What Is a Blanket Purchase Agreement (BPA)?
A blanket purchase agreement (BPA) lets an agency fill repeat needs by setting up "charge accounts" with qualified suppliers, then ordering as needed.
BPA (blanket purchase agreement) in plain English
A BPA sets terms and prices up front so the agency can order quickly later. The government is obligated only for the orders it actually places, so a BPA by itself isn't guaranteed revenue.
Agencies can set up BPAs on their own or with GSA Schedule holders. A Schedule BPA lets an agency make repeat buys from Schedule contractors without starting from scratch each time.
Related terms
- GSA Schedule: The GSA Schedule (Multiple Award Schedule, or MAS) is a long-term governmentwide contract agencies use to buy commercial products and services.
- IDIQ contract: An IDIQ (indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity) contract sets a minimum and maximum, and the government places orders as needs arise in a set period.
- Task order: A task order is an order for services placed under an existing contract, usually an IDIQ. An order for supplies is called a delivery order.
Put it to work
Looking for another term? Browse the full glossary or the government contracting glossary guide.