Federal Contracting Acronym
REA
Request for Equitable Adjustment
Plain-English definition
A Request for Equitable Adjustment is a contractor request for contract adjustment when required performance differs from the contract terms. In federal practice, Request for Equitable Adjustment connects to how contracting officers, program offices, and industry teams interpret requirements, document decisions, and execute awards. Authoritative context is typically found in FAR materials and agency supplements where applicable. Contractors should trace how REA appears in the specific solicitation or contract rather than assuming uniform usage across agencies.
Why it matters
Understanding Request for Equitable Adjustment (REA) reduces misalignment during proposal preparation, contract performance, and compliance reviews tied to acquisition obligations.
Where you will see it
SAM.gov notices, contract clauses and attachments, DoD forms and supply systems when applicable, and internal capture or program management documentation.
Example in context
During a bid review, the capture lead notes REA in the solicitation, assigns a subject-matter owner to confirm requirements, and records the decision in the compliance matrix.