Overview
FAR 53.228 identifies and prescribes the Standard Forms (SF) and Optional Forms (OF) required for fulfilling bonding and insurance obligations as established in FAR Part 28. It provides a centralized list of authorized templates for bid guarantees, performance and payment protections, and surety-related legal instruments.
Key Rules
- Form Prescription: The section lists specific forms for various bonding scenarios, including Bid Bonds (SF 24), Performance Bonds (SF 25), and Payment Bonds (SF 25A).
- Reproduction Authority: Most forms listed are authorized for local reproduction, meaning agencies and contractors can print their own copies, with the specific exception of SF 25B (Continuation Sheet).
- Non-Construction Differentiation: Explicit forms are prescribed for requirements outside of construction, specifically SF 1416 (Payment Bond) and SF 1418 (Performance Bond) for "Other than Construction Contracts."
- Surety Requirements: Standardized forms are provided for individual surety affidavits (SF 28), reinsurance agreements (SF 273, 274, 275), and the consent of sureties (SF 1414, 1415).
- Source of Truth: All forms are officially maintained and accessible through the GSA Forms Library.
Practical Implications
- Compliance and Validity: Contractors must use these specific, standardized forms to ensure their financial guarantees are legally binding and acceptable to the Contracting Officer; using non-standard templates can lead to bid responsiveness issues.
- Administrative Accuracy: Because different forms apply to construction versus service or supply contracts, administrative staff must carefully cross-reference FAR Part 28 to ensure the correct version (e.g., SF 25 vs. SF 1418) is submitted.