Bid guide
How to bid on DBA Insurance Rate Agreement with the Department of State
What the agency is buying and why it matters
The Department of State is seeking an insurer to provide Defense Base Act (DBA) workers’ compensation insurance. This insurance is for contractors and subcontractors working outside the continental United States on Department of State-awarded contracts where such coverage is required.
This is an unfunded rate agreement. The U.S. Government reimburses DBA insurance carriers for claims paid due to injuries or deaths from war hazards, as defined and covered by the War Hazards Compensation Act. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR 28.305) mandates that contracting officers include DBA insurance in contracts approved or financed under the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, unless a waiver is approved by the Secretary of Labor.
Key dates and what happens at the deadline
This solicitation was published on August 24, 2026. The deadline for submissions is September 15, 2026, at 1:00 PM ET. All responses must be submitted by this time.
It is important to submit your proposal well before the deadline to avoid any last-minute technical issues.
Who this opportunity suits
This opportunity is suitable for insurance firms specializing in workers' compensation, particularly those with experience in Defense Base Act coverage. Firms should be prepared to provide insurance for federal contractors and subcontractors operating internationally.
The relevant category for this opportunity is professional services, specifically within the insurance sector.
How to respond to this solicitation
To access the solicitation, click “View original source” on the portal. If the first click takes you to the portal’s homepage, click it again to go directly to the bid.
You may need to create a free account on the portal to view all associated documents. However, for many bids, you can view documents without an account.
Tips for preparing a competitive response
Ensure your proposal clearly demonstrates your firm's expertise in providing Defense Base Act workers' compensation insurance. Highlight your capacity to handle claims related to war hazards and your understanding of the War Hazards Compensation Act.
Pay close attention to all requirements outlined in the solicitation documents. A thorough and compliant response that directly addresses each point will strengthen your bid. Clearly articulate your proposed rates and any value-added services your firm can provide.
See the live bid — deadline, agency details, and how to respond
Dates and requirements can change via addenda; always verify on the bid page and at the original source before responding.
View this bid on BiddingSimpleThis guide was prepared by BiddingSimple from the solicitation’s public posting. It is not official guidance from State, Department of; the original posting controls.