How to Handle Constructive Acceleration When Your Time Extension Is Denied

When the Government denies your time extension but still demands the original completion date, you are in constructive acceleration — and it can quietly turn a profitable contract into a loss. Former contracting officer Christopher Williams explains what constructive acceleration is, why the Government prioritizes the schedule over the money, and the five steps a federal contractor should take to protect the record and recover the added cost.

This episode covers reading the contract before you act, notifying the Contracting Officer on time, making the excusable delay credible, treating a denial as an order to accelerate, and documenting the acceleration. It also explains the one distinction that protects both sides — "exercise all resources" is not the same as "accelerate."

Educational content only. Follow the requirements and procedures in the specific contract.