A contracting officer may take a contractual action (a purchase, modification, or termination) exceeding his or her authority after receiving a written delegation of authority specific to the action from a contracting officer having and authorized to redelegate the required authority. The delegation must be placed in the contract file. When determining the appropriate redelegation authority, contracting officers must use their business judgment to estimate the probable total dollar value of the action or contract type, such as an indefinite delivery contract or ordering agreement, including any extensions such as options or renewals which may increase the value of the contract beyond the initial term or quantity. Written approval of the proposed contract award or modification from the appropriate authority (see above) serves as the delegation of authority required if the proposed award or modification exceeds the contracting officer’s delegated authority.
