The "Suspension & Debarment" Trap

The "Suspension & Debarment" Trap

Procurement (Finding Code I) is a minefield. One specific area trips up almost everyone: Suspension & Debarment.

The Finding

Sample Text: "During the review... it was noted there was no review of contractors to ensure they were not debarred."

You cannot contract with parties that have been suspended or debarred by the federal government.

The Actionable Advice

1. The Fix: Check SAM.gov before signing any contract expected to equal or exceed $25,000.
2. The Proof: This is where most fail. You checked, but you didn't prove it. Print the screen or save the PDF of the search result. If you didn't document it, in the eyes of the auditor, you didn't do it.