Starting a business as an 8(a) contractor can be a great way to make money and provide services to the federal government. However, there are certain rules you must abide by in order to remain compliant with the Small Business Administration (SBA).
In this article, we will go over essential rules all 8(a) contractors must adhere to in order to avoid any costly penalties or mistakes. Keep reading to learn more!
Fundamental Rules to Follow as 8a Certified Contractors
As an 8(a) Certified Contractor, you are expected to adhere to certain rules and regulations mandated by the Small Business Administration (SBA). Knowing and following these rules is essential for maintaining your certification status.
Here are some of the most fundamental rules that 8(a) Certified Contractors should always abide by:
1. Maintain Eligibility Requirements
Maintain your eligibility. You must meet the 8(a) certification requirements each year to remain eligible for government contracts.
2. Size Standards
8a contractors must meet the SBA’s size standards to be eligible for business opportunities. Generally, this means that they should have fewer than 500 employees and annual receipts of less than $7 million annually.
3. Annual Business Plan
8a contractors must have an annual business plan that is kept up to date and submitted to the SBA. This should include information about their projected goals, financial performance, and any other key details about their operations.
4. Yearly Book Review
8a contractors must complete a yearly review of their books and records to ensure compliance with the SBA’s standards.
5. Proof of Ability to Perform Work
8a contractors must be ready to provide proof of their ability to perform the work they are bidding on at any time. This includes contracts, licenses, certifications, or other documents demonstrating their qualifications.
6. Surety Bond
All 8a contractors must have a surety bond in place to show they can fulfill their contracts. This bond is a guarantee that they will be able to complete the job and have sufficient funds if something goes wrong.
7. Financial Records Maintenance
8a contractors must ensure that their finances are kept in order at all times, as this could affect their eligibility for future business opportunities with the federal government.
8. Mentor or Sponsor
All 8a contractors must have a mentor or sponsor who can provide them with guidance. This person should be someone they trust and is knowledgeable about the 8a program.
9. Comply with FAR Rules
All 8a contracts must follow the rules of the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR). This includes submitting all required documentation before bidding on any contracts and ensuring all bids are accurate and up to date.
10. Required Training
8a contractors must complete all training, seminars, or workshops required by the SBA in order to remain eligible for business opportunities.
11. Subcontracting Regulations
8a contractors must be aware of the regulations regarding subcontracting and ensure they are complied with at all times. This includes setting aside a certain portion of contracts for small businesses whose owners are socially or economically disadvantaged.
12. SBA Regulations Compliance
All 8a contractors must comply with the Small Business Act and other SBA regulations that apply to their specific field or industry.
13. Misrepresentation Prevention
8a contractors must not misrepresent themselves or any of their personnel in any way. This includes submitting false documents or providing inaccurate information about their qualifications.
14. Records Maintenance
8a contractors must keep detailed records of all activities related to their business and provide reports on a regular basis to the SBA when requested.
15. Periodic Compliance Training Session Attendance
All 8a contractors must attend periodic compliance training sessions in order to stay up to date on the latest regulations and requirements.
Valet Works Serving as #1 8A Certified Contractor
Valet Works is committed to ensuring that we remain compliant with all SBA regulations and requirements as an 8a contractor, and we go above and beyond to ensure the highest standards of quality and excellence in our work. We pride ourselves on providing outstanding customer service and timely results, and we are always available to assist with any questions or concerns you may have.
Our team of experts is here to help make your 8a contracting experience as smooth and successful as possible. Whether it’s filing paperwork, submitting bids, or completing training sessions, Valet Works will do everything we can to, ensure that our clients are in compliance with all the necessary regulations.
Contact us today for more information about our services!