Estimators + contract admins · 7 min
Which wage-determination modification controls?
SAM.gov may show a newer modification than the one in an awarded contract. That does not by itself replace the contract document.
The applicable wage determination is selected and incorporated through the contracting process. The relevant lock-in and update rules depend on the procurement and contract action.
Separate bid research from contract payroll
When pricing a new solicitation, use the wage determination identified by the solicitation and monitor formal amendments. For an awarded contract, begin with the wage determination and modification actually incorporated into the contract.
Do not update payroll rates merely because a later modification appears online. Also do not assume an older contract document is correct if the agency formally modified the contract.
Preserve the source trail
Keep the solicitation page, amendments, incorporated wage determination, notice to proceed or award material, and any contract modification together. Record the decision and modification number in the estimate, payroll setup, and weekly submission.
If the contract package and SAM.gov history conflict, pause and ask the contracting officer which document governs before relying on the rate.