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Bid protest

A bid protest is a formal objection by a bidder that a county's solicitation or award broke the rules. It must usually be filed in writing within a short deadline set by the county or state.

If you believe the specifications unfairly exclude you, or the award went to a bidder that shouldn't have won, you may be able to protest.

Before you protest

  • Read the protest section of the solicitation and the county's purchasing policy. Deadlines can be just a few days after the award recommendation.
  • Request the bid tabulation and, where allowed, the winning bid.
  • Ask for a debrief. Often a conversation resolves the concern, or shows how to win next time.

Filing

Protests are usually written, addressed to the purchasing agent, and must explain the specific rule broken and the remedy you want. Protests about the specifications generally must be filed before bids are due.

Last reviewed Oct 30, 2026. This is general information, not legal advice. Laws and thresholds change; check the current statute and the bid documents.

What Is Bid protest? | FactWise