What is FAR 52.216-23?

FAR 52.216-23 (Execution and Commencement of Work.) is a federal acquisition regulation clause that may be included in government contracts. It falls under the contract-types category.

When is FAR 52.216-23 required?

FAR 52.216-23 is typically required when the contracting officer determines it's applicable to the specific procurement. Check the solicitation's Section I for included clauses.

Does FAR 52.216-23 flow down to subcontractors?

Whether FAR 52.216-23 flows down depends on the specific clause language and contract type. Review the clause text for flow-down provisions.

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52.216-23 — Execution and Commencement of Work.

Last updated: 2026-04

Researched by the BidStride Research Team

What This Clause Requires

FAR 52.216-23 — Execution and Commencement of Work.. This clause is part of the Federal Acquisition Regulation and may be included in government contracts as a solicitation provision or contract clause.

Official Regulation Text

52.216-23 Execution and Commencement of Work. As prescribed in 16.603-4(b)(1), insert the following clause in solicitations and contracts when a letter contract is contemplated, except that it may be omitted from letter contracts awarded on SF 26: Execution and Commencement of Work (APR 1984) The Contractor shall indicate acceptance of this letter contract by signing three copies of the contract and returning them to the Contracting Officer not later than ___ [ insert date ]. Upon acceptance by both parties, the Contractor shall proceed with performance of the work, including purchase of necessary materials. (End of clause)
Source: eCFR, 48 CFR 52.216-23 (https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-48/section-52.216-23)

Compliance Checklist

As prescribed in 16.603-4(b)(1), insert the following clause in solicitations and contracts when a letter contract is contemplated, except that it may be omitted from letter contracts awarded on SF 26: Execution and Commencement of Work (APR 1984) The Contractor shall indicate acceptance of this letter contract by signing three copies of the contract and returning them to the Contracting Officer not later than ___ [ insert date ].
Upon acceptance by both parties, the Contractor shall proceed with performance of the work, including purchase of necessary materials.

Flow-Down to Subcontractors

No flow-down required

This clause applies only to the prime contract and does not need to be flowed down to subcontractors.

Frequently Asked Questions

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This summary is for informational purposes only and reflects the BidStride Research Team's plain-English interpretation of the regulation. It is not legal advice and does not constitute an attorney-client relationship. Always consult the official Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) or Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) text and qualified legal counsel for compliance decisions.