Summary
If you’ve ever asked, “Who can actually buy from the GSA Schedule?”—you’re not alone. The General Services Administration Multiple Award Schedule (MAS) is one of the most widely used procurement vehicles in the federal government, but eligibility goes beyond just federal agencies.This guide breaks down who can buy from GSA, when they can use the GSA MAS, and what that means for public sector buyers and vendors alike.
What Is the GSA Multiple Award Schedule (MAS)?
The GSA MAS is a long-term, governmentwide contract program that provides federal, state, local, tribal, and other authorized buyers access to commercial products and services at pre-negotiated, fair-and-reasonable prices.
MAS contracts streamline procurement by:
- Reducing administrative burden
- Shortening acquisition timelines
- Ensuring compliance with federal acquisition rules
- Expanding access to qualified vendors
Who Can Buy From the GSA Schedule?
Eligibility to purchase through the GSA MAS is governed by GSA policy and specific statutory authorities. Below are the primary categories of authorized GSA buyers.
1. Federal Government Agencies
All federal executive branch agencies are eligible to buy from GSA Schedule contracts.
This includes:
- Cabinet-level departments
- Independent federal agencies
- Federal commissions and boards
- Military departments and defense agencies
Federal buyers use GSA MAS for everything from equipment and supplies to professional, technical, and facility-related services.
Key point: Federal agencies are the core users of the GSA MAS program.
2. State and Local Governments (Under Specific Programs)
State and local governments may purchase from GSA Schedule contracts, but only under certain authorized programs—not for all purchases.
Cooperative Purchasing Program
Eligible state and local entities may purchase IT products and services and law enforcement/security solutions through MAS.
Eligible buyers include:
- States and territories
- Cities, counties, and municipalities
- Public school districts and universities
- Special districts and authorities
Disaster Purchasing Program
State and local governments may use GSA Schedule contracts to support:
- Disaster preparedness
- Emergency response
- Disaster recovery
This authority applies whether a federal disaster declaration has been issued or not.
3. Tribal Governments and Tribal Organizations
Federally recognized tribal governments and authorized tribal entities may be eligible to purchase through GSA sources, including MAS contracts.
Eligibility is determined by GSA and may require confirmation based on:
- Organizational structure
- Intended use of the purchase
- Applicable statutory authority
4. Other Authorized Organizations (With Eligibility Determinations)
Certain non-federal and quasi-government organizations may qualify to buy from GSA if they receive a formal eligibility determination from GSA.
Important limitations apply:
- Purchases must be for the organization’s own use
- Purchases generally cannot be for resale
- Eligibility does not automatically transfer to contractors or affiliates
Each organization’s eligibility is evaluated individually.
5. Special Purpose and Emergency Authorities
GSA also authorizes purchasing through MAS contracts for specific circumstances, including:
- Public health emergencies
- National security needs
- Continuity of government operations
These authorities are narrowly scoped and tied to the nature of the emergency or mission.
Who Cannot Buy From GSA?
Understanding who cannot buy from GSA is just as important.
In general:
- Private companies cannot buy from GSA for commercial resale
- Contractors cannot use GSA pricing for their own commercial work
- Individuals are not eligible buyers
- Eligibility does not automatically extend to subcontractors
Unauthorized use of GSA contracts can result in compliance issues for both buyers and sellers.
Why GSA Eligibility Matters
For public sector buyers, knowing whether you’re eligible to purchase through GSA can mean:
- Faster procurement
- Reduced competition requirements
- Access to vetted vendors
- Transparent pricing
For vendors, understanding who can buy from GSA helps ensure:
- Proper order acceptance
- Contract compliance
- Accurate marketing and outreach
- Reduced audit and risk exposure
How Aldevra Supports GSA Buyers
At Aldevra, we work daily with federal, state, local, and tribal buyers to navigate GSA MAS purchasing correctly and efficiently. Our team helps customers:
- Confirm eligibility
- Identify the correct GSA program
- Ensure purchases align with GSA rules
- Source compliant products and services quickly
We believe GSA MAS should make procurement easier—not more confusing.
See what Aldevra currently has on GSA, and contact us if there are items you'd like us to add!
Frequently Asked Questions About Buying From GSA (GSA MAS)
Who is allowed to buy from GSA?
Authorized buyers include federal government agencies, and—under specific programs—state and local governments, tribal governments, and certain approved organizations. Eligibility depends on the buyer type and the purchasing authority being used.
Can state and local governments buy from GSA?
Yes, state and local governments can buy from GSA, but only under authorized programs such as Cooperative Purchasing (for IT and security-related solutions) and Disaster Purchasing. They are not eligible for all GSA Schedule purchases.
Can anyone buy from a GSA Schedule contractor?
No. GSA pricing is not open to the general public. Only eligible government and authorized entities may place orders under a GSA Schedule contract.
Can private companies buy from GSA?
Generally, private companies cannot buy from GSA. GSA contracts are intended for government use and approved public-sector entities—not for commercial or resale purposes.
Can contractors use GSA pricing?
Contractors may not use GSA pricing for their own commercial work. In limited cases, contractors may purchase on behalf of the government only if explicitly authorized and the government is the end user.
Can nonprofits buy from GSA?
Some nonprofits may be eligible, but only if they receive a formal eligibility determination from GSA. Eligibility is not automatic and depends on the organization’s purpose and use of the purchase.
Can tribal governments buy from GSA?
Yes. Federally recognized tribal governments and eligible tribal organizations may purchase through GSA, subject to confirmation of eligibility and proper use.
What is a GSA eligibility determination?
A GSA eligibility determination is an official confirmation issued by GSA that authorizes a non-federal entity to purchase from GSA sources. Not all organizations qualify, and eligibility may be limited in scope.
Can GSA purchases be used for resale?
No. Purchases from GSA are generally prohibited from being resold, unless a specific statutory exception applies.
Can schools and universities buy from GSA?
Public schools, colleges, and universities may be eligible under certain programs, such as Cooperative Purchasing or Disaster Purchasing. Private schools are typically not eligible unless otherwise authorized.
How do I know if my organization is eligible to buy from GSA?
Search for your organization's name here:
- U.S. federal, including U.S. territories
- U.S. state and local
- Tribes and tribal organizations
- Non-governmental organizations
Eligibility depends on:
- Your organization type
- The GSA purchasing program being used
- The purpose of the purchase
Working with an experienced GSA Schedule contractor—or confirming directly with GSA—can help ensure compliance.
Why does GSA buyer eligibility matter?
Using GSA contracts without proper eligibility can lead to:
- Order cancellations
- Audit findings
- Contract compliance issues
Confirming eligibility upfront protects both buyers and vendors. You can request an eligibility determination or seek assistance by emailing gsaeligibilitydetermination@gsa.gov. When submitting a request for an eligibility determination, include the following information:
- The entity type that best describes your organization:
- U.S. federal government
- U.S. state and local government
- Tribe or tribal organization
- Non-governmental organization
- If known, the GSA source(s) you are interested in using. (Example, GSA’s Multiple Award Schedule)
- Supporting documentation, such as a copy of recent Financial Statements or Articles of Incorporation, etc.
- A point of contact and their contact information.
Final Takeaway: GSA Buying Is Powerful—When Used Correctly
The GSA Multiple Award Schedule is not limited to federal agencies alone, but eligibility depends on who you are, what you’re buying, and under which authority.
If you’re unsure whether your organization can buy from GSA—or how to do it properly—getting clarity upfront saves time, money, and compliance headaches.
Need help determining GSA eligibility or using the Schedule the right way?
Contact Aldevra or visit https://www.gsa.gov/policy-regulations/policy/acquisition-policy/eligibility-determinations
