Avoiding GSA Scams

There are several 3rd party GSA solutions available to independent business owners: boutique consultants; researchers & writers; law firms with a government specialization; seminars; and countless self-help publications. Some offer more value than others and unfortunately, a few are just out to make a quick buck at the expense of small business owners. This page is designed to help educate you on some of the pitfalls that await unsuspecting small business owners.

Below are some helpful tips to guide you:

1. Research, research, research. Any time you invest in consultancy services, you need to conduct a systematic due diligence review of the company or service offering.

2. Review the service provider’s track record – how many applications have been completed and submitted to the GSA. How many GSA Schedules have been awarded this year? How many were awarded in past years? Do they have a verifiable history of success with the GSA?

3. Get to know your representative, invest your time and ask about their experiences with the company and what services they will provide you with as well as how many other account reps you can expect to work on your account.

4. Before you invest in a business opportunity, get specific information (in writing) from the company such as how long they have been in business, where they are located ask for a physical address – do they own their building or rent? Do not settle for a P.O. Box. Reputable firms do not need to hide behind anonymous post office box numbers.

5. Ask your prospective consultant how many customers they have and how many full-time processing staff they have working those files. Often times, smaller consultants will sell numerous services and then hire on contractors to clear a back-log only to produce an inferior product that is ultimately rejected by the GSA.

6. Try to use your credit card instead of cash if you invest in a business opportunity. That way if there is an issue, it may be easier to dispute the charges with your credit card company rather than trying to get your money back from the fraudulent company.

7. Review the leadership team or senior staff of the company you want to do business with. The stronger the team, the higher the odds of a professional end product. Important note regarding doing business with the GSA: Accuracy and attention to detail is one of the primary factors in being awarded a schedule.

8. The Better Business Bureau is an excellent source of separating legitimate companies from fraudulent ones. You can always review their record, complaints and more importantly, see if the complaints have been resolved – a true measure of legitimacy. Review our rating here.

Please click here if you have any questions or would like additional information.