contractor Registry; replaced by SAM.gov
The Central Contractor Registry (CCR) was the legacy registration system for federal contractors; it was consolidated into SAM.gov in 2012.
Question 80: The False Claims Act imposes liability on contractors who knowingly submit a false claim. The current civil penalty range per false claim is approximately:
- $13,946 to $27,894 (Correct answer)
- $500 to $5,000
- $1,379 to $2,759
- $50,000 to $100,000
Correct answer: $13,946 to $27,894
As of recent annual inflation adjustments, False Claims Act civil penalties range from approximately $13,946 to $27,894 per false claim, in addition to treble damages.
Question 81: Under what circumstances may an agency use a prior-year expired appropriation to adjust or liquidate an obligation?
- Only with written approval from the GAO and OMB
- Never โ once an appropriation expires, it cannot be used for any purpose
- Only for obligations under $10,000 that were inadvertently not liquidated
- Only to adjust or liquidate a valid obligation properly incurred before the appropriation expired, during a 5-year expired account period (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Only to adjust or liquidate a valid obligation properly incurred before the appropriation expired, during a 5-year expired account period
Expired appropriations remain available for 5 years after expiration solely to adjust or liquidate valid prior-year obligations, but cannot be used for new obligations.
Question 82: What does FAR require for contract file documentation?
- Only invoices
- Vendor brochures
- Sufficient documentation to explain decisions (Correct answer)
- Technical manuals
Correct answer: Sufficient documentation to explain decisions
FAR Part 4, 'Administrative Matters,' specifically mandates that contract files must contain sufficient documentation to constitute a complete history of the transaction. This means that all decisions, actions, and justifications throughout the procurement process must be clearly recorded and explained. This requirement ensures transparency, accountability, and provides an auditable trail for all contract actions.
Question 83: Why is documentation important in federal procurement?
- To support compliance and oversight (Correct answer)
- To reduce training
- To simplify audits
- To meet filing quotas
Correct answer: To support compliance and oversight
Documentation is paramount in federal procurement because it provides a clear, auditable record of all decisions, actions, and communications throughout the acquisition process. This comprehensive record is essential for demonstrating compliance with the FAR and other regulations, facilitating oversight by internal and external auditors, and ensuring accountability. Proper documentation protects both the government and the contractor in case of disputes or reviews.
Question 84: Under the Debt Collection Improvement Act, which agency is the central authority for collecting delinquent federal non-tax debts?
- Government Accountability Office
- GSA Office of Inspector General
- Department of the Treasury (Correct answer)
- Office of Management and Budget
Correct answer: Department of the Treasury
The Department of the Treasury's Bureau of the Fiscal Service manages the centralized collection of delinquent federal non-tax debts under the Debt Collection Improvement Act.
Question 85: What is a 'reprogramming' in federal financial management?
- Shifting funds within an appropriation account from one program, project, or activity to another (Correct answer)
- Transferring funds between different appropriation accounts with congressional approval
- Moving funds between different fiscal years
- The process of updating agency financial management software systems
Correct answer: Shifting funds within an appropriation account from one program, project, or activity to another
Reprogramming involves reallocating funds within a single appropriation account to support different activities than originally planned, often requiring congressional notification or approval.
Question 86: What defines 'Temporary Duty' (TDY) travel for federal employees?
- Travel for training and professional development purposes only
- Permanent relocation of an employee to a new duty station
- International travel for diplomatic or foreign affairs missions
- Official travel away from an employee's permanent duty station for a temporary period (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Official travel away from an employee's permanent duty station for a temporary period
TDY (Temporary Duty) refers to official travel in which a federal employee temporarily performs duties away from their permanent duty station.
Question 87: Under FAR 9.104-1, which of the following is NOT a standard for contractor responsibility?
- Lowest price among all offerors (Correct answer)
- A satisfactory record of integrity and business ethics
- Adequate financial resources to perform the contract
- Ability to comply with proposed delivery schedule
Correct answer: Lowest price among all offerors
FAR 9.104-1 standards for responsibility include financial resources, ability to meet schedule, a satisfactory performance record, and business ethics โ price is not a responsibility factor.
Question 88: Under FAR 32.905, what is the required payment due date for commercial items if no specific due date is stated in the contract?
- 45 days after contract award
- 15 days after receipt of a proper invoice
- 10 days if the Prompt Payment discount is taken
- 30 days after receipt of a proper invoice or acceptance, whichever is later (Correct answer)
Correct answer: 30 days after receipt of a proper invoice or acceptance, whichever is later
For commercial items, the Prompt Payment Act requires payment within 30 days after receipt of a proper invoice or acceptance of the items, whichever is later.
Question 89: What is the Prompt Payment Act's standard requirement for federal agency invoice payments?
- Agencies must pay within 30 days of receiving a proper invoice or the acceptance of goods/services (Correct answer)
- Agencies must pay within 10 days of receiving a proper invoice
- Agencies must pay within 45 days of contract award
- Agencies must pay within 60 days for construction contracts
Correct answer: Agencies must pay within 30 days of receiving a proper invoice or the acceptance of goods/services
The Prompt Payment Act requires federal agencies to pay contractors within 30 days of receiving a proper invoice or accepting goods/services, with interest penalties for late payment.
Question 90: Under the Antideficiency Act, what is prohibited without proper congressional authorization?
- Purchasing supplies from foreign vendors
- Transferring funds between appropriation accounts without approval
- Hiring contractors without a competitive bidding process
- Obligating or expending funds in excess of or before an appropriation is made (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Obligating or expending funds in excess of or before an appropriation is made
The Antideficiency Act prohibits federal employees from obligating or spending government funds beyond what Congress has appropriated, preventing unauthorized spending.
Question 91: Under the FMR, what is the minimum period that personal property must be screened within the federal government before being offered to other disposal recipients?
- 7 days
- 15 days (Correct answer)
- 60 days
- 30 days
Correct answer: 15 days
Federal agencies must screen excess personal property within the federal government for a minimum of 15 days to allow other agencies the opportunity to claim the property before proceeding to other disposal methods.
Question 92: What is a 'blanket travel authorization' in federal travel management?
- An authorization covering multiple recurring trips for a defined period (Correct answer)
- An unlimited travel budget approved for senior agency officials
- An authorization that covers international travel only
- An authorization covering a single specific trip with all expenses pre-approved
Correct answer: An authorization covering multiple recurring trips for a defined period
A blanket travel authorization covers multiple recurring trips within a specified period, reducing the administrative burden of issuing individual authorizations for each trip.
Question 93: Which agency maintains the FAR?
- HHS
- IRS
- EPA
- GSA, DoD, and NASA (Correct answer)
Correct answer: GSA, DoD, and NASA
The Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) is jointly maintained and issued by the Department of Defense (DoD), the General Services Administration (GSA), and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). These three agencies form the FAR Council, which is responsible for developing, issuing, and maintaining the FAR. This collaborative effort ensures consistent procurement policies and procedures across the federal government.
Question 94: What is the significance of the 'non-manufacturer rule' in small business set-aside procurements?
- The rule requires all set-aside products to carry a 'Made in USA' label
- A small business that does not manufacture the product it sells must supply the product of a small business manufacturer (Correct answer)
- Large manufacturers are prohibited from bidding on set-aside contracts
- Non-manufacturers are automatically disqualified from small business set-asides
Correct answer: A small business that does not manufacture the product it sells must supply the product of a small business manufacturer
The non-manufacturer rule requires that small business resellers (non-manufacturers) on set-aside contracts supply products made by small business manufacturers, ensuring the set-aside benefits flow to small businesses throughout the supply chain.
Question 95: What is the consequence of non-compliance in procurement documentation?
- Reduced paperwork
- More awards
- Improved efficiency
- Legal and financial penalties (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Legal and financial penalties
Non-compliance with procurement documentation requirements can lead to serious consequences for federal agencies and individuals. This can include legal challenges, contract protests, audit findings, and even financial penalties or disciplinary actions. Proper documentation is crucial for demonstrating adherence to regulations and avoiding these adverse outcomes, ensuring integrity and accountability in federal spending.
Question 96: Which transportation mode receives priority consideration under the Federal Travel Regulation?
- The mode chosen by the traveler at supervisor discretion
- Government vehicle always takes first priority over all other modes
- Personal vehicle over commercial air when the employee prefers driving
- Common carrier (air, rail, bus) when cost-effective and time-efficient (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Common carrier (air, rail, bus) when cost-effective and time-efficient
The FTR prioritizes common carriers such as commercial air, rail, or bus when they are the most cost-effective and time-efficient option for official travel.
Question 97: A contractor performing work under a GSA Schedules contract must report sales and remit the Industrial Funding Fee (IFF) how often?
- Monthly
- Annually
- Quarterly (Correct answer)
- Semi-annually
Correct answer: Quarterly
GSA Schedule contractors must report sales and remit the IFF (currently 0.75%) to GSA on a quarterly basis through the 72A Reporting System.
Question 98: What federal law requires agencies to report all federally owned property to a central database and sets performance standards for asset management?
- Federal Real Property Asset Management Executive Order 13327 (Correct answer)
- Federal Buildings Personnel Training Act
- Federal Assets Sale and Transfer Act of 2016
- Freeze the Footprint Policy
Correct answer: Federal Real Property Asset Management Executive Order 13327
Executive Order 13327 established the Federal Real Property Profile database and created the Federal Real Property Council to improve the management and use of federal real property assets.
Question 99: What is the difference between 'no-year' and 'one-year' appropriations?
- One-year funds require congressional reauthorization each year; no-year funds do not
- No-year funds expire at the end of the fiscal year; one-year funds never expire
- One-year appropriations expire at the end of the fiscal year; no-year funds remain available until expended (Correct answer)
- No-year appropriations can only be used for capital projects; one-year funds cover operations
Correct answer: One-year appropriations expire at the end of the fiscal year; no-year funds remain available until expended
One-year (annual) appropriations expire at fiscal year end and must be obligated within that year, while no-year (permanent) appropriations remain available until the agency obligates them.
Question 100: What is the Industrial Funding Fee (IFF) charged on GSA Schedule contracts?
- A fee charged to agencies for using Schedule contracts, currently 0.75%
- A fee charged per transaction processed through GSA Advantage!
- A one-time application fee paid by vendors to get on the Schedule
- A fee paid by Schedule vendors to GSA as a percentage of reported sales, currently 0.75% (Correct answer)
Correct answer: A fee paid by Schedule vendors to GSA as a percentage of reported sales, currently 0.75%
The IFF is a fee that Schedule contractors pay to GSA, currently 0.75% of all Schedule sales, which helps fund the administration of the Schedule program.
GSA Certified General Services Administration Specialist
The GSA Specialist certification exam tests professionals on U.S. General Services Administration policies, federal acquisition services, and government contracting procedures across schedule management, financial management, property oversight, and IT procurement.
Exam Rules
- You can skip questions and return to them later
- Flag questions for review before submitting
- No feedback shown until you submit the entire exam
- Unanswered questions count as wrong โ answer everything
- 10 pretest questions are mixed in and don't affect your score
- Timer auto-submits when time runs out
- Your progress is auto-saved every 30 seconds