U.S. General Services Administration

Tribes and Tribal

Organizations

Guide to Using GSA Solutions

Fall 2022
Table of Contents

Section 1: Getting Started 2

Section 2: Who May Use GSA Resources 3

Section 3: GSA Programs 4

 Federal Supply Schedule Program 4

 GSA’s SmartPay® Program 5

 GSA Travel Programs 5

 Vehicle Purchasing Program 6

 Used Vehicles 6

 Vehicle Leasing Program 7

 Computers for Learning Program 7 

Personal Property Excess Utilization 

Program 8 

Federal Surplus Personal Property 

Donation Program 8 

Real Property Utilization and 

Disposal Program 9

Section 4: Other GSA Offerings 10

 GSA’s Governmentwide Acquisition 

Contracts (GWACs) 10

 GSA Global Supply® 10

 Telecommunications and Network

 Services 11

 GSA’s Retail Operations Program 11

Section 5: GSA eTools 12

 Purchasing Tools 12

 Market Research Tools 12

Section 6: GSA Training Sources 13

Section 7: Customer Assistance 14

Section 8: Useful Information 15

 Definitions 15

 GSA eLibrary 16

 GSA Advantage!® 16

 Registering in GSA Advantage! 17

 GSA eBuy 20
Welcome!

The U.S. General Services Administration 

(GSA) acknowledges the importance of tribal 

sovereignty and our unique relationship with 

tribal nations. We are honored to provide 

solutions that meet today’s acquisition 

challenges for all. 

Thank you for taking the time to read this guide 

– it was created to enhance tribal relationships 

and to provide a brief overview of our products, 

services, and solutions.

Working with federal programs can be 

complicated, sometimes overwhelmingly. Our 

experts are ready to assist you. If this guide 

doesn’t provide the answers that you need, please 

see Section 7 (page 14) for detailed information 

about our different customer-service desks.

You are important to us, and we are excited to 

partner with you.

Please note: Tribes and tribal organizations need to comply with their applicable procurement policies and procedures when 

placing orders under GSA contracts. For additional guidance and authorities, consult your appropriate policy and legal office. 

See Section 8 for key definitions used in this guide.
2 Tribes and Tribal Organizations’ Guide to Using GSA Solutions

Section 1

Section 1: Getting Started

Purpose For example: Are you seeking to use federal grant 

Tribes and tribal organizations may be eligible to use money (i.e., Indian Self-Determination and Education 

GSA solutions. This guide is intended to provide practical Assistance Act)? If yes, make sure to know what, if any, 

guidance for successful use. The guide opens the are the requirements established in the federal compact, 

discussion of some of the various authorities that support contract, grant, or agreement.

tribes' and tribal organizations’ use of GSA sources and 

programs. It also identifies some of the GSA sources, Assistance

programs, and resources available and how to use them. Inquiries concerning GSA actions and policies that affect 

tribes and tribal organizations should be directed to the 

Important Office of Congressional and Intergovernmental Affairs 

Use of GSA’s sources and programs is voluntary, and, in at 202-501-0563 or GSACongressionalAffairs@gsa.gov. 

some instances, additional steps need to be taken prior Also, see Section 7: Customer Assistance for applicable 

to use. Therefore, when considering use of a GSA source, contacts. 

take the necessary time to familiarize and understand 

ordering requirements as well as all limitations, conditions, 

and requirements that may apply.
Tribes and Tribal Organizations’ Guide to Using GSA Solutions 3

Section 2

Section 2: Who May Use GSA Sources

The table below identifies the primary authorities supporting use of GSA sources by tribes and tribal organizations. 

If you don’t see the specific GSA source that interests you, please contact your designated GSA Customer Service 

Director (please see Section 7: Customer Assistance).

Entity Type and Authority GSA Source(s)

Tribes and tribal organizations as defined in 25 U.S.C. § 5304

[i.e., Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act (ISDEAA)]

Multiple Award Schedule (MAS), 

Governmentwide Contracts (GWACs)*, 

and Multi-Agency Contract (MACs)*

Tribally controlled schools as defined under 25 U.S.C. § 2511

[i.e., Tribally Controlled Schools Act of 1988]

MAS, GWACs*, and MACs*

Tribes and tribally designated housing entities as defined in 

25 U.S.C. § 4103 [i.e., Native American Housing Assistance and 

Self-Determination Act (NAHASDA)]

MAS, GWACs*, and MACs*

Urban Indian organizations as defined in 25 U.S.C. § 1603

[i.e., Indian Health Care Improvement Reauthorization and Extension 

Act of 2009]

MAS, GWACs*, and MACs*

Tribal governments as defined in 40 U.S.C. § 502(c) MAS**

*Each MAC and GWAC is different, therefore an exception to use or additional requirements may apply.

**Limited to products and services available via the following GSA programs: Cooperative Purchasing Program, Disaster Purchasing 

Program, and Public Health Emergencies Program.

Important Learn more 

If you haven’t used GSA before, check to see if you To learn more about the eligibility process, including 

are eligible by visiting https://www.gsa.gov/policy- how to become eligible to use GSA sources, visit 

regulations/policy/acquisition-policy/eligibility- https://www.gsa.gov/policy-regulations/policy/

determinations?gsaredirect=. Once there, look for acquisition-policy/eligibility-determinations. 

the list of eligible entities. If your organization's name 

is not listed, please submit a request for an eligibility Assistance

determination. If you have questions about your organization’s 

ability (sometimes referred to as “eligibility”) to 

use GSA sources, contact GSA’s Eligibility Office at 

gsaeligibilitydetermination@gsa.gov.
4 Tribes and Tribal Organizations’ Guide to Using GSA Solutions

Section 3

Section 3: GSA Programs

Federal Supply Schedule Program

The Federal Supply Schedule (FSS) program includes GSA’s Multiple Award Schedule (MAS) program and the Veterans 

Affairs (VA) Schedules program. Under the MAS program, GSA has established long-term governmentwide contracts 

with commercial firms to provide access to millions of commercial products and services at volume-discount pricing. 

Under the VA Schedules program, the VA has established multiple-award contracts for medical equipment, supply, 

pharmaceutical, and services. Please see Section 7: Customer Assistance for assistance on these programs.

Who may use Learn more

• Tribes and tribal organizations, as defined in 25 To learn more about GSA’s MAS, visit https://www

U.S.C. 5304, who are carrying out an Indian Self- .gsa.gov/buying-selling/purchasing-programs/gsaDetermination and Education Assistance Act multiple-award-schedule/about-gsa-schedule or 

(ISDEAA) contract, grant, cooperative agreement, check out these resources:

compact, or funding agreement [see 25 U.S.C. • Available at www.gsaadvantage.gov, GSA 5324(k) and 25 U.S.C. 5396] Advantage!® is GSA’s online shopping and ordering 

• Tribes and tribally designated housing entities, as system that provides access to thousands of 

defined in 25 U.S.C. 4103, who are carrying out an contractors and millions of products and services. 

NAHASDA contract, grant, or cooperative agreement Anyone may browse on GSA Advantage! to view and 

[see 25 U.S.C 4111(j)] compare the variety of products and services offered. 

• Urban Indian organizations, as defined in 25 U.S.C. • The primary MAS website – https://www.gsa.gov/

1603, who are carrying out a contract or grant buying-selling/purchasing-programs/gsa-multiplepursuant to 25 U.S.C. chapter 18 subchapter IV [see award-schedule – provides information about the 

25 U.S.C. 1660g(e)] MAS program.

• Tribally controlled schools, as defined under 25 U.S.C. • MAS Desk Reference is available at www.gsa.gov

2511, when carrying out a tribally controlled schools /buying-selling/purchasing-programs/gsa-multipleact grant [see 25 U.S.C. 2507(a)(6)] award-schedule/we-are-here-to-help. This desk 

• Tribal governments, as defined in 40 U.S.C. 502(c), reference provides additional insight into how to place 

who are seeking to purchase any of the supplies orders or establish a Blanket Purchase Agreement 

or services available under one the following GSA (BPA) under the MAS program.

programs: Cooperative Purchasing Program, Disaster Learn more about VA Schedules at www.fss.va.gov. Purchasing Program, and Public Health Emergencies 

Program. To learn more about each of these 

programs visit https://www.gsa.gov/resourcesfor-%E2%80%A6/programs-for-state-and-localgovernments.
Tribes and Tribal Organizations’ Guide to Using GSA Solutions 5

Section 3

GSA’s SmartPay® Program

The SmartPay program is the largest government payments program in the world, serving more than 560 federal 

agencies, organizations, and Native American tribes and tribal organizations. The SmartPay program offers 

business lines of charge card solutions, including purchase, travel, fleet, and integrated.

Who may use • Urban Indian organizations, as defined in 25 U.S.C. 

• Tribes and tribal organizations, as defined in 25 U.S.C. 1603, who are carrying out a contract or grant 

5304, who are carrying out an ISDEAA compact, pursuant to 25 U.S.C. chapter 18 subchapter IV 

contract, grant, or cooperative agreement [see 25 [see 25 U.S.C. 1660g(e)]

U.S.C. 5324(k) and 25 U.S.C. 5396] • Tribally controlled schools, as defined under 25 

• Tribes and tribally designated housing entities, as U.S.C. 2511, who are carrying out a tribally controlled 

defined in 25 U.S.C. 4103, who are carrying out an schools act grant [see 25 U.S.C. 2507(a)(6)]

NAHASDA contract, grant, or cooperative agreement 

[see 25 U.S.C 4111(j)] Learn more

To learn more about the SmartPay program, including 

how to sign up, visit https://smartpay.gsa.gov.

GSA Travel Programs

GSA’s travel programs include the following: • Urban Indian organizations, as defined in 25 U.S.C. 

1603, who are carrying out a contract or grant • City Pair Program (GSA’s discount-airfare program) pursuant to 25 U.S.C. chapter 18 subchapter IV [see • GSA SmartPay travel card 25 U.S.C. 1660g(e)]

• FedRooms® (GSA’s hotel program offering hotel rates • Tribally controlled schools, as defined under 25 at or below per diem) U.S.C. 2511, who are carrying out a tribally controlled 

schools act grant [see 25 U.S.C. 2507(a)(6)]

 Who may use

• Tribes and tribal organizations, as defined in 25 U.S.C. Learn more

5304, who are carrying out an ISDEAA compact, To learn more, visit:

contract, grant, or cooperative agreement [see 25 • GSA’s travel programs website at www.gsa.gov/travel U.S.C. 5324(k) and 25 U.S.C. 5396]

• City Pair’s website at https://www.gsa.gov/travel • Tribes and tribally designated housing entities, as /plan-book/transportation-airfare-pov-etc/city- defined in 25 U.S.C. 4103, who are carrying out an pair-program-cpp NAHASDA contract, grant, or cooperative agreement 

[see 25 U.S.C 4111(j)] • GSA SmartPay travel card’s website at 

https://smartpay.gsa.gov

• The FedRooms website at www.gsa.gov/travel

/plan-book/gsa-lodging
6 Tribes and Tribal Organizations’ Guide to Using GSA Solutions

Section 3

Vehicle Purchasing Program

GSA’s Vehicle Purchasing program may be used to purchase a wide range of vehicles to fit a variety of mission needs. 

AutoChoice is the Vehicle Purchasing program’s most popular method for purchasing new vehicles. AutoChoice is an 

online vehicle ordering tool that helps you choose the right vehicles for your organization. You can use AutoChoice 

to configure vehicles, choose equipment and color options, and view side-by-side comparisons of vehicle models. 

AutoChoice also allows you to check your order’s status, find fuel ratings, choose dealerships, and run reports. If you 

have questions about this program, reach out to GSA Fleet at 844-472-1200 or vehicle.buying@gsa.gov.

To review Vehicle Purchasing publications and guidance, select the Important Information and Notices option 

from the Vehicle Purchasing webpage at www.gsa.gov/buying-selling/products-services/transportationlogistics-services/fleet-management/vehicle-purchasing/important-information-and-notices, or send an email 

to vehicle.buying@gsa.gov to request the current version of the GSA Fleet Vehicle Purchasing Guide.

Who may use Key step

• Tribes and tribal organizations, as defined in 25 U.S.C. An Activity Address Code (AAC) is needed to utilize 

5304, who are carrying out an ISDEAA compact, this program. A tribe must first submit the appropriate 

contract, grant, or cooperative agreement [see 25 documentation to their sponsoring federal agency 

U.S.C. 5324(k) and 25 U.S.C. 5396] for approval. Once established, a tribe can proceed 

further. Note: Without an AAC, this program • Tribally controlled schools, as defined under 25 cannot be used. For more information, contact U.S.C. 2511, who are carrying out a tribally controlled ordermgmt@gsa.gov. schools act grant [see 25 U.S.C. 2507(a)(6)]

• Tribes and tribally designated housing entities who Learn more are carrying out an NAHASDA contract, grant, or To learn more about GSA’s Vehicle Purchasing program, cooperative agreement [see 25 U.S.C 4111(j)] visit www.gsa.gov/gsafleet.

Used Vehicles

Tribes and tribal organizations can also purchase used 

GSA Fleet vehicles at auction. When a vehicle meets 

its replacement criteria, GSA Fleet offers the vehicle 

for sale to the public. Every year, GSA Fleet sells over 

30,000 vehicles. Auction inventories vary at each sale, 

but they usually include multiple vehicle types with 

varying fuel capabilities. 

Learn more

To find out how to buy used vehicles, visit the GSA Fleet 

Vehicle Sales site at https://autoauctions.gsa.gov 

/GSAAutoAuctions/.
Tribes and Tribal Organizations’ Guide to Using GSA Solutions 7

Section 3

Vehicle Leasing Program

GSA’s Vehicle Leasing program may be used to lease a wide range of vehicles to fit a variety of needs (e.g., 

automobiles; buses and ambulances; light, medium, and heavy trucks; and passenger vans). Eligible entities can also 

participate in Short Term Rental (STR) for vehicles and equipment programs.

Who may use

• Tribes and tribal organizations, as defined in 25 U.S.C. 

5304, who are carrying out an ISDEAA compact, 

contract, grant, or cooperative agreement [see 25 

U.S.C. 5324(k) and 25 U.S.C. 5396]

• Tribally controlled schools, as defined under 25 

U.S.C. 2511, who are carrying out a tribally controlled 

schools act grant [see 25 U.S.C. 2507(a)(6)]

Key step

A Billing Office Activity Address Code (BOAAC) is needed 

to utilize this program. A tribe or tribal organization must 

first submit the appropriate documentation to their 

sponsoring federal agency for approval. Once established, 

a tribe or tribal organization can proceed further. 

Note: Without a BOAAC, this program cannot be used.

Learn more

To learn more about this program, visit the GSA Fleet 

Management page at www.gsa.gov/gsafleet. Once 

there, click on “Vehicle leasing” for information about 

this program. If you have questions about this program, 

please send an email to gsafleet@gsa.gov. 

Computers for Learning Program

The Computers for Learning (CFL) Program’s ambitious goal is to make modern computer technology an 

integral part of every classroom so that every child has the opportunity to be educated to their full potential. The 

CFL Program evolved as a guide for implementing Executive Order 12999, Educational Technology: Ensuring 

Opportunity for all Children in the Next Century.

The executive order encourages agencies, to the extent permitted by law, to transfer computers and related 

peripheral equipment excess to their needs directly to schools and some educational non-profit organizations. 

Direct transfers are authorized by law through 15 U.S.C. 3710(i) commonly known as the Stevenson–Wydler 

Technology Innovation Act (amended by Public Law 102-245 on February 14, 1992).

Who may use Learn more

Tribal schools and certain educational non-profit To learn more about the CFL program, visit 

organizations that serve pre-kindergarten through www.computersforlearning.gov. 

grade 12 students
8 Tribes and Tribal Organizations’ Guide to Using GSA Solutions

Section 3

Personal Property Excess Utilization Program

GSA helps federal agencies dispose of personal property that is no longer needed. Once personal property has 

been deemed excess, GSA helps other federal agencies acquire it. “Personal property” includes all types and 

categories of personal property except land or other real property; certain naval vessels; and records of the federal 

government. Available property ranges from commonly available products, such as office equipment, furniture, and 

motor vehicles, to more specialized property, such as medical equipment and heavy machinery.

Who may use How to use

Federally recognized tribes who have an ISDEAA contract Tribes must first submit the appropriate documentation, 

may be eligible to receive property if Bureau of Indian along with their AAC code, to their sponsoring federal 

Affairs (BIA) and Indian Health Service (IHS) determine the agency for approval. Once approved to participate, the

property may assist them in carrying out their contract. sponsoring federal agency will provide access to the property 

BIA and IHS are authorized to request a transfer of excess disposal system to view and request available property.

personal property from GSA on behalf of any tribes they • For IHS-sponsored tribes: Contact your Contract sponsor. In most cases, BIA and IHS will not require payment Proposal Liaison Officers (https://www.ihs.gov/ from the tribe other than shipping and transportation costs. odsct/contract-proposal-liaison-officers/) or NUO 

(www.gsa.gov/nuo). Key step • For BIA-sponsored tribes: Contact your Contract Tribes must have an ISDEAA compact and contract Awarding Official, BIA Regional Property Officer, or number and an Activity Address Code (AAC) in order to NUO (www.gsa.gov/nuo). receive property. To get started:

• For IHS-sponsored tribes: Contact your Contract Learn more

Proposal Liaison Officers (https://www.ihs.gov/ For more information, visit www.gsa.gov/property and 

odsct/contract-proposal-liaison-officers/) or choose “For Federal Agencies” from the left-hand menu. National Utilization Officer (NUO) (www.gsa.gov/nuo).

• For BIA-sponsored tribes: Contact your Contact 

Awarding Official or NUO (www.gsa.gov/nuo).

• For more information on obtaining or requesting an 

AAC, contact ordermgmt@gsa.gov.

Federal Surplus Personal Property Donation Program

This program helps certain non-federal organizations How to use

obtain personal property that the federal government no Go to www.gsa.gov/sasp to find your local SASP and longer needs. Each state has a designated State Agency contact them to get started. The SASP will provide an for Surplus Property (SASP) that requests federal surplus eligibility application and other needed documentation to property on behalf of eligible recipients within the state, get registered and start receiving property. redistributes the property within the state, and enforces 

the terms of donation. Learn more 

For more information, visit www.gsa.gov/ Who may use propertydonations. State-recognized tribes, bands, groups, pueblos, or 

communities located on state reservations. Please note 

that some tribes may be recognized at both the federal 

and state level. 
Tribes and Tribal Organizations’ Guide to Using GSA Solutions 9

Section 3

GSA’s Office of Real Property Utilization and Disposal handles the disposition of excess (properties determined 

to be no longer needed by a landholding agency) and surplus (properties determined to be no longer needed by 

the federal government) real property for federal agencies under 40 U.S.C. §101, et seq. Real property (land and 

improvements) that is no longer required for a federal mission need is reported as “excess” to GSA for disposal. 

Some agencies have their own authority to dispose of real property and may not report property to GSA for 

disposal. The first step in the disposal process is to screen the excess real property for other federal agency needs. 

Agencies have 30 days to let GSA know, in writing, of their interest in the property. Because of the short screening 

period, it is important that tribes let the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) and GSA know of their interest in federal real 

property as soon as they are aware that the property may be determined “excess” by the landholding agency. 

Real Property Utilization and Disposal Program

Who may use If the transfer is approved, GSA will transfer custody 

Federally recognized tribes and accountability to BIA for the purpose of further 

transferring the property to the tribe under ISDEAA. 

How to use Property conveyed to a tribe under ISDEAA is not 

automatically held in trust for the tribe; the request to Department of the Interior (DOI), through the BIA, place the property in trust is a separate process and has two opportunities to request excess and surplus usually occurs after the property has been conveyed by property for the benefit of tribes. First, if excess BIA to the tribe. property is within a federally recognized tribe’s 

reservation boundaries, BIA can request transfer of that Once the 30-day federal screening is complete and if property (there are special procedures for properties there is no federal interest, the excess real property is within the state of Oklahoma) under 40 U.S.C. 523. determined to be surplus to the government’s needs. Transfer of real property under this authority is at no Surplus real property will be offered, through another cost to the tribe. Upon receipt of the real property screening, to state and local government and non-profit transfer, BIA is directed to hold the property in trust for organizations for public-benefit uses. If there is no public- the benefit of the tribe. benefit interest expressed, the property will generally be 

sold online at www.gsaauctions.gov. In addition, BIA is authorized to request a transfer of 

excess real property from GSA if BIA determines that Learn more the property may assist tribes in carrying out a contract 

under the ISDEAA. BIA can respond to the federal Get more information about this process at 

excess screening notice on behalf of tribes where the https://disposal.gsa.gov/s/ or contact the GSA Real 

real property can be used by the tribe in carrying out the Property Utilization and Disposal Office directly at 

purposes of the ISDEAA contract. Unlike transfers of real realestate.buildingdisposal@gsa.gov.

property under 40 U.S.C. 523, BIA is required, as are all 

federal agencies, to pay a transfer fee equal to the full 

fair market value of the real property or request waiver 

of the payment. The waiver of the transfer fee must be 

approved by the administrator of GSA and the director 

of the Office Management and Budget (OMB). Not all 

waiver requests are approved. If BIA does not have the 

funds to pay the transfer fee, the tribe may also fund the 

cost of the transfer through BIA.
10 Tribes and Tribal Organizations’ Guide to Using GSA Solutions

Section 4

Section 4: Other GSA Offerings

GSA’s Governmentwide Acquisition Contracts (GWACs)

A GWAC is a type of contract that provides customers the ability to buy cost-effective, innovative solutions for 

information technology (IT). The type of IT solutions that can be purchased include, but are not limited to, systems 

design, software engineering, information assurance, and enterprise architecture solutions. Depending on the 

nature of the GWAC, tribes and tribal organizations may be able to use a GWAC. 

Who may use Learn more

If you’re interested in using one of GSA’s GWACs, consult To learn more about GSA’s GWACs, visit 

your designated Customer Service Director. To www.gsa.gov/gwacs.

find your designated Customer Service Director, visit 

www.gsa.gov/csd.

GSA Global Supply®

GSA Global Supply is a requisition-based ordering system that provides easy access to common-use items, including 

maintenance, repair, and operations (MRO); janitorial and sanitation (JanSan); and office supplies. GSA Global Supply 

accepts the GSA SmartPay® purchase card and Activity Address Codes (AACs) as forms of payment.

GSA Global Supply items can be ordered via a Key step

variety of ways: An AAC is needed to utilize this program. A tribe must 

• Order online at the GSA Global Supply site at first submit the appropriate documentation to their 

www.GSAglobalsupply.gsa.gov or GSA Advantage!® sponsoring federal agency for approval. Once established, 

at www.gsaadvantage.gov. Both sites function 24/7, a tribe can proceed further. Note: Without an AAC, this 

enable users to place orders from anywhere in the program cannot be used. For more information, contact 

world. GSA Global Supply at ordermgmt@gsa.gov.

• Order by phone at 800-488-3111 between 9 p.m. 

on Sundays to 9:30 p.m. on Fridays (ET). Learn more

To learn about the GSA Global Supply program, visit • Fax orders to 800-856-7057 anytime (a blank fax www.gsa.gov/globalsupply. order form is in all GSA Global Supply catalogs and 

most brochures). Assistance

Who may use For help, contact GSA Global Supply Customer Service 

at 800-488-3111 or GSAglobalsupply@gsa.gov. To use GSA Global Supply, you must have a .gov or 

previously approved tribal email domain. To register 

a tribal domain, contact GSA Order Management at 

ordermgmt@gsa.gov. 
Tribes and Tribal Organizations’ Guide to Using GSA Solutions 11

Section 4

Telecommunications and Network Services

GSA’s Office of Enterprise Technology Solutions (ETS) offers a wide range of enterprise telecommunications and 

networking services. A Multi-Agency Contract (MAC) is a task-order or delivery-order contract established by one 

agency for use by authorized entities to obtain product and services. GSA has established a wide range of MACs 

to support the needs of its customers. For example, GSA has established the following telecommunications and 

network-services MACs that tribes and tribal organizations may be able to use.

• Enterprise Infrastructure Solutions (EIS) is the go-to Who may use

contract for enterprise telecommunications and If you’re interested in using one of GSA’s MACs, consult networking solutions. EIS is a Direct Order/Direct your designated Customer Service Director. To find your Bill (DO/DB) contract that has nine pre-competed, Customer Service Director, visit www.gsa.gov/csd. pre-vetted industry partners providing a wide 

range of services. The EIS contract includes the Learn more

following services: To learn more about these specific MACs, visit 

 - Virtual private network service https://www.gsa.gov/technology/technology-

 - Managed network service purchasing-programs/telecommunications-and-

 - Voice service network-services. 

 - Ethernet

 EIS reduces costs and acquisition time by leveraging 

an existing contract and allows agencies to focus on 

missions, not acquisitions

• Satellite Communications (SATCOM) contracts offer 

commercial satellite communications services.

GSA’s Retail Operations program operates a few dozen stores worldwide, including one in the state of Alaska. Purchases 

at these stores are for basic products such as those available from GSA Global Supply® (e.g., tools and office supplies). 

Authorized buyers can purchase supplies using either the SmartPay® purchase card or direct billing through an Activity 

Address Code (AAC). Customers should contact the store to verify access prior to visiting or placing an order. 

Key step

An AAC is needed to utilize this program. A tribe must 

first submit the appropriate documentation to their 

sponsoring federal agency for approval. Once established, 

a tribe can proceed further. Note: Without an AAC, this 

program cannot be used. For more information, contact 

GSA Order Management at ordermgmt@gsa.gov.

Learn more

To learn more about this program, including store 

location information, visit https://www.gsa.gov/buyingselling/purchasing-programs/requisition-programs

/gsa-retail-operations.

GSA’s Retail Operations Program
12 Tribes and Tribal Organizations’ Guide to Using GSA Solutions

Section 5

Section 5: GSA eTools

Purchasing Tools

GSA Advantage!®: gsaadvantage.gov GSA eBuy: ebuy.gsa.gov

GSA Advantage! is the government's central online GSA eBuy is an online tool that is a part of GSA 

shopping superstore. GSA Advantage! provides online Advantage!. GSA eBuy helps customers request 

access to millions of products and services from thousands quotations from vendors. GSA eBuy provides access 

of federal contractors. Included are GSA Global Supply® to a wide range of commercial products and services 

products and GSA MAS and VA Schedule products and available under GSA MAS and other contracts. By 

services. Anyone can browse GSA Advantage! without leveraging the power of the internet, GSA eBuy 

registering. Simply enter keywords, part number, National increases contractor participation to obtain quotations 

Stock Number (NSN), manufacturer name, contractor that result in best-value purchase decisions. Buyers 

name, or contract number in the “Enter search keyword(s)” can also use GSA eBuy to request information and find 

box, browse by category using the “Search Products” box, sources to fulfill their requirements.

or search via our special categories.

AskGSA: ask.gsa.gov

GSA Global Supply®: GSAglobalsupply.gsa.gov This 24/7, self-service website supports GSA customers 

GSA Global Supply is a requisition-based ordering system by providing customers online access to research and 

that provides easy access to common-use items, including track their GSA Global Supply orders, report a problem, or 

maintenance, repair, and operations; janitorial and request information regarding GSA products and services.

sanitation; and office supplies. Please see page 10 for more 

details on using this program.

Market Research Tools

GSA eLibrary: www.gsaelibrary.gsa.gov Acquisition Gateway: hallways.cap.gsa.gov

No registration is required to use this eTool. The GSA A website for acquisition professionals and buyers to 

eLibrary is a centralized online resource to assist connect with resources, tools, and each other to improve 

buyers in the research and identification of commercial acquisition governmentwide. Certain resources and tools 

on the Acquisition Gateway are not publicly available. products and services offered under GSA sources and 

VA Schedules. GSA eLibrary contains the latest contract- Market Research As Service (MRAS): award information for GSA MAS, VA Schedules, and www.gsa.gov/mras GWACs. GSA eLibrary allows users to search by keywords, Looking for service providers or suppliers for your next contract number, contractor or manufacturer name, requirement or contract? GSA offers free market- Schedule name, Schedule number, and category. research assistance to quickly find the industry partners 

capable of meeting your requirements and develop a Buy.gsa.gov: https://buy.gsa.gov strategy to actively engage the marketplace. This website is designed to make it easier for customers 

to navigate the complete acquisition process. Sustainable Facilities Tool (SFTool): 

https://sftool.gov/

This online tool provides various resources to promote 

sustainable acquisition, including a search option for 

identifying sustainable products and services.
Tribes and Tribal Organizations’ Guide to Using GSA Solutions 13

Section 6

Section 6: GSA Training Sources

GSA News, Training, and More GSA Events

For access to webinars, online training courses, and For access to a list of upcoming GSA-sponsored 

other resources, visit: seminars, workshops, and events, visit 

www.gsa.gov/events.

• MAS news: www.gsa.gov/masnews

• MAS training: https://www.gsa.gov/about-us GSA Interact

/events-and-training/gsa-training-programs GSA Interact is an online collaborative community for 

• GSA’s YouTube: www.youtube.com/usgsa connecting, communicating, learning, and engaging across 

GSA topics. To participate and learn about the latest news 

and trends, visit buy.gsa.gov/interact.
14 Tribes and Tribal Organizations’ Guide to Using GSA Solutions

Section 7

Section 7: Customer Assistance

The following resources are available to provide you with assistance in using GSA solutions.

Customer Service Directors (CSDs): discrepancies or deficiencies, and provide information 

www.gsa.gov/csd about merchandise returns and exchanges. NCSC 

can also address billing inquiries, merchandise quality GSA offers a worldwide network of knowledgeable concerns, and current price quotations. NCSC Customer Service Directors (CSDs). Wherever you are is available 24 hours a day, five days a week from located, there is a CSD in your region to assist you with Sundays at 8 p.m. to Fridays at 8:30 p.m. (CT). For problem resolution and who can answer all questions assistance, contact GSA’s NCSC at 800-488-3111 or relating to GSA and its procurement solutions. CSDs ncsccustomer.service@gsa.gov. also offer seminars on a variety of topics to educate 

customers about purchasing procedures and inform them ®

of offerings and solutions available from GSA. GSA Advantage! Customer Service: 

www.gsaadvantage.gov

National Customer Service Center (NCSC): For assistance, including with registration, contact 

www.gsa.gov/ncsc GSA Advantage! customer service at 877-472-3777 or 

GSA.Advantage@gsa.gov. NCSC representatives are knowledgeable about GSA’s 

products and services and can assist you with finding a 

solution that can meet your needs. NCSC can also help 

verify your order’s status, track shipments, resolve order 
Tribes and Tribal Organizations’ Guide to Using GSA Solutions 15

Section 8

Section 8: Useful Information

Definitions

The following are key definitions for this guide. Tribally designated housing entities, as defined in 

25 U.S.C. 4103, means “an entity meeting the criteria Eligible means an entity that is authorized (e.g., via prescribed by 25 U.S.C. 4103(22).” This definition is statute, regulation) to use a GSA source or GSA sources. related to the NAHASDA, which is codified in 25 U.S.C. See GSA’s Eligibility Determinations webpage at Chapter 43. www.gsa.gov/eligibilitydeterminations for more 

information. Tribal organization, as defined in 25 U.S.C. 5304, means 

the “recognized governing body of any tribe; any legally Indian tribe, (also referred to as tribe within this guide) established organization of Indians which is controlled, as defined in 25 U.S.C. 4103, means a tribe that is a sanctioned, or chartered by such governing body or federally recognized tribe or a state-recognized tribe. which is democratically elected by the adult members of This definition is related to the NAHASDA, which is the Indian community to be served by such organization codified in 25 U.S.C. Chapter 43. and which includes the maximum participation of Indians 

in all phases of its activities: Provided: That in any case Tribal government, as defined in 40 U.S.C. 501(c), means: where a contract is let or grant made to an organization “(i) the governing body of any tribe, band, nation, or to perform services benefiting more than one tribe, the other organized group or community located in the approval of each such tribe shall be a prerequisite to continental United States (excluding the State of Alaska) the letting or making of such contract or grant.” This that is recognized as eligible for the special programs and definition is related to the ISDEAA, which is codified in services provided by the United States to Indians because 25 U.S.C. Chapter 46. of their status as Indians, and

(ii) any Alaska Native regional or village corporation Indian tribe (also referred to as tribe within this guide), 

established pursuant to the Alaska Native Claims as defined in 25 U.S.C. 5304, means “any Indian tribe, 

Settlement Act (43 U.S.C. 1601 et seq.).” band, nation, or other organized group or community, 

This definition applies to the GSA Cooperative including any Alaska Native village or regional or village 

Purchasing Program, Disaster Purchasing Program, and corporation as defined in or established pursuant to the 

Public Health Emergency Program. Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (85 Stat. 688) [43 

U.S.C. 1601 et seq.], which is recognized as eligible for Tribally controlled school, as defined under 25 U.S.C. the special programs and services provided by the United 2511, means a school that: States to Indians because of their status as Indians.”This 

“(i) is operated by a tribe or a tribal organization, definition is related to ISDEAA, which is codified in 25 

enrolling students in kindergarten through grade 12, U.S.C. Chapter 46. including a preschool;

(ii) is not a local educational agency; and Urban Indian organization, as defined in 25 U.S.C. 1603, 

(iii) is not directly administered by the Bureau of means a “nonprofit corporate body situated in an urban 

Indian Affairs. center, governed by an urban Indian controlled board of 

This definition is related to the Tribally Controlled Schools directors, and providing for the maximum participation 

Act of 1988, which is codified in 25 U.S.C. Chapter 27.” of all interested Indian groups and individuals, which 

body is capable of legally cooperating with other public 

and private entities for the purpose of performing the 

activities described in 25 U.S.C. 1653(a).” This definition 

is related to the Indian Health Care Improvement 

Reauthorization and Extension Act of 2009, which is 

codified in 25 U.S.C. Subchapter IV.
16 Tribes and Tribal Organizations’ Guide to Using GSA Solutions

GSA eLibrary

www.gsaelibrary.gsa.gov

For more information, visit the 

Buying and Selling Tools page at 

www.gsa.gov/tools-overview/

buying-and-selling-tools.

GSA Advantage!®

www.gsaadvantage.gov

For more information, visit the 

Buying and Selling Tools page at 

www.gsa.gov/tools-overview/

buying-and-selling-tools.

Section 8
Tribes and Tribal Organizations’ Guide to Using GSA Solutions 17

Registering in 

GSA Advantage!

For tribes and tribal 

organizations who receive 

ISDEAA and NAHASDA 

funding, register as shown 

below. If you don’t receive 

these types of funds, register 

as a state and local customer.

 Step 1: 

Click on “Register.” 

 Step 2: 

Select “Federal Government” 

and “Submit.” 

Section 8
18 Tribes and Tribal Organizations’ Guide to Using GSA Solutions

 Step 3: 

Complete registration. Depending on your Activity Address Code (AAC), select “Agency” and “Bureau” as defined 

below. When multiple AACs are involved, you must register for each account, assign a different user ID, and request an 

AAC password for each account.

Section 8

Activity Address Code Agency Bureau

14XXX Department of Interior Bureau of Indian Affairs

75XXX Department of Health and Human Services Indian Health Service

86XXX Department of Housing and Urban 

Development

Department of Housing and Urban 

Development

Note: Please see your local 

Customer Service Director for 

more information about identifying 

your Activity Address Code.

 Step 4: 

Once registered, you must 

request an AAC password. 

Log in to GSA Advantage!®

using your user ID and 

password you were assigned 

when registering. Once 

you’re logged in, click on 

“My Account.”
Tribes and Tribal Organizations’ Guide to Using GSA Solutions 19

 Step 5: 

Select “Payment Methods,” then 

“Apply for a Password.” 

 Step 6: 

Enter the AAC and select “Submit.” 

The AAC password will be 

emailed to you. Once you receive 

the AAC password, you may 

place an order. 

Section 8
20 Tribes and Tribal Organizations’ Guide to Using GSA Solutions

GSA eBuy!: ebuy.gsa.gov

GSA eBuy can be used for a Request for Information or a Request for Quotation. For more information, visit the 

Buying and Selling Tools page at www.gsa.gov/tools-overview/buying-and-selling-tools.

Section 8
Tribes and Tribal Organizations’ Guide to Using GSA Solutions 21

Notes
www.gsa.gov

October 2022

05-22-00624

View, download, and order publications via www.gsa.gov/cmls.