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Application Review Timeframe

There are several factors that impact how long it takes to complete and approve a New vendor application. Factors that impact the review process include, but are not limited to, how long it takes to compile and submit the necessary documentation, how many applications are awaiting approval, and how quickly audits and inspections in the technical portion can be completed after the initial administrative application is fully submitted and reviewed by the New Vendor Team and Procurement Analysts.  

If a solicitation is open at the time an application is submitted, the approval will most likely not be complete by the bid due date. Please review the procurement schedule and purchase announcements page for upcoming potential opportunities.

Friendly Reminders:

• SAM.gov – SAM is administered by U.S. General Services Administration (GSA), not USDA. For any SAM.gov issue/questions vendors should visit the SAM.gov Help section.
• USDA – USDA staff thoroughly review all administration applications to ensure completeness and compliance with all applicable rules and regulations. USDA may also request additional information from the vendor to determine contractor and financial responsibility, which makes timeframes vary for each vendor.
• Prospective Vendor – The new vendor process can be lengthy but completing the administrative and technical requirements and responding to requests in a timely manner can minimize delays.

Our Process Flow Overview (pdf) shows the keys steps in the approval process for prospective vendors.

Please contact Commodity Procurement Program (CPP) at NewVendor@usda.gov with any questions you may have.