RFP, RFQ, IFB and RFI: what each one asks you to do
Requests for Proposals, Requests for Quotations, Invitations for Bids and Requests for Information each ask for something different. What to send.
On this page
An RFP asks for a proposal the buyer evaluates and may negotiate, an RFQ asks for a price quote, an IFB asks for a sealed bid that usually goes to the lowest priced responsive bidder, and an RFI only asks for information. The first three can lead to a contract. An RFI cannot.
The four side by side
| Type | Full name | What you send | How the buyer chooses |
|---|---|---|---|
| RFP | Request for Proposals | A proposal: approach, past performance, price | Weighs the factors the RFP lists; may hold discussions |
| RFQ | Request for Quotations | A quote, often with a short technical part | Often lowest price or best value, under simpler steps |
| IFB | Invitation for Bids | A sealed bid on a fixed form | Lowest priced bid that meets every requirement, from a responsible bidder |
| RFI | Request for Information | Answers to the buyer's questions | No award; it informs the buyer's plan |
RFP: Request for Proposals
Used for negotiated buys, often larger or more complex work. The RFP says what to submit and how each part is scored. The buyer may trade off price and quality, and may hold discussions with offerors. Your proposal is an offer, so the buyer can accept it and form a contract.
RFQ: Request for Quotations
Common under simplified acquisition. A quotation is not an offer in the legal sense. The buyer issues an order based on it, and a contract forms when you accept or perform. RFQs still have instructions and deadlines, and some ask for a short technical write-up.
IFB: Invitation for Bids
Used for sealed bidding, most often for construction and clearly defined purchases. Bids are opened at a set time, often in public. The award goes to the lowest priced bid that conforms to the invitation, from a bidder judged responsible. A late or nonconforming bid is usually rejected, and there are no discussions.
RFI: Request for Information
Market research. The buyer wants to learn about the market before deciding how to buy. You send answers, not a price offer. Responding is free and usually needs no SAM.gov registration, and it puts your business in front of the buyer early. When you do register, SAM.gov registration is free. Sources Sought notices work the same way. See Sources Sought: why to answer them.
How to tell which one you have
Read the notice type on SAM.gov and the solicitation's first pages. The cover form and the instructions section say what to submit. Agencies also use their own names, such as "Request for Solutions". The instructions decide, not the label.
Common mistakes
- Sending a full proposal to an RFI, or a bare price to an RFP.
- Treating an RFQ deadline as soft.
- Missing a bid opening time on an IFB. Late bids are rarely accepted.
Can I answer an RFI and still bid later?
Yes. Answering an RFI does not stop you from bidding when the solicitation posts, and it often helps.
Which is best for a first bid?
RFQs and small RFPs are good first bids, because the steps are simpler. Answer RFIs and Sources Sought notices from day one.
Sources
- FAR Part 15: Contracting by negotiation(opens in a new tab)
- FAR 13.004: Legal effect of quotations(opens in a new tab)
- FAR Part 14: Sealed bidding(opens in a new tab)
- FAR 15.201: Exchanges with industry before receipt of proposals(opens in a new tab)
- FAR Part 10: Market research(opens in a new tab)
This lesson is general information, not legal advice. Rules change. Check the official source before you act.
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