Commentary by Rob Brant

As Round 2 Bid Registration ends today at 9:00 PM, the most common complaint is not the ability to register the Authorized Official, but the ability to register a Backup Authorized Official (BAO) or End User (EU).

Some AMEPA members have contacted the National Supplier Clearinghouse (NSC) several times trying to resolve Authorized Official issues to register a Backup Authorized Official. Some have not been able to register a BAO because they thought the intended registrant was listed on their 855-S form.

They found out that person was only listed as a Director or Manager but not an Authorized Official. Others have wanted to create a BAO to complete the process god forbid something happens to them, or they need help with this project and need to give access to someone else.

Here are a few scenarios that I have been asked many times since bid registration began:

1) I intend to handle everything myself, but want a BAO to finish the process god forbid something happens to me; or I have no one else listed on the 855-S; or I am a Sole Proprietor, therefore there is no one else; or I waited past the TARGET Registration Deadlines, so there is no time to update anything with the NSC.

First, I would run any ideas past the CBIC ombudsman. It may sound ridiculous, but if it is important enough to bid and finish the process, I would think about leaving my ID and Password with my spouse/child/business partner, or next in line  to control the business (executor) if something happens to you.

2) I am really overwhelmed and don't have time to do this, so I'll just give my ID and Password to one of my managers or consultant.

I would not give my User ID or Password to anyone. There is nothing wrong with working with consultants.I used one in Round One. But the CBIC has created a system with proper security provisions for a reason. Only the AO has the ability to finalize Form A and B electronically. If want to trust someone else to blindly submit your bid, then DON'T BID. If you are unsure, then read the fine print on the CBIC website.

3) What else can I do to lighten the load?

It may be appropriate to set-up a trusted person as an End User (EUs). Though EUs go through the same process, they must enter their Name, Social Security Number and Date of Birth in order to register. Once submitted the AO accepts the End User. They will have access to the system, but only have the ability to enter information in Form B. They cannot modify Form A or finalize the bid. Again, only the AO or BAO can finalize the bid submission on DBIDS.

If you have any questions about the registration process, please contact the CBIC customer service center at 877-577-5331. Ask for the contact information for your Ombudsman and send your ombudsman an email, so you have your answer in writing.

Click for the link of CBIC's "Last Day to Register" update