g--Benefits Offset Pilot Demonstration (BOPD) Support Services

The Social Security Administration intends to negotiate on a sole source basis with the State of Wisconsin, 1 Wilson Street, Madison, WI 52703 to provide continued support under the Benefits Offset Pilot Demonstration (BOPD). The BOPD began in April 2005 with four states participating in the demonstration. Each of the four states were to design and conduct a pilot study to test a benefit offset provision, with the goal of informing the larger, national demonstration project. States would test an alternative method of expanding and supporting work activity in the Title II disability program. The main interventions in this project were to provide a reduction in benefits ($1 for $2 for earnings above Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA)) after completion of the Trial Work Period and grace months, provide extensive benefits counseling, and double the extended period of eligibility from 36 to 72 months for disability insurance beneficiaries. The initial phase of the demonstration has since concluded. However, the four states are continuing to provide data on beneficiary earnings so that SSA can calculate and pay benefits to these participants for the length of time promised. A new contract is being awarded for the purpose of continuing theses services and will be for a period of 1 year with one option year. The specific requirements encompass collecting earnings estimates and work reports as well as W-2?s and year-end reconciliations from the 80 remaining BOPD participants in the state of Wisconsin. The state of Wisconsin will also be responsible for assisting with final work continuing disability reviews (CDRs) for the participants. The state will provide quarterly updates on work and earnings changes for all current participants. This procurement is being made under the authority of FAR 6.302-1 (10 U.S.C 2304(c)(1)) "Only one responsible source and no other supplies or services will satisfy agency requirements." The sole source is based on the source's unique ability to provide continued services in that they have existing experience administering this unique demonstration and that they have developed the trust necessary to obtain sensitive earnings data from the beneficiaries. This earnings data is critical since SSA relies solely on this information to administer the benefits appropriately. This is not a formal solicitation. No solicitation document is available and telephone requests will not be honored. No contract will be awarded on the basis of offers received in response to this notice. Any response to this notice must show clear and convincing evidence that the required capability is available from other sources and competition would be advantageous to the Government. Specifically, potential sources must identify how they will overcome resistance from beneficiaries in providing the sensitive earnings data and work related information that is personal in nature. If no affirmative written response is received, the procurement will be awarded without further notice. A determination by the Government not to compete this proposed contract based on this notice is solely within the discretion of the Government. Detailed capabilities must be submitted to the following email address by February 14, 2011: [email protected].