Subpart 53.2
Prescription of Forms
FAR Subpart 53.2 prescribes the mandatory forms for each stage of the federal acquisition process, ensuring standardized and compliant documentation.
Overview
- FAR Subpart 53.2, "Prescription of Forms," outlines the mandatory use and prescription of standard forms for various federal acquisition processes. It provides contracting professionals with guidance on which forms to use for specific procurement actions, ensuring consistency and compliance across government contracts.
- The subpart organizes requirements by acquisition topics, such as administrative matters, publicizing contract actions, contractor qualifications, simplified acquisition procedures, sealed bidding, negotiation, contract types, small business programs, labor laws, bonds and insurance, taxes, contract financing, research and development, construction, contract administration, modifications, government property, transportation, termination, and contractor use of government supply sources.
Key Rules
- Form Prescription by Topic
- Each section prescribes the specific standard or optional forms required for different acquisition functions (e.g., SF 30 for contract modifications, SF 1449 for commercial item acquisitions).
- Mandatory Use of Forms
- Contracting officers must use the prescribed forms for the corresponding acquisition activities unless an exception is stated.
Responsibilities
- Contracting Officers: Must identify and use the correct forms as prescribed for each acquisition process.
- Contractors: Should be familiar with the forms relevant to their contracts and ensure proper completion and submission when required.
- Agencies: Oversee compliance with form usage and maintain up-to-date guidance on prescribed forms.
Practical Implications
- This subpart exists to standardize documentation and processes in federal contracting, reducing errors and ensuring legal sufficiency.
- It impacts daily contracting by dictating which forms must be used for specific actions, such as bids, modifications, or contract administration.
- Common pitfalls include using outdated or incorrect forms, which can delay procurement actions or result in non-compliance.