GovCon Acronym Decoder
Government contracting runs on shorthand. Search any acronym and get a plain-English definition, when you will run into it, whether you need one, and where it comes from.
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6 of 172 terms matching "FAR"
Federal Acquisition Regulation
The primary rulebook for how the federal government buys. Every federal contract is built on it, and its clauses become part of your contract.
When you see it
Cited constantly in solicitations, usually as clause numbers like 52.212-4.
Do you need it
You do not need to memorize it, but you must read the clauses actually incorporated into your contract.
Where it comes from
Issued jointly by DoD, GSA, and NASA. Free at acquisition.gov.
Federal Acquisition Regulation
The primary rulebook for how the federal government buys. Every federal contract is built on it, and its clauses become part of your contract.
When you see it
Cited constantly in solicitations, usually as clause numbers like 52.212-4.
Do you need it
You do not need to memorize it, but you must read the clauses actually incorporated into your contract.
Where it comes from
Issued jointly by DoD, GSA, and NASA. Free at acquisition.gov.
Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement
The Department of Defense's supplement to the FAR, adding defense-specific rules and clauses.
When you see it
On any DoD contract or subcontract.
Do you need it
Yes if you work with DoD. DFARS 252.204-7012 (safeguarding covered defense information) is the one most contractors trip over.
Where it comes from
Department of Defense.
Department of Defense
The largest federal buyer by far, covering the military departments and defense agencies.
When you see it
In solicitation headers, forecasts, and outreach events. Knowing which component inside the agency actually buys what you sell is the real work.
Do you need it
If this agency buys what you sell, start with their small business office. They publish forecasts, host outreach, and will take a capability briefing.
Where it comes from
Federal agency. Small business support runs through their OSDBU or equivalent office.
Federal Aviation Administration
Uses its own Acquisition Management System rather than the FAR.
When you see it
In solicitation headers, forecasts, and outreach events. Knowing which component inside the agency actually buys what you sell is the real work.
Do you need it
If this agency buys what you sell, start with their small business office. They publish forecasts, host outreach, and will take a capability briefing.
Where it comes from
Federal agency. Small business support runs through their OSDBU or equivalent office.
Flow-Down Clause
A FAR or agency clause the prime is required to pass through to subcontractors, making it binding on you too.
When you see it
In the terms attached to any subcontract you sign.
Do you need it
Read them. You inherit real obligations, including cybersecurity and labor requirements.
Where it comes from
FAR and agency supplements.
Related terms
U.S. Postal Service
Buys under its own supplying principles and practices rather than the FAR.
When you see it
In solicitation headers, forecasts, and outreach events. Knowing which component inside the agency actually buys what you sell is the real work.
Do you need it
If this agency buys what you sell, start with their small business office. They publish forecasts, host outreach, and will take a capability briefing.
Where it comes from
Federal agency. Small business support runs through their OSDBU or equivalent office.
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