What is FAR 52.217-8?

FAR 52.217-8 (Option To Extend Services.) is a federal acquisition regulation clause that may be included in government contracts. It falls under the options category.

When is FAR 52.217-8 required?

FAR 52.217-8 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 52.217-8 flow down to subcontractors?

Whether FAR 52.217-8 flows down depends on the specific clause language and contract type. Review the clause text for flow-down provisions.

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52.217-8 — Option To Extend Services.

Last updated: 2026-04

Researched by the BidStride Research Team

What This Clause Requires

FAR 52.217-8 — Option To Extend Services.. 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

52.217-8 Option To Extend Services. As prescribed in 17.208(f), insert a clause substantially the same as the following: Option To Extend Services (NOV 1999) The Government may require continued performance of any services within the limits and at the rates specified in the contract. These rates may be adjusted only as a result of revisions to prevailing labor rates provided by the Secretary of Labor. The option provision may be exercised more than once, but the total extention of performance hereunder shall not exceed 6 months. The Contracting Officer may exercise the option by written notice to the Contractor within ___ [insert the period of time within which the Contracting Officer may exercise the option]. (End of clause) [54 FR 29283, July 11, 1989, as amended at 64 FR 51843, Sept. 24, 1999]
Source: eCFR, 48 CFR 52.217-8 (https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-48/section-52.217-8)

Compliance Checklist

As prescribed in 17.208(f), insert a clause substantially the same as the following: Option To Extend Services (NOV 1999) The Government may require continued performance of any services within the limits and at the rates specified in the contract.
The option provision may be exercised more than once, but the total extention of performance hereunder shall not exceed 6 months.

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.