Just as with my Quick Hitter series on the FAR, my Quick Hitter series on the GSAR is meant to simplify contracting business with the government. This time with GSA.
GSAR 529.470 Domestic Contract Clauses
Sometimes, federal contracts can have what many consider to be hidden language or what some consider to be trickery. What is considered a fully-loaded price can be a bit difficult to understand. Whereas, the same result might be an attempt at congruency accross the government, each agency and departments within have their own language and documentation which may be confusing.
GSA has an agency-specific clause that requires taxes be included in the fully-loaded price (552.229-70). They also require taxes split out on an invoice for contracts allowable to be used by Washington DC even if a tax exemption occurs (552.229-71).
I worked in the FSS program within the VA. Their services team has a document 03-1d which is a pricing build-up. This spreadsheet workbook is actually considered certified cost-and-pricing data and is non-negotiable in that arena. However, it gives a great snapshot of how the hourly rate of a medical service provider builds up to the fully-loaded rate which is that being proposed. I’ve perused GSA’s pricing spreadsheet and if certified cost-and-pricing data is not negotiable then the vendor is expected to know what the fully-loaded price is to include. In GSA’s case, that includes taxes at all levels if the contract value falls between the MPT and the SAT.
Nobody’s trying to trick anybody. They are simply covering their acquisition and they don’t have time to hold your hand. I do and I will at Robertson KX.
If you think I can help you then email nicholas.s.robertson@outlook.com for your introductory email and free consultation.
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