Question 1

How do I bid on government contracts in Puerto Rico?

Accepted Answer

Commonwealth and municipal agencies procure through formal bids and requests for proposals, generally overseen by the General Services Administration (ASG) under Act 73-2019, which requires registration in the Unified Bidders Registry (RUL). Federal contracts require SAM.gov registration. Contractors must also keep certifications — taxes, ASUME, municipal patents — current to be eligible.

Question 2

What can I do if a contract was awarded unfairly?

Accepted Answer

You can protest. Commonwealth bid awards can be challenged through administrative review before the agency's bid review board and then the Puerto Rico Court of Appeals, with very short deadlines — often 10 to 20 days from the award notice. Federal awards can be protested before the agency, the Government Accountability Office (GAO), or the Court of Federal Claims. Act immediately, because late protests are dismissed.

Question 3

What are the requirements for a valid government contract in Puerto Rico?

Accepted Answer

Puerto Rico law imposes strict formalities: government contracts must be in writing, registered with the Office of the Comptroller, and signed before services begin. Courts apply these rules rigorously — a contractor who performs without a registered written contract generally cannot collect payment, even for completed work. Legal review before performance protects you.

Government Contracts Lawyers in Puerto Rico

Frequently Asked Questions — Government Contracts

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