SEPTEMBER 2019 | NO. 13

GOVERNMENT

Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13

September 2019

TO: HEADS OF DEPARTMENTS AND AGENCIES

The U.S. Government Publishing Office (GPO) provides 

Federal agencies with highly valuable advice and 

assistance in obtaining their printing needs. One of 

the ways in which we provide this assistance is in 

the development and issuance of Government paper 

standards. The purpose of these standards is to (1) 

achieve compliance with relevant statutes regarding 

printing papers; (2) address environmental, workplace 

safety, and paper longevity issues; and (3) maximize 

savings in the Government’s paper purchases and 

ultimately your print projects.

These standards are available for use by all 

departments of the Government and their field offices. 

Some standards are specialty grades with limited 

availability and have been designated within the 

standard. Generally these stocks are procured as mill 

run quantities. There is maximum flexibility in specifying 

color, texture, and recycled content.

The use of these standards will achieve the greatest 

possible savings in paper stocks for your agency’s 

printing needs. 

If you have any questions about unique substrates 

such as paper manufactured with security features, 

please contact your National Accounts Manager.

Please do not hesitate to contact your GPO customer 

service representative with any suggestions you may 

have to improve this publication.

Sincerely,

Government Publishing Office

Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 i

Part 1. Specifications 1

Runnability Requirements for Paper Used in a Federal Printing Plant 3

Text Papers 5

JCP A15: Newsprint

JCP A25: Uncoated Heat-Set Machine-Finish Web Text

JCP A50: Uncoated Machine-Finish Book End 

JCP A55: Heat-Set Web Text

JCP A60: Uncoated Text

JCP A61: No. 1 Smooth-Finish Text

JCP A63: Uncoated Colored Text

JCP A65: Uncoated Light-Weight Groundwood Text

JCP A70: Uncoated 100% Recycled Text

JCP A75: Light-Weight Text (Bible Paper)

JCP A80: Opacified Text

JCP A90: Vellum-Finish Text; White and Colors

JCP A91: Smooth and Embossed Text; White and Colors 

JCP A95: Hi-Bulk Text (Return Mailer)

JCP A100: Antique Text

JCP A110: 50% Cotton Antique Text 

JCP A120: 50% Cotton Laid-Finish Antique Text

JCP A160: Coated One-Side (C1S) Text

JCP A175: Gloss-Coated Text (Publication Grade)

JCP A180: Gloss-Coated Text

JCP A181: No. 1 Gloss-Coated Text

JCP A182: No. 2 Gloss-Coated Text

JCP A205: Durable Gloss-Coated Text

JCP A220: Water-Resistant Text

JCP A230: High-Yield (Light Coating) Text

JCP A235: Matte-Coated Text (Publication Grade)

JCP A240: Matte-Coated Text

JCP A250: Uncoated Laid-Finished Text; White and Colors

JCP A260: Silk / Dull-Coated Text

JCP A261: No. 1 Silk / Dull-Coated Text

JCP A262: No. 2 Silk / Dull-Coated Text

JCP A270: Uncoated-Permanent Text; White and Cream White

JCP A280: Matte-Coated Groundwood Text

Writing Papers 38

JCP D10: Writing; White and Colors (With Tablet Stock Option) 

JCP D11: Smooth and Embossed Writing; White and Colors

JCP D50: 100% Cotton Fine Writing

TABLE OF CONTENTS
ii Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13

Map Papers 41

JCP E10: 50% Map, Lithographic Finish 

JCP E20: High Wet-Strength Map, Lithographic Finish 

JCP E30: Offset Map, Lithographic Finish 

JCP E40: Chemical Wood Map, Lithographic Finish 

JCP E50: 50% Chart, Lithographic Finish 

Bond Papers 46

JCP G05: Chemical Wood Forms Bond; White and Colors 

JCP G10: Bond

JCP G15: 50% Recycled Bond; White and Colors

JCP G40: 25% Cotton Bond; White and Colors; Archival Quality

JCP G45: 25% Cotton Bond; White and Colors; 50% Recycled

JCP G50: 25% Cotton Translucent Bond

JCP G60: 25% Cotton Opacified Bond; Archival Quality

JCP G65: 25% Cotton Opacified Bond; White and Colors; 50% Recycled

JCP G70: 50% Cotton Bond

JCP G80: 100% Cotton Bond

Parchment Papers 56

JCP H10: 100% Cotton Parchment

JCP H20: 100% Cotton Parchment; Cream White

JCP H30: Laser-Finish Parchment; White, Natural White, and Colors

JCP H40: Smooth-Finish Diploma Paper; Cream White

Ledger Papers 60

JCP J10: Ledger; White and Colors

JCP J20: 25% Cotton Ledger

JCP J30: 100% Cotton Ledger

Index Papers 63

JCP K10: Index; White and Colors

JCP K20: 25% Cotton Index; White and Colors

JCP K30: 100% Cotton Index; Cream White

Cover Papers 66

JCP L10: Gloss-Coated Cover

JCP L11: No. 1 Gloss-Coated Cover

JCP L12: No. 2 Gloss-Coated Cover

JCP L20: Vellum-Finish Cover; White and Colors 

JCP L21: Smooth and Embossed Cover; White and Colors

JCP L23: Uncoated Cover

JCP L24: Vellum Bristol Cover; White and Colors

JCP L40: Uncoated Laid-Finish Cover; White and Colors

JCP L50: Matte-Coated Cover 

JCP L60: Silk / Dull-Coated Cover

JCP L61: No. 1 Silk / Dull-Coated Cover

JCP L62: No. 2 Silk / Dull-Coated Cover

JCP L70: Coated One-Side (C1S) Cover

JCP L72: Coated Two-Sides (C2S) Cover

JCP L80: Cast-Coated Cover
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 iii

Kraft Paper 81

JCP N10: No. 2 Kraft

Miscellaneous Papers 82

JCP O-10: Gummed, Conventional Adhesive

JCP O-25: Optical Character Recognition (OCR) Bond

JCP O-26: Optical Mark Read (OMR) Bond; White, Violet or Gray

JCP O-27: Optical Mark Sense Scanner (OMSS) Bond

JCP O-60: Plain Copier, Xerographic; White and Colors (Archival Quality)

JCP O-61: High Quality Xerographic Copier, Laser Printer

JCP O-63: Plain Copier, Xerographic, Laser Printer; Colors

JCP O-65: Plain Copier, Xerographic; White and Colors

JCP O-70: 100% Recycled Plain Copier, Xerographic

JCP O-80: Carbonless Bond; White and Colors

JCP O-90: Printable Plastic Film (Synthetic Paper)

JCP O-91: Uncoated (Tear-Resistant) Synthetic Paper

Tag Boards 94

JCP P10: High-Finish Manila Tag

JCP P20: High-Finish Folder Stock; Natural and Colors

Cardboards 96

JCP Q20: Railroad Board; White and Colors

JCP Q50: Chemical Wood Board; Colors

JCP Q80: High-Finish Red Wallet Board

Miscellaneous Boards 99

JCP R10: Pressboard; Colors (Type III)

JCP R11: Pressboard; Colors (Type I)

JCP R20: Newsboard

JCP R30: Book Cover Board

Envelopes 103

General Requirements for Envelopes 

JCP V10: Light-Brown (Kraft Shade) Envelope 

JCP V15: White Kraft Envelope

JCP V20: Writing Envelope; White and Colors

JCP V40: 25% Cotton Bond Envelope

JCP V90: TYVEKTM-Finish Envelope

Part 2. Testing Standards and Definition of Terms 109

Part 3. Standard Samples and Drawings 113

Samples and Color Information 114

Watermark Drawings 116

Envelope Drawings 117

Part 4. Statutory Authority and Acceptance Criteria 119

Title 44 References: Sections 509, 513 and 514 120

Product Quality Index 120

Defect Definitions 120

PQI Formula 121
iv Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13

Demerit Assessments 122

Calculating PQI Examples 125

Part 5. Basis Weights and Thickness Data 127
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 v

INTRODUCTION

This publication has been divided into five sections:

Part 1 Specifications, consists of the 103 standards.

Part 2 Testing Standards and Definition of Terms, compiles definition of terms used in the 

standards and the test methods used in measuring the characteristics and properties of 

papers and paper boards.

Part 3 Standard Samples and Drawings, gives information on the standard samples program, 

drawings of common envelope construction-types, and Government watermarks.

Part 4 Statutory Authority and Acceptance Criteria, provides statutory references for the setting 

of standards and the evaluation program for determining compliance with the paper standard.

Part 5 Basis Weights and Thickness Data, is a summary of the basis weight and thickness data 

for the specifications listed in Part 1. 

There are 14 classes of papers listed in the table of contents. Each item of paper is identified by 

a paper code which indicates both class and grade. For example, JCP A60, the “A” refers to the 

class of printing paper and the 60 to the grade “offset book.” Similarly for JCP L20, “L” refers 

to cover paper class and 20 to the “vellum-finish” grade. The four-digit number associated with 

the FSC prefix is a General Services Administration Federal Supply Catalog designation and is 

included when available.

The use of optical (fluorescent) brighteners is prohibited in those grades with 50% and 100% 

cotton/linen content as well as those papers specified for use in optical scanners.
vi Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 1

 

 

Part 1

SPECIFICATIONS
2 Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 3

Runnability Requirements for Paper Used in a Federal Printing Plant

September 2019

Sizing: Paper shall be surface-sized and internal-sized, suitable for satisfactory printing on both sides of the paper 

on high-speed, heat-set web presses equipped with low VOC1 dampening systems.

For Basis weight: 25 by 38 inches, 500 sheets (pounds), the following tensile strength applies for roll paper stock 

with these basis weights: 35 40 50 60 70 80

Tensile strength: Average not less than (kg/in) for the machine direction (MD) and cross direction (CD)-

MD 6.0 6.4 9.0 9.7 10.5 11.5

CD 2.6 3.1 3.6 4.1 4.6 5.1

Pick resistance —

Sheet-fed: Average each side not less than 13-A Dennison wax number for sheets sizes exceeding 17 by 22 inches; 

10-A for sheet sizes 17 by 22 inches or less. 

Web offset paper: Average each side not less than 10-A. No individual specimen shall average less than 8-A.

Curl: Paper shall lie flat with either no tendency to curl or with a curl which can be overcome under reasonable 

working conditions.

Surface: Shall be free from lint, fuzz, or any particles which will pick, lift, fluff, or pile on the blanket under normal 

press conditions.

Size and trim —

Sheets: Paper shall be furnished in the sizes(s) ordered and shall be flat, trimmed square on four sides with clean 

smooth edges, and evenly jogged. The tolerance of ±1/16 inch shall be allowed except for sheets 81⁄2 x 14” or less; 

then a tolerance of ±1/32 inch shall be allowed. Successive sheets within any package shall not differ from each 

other by more than 1/64 inch. Paper with the long dimension 32 inches or less shall be considered square if the 

variation does not exceed 1/32 inch; over 32 inches, 1/16 inch.

Rolls: Roll width and diameter shall be as ordered. A tolerance of ±1/16 inch shall be allowed for width and ±1 inch 

for diameter.

Roll winding: Roll paper shall be tightly wound at even tension and shall not contain more than the specified 

maximum number of splices per roll. The number of splices permitted per roll is determined by the roll diameter. On 

rolls 40 inches or less, a maximum of three splices per roll shall be allowed. On rolls over 40 inches, a maximum of 

four splices per roll shall be allowed. Splices shall be neatly and securely overlap-pasted and made with a repulpable 

adhesive which will not permit the splice to separate while passing through a drying oven maintained at 200°C. The 

adhesive may be applied from a tape from backing, provided the backing is removed, leaving only the adhesive 

component of the splice. The adhesive shall not cause the splice to adhere to adjacent laps. The tails of the splices 

shall be neatly and evenly removed without damage to adjacent laps. Splices shall be flagged at both ends with 

projecting colored markers, not pasted to the splice, or otherwise clearly marked.

Grain: Direction of the grain on flat paper shall be as ordered.

Color: Shall match the Government’s standard sample for color. A deviation of DE(CIELAB) = 5.0 from the color 

standard is allowed. As appropriate, the CIELAB values (III D65, 10°observer) for the color standard will be specified 

in the solicitation. The common color standards are found in Part 3.

The paper in the order (or publication) shall be uniform, and the color variation shall not exceed DE(CIELAB) = 1.0.

Pressroom conditions: The bulk of this paper will be used in air-conditioned pressrooms maintained at 24°C ±2°C 

and 45% ±8% relative humidity.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria Part 4 shall apply except as noted.

1 VOC = Volatile organic compounds; refers to organic chemical compounds which have significant vapor pressures and can affect 

the environment and human health.
4 Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 5

JCP A15 — NEWSPRINT

Text Paper — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For 

minimum quality, face and back offset printing of newsletters, catalogs, pamphlets, newspapers, etc., of a nonpermanent nature. Printed matter may include text, line illustrations, and 65-line screen halftones.

Stock: No post-consumer fiber is required. Any 

percentage of post-consumer fiber is encouraged 

provided that the requirements of this Standard 

are met.

Basis weight: 24 by 36 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 26.1 27.7 30.0 

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Tearing strength: 

Average each direction not less than 

(grams) 18 20 22 

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent) 87 89 90 

No individual specimen shall average less than 

(percent) 85 87 88 

Thickness: Average (inch) 0.0027 0.0028 0.0030 

A tolerance of ±0.0005 inch shall be allowed. 

Paper shall be uniform and shall not vary more than 

0.0004 inch from one edge to the other.

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: Shall target 53% or as specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall 

be uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB)= 1.0

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform.

Cleanliness: Shall match the Government standard.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria in Part 4 shall apply.
6 Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13

JCP A25 — UNCOATED HEAT-SET MACHINE-FINISH WEB TEXT

Text Paper — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. 

For simultaneous face and back web offset printing of books, pamphlets, catalogs, periodicals, etc. Low bulk. 

Printed matter may include text, line illustrations, and halftones up to 150-line screen. A mill run grade.

Stock: Groundwood pulp not to exceed 1%. 

Note: No post-consumer fiber is required. Any percentage 

of post-consumer fiber is encouraged provided that the 

requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis weight: 25 by 38 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 35

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Acidity: pH value shall average not less than 6.5

Bursting strength: Average not less than (lb/in2) 11

Opacity: Average not less than (percent) 84

No individual specimen shall average less than 

(percent) 82

Thickness: Average (mils) 2.2

A tolerance of ±0.0003 inch shall be allowed. 

Paper shall be uniform and shall not vary more than 

0.0004 inch from edge to edge.

No individual specimen shall exceed (mils) 2.8

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: Shall target 88% or as specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall 

be uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB)= 1.0

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform.

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 250 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2 or 

greater. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria in Part 4 shall apply.
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 7

JCP A50 — UNCOATED MACHINE-FINISH BOOK END

Text Paper — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For end 

leaves of bound books, some of which may be printed by the offset process. Printed matter may include line 

illustrations and halftones up to 150-lines screen. A mill run grade.

Stock: 100% bleached chemical woodpulp. 

Note: Not less than 30% post-consumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points is encouraged provided that the 

requirements of this Standard are met. 

Basis weight: 25 by 38 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 80

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed. 

Acidity: pH value by cold extraction shall average not 

less than 7.0. The paper shall contain not less than 2% 

calcium carbonate. 

 

Folding endurance: Average each direction not less 

than (M.I.T. double fold) 30

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: Shall target 72% or as specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall 

be uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB)= 1.0

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform.

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 250 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2 or 

greater. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria in Part 4 shall apply.
8 Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13

JCP A55 — HEAT-SET WEB TEXT

Text Paper — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For 

simultaneous face and back web offset printing of books, pamphlets, catalogs, folders, circulars, etc. Printed 

matter may include text, line illustrations and halftones up to 150-line screen. Slitting and pasting and/or cross 

perforating are included in press capabilities.

Stock: Groundwood pulp not to exceed 1%. 

Note: No post-consumer fiber is required. Any percentage 

of post-consumer fiber is encouraged provided that the 

requirements of this Standard are met.

Sizing: Paper shall be surface and internal sized 

suitable for satisfactory printing on both sides of the 

paper on high-speed heat-set web presses equipped 

with low VOC1 dampening systems.

Basis weight: 25 by 38 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 40 50 60 70 80

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Acidity: pH value shall average not less than 6.5

Tensile strength: Average not less than

Machine direction (kg/in) 6.4 9.0 9.7 10.5 11.5 

Cross direction (kg/in) 3.1 3.6 4.1 4.6 5.1 

Bursting strength: Average not less than 

(lb/in2) 13 15 18 22 25 

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent) 86 89 91 92 94

No individual specimen shall average less than 

(percent) 84 87 89 90 92

Thickness: Average (mils) 3.0 3.9 4.7 5.5 6.3 

A tolerance of ±0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper 

shall be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 

inch from edge to edge.

Pick resistance: Average each side not less than 10-A 

Dennison wax number No individual specimen shall 

average less than 8-A Dennison wax number.

Surface: Shall be free from lint, fuzz, or any particles 

which will pick, lift, fluff, or pile on the blanket under 

normal press conditions.

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: Shall target not less than 90% or as 

specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall 

be uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform.

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 650 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2 or 

greater.

Pressroom conditions: The bulk of this paper will be 

used in air-conditioned pressrooms maintained at 24°C 

±2°C and 45% ±8% relative humidity.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria in Part 4 shall apply.

1VOC = Volatile organic compounds; refers to organic chemical compounds which have significant vapor pressures 

and can affect the environment and human health.
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 9

JCP A60 — UNCOATED TEXT

Text Paper — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For face 

and back multicolor offset printing of books, pamphlets, catalogs, folders, circulars, etc. The 40-pound stock 

may not be suitable for solid reverses or heavy halftones. Printed matter may include text, line illustrations and 

halftones up to 150-line screen.

Stock: Groundwood pulp not to exceed 1%. 

Note: No post-consumer fiber is required. Any percentage 

of post-consumer fiber is encouraged provided that the 

requirements of this Standard are met.

 

Basis weight: 25 by 38 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 40 50 60 70 80

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Acidity: pH value shall average not less than 6.5

Bursting strength: Average not less than 

(lb/in2) 13 15 18 22 25

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent) 86 89 91 92 94

No individual specimen shall average less than 

(percent) 84 87 89 90 92

Thickness: Average (mils) 3.0 3.9 4.7 5.5 6.3

A tolerance of ±0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper 

shall be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 

inch from edge to edge.

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: Shall target 88% or as specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall 

be uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB)= 1.0

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform.

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of paper 

shall not exceed 650 specks per square meter. No 

sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2 or 

greater. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria in Part 4 shall apply except as noted above.
10 Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13

JCP A61 — NO. 1 SMOOTH-FINISH TEXT

Text Paper — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For highest 

quality face and back offset printing of books, pamphlets, folders, etc. Lower bulk. Printed matter may include 

text, line illustrations, halftones up to 150-line screen and solid reverses.

Stock: 100% bleached chemical pulp.

Note: Not less than 30% post-consumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points is encouraged provided that the 

requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis weight: 25 by 38 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 50 60 70 80 

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Acidity: pH value by cold extraction shall average not 

less than 7.0. The paper shall contain not less than 2% 

calcium carbonate.

Bursting strength: Average not less than 

(lb/in2) 21 25 29 33 

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent) 92 93 94 95 

No individual specimen shall average less than 

(percent) 90 91 92 93

Thickness: Average (mils) 3.9 4.7 5.5 6.3 

A tolerance of ±0.0005 inch shall be allowed. 

Paper shall be uniform and shall not vary more than 

0.0004 inch from edge to edge.

Smoothness: Average each side not to exceed

(Sheffield units) (applies to all weights) 140 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: Shall target 88% or as specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall 

be uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB)= 1.0. 

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform with a 

smooth finish. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 250 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with an equivalent area of 0.25 mm2 

or greater. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The “precision requirements” of the acceptance criteria in Part 4 shall apply except as noted in the specification.
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 11

JCP A63 — UNCOATED COLORED TEXT

Text Paper — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For face 

and back multicolor offset printing of books, pamphlets, folders, circulars, etc.. Printed matter may include text, 

line illustrations, and halftones up to 150-line screen and solid reverses.

Stock: Groundwood pulp, not to exceed 1%. 

Note: Not less than 30% post-consumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points is encouraged provided that the 

requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis weight: 25 by 38 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 50 60 70 80

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Bursting strength: Average not less than 

(lb/in2) 16 19 22 25

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent) 90 92 93 94

No individual specimen shall average less than 

(percent) 88 90 91 92

Thickness: Average (mils) 3.9 4.7 5.5 6.3 

A tolerance of ±0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper 

shall be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 

inch from edge to edge.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria in Part 4 shall apply except as noted above.

Color: For a tight color match, designate a “precision” match in the solicitation. If no designation is specified, the 

“regular” acceptance criteria will be applied in judging the acceptability of the color match between the standard and 

the supplied paper stock for hue, chroma, and saturation.

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall 

be uniform and shall not exceed DE(CIELAB)= 1.0. 

The color shall match one of the established color 

standards in Part 3 or match a color sample supplied 

by the ordering agency. Colors shall not fade or 

transfer (rub off) and shall appear even and uniform 

on the surface of the sheet. The sheet shall not be 

2-sided.

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform.

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 250 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2 or 

greater. 

Note: This property is automatically waived when the 

ordering agency has specified a sheet with “fibers” or 

“specks” in the paper surface.
12 Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13

JCP A65 — UNCOATED LIGHT-WEIGHT GROUNDWOOD TEXT

Text Paper — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For face 

and back web offset printing of books, pamphlets, catalogs, periodicals, etc. of a non-permanent nature. Low 

bulk. Printed matter may include text, line illustrations, and halftones up to 120-line screen. A mill run grade.

Stock: Mechanical Pulp. No post-consumer fiber is 

required.

Basis weight: 25 by 38 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 35 

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Bursting strength: Average not less than (lb/in2) 11

Opacity: Average not less than (percent) 88

No individual specimen shall average less than 

(percent) 86

Thickness: Average (mils) 3.0

A tolerance of ±0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper 

shall be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 

inch from edge to edge.

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: Shall target 72% or as specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed DE 

(CIELAB) = 1.0.

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: Shall match the Government Standard.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria in Part 4 shall apply.
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 13

JCP A70 — UNCOATED 100% RECYCLED TEXT

Text Paper — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For 

minimum quality face and back offset printing of books, pamphlets, catalogs, folders, circulars, open forms, 

etc. of a non-permanent nature. Printed forms are suitable for execution with ball point and felt tip pens. Printed 

matter may include text and line illustrations.

Stock: Not less than 100% total recovered fiber of 

which at least 50% shall be post-consumer fiber. Any 

percent over 50 percentage points is encouraged 

provided that the requirements of this Standard are 

met. 

Basis weight: 25 by 38 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 40 45 50 60 70 80 100

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Bursting strength: Average not less than 

(lb/in2) 12 13 15 18 21 24 30 

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent) 87 88 90 92 94 95 96

No individual specimen shall average less than 

(percent) 85 86 88 90 92 93 94

Thickness: Average 

(mils) 3.0 3.5 4.0 4.8 5.5 6.2 8.2 

A tolerance of ±0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper 

shall be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 

inch from edge to edge.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria in Part 4 shall apply.

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: Shall target not less than 85% or as 

specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall 

be uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0.

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform.

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 650 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2 or 

greater.
14 Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13

JCP A75 — LIGHT-WEIGHT TEXT (BIBLE PAPER)

Text Paper — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For face 

and back offset printing of books, pamphlets, catalogs, folders, circulars, etc. Low bulk. Printed matter may 

include text, line illustrations, and halftones up to 150-line screen. A mill run grade.

Stock: 100% bleached chemical pulp.

Note1: Post-consumer fiber in any percentage is encouraged 

provided that the requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis weight: 25 by 38 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 30 

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Acidity: pH value by cold extraction shall be not less 

than 7.0. The paper shall contain not less than 2% 

calcium carbonate.

Bursting strength: Average not less than (lb/in2) 15

Opacity: Average not less than (percent) 88

Note: Any deviation in this requirement is sufficient cause for 

rejection of the paper.

Thickness: Average (mils) 2.1

A tolerance of +0.0001 inch and -0.0002 inch shall be 

allowed.

Smoothness: Average each side not to exceed 

(Sheffield units) 60 to 100

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: Shall target not less than 88% or as 

specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed DE 

(CIELAB) = 1.0.

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 100 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2 or 

greater.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria in Part 4 shall apply except as noted in the specification.

1 This is a specialty grade with low Government usage. A post-consumer fiber content for this grade is not practical for cost and 

technological reasons.
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 15

JCP A80 — OPACIFIED TEXT

Text Paper — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For high 

quality multicolor face and back offset printing of books, pamphlets, folders, etc. Printed matter may include 

text, line illustrations, halftones up to 150-line screen, and solid reverses.

Stock: 100% bleached chemical wood pulp.

Note: No post-consumer fiber is required. Any percentage 

of post-consumer fiber is encouraged provided that the 

requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis weight: 25 by 38 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 40 50 60

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Acidity: pH value by cold extraction shall average not 

less than 7.0. The paper shall contain not less than 2% 

calcium carbonate.

Bursting strength: Average not less than 

(lb/in2) 16 20 25 

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent) 89 91 93

No individual specimen shall average less than 

(percent) 87 89 91

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria in Part 4 shall apply except as noted in the specification.

Thickness: Average (mils) 3.1 3.9 4.7 

A tolerance of ±0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper 

shall be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 

inch from edge to edge.

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: Shall target not less than 88% or as 

specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall 

be uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0.

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform.

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 250 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with an equivalent area of 0.25 mm2 

or greater.
16 Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13

JCP A90 — VELLUM-FINISH TEXT; WHITE AND COLORS

Text Paper — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For high 

quality face and back and offset printing of books, pamphlets, folders, etc. Printed matter may include text, line 

illustrations, halftones up to 150-line screen, and solid reverses.

Stock: 100% bleached chemical pulp.

Note: Not less than 30% post-consumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points is encouraged provided that the 

requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis weight: 25 by 38 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 50 60 70 80 100 

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Acidity: pH value by cold extraction shall be not less 

than 7.0. The paper shall contain not less than 2% 

calcium carbonate.

Bursting strength: Average not less than 

(lb/in2) 19 24 27 28 32

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent) 92 93 94 95 96

No individual specimen shall average less than 

(percent) 90 91 92 93 94

Thickness: Average (mils) 4.3 5.1 5.9 6.7 8.2

A tolerance of ±0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper 

shall be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 

inch from one edge to edge.

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: The white paper shall target not less 

than 88% or as specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall 

be uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE (CIELAB) = 1.0. For colored stock, paper shall 

match one of the established color standards in Part 

3 or match a color sample supplied by the ordering 

agency. Colors shall not fade or transfer (rub off) and 

shall appear even and uniform on the surface of the 

sheet. The sheet shall not be 2-sided.

Finish: Paper shall have a vellum-finish. 

Formation: Shall be uniform.

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 650 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2 or 

greater.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria in Part 4 shall apply except as noted in the specification.

Color: For a tight color match, designate a “precision” match in the solicitation.   If no designation is specified, the 

“regular” acceptance criteria will be applied in judging the acceptability of the color match between the standard and 

the supplied paper stock for hue, chroma, and saturation.
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 17

JCP A91 — SMOOTH AND EMBOSSED TEXT; WHITE AND COLORS

Text Paper — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For higher 

quality multicolor face and back and offset printing of books, pamphlets, brochures, etc. Printed matter may 

include text, line illustrations, halftones up to 150-line screen and solid reverses. This standard allows for unique 

finishes for special print requirements.

Stock: 100% bleached chemical wood pulp.

Note: Not less than 30% post-consumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points is encouraged provided that the 

requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis weight: 25 by 38 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 60 70 80 100

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Acidity: pH value by cold extraction shall average not 

less than 7.0. The paper shall contain not less than 2% 

calcium carbonate.

Tearing strength: Average each direction not less than 

(grams) 20 25 28 35 

Opacity: For white paper only, average not less than 

(percent) 92 94 95 97

No individual specimen shall average less than 

(percent) 90 92 93 95

Thickness: For smooth-finish stock average 

(mils) 5.0 5.6 6.3 7.9 

A tolerance of ±0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper 

shall be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 

inch from edge to edge.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria in Part 4 shall apply except as noted in the specification.

Color: For a tight color match, designate a “precision” match in the solicitation.   If no designation is specified, the 

“regular” acceptance criteria will be applied in judging the acceptability of the color match between the standard and 

the supplied paper stock for hue, chroma, and saturation.

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: The white paper shall target 92% or as 

specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall 

be uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE (CIELAB)= 1.0. For colored stock, paper shall 

match one of the established color standards in Part 

3 or match a color sample supplied by the ordering 

agency. Colors shall not fade or transfer (rub off) and 

shall appear even and uniform on the surface of the 

sheet. The sheet shall not be 2-sided.

Finish and formation: Paper shall have a smooth 

finish or as specified (linen, leatherette, etc.)

Formation: Shall be uniform.

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 250 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with an equivalent area of 0.25 mm2 

or greater.

Note: The requirement is automatically waived when the 

ordering agency specifies a paper with fibers or specks in 

the paper surface.
18 Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13

JCP A95 — HI-BULK TEXT (RETURN MAILER)

Text Paper — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For face and 

back offset printing of return mailers. Printed matter may include text, line illustrations, halftones up to 150-line 

screen and solid reverses. Grade complies with the U.S. Postal Service minimum caliper (thickness) requirement for 

return mailers.

Stock: Groundwood pulp not to exceed 1%.

Note: Not less than 30% post-consumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points is encouraged, provided that the 

requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis weight: 25 by 38 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 70

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Bursting strength: Average not less than (lb/in2) 16

Opacity: Average not less than (percent) 91

No individual specimen shall average less than 

(percent) 89

Thickness: Average not less than (mils) 7.0

Paper shall be uniform and shall not vary more than 

0.0004 inch from edge to edge.

Note: Any specimen averaging less the 0.0070 inch shall be 

sufficient cause for rejection of the paper.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria in Part 4 shall apply except as noted in the specification.

Porosity: Average not less than (seconds) 25

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: Shall target 79% or as specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed DE 

(CIELAB)= 1.0. 

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform.

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 650 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with an equivalent area of 0.25 mm2 

or greater.
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 19

JCP A100 — ANTIQUE TEXT

Text Paper — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For 

multicolor face and back offset printing of books, pamphlets, folders, brochures, etc. Has a rough, soft finish, 

particularly suited for publications with extensive reading matter. High bulk. Printed matter may include text, line 

illustrations and halftones up to 150-line screen. A mill run grade.

Stock: Groundwood pulp not to exceed 1%.

Note: Not less than 30% post-consumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points is encouraged, provided that the 

requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis weight: 25 by 38 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 45 60 70 

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Acidity: pH value shall average not less than 6.5

Bursting strength: Average not less than 

(lb/in2) 13 18 21 

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent) 89 91 94 

No individual specimen shall average less than 

(percent) 87 89 92 

Thickness: Average (mils) 3.9 5.1 5.9

A tolerance of ±0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper 

shall be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 

inch from edge to edge.

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: Shall target 72% ±2% or as specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall 

be uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0.

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 250 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2 or 

greater.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria in Part 4 shall apply.
20 Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13

JCP A110 — 50% COTTON ANTIQUE TEXT

Text Paper — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For 

multicolor face and back offset printing of books, catalogs, pamphlets, etc. requiring above average durability and 

permanence. Has a rough, soft finish particularly suited for publications with extensive reading matter. High bulk. 

Printed matter may include text, line illustrations and halftones up to 150-line screen. A mill run grade.

Stock: Not less than 50% cotton or linen fibers. 

Groundwood pulp not to exceed 1%. 

No fluorescent (optical) brighteners shall be added to 

the pulp or paper during manufacture. Fluorescence, 

due to residual white water, broke, or natural fibers, 

is permissible, provided the increase in reflectance 

measured with and without the ultraviolet component 

of a light source of 3100 Kelvin in combination with a 

C.I.E. (International Commission on Illumination) Z (blue) 

filter, does not exceed 2.0%.

Note: Not less than 30% post-consumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points is encouraged, provided that the 

requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis weight: 25 by 38 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 40

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Acidity: pH value shall average not less than 7.0

Bursting strength: Average not less than (lb/in2) 13

Opacity: Average not less than (percent) 89

No individual specimen shall average less than 

(percent) 87

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria in Part 4 shall apply.

Thickness: Average not less than (mils) 3.5

A tolerance of ±0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper 

shall be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 

inch from edge to edge.

Porosity: Average not less than (seconds) 25

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: Shall target 72% ±2% or as specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed DE 

(CIELAB) = 1.0.

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform.

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 250 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2 or 

greater.
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 21

JCP A120 — 50% COTTON LAID-FINISH ANTIQUE TEXT

Text Paper — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For 

multicolor face and back offset printing of pamphlets, brochures, invitations, programs, etc., requiring attractive 

appearance and/or above average durability and above average permanence. Has a rough, soft finish with 

decorative chain marks running at right angles to laid lines. High bulk. Printed matter may include text, line 

illustrations, and halftones up to 150-line screen.

Stock: Not less than 50% cotton or linen fibers. 

Groundwood pulp not to exceed 1%.

No fluorescent (optical) brighteners shall be added to 

the pulp or paper during manufacture. Fluorescence, 

due to residual white water, broke, or natural fibers, 

is permissible, provided the increase in reflectance, 

measured with and without the ultraviolet component 

of a light source of 3100 Kelvin in combination with a 

C.I.E. (International Commission on Illumination) Z (blue) 

filter, does not exceed 2.0%.

Note: Not less than 30% post-consumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points is encouraged, provided that the 

requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis weight: 25 by 38 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 70 

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Acidity: pH value shall average not less than 7.0

Bursting strength: Average not less than (lb/in2) 19 

Opacity: Average not less than (percent) 90 

No individual specimen shall average less than 

(percent) 88 

Thickness: Average (mils) 5.5

A tolerance of ±0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper 

shall be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 

inch from edge to edge.

Chain marks: Shall run parallel to machine direction of 

the sheet and match the standard sample.

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: Shall target 72% ±2% or as specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed DE 

(CIELAB) = 1.0.

Finish: Paper shall have a laid-finish.

Formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 250 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with an equivalent area of 0.25 mm2 

or greater.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria in Part 4 shall apply.
22 Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13

JCP A160 — COATED ONE-SIDE TEXT (C1S)

Text Paper — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For 

multicolor face and back offset printing of posters, envelopes, etc. Printed matter may include text, line 

illustrations, halftones up to 150-line screen, and solids. Coated side is for 4-color process printing.

Stock: Free from groundwood and unbleached wood 

pulp.

Note: No post-consumer fiber is required. Any percentage 

of post-consumer fiber is encouraged provided that the 

requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis weight: 25 by 38 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 60 70 80 100 

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Tearing strength: Average each direction not less than 

(grams) 40 50 55 60

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent) 90 91 92 94

No individual specimen shall average less than 

(percent) 88 89 90 92

Thickness: Average (mils) 3.2 3.9 4.5 5.2

A tolerance of ±0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper 

shall be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 

inch from one edge to edge.

Gloss of coated side (75°): Average not less than 

(percent) (applies to all weights) 60

Smoothness: Average each side not to exceed

(Sheffield units) (applies to all weights) 55

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness of coated side: Average not less than 

85% or as specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed DE 

(CIELAB) = 1.0.

Formation: Coating shall be uniform; shall be 

uniformly applied; shall not be gritty, mottled, 

stippled, or ribbed in appearance; and shall not 

exhibit cracks or flake off. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 250 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size)shall contain more 

than one defect with an equivalent area of 0.25 mm2 

or greater.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria in Part 4 shall not apply except as noted in the specification.
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 23

JCP A175 — GLOSS-COATED TEXT (PUBLICATION GRADE)

Text Paper — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For face and 

back offset printing. Grade suited for long run of books, pamphlets, magazines, periodicals, brochures, etc. Printed 

matter may include text, line illustrations, and halftones up to 150-line screen.

Stock: Free from groundwood or unbleached wood 

pulp.

Note: No post-consumer fiber is required. Any percentage 

of post-consumer fiber is encouraged provided that the 

requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis weight: 25 by 38 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 38

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Bursting strength: Average not less than (lb/in2) 11

Opacity: Average not less than (percent) 89

No individual specimen shall average less than 

(percent) 87

Thickness: Average not less than (mils) 2.2

A tolerance of ±0.0005 inch) shall be allowed. Paper 

shall be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 

inch from edge to edge.

Gloss (75°): Average each side not less than 

(percent) 40

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria in Part 4 shall apply.

Smoothness: Average each side not to exceed 

(Sheffield units) 65

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: Average not less than 80% or as 

specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall 

be uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB)= 1.0. 

Formation: Coating shall be uniform; shall be 

uniformly applied; shall not be gritty, mottled, 

stippled, or ribbed in appearance, and shall not 

exhibit cracks or flake off. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 100 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2 or 

greater.
24 Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13

JCP A180 — GLOSS-COATED TEXT

Text Paper — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For high 

quality multicolor face and back printing of books, pamphlets, magazines, periodicals, brochures, etc. Printed 

matter may include text, line illustrations and halftones up to 175-line screen.

Stock: Groundwood pulp, not to exceed 1%.

Note: No post-consumer fiber is required. Any percentage 

of post-consumer fiber is encouraged provided that the 

requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis weight: 25 by 38 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 50 60 70 80 

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Acidity: Average pH value of the coating not less than 6.5

Bursting strength: Average not less than 

(lb/in2) 11 13 20 30

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent) 91 92 93 94

No individual specimen shall average less than 

(percent) 89 90 91 92

Thickness: Average (mils) 2.6 3.0 3.3 3.6

A tolerance of ±0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper 

shall be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 

inch from one edge to edge.

Gloss (75°): Average each side 

(percent) (applies to all weights) 50

Smoothness: Average each side not to exceed 

(Sheffield units) (applies to all weights) 55

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: Average not less than 85% or as 

specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed DE 

(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Formation: Coating shall be uniform; shall be 

uniformly applied; shall not be gritty, mottled, 

stippled, or ribbed in appearance, and shall not 

exhibit cracks or flake off. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 100 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2 or 

greater.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria in Part 4 shall apply excepted as noted in the specification.
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 25

JCP A181 — NO. 1 GLOSS-COATED TEXT

Text Paper — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For highest 

quality multicolor face and back offset printing of books, pamphlets, magazines, periodicals, brochures, etc. 

Printed matter may include text, line illustrations and halftones up to 200-line screen.

Stock: Free from groundwood or unbleached wood 

pulp.

Note: No post-consumer fiber is required. Any percentage 

of post-consumer fiber is encouraged provided that the 

requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis weight: 25 by 38 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 70 80 100 

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Acidity: pH value shall average not less than 6.5

Bursting strength: Average not less than 

(lb/in2) 20 30 40

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent) 92 93 94

No individual specimen shall average less than 

(percent) 90 91 92

Thickness: Average (mils) 3.3 3.7 4.3

A tolerance of ±0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper 

shall be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 

inch from one edge to edge.

Gloss (75°): Average each side not less than 

(percent) (applies to all weights) 65

Smoothness: Average each side not to exceed 

(Sheffield units) (applies to all weights) 45

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: Average not less than 92% or as 

specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall 

be uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE (CIELAB) = 1.0.

Formation: Coating shall be uniform; shall be 

uniformly applied; shall not be gritty, mottled, 

stippled, or ribbed in appearance, and shall not 

exhibit cracks or flake off. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 25 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2 or 

greater.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria in Part 4 shall not apply.
26 Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13

JCP A182 — NO. 2 GLOSS-COATED TEXT

Text Paper — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For highest 

quality multicolor face and back offset printing of books, pamphlets, magazines, periodicals, brochures, etc. 

Printed matter may include text, line illustrations and halftones up to 200-line screen.

Stock: Free from groundwood or unbleached wood 

pulp.

Note: No post-consumer fiber is required. Any percentage 

of post-consumer fiber is encouraged provided that the 

requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis weight: 25 by 38 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 70 80 100

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Acidity: Average pH value of coating not less than 6.5

Bursting strength: Average not less than 

(lb/in2) 21 31 40 

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent) 91 92 92

No individual specimen shall average less than 

(percent) 89 90 90

Thickness: Average (mils) 3.3 3.7 4.3 

A tolerance of ±0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper 

shall be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 

inch from edge to edge.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria in Part 4 shall not apply. 

Gloss (75°): Average each side not less than 

(percent) (applies to all weights) 60

Smoothness: Average each side not to exceed 

(Sheffield units) (applies to all weights) 55

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: Average not less than 90% or as 

specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed DE 

(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Formation: Coating shall be uniform; shall be 

uniformly applied; shall not be gritty, mottled, 

stippled, or ribbed in appearance, and shall not 

exhibit cracks or flake off. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 50 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2 or 

greater.
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 27

JCP A205 — DURABLE GLOSS-COATED TEXT

Text Paper — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For 

multicolor face and back offset printing, principally of maps and charts, covers for books, etc. Good folding 

endurance. Printed matter may include text, line illustrations, and halftones up to 150-line screen. A mill run 

grade.

Stock: Free from groundwood and unbleached wood 

pulp.

Note: No post-consumer fiber is required. Any percentage 

of post-consumer fiber is encouraged provided that the 

requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis weight: 25 by 38 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 70 

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Folding endurance: Average each direction not less 

than (MIT double folds) 50

Note: Precision Part 4 applies for this property.

Bursting strength: Average not less than (lb/in2) 29

Opacity: Average not less than (percent) 93

No individual specimen shall average less than 

(percent) 91

Thickness: Average not less than (mils) 3.7

A tolerance of ±0.0005inch shall be allowed. Paper 

shall be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 

inch from one edge to edge.

Gloss (75°): Average each side not less than 

(percent) 50

Smoothness: Average each side not to exceed 

(Sheffield units) 65

Blocking: Sheets shall not stick together after being 

wet with water then allowed to dry in contact with other 

sheets of the same paper.

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: Average not less than 88% or as 

specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall 

be uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB) = 1.0 

Formation: Coating shall be uniform; shall be 

uniformly applied; shall not be gritty, mottled, 

stippled, or ribbed in appearance; and shall not 

exhibit cracks or flake off. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 50 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2 or 

greater.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria Part 4 shall apply. 
28 Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13

JCP A220 — WATER-RESISTANT TEXT

Text Paper — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For multicolor 

face and back offset printing of books, pamphlets, manuals, etc., requiring water-resistant properties. Printed 

matter may include text, line illustrations, and halftones up to 150-line screen. A mill run grade.

Stock: Groundwood or unbleached chemical pulp, 

singly or mixed, not to exceed 5%; the remainder 

bleached chemical pulp. The use of melamineformaldehyde or any material that releases 

formaldehyde into the atmosphere at concentration of 

0.1 parts per million or greater shall not be permitted in 

the manufacture of this paper.

Note: Not less than 30% post-consumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points is encouraged, provided that the 

requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis weight: 25 by 38 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 60

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Acidity: pH value by cold extraction shall average not 

less than 4.7

Bursting strength: Average not less than

(Dry, lb/in2) 30

(Wet, lb/in2) 13

Opacity: Average not less than (percent) 90

No individual specimen shall average less than 

(percent) 88

Thickness: Average (mils) 4.2

A tolerance of ±0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper 

shall be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 

inch from edge to edge.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria in Part 4 shall apply.

Water resistance: Average not less than 

(seconds) 60

Smoothness: Average each side not to exceed 

(Sheffield units) 60 to 140

Blocking: Sheets shall not stick together after being 

wet with water and then allowed to dry in contact with 

other sheets of the same paper.

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: Shall target 72% ±2% or as specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform with and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE(CIELAB)= 1.0.

Formation: Shall be uniform.

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 250 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2 or 

greater.
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 29

JCP A230 — HIGH YIELD (LIGHT COATING) TEXT

Text Paper — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. Light 

coating provides a better print quality. Good yield. Printed matter may include text, line illustrations and light 

halftones. A mill run grade.

Stock: No post-consumer fiber is required. Any 

percentage of post-consumer fiber is encouraged 

provided that the requirements of this Standard are 

met.

Basis weight: 25 by 38 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 35 38 40 45 50

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Bursting strength: Average not less than 

(lb/in2) 11 12 13 15 16 

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent) 86 87 88 90 91

No individual specimen shall average less than 

(percent) 84 85 86 88 89

Thickness: Average (mils) 2.9 3.2 3.3 3.5 3.8 

A tolerance of ±0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper 

shall be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 

inch from edge to edge.

Gloss (75°): Average each side not less than 

(percent) (applies to all weights) 5 to 25

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The “precision” requirements of the acceptance criteria in Part 4 shall apply. 

Smoothness: Average each side not to exceed 

(Sheffield units) (applies to all weights) 150

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: Average not less than 79% or as 

specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed DE 

(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Formation: Coating shall be uniform; shall be 

uniformly applied; shall not be gritty, mottled, 

stippled, or ribbed in appearance, and shall not 

exhibit cracks or flake off. 

Coating: This grade shall have at least 3 pounds of 

coating per side.

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 250 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2 or 

greater.
30 Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13

JCP A235 — MATTE-COATED TEXT (PUBLICATION GRADE)

Text Paper — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For face 

and back offset printing of books, pamphlets, folders, etc. Printed matter may include text, line illustrations and 

light halftones. Grade suited for long runs. A mill run grade.

Stock: No post-consumer fiber is required. Any 

percentage of post-consumer fiber is encouraged 

provided that the requirements of this Standard are 

met.

Basis weight: 25 by 38 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 40 50 60 70

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Bursting strength: Average not less than 

(lb/in2) 8 11 15 25

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent) 91 91 92 93

No individual specimen shall average less than 

(percent) 89 89 90 91

Thickness: Average (mils) 3.3 3.7 4.3 5.4

A tolerance of ±0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper 

shall be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 

inch from one edge to edge.

Gloss (75°): Average each side not less than 

(percent) (applies to all weights) 10 to 25

Smoothness: Average each side not to exceed 

(Sheffield units) (applies to all weights) 120

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: Average not less than 79% or as 

specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed DE 

(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Formation: Coating shall be uniform; shall be 

uniformly applied; shall not be gritty, mottled, 

stippled, or ribbed in appearance, and shall not 

exhibit cracks or flake off. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 100 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2 or 

greater.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria in Part 4 shall apply.
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 31

JCP A240 — MATTE-COATED TEXT

Text Paper — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For face 

and back offset printing of books, pamphlets, folders, etc. Printed matter may include text, line illustrations and 

light halftones. Grade suited for long runs. A mill run grade.

Stock: No post-consumer fiber is required. Any 

percentage of post-consumer fiber is encouraged 

provided that the requirements of this Standard are 

met.

Basis weight: 25 by 38 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 60 70 80 100

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Acidity: Average pH value of coating not less than 6.5

Folding endurance: Average each direction not less 

than (MIT double fold) 15 20 20 20

Bursting strength: Average not less than 

(lb/in2) 15 25 35 40 

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent) 91 92 93 95

No individual specimen shall average less than 

(percent) 89 90 91 93

Thickness: Average (mils) 3.7 4.3 4.9 5.5 

A tolerance of ±0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper 

shall be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 

inch from edge to edge.

Gloss (75°): Average each side not to exceed 

(percent) (applies to all weights) 25

Smoothness: Average each side not to exceed 

(Sheffield units) (applies to all weights) 120

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: Average not less than 92% or as 

specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed DE 

(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Formation: Coating shall be uniform; shall be 

uniformly applied; shall not be gritty, mottled, 

stippled, or ribbed in appearance, and shall not 

exhibit cracks or flake off. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 100 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2 or 

greater.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria in Part 4 shall apply except as noted above. 
32 Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13

JCP A250 — UNCOATED LAID-FINISH TEXT; WHITE AND COLORS

Text Paper — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For high 

quality multicolor face and back offset printing of pamphlets, brochures, invitations, programs, etc., requiring 

attractive appearance. Has a rough, soft finish with decorative chain marks running at right angles to laid lines. 

High bulk. Printed matter may include text, line illustrations and halftones up to 150-line screen. 

Stock: Groundwood pulp not to exceed 1%.

Note: Not less than 30% post-consumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points is encouraged, provided that the 

requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis weight: 25 by 38 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 60 70 80

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Acidity: pH value shall average not less than 6.5 for 

white paper and 5.0 for colored paper.

Bursting strength: Average not less than 

(lb/in2) 15 19 22 

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent) 89 91 93

No individual specimen shall average less than 

(percent) 87 89 91

Thickness: Average (mils) 6.0 6.5 7.4 

A tolerance of ±0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper 

shall be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 

inch from edge to edge.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria in Part 4 shall apply. 

Color: For a tight color match, designate a “precision” match in the solicitation.   If no designation is specified, the 

“regular” acceptance criteria will be applied in judging the acceptability of the color match between the standard and 

the supplied paper stock for hue, chroma, and saturation.

Chain marks: Shall run parallel to machine direction of 

the sheet and match the standard sample. 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: The white paper shall have a target 

brightness not less than 88% or as specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall 

be uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE (CIELAB) = 1.0. For colored stock, paper shall 

match one of the established color standards in Part 

3 or match a color sample supplied by the ordering 

agency. Colors shall not fade or transfer (rub off) and 

shall appear even and uniform on the surface of the 

sheet. The sheet shall not be 2-sided. 

Finish: Paper shall have a laid-finish.

Formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 650 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2 or 

greater.
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 33

JCP A260 — SILK / DULL-COATED TEXT

Text Paper — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For 

multicolor face and back offset printing of books, pamphlets, periodicals, brochures, etc. Low glare. Sometimes 

referred to as satin. Printed matter may include text, line illustrations and halftones up to 175-line screen. 

Stock: Groundwood pulp not to exceed 1%.

Note: No post-consumer fiber is required. Any percentage 

of post-consumer fiber is encouraged provided that the 

requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis weight: 25 by 38 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 60 70 80

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Acidity: Average pH value of the coating not less than 6.5

Bursting strength: Average not less than 

(lb/in2) 15 25 35

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent) 88 90 91

No individual specimen shall average less than 

(percent) 86 88 89

Thickness: Average (mils) 3.0 3.5 4.1

A tolerance of ±0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper 

shall be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 

inch from one edge to edge.

Gloss (75°): Average each side 

(percent) (applies to all weights) 25 to 50

Smoothness: Average each side not to exceed

(Sheffield units) (applies to all weights) 60

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: Average not less than 88% or as 

specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed DE 

(CIELAB) = 1.0

Formation: Coating shall be uniform; shall be 

uniformly applied; shall not be gritty, mottled, 

stippled, or ribbed in appearance; and shall not 

exhibit cracks or flake off. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 100 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain 

more than one defect with equivalent area of 0.25 

mm2 or greater.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria in Part 4 shall apply except as noted above. 
34 Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13

JCP A261 — NO. 1 SILK / DULL-COATED TEXT

Text Paper — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For highest 

quality multicolor face and back offset printing of books, pamphlets, magazines, periodicals, brochures, etc. Low 

glare. Sometimes referred to as satin. Printed matter may include text, line illustrations and halftones up to 200-

line screen. 

Stock: Free from groundwood or unbleached wood 

pulp.

Note: No post-consumer fiber is required. Any percentage 

of post-consumer fiber is encouraged provided that the 

requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis weight: 25 by 38 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 70 80 100

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Acidity: Average pH value of the coating not less than 6.5

Bursting strength: Average not less than 

(lb/in2) 25 35 45

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent) 92 93 94

No individual specimen shall average less than 

(percent) 90 91 92

Thickness: Average (mils) 3.5 4.1 4.7

A tolerance of ±0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper 

shall be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 

inch from one edge to edge.

Gloss (75°): Average each side not to exceed 

(percent) (applies to all weights) 30 to 50

Smoothness: Average each side not to exceed

(Sheffield units) (applies to all weights) 50

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: Average not less than 92% or as 

specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed DE 

(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Formation: Coating shall be uniform; shall be 

uniformly applied; shall not be gritty, mottled, 

stippled, or ribbed in appearance; and shall not 

exhibit cracks or flake off. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 25 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2 or 

greater.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria in Part 4 shall not apply. 
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 35

JCP A262 — NO. 2 SILK / DULL COATED TEXT

Text Paper — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For higher 

quality multicolor face and back offset printing of books, pamphlets, magazines, periodicals, brochures, etc. Low 

glare. Sometimes referred to as satin. Printed matter may include text, line illustrations and halftones up to 200-

line screen. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria Part 4 shall not apply.

Stock: Free from groundwood or unbleached wood pulp.

Note: No post-consumer fiber is required. The addition 

of post-consumer fiber is encouraged provided that the 

requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis weight: 25 by 38 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 70 80 100

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Acidity: Average pH value of the coating not less 

than 6.5. Note: Any deviation from this requirement is 

sufficient cause for rejection of the paper. 

Bursting strength: Average not less than 

(lb/in2) 25 35 45

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent) 91 92 93

No individual specimen shall average less than 

(percent) 89 90 91

Thickness: Average (mils) 3.5 4.1 4.7

A tolerance of ±0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper 

shall be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 

inch from edge to edge. 

Gloss (75 ̊): Average each side 

(percent) (applies to all weights) 25 to 45

Smoothness: Average each side not to exceed

(Sheffield units) (applies to all weights) 60

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: Average not less than 90% or as 

specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed DE 

(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Finish and Formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 50 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2 or 

greater.
36 Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13

JCP A270 — UNCOATED-PERMANENT TEXT; WHITE AND CREAM WHITE

Text Paper — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For face 

and back offset printing of books, pamphlets, etc. requiring the highest degree of permanence (archival quality.) 

Printed matter may include text, line illustrations and halftones up to 150-line screen. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria in Part 4 shall apply except as noted above. 

Stock: 100% bleached chemical wood pulp.

Note: Any deviation from this requirement is sufficient cause 

for rejection of the paper. 

Note: Not less than 30% post-consumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points is encouraged, provided that the 

requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis weight: 25 by 38 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 30 40 50 60 70

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Acidity: Average pH value by cold extraction shall 

average not less than 7.5. The composition of the filler 

shall include not less than 2.0% calcium carbonate.

Note: Any deviation from this requirement is sufficient cause 

for rejection of the paper. 

Folding endurance: Average each side not less than 

(MIT double folds) 30 30 30 30 35

Note: Any deviation from this requirement is sufficient cause 

for rejection of the paper.

 

Tearing strength: Average each direction not less 

(grams) 25 33 40 50 60

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent) 84 86 89 91 92

No individual specimen shall average less than 

(percent) 82 84 87 89 90

Thickness: Average (mils) 2.6 3.5 4.1 4.5 5.0

A tolerance of ±0.0003 inch shall be allowed for the 

30 and 40 pound stocks and ±0.0005 inch for the 50, 

60 and 70 pound. Paper shall be uniform and shall not 

vary more than 0.0004 inch from edge to edge. 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: The white paper shall average not less 

than 88% or as specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed DE 

(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Finish and Formation: Shall be uniform. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 50 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2 or 

greater.
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 37

JCP A280 — MATTE-COATED GROUNDWOOD TEXT

Text Paper — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For higher 

quality multicolor face and back offset printing of books, pamphlets, magazines, periodicals, brochures, etc. Low 

glare. Printed matter may include text, line illustrations and halftones up to 200-line screen. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria Part 4 shall apply.

Stock: Not less than 10% post-consumer fiber. Any 

percent over 10 percentage points is encouraged, 

provided that the requirements of this Standard are 

met.

Basis weight: 25 by 38 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 35

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Opacity: Average not less than (percent) 89

No individual specimen shall average less than 

(percent) 87

Thickness: Average (mils) 3.3

A tolerance of ±0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper 

shall be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 

inch from edge to edge. 

Gloss (75 ̊): Average each side (percent) 10 to 25

Smoothness: Average each side not to exceed

(Sheffield units) 120

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: Average not less than 77% or as 

specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed DE 

(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Formation: Coating shall be uniform; shall be 

uniformly applied; shall not be gritty, mottled, 

stippled, or ribbed in appearance; and shall not 

exhibit cracks or flake off.

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 50 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2 or 

greater.
38 Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13

JCP D10 — WRITING; WHITE AND COLORS (WITH TABLET STOCK OPTION)

Writing Paper — FSC 7530

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For face 

and back offset printing. The 12-pound paper is used on open forms, including multiple copies, one side only. The 

16-pound and heavier are used in printing books, pamphlets, catalog, open forms, etc. Printed matter may include 

text, line illustrations and ruled forms. Halftones and reverse prints may be included on the 20-pound paper.

Stock: Groundwood pulp not to exceed 1%.

Note: Post-consumer fiber in any percentage is encouraged 

provided that the requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 12 16 18 20

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Folding endurance: Average each direction not less 

than (MIT double folds) 7 8 8 9

Opacity1: Average not less than 

(percent) na 83 84 85

No individual specimen shall average less than 

(percent) na 81 82 83

Thickness: Average (mils) 2.4 3.0 3.4 3.8 

A tolerance of ±0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper 

shall be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 

inch from edge to edge.

Writing quality: Characters written with ball point and 

felt tip pens shall be clear cut and free from excessive 

feathering.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria in Part 4 shall apply.

Color: For a tight color match, designate a “precision” match in the solicitation.   If no designation is specified, the 

“regular” acceptance criteria will be applied in judging the acceptability of the color match between the standard and 

the supplied paper stock for hue, chroma, and saturation.

1 This property is automatically waived if the end use is to produce “scratch” pads, tablets for 1-sided use and of a temporary 

nature, etc.

2 Contact the GPO for availability of these colors: blue, buff, green, pink, salmon or yellow. Exact matches to these colors standards 

are available in mill run quantities.

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: The white paper shall target not less 

than 79% or as specified.

Color2: The paper shall be uniform and the color 

variation shall not exceed DE(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

For colored stock, paper shall match one of the 

established color standards in Part 3 or match a 

color sample supplied by the ordering agency. Colors 

shall not fade or transfer (rub off) and shall appear 

even and uniform on the surface of the sheet. The 

sheet shall not be 2-sided.

Formation: Shall be uniform.

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 650 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with an equivalent area of 0.25 mm2 

or greater.
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 39

JCP D11 — SMOOTH AND EMBOSSED WRITING; WHITE AND COLORS

Writing Paper — FSC 7530

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For higher 

quality multicolor face and back offset printing of stationery, letterheads, certificates, citations, diplomas, etc., 

requiring execution with pen and ink and suitable for processing in a laser printer. Printed matter may include 

text, line illustrations and ruled forms. Grade allows for unique finishes for special print requirements. 

Stock1: Groundwood pulp not to exceed 1%.

Note: Not less than 30% post-consumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points is encouraged, provided that the 

requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 24 28

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Folding endurance: Average each direction not less 

than (MIT double folds) 12 14

Opacity: Average not less than (percent) 89 90

No individual specimen shall average less than 

(percent) 87 88

Ruling and writing quality: Lines ruled and characters 

written with pen and ink shall be clear and free from 

excessive feathering.

Curl: Paper shall lie flat before and after processing 

through a high-speed copier or laser printer with 

either no tendency to curl or with a curl which can be 

overcome under reasonable working conditions.

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: The white paper shall target not less 

than 90% or as specified.

Color: The paper shall be uniform and the color 

variation shall not exceed DE (CIELAB) = 1.0. 

For colored stock, paper shall match one of the 

established color standards in Part 3 or match a 

color sample supplied by the ordering agency. Colors 

shall not fade or transfer (rub off) and shall appear 

even and uniform on the surface of the sheet. The 

sheet shall not be 2-sided.

Finish: Paper shall have a smooth-finish or as 

specified (linen, leatherette, felt, etc.)

Formation: Shall be uniform.

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 650 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with an equivalent area of 0.25 mm2 

or greater.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria in Part 4 shall apply.

Color: For a tight color match, designate a “precision” match in the solicitation.   If no designation is specified, the 

“regular” acceptance criteria will be applied in judging the acceptability of the color match between the standard and 

the supplied paper stock for hue, chroma, and saturation.

1 Alternatively, the ordering agency may specify a more environmentally-preferable paper by including specific language in the 

solicitation and/or adjusting the stock requirement for higher post-consumer fiber content or total recycled fiber content.
40 Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13

JCP D50 — 100% COTTON FINE WRITING

Writing Paper — FSC 7530

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For highest 

quality offset printing and embossing of stationery, letterheads, certificates, citations, diplomas, etc., requiring 

execution with pen and ink erasing quality, permanence and suitable for processing in a laser printer. The paper is 

restricted to printing of stationery for use by officials at the highest level of Government.

Stock: 100% cotton or linen fibers.

No fluorescent (optical) brighteners shall be added to 

the pulp or paper during manufacture. Fluorescence, 

due to residual white water, broke, or natural fibers, 

is permissible, provided the increase in reflectance 

measured with and without the ultraviolet component 

of a light source of 3100 Kelvin in combination with a 

C.I.E. (International Commission on Illumination) Z (blue) 

filter, does not exceed 2.0%

Note1: Post-consumer recovered fiber in any percentage is 

encouraged, provided that the requirements of this Standard 

are met.

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 24 28 32

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Acidity: pH value shall average not less than 6.5

Bursting strength: Average not less than 

(lb/in2) 40 47 50

Folding endurance: Average each direction not less 

than (MIT double folds) 10 12 15

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent) 88 89 91

No individual specimen shall average less than 

(percent) 86 87 89

Writing quality: Characters written with pen and ink 

shall be clear and free from excessive feathering.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria in Part 4 shall apply.

1 This grade is 100% recycled with the cotton/linen fiber content. Unless the cotton/linen fibers used in the manufacture of the paper 

were recovered from an item used by the consumer, the cotton/linen fibers are not a post-consumer recovered fiber.

2 Full size copy will be provided upon request. The selection of Style C or F watermark depends on the presence of post-consumer 

recovered fiber in the paper. The Government watermark may be waived at the discretion of the ordering agency.

Erasing quality: Paper shall retain good ruling, writing, 

and typing quality, texture and surface appearance 

without ink spreading after repeated erasures.

Curl: Paper shall lie flat before and after processing 

through a high-speed copier or laser printer with 

either no tendency to curl or with a curl which can be 

overcome under reasonable working conditions.

Watermark2: Shall be the seal of the United States, 

with four stars, on the basis of four times on a sheet 17 

by 22 inches, one in each quarter. The watermark shall 

be clear and legible. When viewed from the felt side of 

the sheet, the design shall appear as illustrated in Part 

3 (Style C or F.)

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: Shall target 81% or as specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed DE 

(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform.

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 250 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with an equivalent area of 0.25 mm2 

or greater.
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 41

JCP E10 — 50% MAP, LITHOGRAPHIC FINISH

Map Paper — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For higher 

quality multicolor offset printing of maps, folded inserts, etc., requiring good folding endurance and permanence. 

Printed matter may include text, line illustrations and halftones up to 150-line screen. A mill run grade.

Stock1: Not less than 50% cotton or linen fibers; the 

remainder bleached chemical wood pulp.

No fluorescent (optical) brighteners shall be added to 

the pulp or paper during manufacture. Fluorescence, 

due to residual white water, broke, or natural fibers, 

is permissible, provided the increase in reflectance, 

measured with and without the ultraviolet component 

of a light source of 3100 Kelvin in combination with a 

C.I.E. (International Commission on Illumination) Z (blue) 

filter, does not exceed 2.0%.

Note1: Post-consumer recovered fiber in any percentage is 

encouraged, provided that the requirements of this Standard 

are met.

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 16 20 28

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Acidity: pH value shall average not less than 5.0

Folding endurance: Average each direction not less 

than (MIT double folds) (applies to all weights) 75

Thickness: Average (mils) 2.6 3.0 3.9

A tolerance of ±0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper 

shall be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 

inch from edge to edge.

Smoothness: Average each side not to exceed

(Sheffield units) (applies to all weights) 100

Writing quality: Characters written with ball point 

and felt tip pen shall be clear and free from excessive 

feathering.

Erasing quality: Paper shall retain good ruling, writing, 

and typing quality, texture, and surface appearance 

without ink spreading after repeated erasures. After 

erasures and burnishing, texture shall permit re-drawing 

of sharp lines in ink.

Blocking: Sheets shall not stick together after being 

wet with water then allowed to dry in contact with other 

sheets of the same paper.

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: Shall target 80% or as specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed DE 

(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Formation: Shall be uniform.

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 100 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with an equivalent area of 0.25 mm2 

or greater.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria in Part 4 shall apply.

Equilibrium relative humidity: Shall be 45% ±5% at 23°C ±2°C for the production of maps. As appropriate, request 

a certification from the supplier and/or prior-to-shipment of the paper test data showing that the paper meets this 

requirement.

1 Unless the cotton/linen fibers used in the manufacture of this paper were recovered from an item used by the consumer, the 

cotton/linen fibers are not a post-consumer recovered fiber.
42 Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13

JCP E20 — HIGH-WET STRENGTH MAP, LITHOGRAPHIC FINISH

Map Paper — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For higher 

quality multicolor offset printing of maps, folded inserts, etc. Has good folding endurance. Printed matter may 

include text, line illustrations and halftones up to 150-line screen. A mill run grade.

Stock: Groundwood pulp not to exceed 1%. The use 

of melamine-formaldehyde or any material that releases 

formaldehyde into the atmosphere at concentration 

of 0.1 ppm or greater shall not be permitted in the 

manufacture of this paper.

Note: Not less than 10% post-consumer fiber. Any percent 

over the 10 percentage points is encouraged, provided that 

the requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 20 24

Acidity: pH value by cold extraction shall average not 

less than 4.5

Wet Tensile Strength: Average not less than

(Machine direction, kg/in) 5.1 5.9

(Cross direction, kg/in) 3.4 4.1

Folding endurance: Average each direction not less 

than (MIT double folds) 300 700

Bursting strength: Average not less than-

(Dry lb/in2) 40 50

(Wet lb/in2) 18 21

Opacity: Average not less than (percent) 90 91 

No individual specimen shall average less than 

(percent) 88 89

Thickness: Average (mils) 3.7 4.1

A tolerance of ±0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper 

shall be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 

inch from edge to edge.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria in Part 4 shall apply.

Equilibrium relative humidity: Shall be 45% ±5% at 23°C ±2°C for the production of maps. As appropriate, request 

a certification from the supplier and/or prior-to-shipment of the paper test data showing that the paper meets this 

requirement.

Water resistance: Average not less than 

(seconds) 35 40

Smoothness: Average each side not to exceed 

(Sheffield units) 60 to 120

Writing quality: Characters written with ball point 

and felt tip pen shall be clear and free from excessive 

feathering.

Erasing quality: Paper shall retain good ruling, writing, 

and typing quality, texture, and surface appearance, 

without ink spreading after repeated erasures. After 

erasures and burnishing, texture shall permit re-drawing 

of sharp lines in ink.

Blocking: Sheets shall not stick together after being 

wet with water then allowed to dry in contact with other 

sheets of the same paper.

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: Shall target 79%.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed DE 

(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Formation: Shall be uniform.

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 100 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with an equivalent area of 0.25 mm2 

or greater.
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 43

JCP E30 — OFFSET MAP, LITHOGRAPHIC FINISH

Map Paper — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For high 

quality multicolor offset printing of maps, folded inserts, etc. Printed matter may include text, line illustrations and 

halftones up to 150-line screen. A mill run grade.

Stock: 100% bleached chemical wood pulp. The use 

of melamine-formaldehyde or any material that releases 

formaldehyde into the atmosphere at concentration 

of 0.1 ppm or greater shall not be permitted in the 

manufacture of this paper.

Note: Not less than 30% post-consumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points is encouraged provided that the 

requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis weight: 25 by 38 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 40 50 60 70

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Acidity: pH value by cold extraction shall average not 

less than 4.8

Folding endurance: Average each direction not less 

than (MIT double folds) 30 30 35 40

Tearing strength: Average each direction not less than

(grams) 30 40 50 60

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent) 88 89 91 92 

No individual specimen shall average less than 

(percent) 86 87 89 90

Thickness: Average (mils) 3.0 3.5 4.1 4.9

A tolerance of ±0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper 

shall be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 

inch from edge to edge.

Water resistance: Average not less than 

(seconds) 20 25 30 35

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The “precision” requirements of the acceptance criteria in Part 4 shall apply.

Equilibrium relative humidity: Shall be 45% ±5% at 23°C ±2°C for the production of maps. As appropriate, request 

a certification from the supplier and/or prior-to-shipment of the paper test data showing that the paper meets this 

requirement.

Smoothness: Average each side not to exceed 

(Sheffield units) 80 to 140

Writing quality: Characters written with ball point 

and felt tip pen shall be clear and free from excessive 

feathering.

Erasing quality: Paper shall retain good ruling, writing, 

and typing quality, texture and surface appearance 

without ink spreading after repeated erasures. After 

erasures and burnishing, texture shall permit re-drawing 

of sharp lines in ink.

Blocking: Sheets shall not stick together after being 

wet with water then allowed to dry in contact with other 

sheets of the same paper.

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: Shall target not less than 82% or as 

specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed DE 

(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Formation: Shall be uniform.

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 100 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with an equivalent area of 0.25 mm2 

or greater.
44 Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13

JCP E40 — CHEMICAL WOOD MAP, LITHOGRAPHIC FINISH

Map Paper — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For high 

quality multicolor offset printing of maps, folded inserts, etc., and requiring good folding endurance. Printed 

matter may include text, line illustrations and halftones up to 150-line screen. A mill run grade.

Stock: 100% bleached chemical wood pulp. The use 

of melamine-formaldehyde or any material that releases 

formaldehyde into the atmosphere at concentration 

of 0.1 ppm or greater shall not be permitted in the 

manufacture of this paper.

Note: Not less than 20% post-consumer fiber. Any percent 

over 20 percentage points is encouraged provided that the 

requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 20 22

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Acidity: pH value by cold extraction shall average not 

less than 4.8

Wet Tensile Strength: Average not less than

(Machine direction, kg/in) 1.4 1.8

(Cross direction, kg/in) 0.6 0.9

Folding endurance: Average each direction not less 

than (MIT double folds) 150 175

Bursting strength: Average not less than

(Dry lb/in2) 30 33

(Wet lb/in2) 3.0 3.3

Opacity: Average not less than (percent) 90 91 

No individual specimen shall average less than 

(percent) 88 89

Thickness: Average (mils) 3.7 4.1

A tolerance of ±0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper 

shall be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 

inch from edge to edge.

Water resistance: Average not less than 

(seconds) 25 30

Smoothness: Average each side not to exceed

(Sheffield units) 60 to 120

Writing quality: Characters written with ball point 

and felt tip pen shall be clear and free from excessive 

feathering.

Erasing quality: Paper shall retain good ruling, writing, 

and typing quality, texture, and surface appearance, 

without ink spreading after repeated erasures. After 

erasures and burnishing, texture shall permit re-drawing 

of sharp lines in ink.

Blocking: Sheets shall not stick together after being 

wet with water then allowed to dry in contact with other 

sheets of the same paper.

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: Shall target not less than 81%.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed DE 

(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Formation: Shall be uniform.

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 100 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with an equivalent area of 0.25 mm2 

or greater.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The “precision” requirements of the acceptance criteria in Part 4 shall apply.

Equilibrium relative humidity: Shall be 45% ±5% at 23°C ±2°C for the production of maps. As appropriate, request 

a certification from the supplier and/or prior-to-shipment of the paper test data showing that the paper meets this 

requirement.
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 45

JCP E50 — 50% CHART, LITHOGRAPHIC FINISH

Map Paper — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For high 

quality multicolor offset printing of maps, folded inserts, etc., and requiring good folding endurance. Printed matter 

may include text, line illustrations and halftones up to 150-line screen. A mill run grade.

Stock: Not less than 50% cotton or linen; the 

remainder bleached chemical wood pulp. No 

fluorescent (optical) brighteners shall be added to 

the pulp or paper during manufacture. Fluorescence, 

due to residual white water, broke, or natural fibers, 

is permissible, provided the increase in reflectance 

measured with and without the ultraviolet component 

of a light source of 3100 Kelvin in combination with a 

C.I.E. (International Commission on Illumination) Z (blue) 

filter, does not exceed 2.0%.

Note1: Post-consumer recovered fiber in any percentage is 

encouraged, provided that the requirements of this Standard 

are met.

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 36

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Acidity: pH value by cold extraction shall average not 

less than 5.0

Folding endurance: Average each direction not less 

than (MIT double folds) 300

Thickness: Average (mils) 5.3

A tolerance of ±0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper 

shall be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 

inch from edge to edge.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The “precision” requirements of the acceptance criteria in Part 4 shall apply.

Equilibrium relative humidity: Shall be 45% ±5% at 23°C ±2°C for the production of maps. As appropriate, request 

a certification from the supplier and/or prior-to-shipment of the paper test data showing that the paper meets this 

requirement.

1 Unless the cotton/linen fibers used in the manufacture of this paper were recovered from an item used by the consumer, the 

cotton/linen fibers are not a post-consumer recovered fiber.

Smoothness: Average each side not to exceed 

(Sheffield units) 60 to 120

Writing quality: Characters written with ball point 

and felt tip pen shall be clear and free from excessive 

feathering.

Erasing quality: Paper shall retain good ruling, writing, 

and typing quality, texture and surface appearance 

without ink spreading after repeated erasures. After 

erasures and burnishing, texture shall permit re-drawing 

of sharp lines in ink.

Blocking: Sheets shall not stick together after being 

wet with water then allowed to dry in contact with other 

sheets of the same paper.

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: Shall target 80%.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed DE 

(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Formation: Shall be uniform.

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 100 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with an equivalent area of 0.25 mm2 

or greater.
46 Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13

JCP G05 — CHEMICAL WOOD FORMS BOND; WHITE AND COLORS

Bond Paper — FSC 7530

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For 

face only offset and flexographic printing or marginally punched continuous open forms, including multiple 

copies principally on web-type presses. Printed matter may include ruled forms with text, line illustrations and 

continuous tones. Slitting and pasting are included in press capabilities. End use of the paper is generally on 

impact-type computer printers, mechanical bursters and decollators. 

Stock: Groundwood pulp not to exceed 1%. 

Note: Not less than 30% post-consumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points is encouraged, provided that the 

requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 9/10 11/12/13 15/16 18 20

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Bursting strength: Average not less than 

(lb/in2) 6 8 9 12 15

Pick resistance: Average each side not less than 10-A 

Dennison wax number. No individual specimen shall 

average less than 8-A.

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent) 78 79 80 81 82 

No individual specimen shall average less than 

(percent) 76 77 78 79 80

Thickness: Average 

(mils) 2.4 2.6 3.0 3.3 3.7

A tolerance of ±0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper 

shall be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 

inch from edge to edge.

Ruling and writing quality: Lines ruled and characters 

written with ball point and felt tip pens shall be clear 

and free from excessive feathering.

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: The white paper shall target not less 

than 84% or as specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed DE 

(CIELAB) = 1.0.

For colored stock, paper shall match one of the 

established color standards in Part 3 or match a 

color sample supplied by the ordering agency. Colors 

shall not fade or transfer (rub off) and shall appear 

even and uniform on the surface of the sheet. The 

sheet shall not be 2-sided.

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform.

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 650 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with an equivalent area of 0.25 mm2 

or greater.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria in Part 4 shall apply.
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 47

JCP G10 — BOND

Bond Paper — FSC 7530

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For face and 

back offset printing of stationery, circulars, open forms, etc., requiring execution with pen and ink, erasing quality, 

and suitable for processing in a laser printer. Printed matter may include text and line illustrations. 

Stock: Groundwood pulp not to exceed 1%. 

Note: Not less than 30% post-consumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points is encouraged, provided that the 

requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 20 24 28 32

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Acidity: pH value shall average not less than 6.5

Folding endurance: Average each direction 

Not less than 

(MIT double folds) 30 35 38 42

Opacity: Average not less than (percent)

84 85 88 90

No individual specimen shall be average less than 

(percent) 82 83 86 88

Thickness: Average (mils) 3.7 4.5 5.0 5.4

A tolerance of ±0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper 

shall be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 

inch from edge to edge.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria in Part 4 shall apply.

Ruling and writing quality: Lines ruled and characters 

written with ball point and felt tip pens shall be clear 

and free from excessive feathering.

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: Shall target not less than 88% or as 

specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed DE 

(CIELAB) = 1.0.

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform.

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 650 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with an equivalent area of 0.25 mm2 

or greater.
48 Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13

JCP G15 — 50% RECYCLED BOND; WHITE AND COLORS

Bond Paper — FSC 7530

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For face only 

offset and flexographic printing or marginally punched continuous open forms, including multiple copies principally 

on web-type presses. Printed matter may include ruled forms with text, line illustrations and continuous tones. 

Slitting and pasting are included in press capabilities. End use of the paper is generally on impact-type computer 

printers, mechanical bursters and decollators.

Stock: 100% chemical pulp. 

Note: Not less than 50% total recovered fiber of which 30 

percentage points shall be post-consumer fiber. Recovered 

fiber in any percent over 50 percentage points is encouraged, 

provided that the requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 10 12 15 18 20

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Bursting strength: Average not less than 

(lb/in2) 6 8 9 12 15

Pick resistance: Average each side not less than 10-A 

Dennison wax number. No individual specimen shall 

average less than 8-A.

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent) 80 81 81 82 84

No individual specimen shall average less than 

(percent) 78 79 79 80 82

Thickness: Average 

(mils) 2.4 2.8 3.2 3.6 4.0

A tolerance of ±0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper 

shall be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 

inch from edge to edge.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria in Part 4 shall apply.

Ruling and writing quality: Lines ruled and characters 

written with ball point and felt tip pens shall be clear 

and free from excessive feathering.

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: The white paper shall target not less 

than 84% or as specified. The natural shade shall 

target not less than 59% or as specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed DE 

(CIELAB) = 1.0.

For colored stock, paper shall match one of the 

established color standards in Part 3 or match a 

color sample supplied by the ordering agency. Colors 

shall not fade or transfer (rub off) and shall appear 

even and uniform on the surface of the sheet. The 

sheet shall not be 2-sided. 

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform.

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 650 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with an equivalent area of 0.25 mm2 

or greater.
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 49

JCP G40 — 25% COTTON BOND; WHITE AND COLORS; ARCHIVAL QUALITY

Bond Paper — FSC 7530

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For high 

quality offset printing. Suitable for face and back offset printing, processing through high speed copiers and laser 

printers, requiring execution with pen and ink, erasing quality and permanence (archival quality). Opacity of white 

paper is not a specified property and therefore, subject to variation. Printed matter may include text and light line 

illustrations. 

Stock: Not less than 25% cotton or linen fibers; the 

remainder bleached chemical wood pulp. 

Note1: Not less than 30% post-consumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points is encouraged, provided that the 

requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 16 20 24

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Acidity: pH value by cold extraction shall average not 

less than 7.5. The paper shall contain not less than 2% 

calcium carbonate.

Note: Any deviation in this requirement is sufficient cause for 

rejection of the paper.

Folding endurance: Average not less than 

(MIT double folds) 70 75 80

Tearing Strength: Average each direction not less than 

(grams) 33 40 45

Ruling and writing quality: Lines ruled and characters 

written with ball point and felt tip pens shall be clear 

and free from excessive feathering.

Erasing quality: Paper shall retain good ruling, writing, 

and typing quality, texture, and surface appearance, 

without ink spreading after repeated erasure.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The “precision” requirements of the acceptance criteria in Part 4 shall apply except as noted above.

1 Unless the cotton/linen fibers used in the manufacture of the paper were recovered from an item used by the consumer, the 

cotton/linen fibers are not a post-consumer recovered fiber.

2 Full size copy will be provided upon request. This grade with the Government watermark is typically not available in less than mill 

run quantities. The Government watermark may be waived at the discretion of the ordering agency. 

Watermark2: Shall be the seal of the United State, with 

one star on the basis of four times on a sheet 17 by 

22 inches, one in each quarter. The watermark shall be 

clear and legible. When viewed from the felt side of the 

sheet, the design shall appear as illustrated in Part 3 

(Style D.)

Curl: Paper shall lie flat before and after processing 

through a high speed copier or laser printer with 

either no tendency to curl or with a curl which can be 

overcome under reasonable working conditions.

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: The white paper shall target not less 

than 88% or as specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed DE 

(CIELAB) = 1.0.

For colored stock, paper shall match one of the 

established color standards in Part 3 or match a 

color sample supplied by the ordering agency. Colors 

shall not fade or transfer (rub off) and shall appear 

even and uniform on the surface of the sheet. The 

sheet shall not be 2-sided.

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform.

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 250 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with equivalent area of 0.25mm2 or 

greater.
50 Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13

JCP G45 — 25% COTTON BOND; WHITE AND COLORS; 50% RECYCLED

Bond Paper — FSC 7530

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For high 

quality offset printing. Suitable for processing through high speed copiers and laser printers, requiring execution 

with pen and ink and erasing quality. Opacity of white paper is not a specified property and therefore, subject to 

variation. Printed matter may include text and light line illustrations. 

Stock: Not less than 25% cotton or linen fibers. 

Groundwood pulp not to exceed 1%. The remainder is 

chemical pulp. 

Note1: Not less than 50% total recovered fiber of which 

30 percentage points shall be post-consumer fiber. Postconsumer fiber, in any percent over 30 percentage points is 

encouraged provided that the requirements of this Standard 

are met.

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 16 20 24

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Acidity: pH value shall average not less than 6.5

Folding endurance: Average not less than 

(MIT double folds) 14 18 25

Smoothness: Average each side not to exceed

(Sheffield units) (applies to all weights) 240

Note: Any deviation in this requirement is sufficient cause for 

rejection of the paper.

Ruling and writing quality: Lines ruled and characters 

written with ball point and felt tip pens shall be clear 

and free from excessive feathering.

Erasing quality: Paper shall retain good ruling, writing, 

and typing quality, texture, and surface appearance, 

without ink spreading after repeated erasure.

Watermark2: Shall be the seal of the United State, with 

one star on the basis of four times on a sheet 17 by 

22 inches, one in each quarter. The watermark shall be 

clear and legible. When viewed from the felt side of the 

sheet, the design shall appear as illustrated in Part 3 

(Style D.)

Curl: Paper shall lie flat before and after processing 

through a high speed copier or laser printer with 

either no tendency to curl or with a curl which can be 

overcome under reasonable working conditions.

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: The white paper shall target not less 

than 88% or as specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed DE 

(CIELAB) = 1.0.

For colored stock, paper shall match one of the 

established color standards in Part 3 or match a 

color sample supplied by the ordering agency. Colors 

shall not fade or transfer (rub off) and shall appear 

even and uniform on the surface of the sheet. The 

sheet shall not be 2-sided.

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform.

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 650 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with equivalent area of 0.25mm2 or 

greater.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The “precision” requirements of the acceptance criteria in Part 4 shall apply except as noted above.

1 Unless the cotton/linen fibers used in the manufacture of the paper were recovered from an item used by the consumer, the 

cotton/linen fibers are not a post-consumer recovered fiber.

2 Full size copy will be provided upon request. This grade with the Government watermark is typically not available in less than mill 

run quantities. The Government watermark may be waived at the discretion of the ordering agency. 
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 51

JCP G50 — 25% COTTON TRANSLUCENT BOND

Bond Paper — FSC 7530

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For offset 

printing, generally face only on open master forms which may be for duplicating in the ammonia process of 

reproduction. Printed matter may include text and line illustrations.

Stock: Not less than 25% cotton or linen fibers. 

Groundwood pulp not to exceed 1%.

Note1: Post-consumer fiber in any percentage is encouraged 

provided that the requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 16

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Acidity: pH value shall average not less than 5.0

Folding endurance: Average not less than 

(MIT double folds) 75

Opacity: Average not to exceed (percent) 70

Note: this paper should freely transmit ultra-violet light in near 

visible portions of the spectrum. It should retain its ultra-violet 

light transparency with age, remaining free from that degree 

of discoloration which would materially reduce transparency. If 

treated to aid transparency, the materials used shall not cause 

bleeding or feathering of the image nor offsetting in the files.

Ruling and writing quality: Lines ruled and characters 

written with ball point and felt tip pens shall be clear 

and free from excessive feathering.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The “precision” requirements of the acceptance criteria in Part 4 shall apply.

1 This is specialty grade and available in limited quantities with low Government usage. post-consumer fiber content for this grade is 

not practical for cost and technological reasons.

Erasing quality: Paper shall retain good ruling, writing, 

typing quality, texture, and surface appearance, without 

ink spreading after repeated erasure.

Curl: Paper shall lie flat before and after processing 

through a high speed copier or laser printers with 

either no tendency to curl or with a curl which can be 

overcome under reasonable working conditions.

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: Shall target not less than 80% or as 

specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed DE 

(CIELAB) = 1.0.

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform.

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 250 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with equivalent area of 0.25mm2 or 

greater.
52 Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13

JCP G60 — 25% COTTON OPACIFIED BOND; ARCHIVAL QUALITY

Bond Paper — FSC 7530

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For high 

quality face and back offset printing of stationery, open forms, etc. Suitable for processing through high speed 

copiers and laser printers with imaging on both face and back, requiring execution with pen and ink, erasing 

quality, permanence (archival quality) and greater opacity than obtainable in Standard JCP G40 or G45. Printed 

matter may include text and line illustrations.

Stock: Not less than 25% cotton or linen fibers; the 

remainder bleached chemical wood pulp. 

Note1: Not less than 30% post-consumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points is encouraged, provided that the 

requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 20 24

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Acidity: pH value by cold extraction shall average not 

less than 7.5. The paper shall contain not less than 2% 

calcium carbonate.

Note: Any deviation in this requirement is sufficient cause for 

rejection of the paper. 

Folding endurance: Average not less than 

(MIT double folds) 75 80

Tearing strength: Average each direction not less than 

(grams) 40 45

Opacity: Average not less than (percent) 88 90

No individual specimen shall average less than 

(percent) 86 88

Ruling and writing quality: Lines ruled and characters 

written with ball point and felt tip pens shall be clear 

and free from excessive feathering.

Erasing quality: Paper shall retain good ruling, writing, 

and typing quality, texture, and surface appearance, 

without ink spreading after repeated erasure.

Watermark2: Shall be seal of the United States, with 

one star on the basis of four times on a sheet 17 by 

22 inches, one in each quarter. The watermark shall be 

clear and legible. When viewed from the felt side of the 

sheet, the design shall appear as illustrated in Part 3 

(style D.)

Curl: Paper shall lie flat before and after processing 

through a high speed copier or laser printer with 

either no tendency to curl or with a curl which can be 

overcome under reasonable working conditions.

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: Shall target not less than 85% or as 

specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed DE 

(CIELAB) = 1.0.

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform.

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 250 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with equivalent area of 0.25mm2 or 

greater.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The “precision” requirements of the acceptance criteria in Part 4 shall apply except as noted above.

1 Unless the cotton/linen fibers used in the manufacture of the paper were recovered from an item used by the consumer, the 

cotton/linen fibers are not a post-consumer recovered fiber.

2 Full size copy will be provided upon request. This grade with the Government watermark is typically not available in less than mill 

run quantities. The Government watermark may be waived at the discretion of the ordering agency.
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 53

JCP G65 — 25% COTTON OPACIFIED BOND; WHITE AND COLORS; 

50% RECYCLED

Bond Paper — FSC 7530

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For higher 

quality face and back offset printing of stationery, open forms, etc. Suitable for processing through high speed 

copiers and laser printers with imaging on both face and back, requiring execution with pen and ink, erasing 

quality, and average permanence. Has a greater opacity than Standards JCP G40 or G45. Printed matter may 

include text and line illustrations.

Stock: Not less than 25% cotton or linen fibers. 

Groundwood pulp not to exceed 1%; the remainder 

bleached chemical pulp 

Note1: Not less than 50% total recovered fiber of which 

30 percentage points shall be post-consumer fiber. Postconsumer fiber in any percent over 30 percentage points is 

encouraged provided that the requirements of this Standard 

are met.

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 20 24

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Acidity: pH value by cold extraction shall average not 

less than 7.0

Folding endurance: Average not less than 

(MIT double folds) 18 20

Tearing strength: Average each direction not less than 

(grams) 40 45

Opacity: Average not to exceed (percent) 88 90

No individual specimen shall average less than 

(percent) 86 88

Smoothness: Average each side not to exceed 

(Sheffield units) (applies to all weights) 270

Note: Any deviation in this requirement is sufficient cause for 

rejection of the paper.

Ruling and writing quality: Lines ruled and characters 

written with ball point and felt tip pens shall be clear 

and free from excessive feathering.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria in Part 4 shall apply except as noted above.

1 Unless the cotton/linen fibers used in the manufacture of this paper were recovered from an item used by the consumer, the 

cotton/linen fibers are not a post-consumer recovered fiber. 

2 Full size copy will be provided upon request. This grade with the Government watermark is typically not available in less than mill 

run quantities. The Government watermark may be waived at the discretion of the ordering agency.

Erasing quality: Paper shall retain good ruling, writing, 

typing quality, texture, and surface appearance without 

ink spreading after repeated erasure.

Watermark2: Shall be seal of the United States, with 

one star on the basis of four times on a sheet 17 x 22", 

one in each quarter. The watermark shall be clear and 

legible. When viewed from the felt side of the sheet, the 

design shall appear as illustrated in Part 3 (style D.)

Curl: Paper shall lie flat before and after processing 

through a high speed copier or laser printer with 

either no tendency to curl or with a curl which can be 

overcome under reasonable working conditions.

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: The white paper shall have a target 

brightness not less than 88% or as specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed DE 

(CIELAB) = 1.0.

For colored stock, paper shall match one of the 

established color standards in Part 3 or match a 

color sample supplied by the ordering agency. Colors 

shall not fade or transfer (rub off) and shall appear 

even and uniform on the surface of the sheet. The 

sheet shall not be 2-sided. 

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform.

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 650 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with equivalent area of 0.25mm2 or 

greater.
54 Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13

JCP G70 — 50% COTTON BOND

Bond Paper — FSC 7530

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For high 

quality offset printing of stationery for use by officials at the higher levels of Government, requiring execution with 

pen and ink, erasing quality, above average permanence and suitable for processing in laser printers. Printed 

matter may include text and line illustrations. 

Stock: Not less than 50% cotton or linen fibers. 

Groundwood pulp not to exceed 1%. 

No fluorescent (optical) brighteners shall be added to 

the pulp or paper during manufacture. Fluorescence, 

due to residual white water, broke, or natural fibers, 

is permissible, provided the increase in reflectance 

measured with and without the ultraviolet component 

of a light source of 3100 Kelvin in combination with a 

C.I.E. (International Commission of Illumination) Z (blue) 

filter, does not exceed 2.0%. 

Note1: Not less than 50% total recovered fiber of which 30 

percentage points shall be post-consumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points is encouraged, provided that the 

requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 16 20 24

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Folding endurance: Average not less than 

(MIT double folds) 60 75 85

Smoothness: Average each side not exceed 

(Sheffield units) 370 370 370

Note: Any deviation in this requirement is sufficient cause for 

rejection of the paper.

Ruling and writing quality: Lines ruled and characters 

written with ball point and felt tip pens shall be clear 

and free from excessive feathering.

Erasing quality: Paper shall retain good ruling, writing, 

and typing quality, texture, and surface appearance, 

without ink spreading after repeated erasure.

Watermark2: Shall be the seal of the United States, 

with two stars on the basis of four times on a sheet 17 

by 22 inches, one in each quarter. The watermark shall 

be clear and legible. When viewed from the felt side of 

the sheet, the design shall appear as illustrated in Part 

3 (Style E.)

Curl: Paper shall lie flat before and after processing 

through a high speed copier or laser printer with 

either no tendency to curl or with a curl which can be 

overcome under reasonable working conditions.

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: Shall target 88% or as specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed DE 

(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Formation: Shall be uniform.

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 250 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2 or 

greater.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria in Part 4 shall apply except as noted above.

1 Unless the cotton/linen fibers used in the manufacture of the paper were recovered from an item used by the consumer, the 

cotton/linen fibers are not a post-consumer recovered fiber.

2 Full size copy will be provided upon request. This grade with the Government watermark is typically not available in less than mill 

run quantities. The Government watermark may be waived at the discretion of the ordering agency.
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 55

JCP G80 — 100% COTTON BOND

Bond Paper — FSC 7530

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For highest 

quality offset printing and embossing of stationery used by officials at the highest level of Government, requiring 

execution with pen and ink, erasing quality, permanence and suitable for processing in laser printers. Printed 

matter may include text and line illustrations. 

Stock: 100% cotton or linen fibers. 

No fluorescent (optical) brighteners shall be added to 

the pulp or paper during manufacture. Fluorescence 

due to residual white water, broke, or natural fibers 

is permissible, provided the increase in reflectance 

measured with and without the ultraviolet component 

of a light source of 3100 Kelvin in combination with a 

C.I.E. (International Commission of Illumination) Z (blue) 

filter, does not exceed 2.0%.

Note1: Post-consumer recovered fiber in any percentage is 

encouraged, provided that the requirements of this Standard 

are met.

Note: This grade is 100% recycled with the 100% cotton/linen 

fiber content.

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 20 24

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Acidity: pH value average not less than 6.5

Folding endurance: Average not less than 

(MIT double folds) 400 400

Ruling and writing quality: Lines ruled and characters 

written with ball point and felt tip pens shall be clear 

and free from excessive feathering.

Erasing quality: Paper shall retain good ruling, writing, 

typing quality, texture, and surface appearance without 

ink spreading after repeated erasure.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria in Part 4 shall apply.

1 Unless the cotton/linen fibers in this paper were recovered from an item used by the consumer, the cotton/linen fibers are not a 

post-consumer recovered fiber.

2 Full size copy will be provided upon request. The selection of Style C or F watermark depends on the presence of post-consumer 

recovered fiber in the paper. This grade with the Government watermark is typically not available in less than mill run quantities. 

The Government watermark may be waived at the discretion of the ordering agency.

Watermark2: Shall be the seal of the United States, 

with four stars on the basis of four times on a sheet 17 

by 22 inches, one in each quarter. The watermark shall 

be clear and legible. When viewed from the felt side of 

the sheet, the design shall appear as illustrated in Part 

3 (Style C or F.)

Curl: Paper shall lie flat before and after processing 

through a high speed copier or laser printer with 

either no tendency to curl or with a curl which can be 

overcome under reasonable working conditions.

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: Shall target 88% or as specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed DE 

(CIELAB) = 1.0.

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform.

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 250 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with equivalent area of 0.25 mm2 or 

greater.
56 Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13

JCP H10 — 100% COTTON PARCHMENT

Parchment Paper — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For highest 

quality offset printing of certificates, citations, diplomas, etc., requiring execution with pen and ink, erasing 

quality, permanence and suitable for processing in laser printers. Printed matter may include text and line 

illustrations. A mill run grade.

Stock: 100% cotton or linen fibers.

No fluorescent (optical) brighteners shall be added to 

the pulp or paper during manufacture. Fluorescence, 

due to residual white water, broke, or natural fibers, 

is permissible; provided the increase in reflectance, 

measured with and without the ultraviolet component 

of a light source of 3100 Kelvin in combination with a 

C.I.E. (International Commission on Illumination) Z (blue) 

filter, does not exceed 2.0%.

Note1: Post-consumer fiber in any percentage is encouraged, 

provided that the requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 32

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Acidity: pH value by cold extraction shall average not 

less than 6.5

Folding endurance: Average not less than 

(MIT double folds) 400

Ruling and writing quality: Lines ruled and characters 

written with ball point and felt tip pens shall be clear 

and free from excessive feathering.

Watermark: Paper shall not be watermarked.

Erasing quality: Paper shall retain good ruling, writing, 

and typing quality, texture, and surface appearance, 

without ink spreading after repeated erasure.

Curl: Paper shall lie flat before and after processing 

through a high speed copier or laser printer with 

either no tendency to curl or with a curl which can be 

overcome under reasonable working conditions.

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: Shall target not less than 80% or as 

specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed DE 

(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Finish: Paper shall have a cockle finish.

Formation: Shall be uniform with a parchment 

appearance.

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 250 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with equivalent area of 0.25mm2 or 

greater.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria in Part 4 shall apply.

1 This grade is 100% cotton/linen fiber content. Unless the cotton/linen fibers in this paper were recovered from an item used by the 

consumer, the cotton/linen fibers are not a post-consumer fiber. 
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 57

JCP H20 — 100% COTTON PARCHMENT; CREAM WHITE 

Parchment Paper — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For highest 

quality offset printing of certificates, citations, diplomas, etc., requiring execution with pen and ink, erasing 

quality, permanence and suitable for processing in laser printers. Printed matter may include text and line 

illustrations. Must be suitable for embossing. A mill run grade.

Stock: 100% cotton or linen fibers.

No fluorescent (optical) brighteners shall be added to 

the pulp or paper during manufacture. Fluorescence, 

due to residual white water, broke, or natural fibers, 

is permissible; provided the increase in reflectance, 

measured with and without the ultraviolet component 

of a light source of 3100 Kelvin in combination with a 

C.I.E. (International Commission on Illumination) Z (blue) 

filter, does not exceed 2.0%.

Note1: Post-consumer fiber in any percentage is encouraged, 

provided that the requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis weight: 20 by 26 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 65

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Acidity: pH value by cold extraction shall average not 

less than 6.5

Bursting strength: Average not less than (lb/in2) 40

Smoothness: Average each side not to less than 

(Sheffield units) 250

Ruling and writing quality: Lines ruled and characters 

written with ball point and felt tip pens shall be clear 

and free from excessive feathering.

Watermark: Paper shall not be watermarked.

Erasing quality: Paper shall retain good ruling, writing, 

and typing quality, texture, and surface appearance, 

without ink spreading after repeated erasure.

Curl: Paper shall lie flat before and after processing 

through a high speed copier or laser printer with 

either no tendency to curl or with a curl which can be 

overcome under reasonable working conditions.

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: Shall target not less than 60% or as 

specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed DE 

(CIELAB) = 1.0.

Formation: Shall be uniform with a parchment 

appearance.

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 250 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with equivalent area of 0.25mm2 or 

greater.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria in Part 4 shall apply.

1 This grade is 100% cotton/linen fiber content. Unless the cotton/linen fibers in this paper were recovered from an item used by the 

consumer, the cotton/linen fibers are not a post-consumer fiber. 
58 Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13

JCP H30 — LASER-FINISH PARCHMENT; WHITE, NATURAL WHITE AND 

COLORS 

Parchment Paper — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For high 

quality offset printing of certificates, citations, diplomas, enrolled bills, etc., requiring processing in copiers and 

laser printers, execution with pen and ink, erasing quality, and highest degree of permanence (archival quality) 

when specified. Printed matter may include text and line illustrations and must be suitable for embossing. The 

archival paper is available in limited quantities.

Stock: 100% bleached chemical wood pulp.

Note: Not less than 30% post-consumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points is encouraged, provided that the 

requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 24 32

20 by 26 inches, 500 sheets (pounds) 65

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Folding endurance: Average not less than 

(MIT double folds) 22 25 30

Ruling and writing quality: Lines ruled and characters 

written with ball point and felt tip pens shall be clear 

and free from excessive feathering.

Watermark: Paper shall not be watermarked.

Erasing quality: Paper shall retain good ruling, writing, 

and typing quality, texture, and surface appearance, 

without ink spreading after repeated erasure.

Curl: Paper shall lie flat before and after processing 

through a high speed copier or laser printer with 

either no tendency to curl or with a curl which can be 

overcome under reasonable working conditions.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria in Part 4 shall apply except as noted above.

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: The white paper shall target not less 

than 82% or as specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed DE 

(CIELAB) = 1.0.

For colored stock, paper shall match one of the 

established color standards in Part 3 or match a 

color sample supplied by the ordering agency. Colors 

shall not fade or transfer (rub off) and shall appear 

even and uniform on the surface of the sheet. The 

sheet shall not be 2-sided.

Finish and formation: Shall be uniformed with a 

parchment appearance.

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 250 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with equivalent area of 0.25mm2 or 

greater.

Option

Archival paper: This option is for products requiring 

permanence (archival quality). Add the properties below 

to the basic standard above.

Acidity: pH value by cold extraction shall average not 

less than 7.5. The paper shall contain not less than 2% 

calcium carbonate.

Note: Any deviation in this requirement is sufficient cause for 

rejection of the paper.

Tearing strength: Average each direction 

not less than (grams) 50 70 100
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 59

JCP H40 — SMOOTH-FINISH DIPLOMA PAPER; CREAM WHITE

Parchment Paper — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For high 

quality offset printing of certificates, citations, diplomas, etc., requiring execution with pen and ink, erasing quality, 

and highest degree of permanence (archival quality) when specified. Printed matter may include text and line 

illustrations and suitable for processing in laser printers. The archival paper is available in limited quantities.

Stock: 100% bleached chemical wood pulp.

Note: Not less than 30% post-consumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points is encouraged, provided that the 

requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis weight: 20 by 26 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 65

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Bursting strength: Average not less than (lb/in2) 45

Smoothness: Average each side not to exceed 

(Sheffield units) 300

Ruling and writing quality: Lines ruled and characters 

written with ball point and felt tip pens shall be clear 

and free from excessive feathering.

Watermark: Paper shall not be watermarked.

Erasing quality: Paper shall retain good ruling, writing, 

and typing quality, texture, and surface appearance, 

without ink spreading after repeated erasure.

Watermark: Paper shall not be watermarked.

Curl: Paper shall lie flat before and after processing 

through a high speed copier or laser printer with 

either no tendency to curl or with a curl which can be 

overcome under reasonable working conditions.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria in Part 4 shall apply except as noted above.

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: The white paper shall target not less 

than 60% or as specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed DE 

(CIELAB) = 1.0.

Formation: Shall be uniform and have a parchment 

appearance.

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 250 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with equivalent area of 0.25mm2 or 

greater.

Option

Archival paper: This option is for products requiring 

permanence (archival quality). Add the properties below 

to the basic standard above.

Acidity: pH value by cold extraction shall average not 

less than 7.5. The paper shall contain not less than 2% 

calcium carbonate.

Note: Any deviation in this requirement is sufficient cause for 

rejection of the paper.

Tearing strength: Average each direction not less than 

(grams) 100
60 Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13

JCP J10 — LEDGER; WHITE AND COLORS

Ledger Paper — FSC 7530

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For face and 

back offset printing of open forms, ledgers, notices, posters, etc., requiring execution with pen and ink and erasing 

quality. Printed matter may include text, line illustrations, halftones and solid reverses.

Stock: Groundwood pulp not to exceed 1%.

Note: Not less than 30% post-consumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points is encouraged, provided that the 

requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 24 28 32 44

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Acidity: pH value shall average not less than 5.0

Bursting strength: Average not less than 

(lb/in2) 22 25 28 37

Tearing strength: Average each direction not less than 

(grams) 35 50 60 90

Thickness: Average (mils) 4.0 4.7 5.3 7.3

A tolerance of ±0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper 

shall be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 

inch from edge to edge.

Ruling and writing quality: Lines ruled and characters 

written with ball point and felt tip pens shall be clear 

and free from excessive feathering.

Erasing quality: Paper shall retain good ruling, writing, 

and typing quality, texture, and surface appearance, 

without ink spreading after repeated erasure.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria in Part 4 shall apply except as noted above.

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: The white paper shall target not less 

than 85% or as specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed DE 

(CIELAB) = 1.0.

For colored stock, paper shall match one of the 

established color standards in Part 3 or match a 

color sample supplied by the ordering agency. Colors 

shall not fade or transfer (rub off) and shall appear 

even and uniform on the surface of the sheet. The 

sheet shall not be 2-sided.

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform.

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 650 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with equivalent area of 0.25mm2 or 

greater.

Option

Alkaline paper: This option is for products requiring 

above average permanence. Add the properties below 

to the basic standard above.

Stock: 100% bleached chemical wood pulp.

Note: Not less than 30% post-consumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points is encouraged, provided that the 

requirements of this Standard are met.

Acidity: pH value by cold extraction shall average not 

less than 7.5. The paper shall contain not less than 

2% calcium carbonate.

Note: Any deviation in this requirement is sufficient cause for 

rejection of the paper.
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 61

JCP J20 — 25% COTTON LEDGER

Ledger Paper — FSC 7530

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For face and 

back offset printing of open forms, ledgers, notices, posters, etc., requiring execution with pen and ink and erasing 

quality. Printed matter may include text, line illustrations, halftones and solid reverses.

Stock: Not less than 25% cotton or linen fibers; the 

remainder bleached chemical wood pulp.

Note1: Not less than 30% post-consumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points is encouraged provided that the 

requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 24 32 44

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Acidity: pH value average not less than 6.5

Bursting strength: Average not less than 

(lb/in2) 25 34 47

Tearing strength: Average each direction not less than 

(grams) 35 60 80

Thickness: Average (mils) 4.0 5.3 7.3

A tolerance of ±0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper 

shall be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 

inch from edge to edge.

Ruling and writing quality: Lines ruled and character 

written with ball point and felt tip pens shall be clear 

and free from excessive feathering.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria in Part 4 shall apply.

1 Unless the cotton/linen fibers used in the manufacture of this paper were recovered from an item used by the consumer, the 

cotton/linen fibers are not a post-consumer recovered fiber.

2 Full size copy will be provided upon request. This grade with the Government watermark is typically not available in less than mill 

run quantities. The Government watermark may be waived at the discretion of the ordering agency.

Erasing quality: Paper shall retain good ruling, writing, 

typing quality, texture, and surface appearance without 

ink spreading after repeated erasure.

Watermark2: Shall be the seal of the United States, 

with one star, on the basis of four times on a sheet 17 

by 22 inches, one in each quarter. The watermark shall 

be clear and legible. When viewed from the felt side of 

the sheet, the design shall appear as illustrated in Part 

3 (Style D.)

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: Shall target 88%.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed DE 

(CIELAB) = 1.0.

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform.

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 100 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with equivalent area of 0.25mm2 or 

greater.
62 Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13

JCP J30 — 100% COTTON LEDGER

Ledger Paper — FSC 7530

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For highest 

quality multicolor face and back offset printing of open forms, ledgers, certificates, citations, diplomas, legal 

documents, etc., requiring execution with pen and ink, erasing quality and permanence. Printed matter may 

include text, line illustrations and solid reverses.

Stock: 100% cotton or linen fibers.

No fluorescent (optical) brighteners shall be added to 

the pulp or paper during manufacture. Fluorescence, 

due to residual white water, broke, or natural fibers, 

is permissible provided the increase in reflectance, 

measured with and without the ultraviolet component 

of a light source of 3100 Kelvin in combination with a 

C.I.E. (International Commission on Illumination) Z (blue) 

filter, does not exceed 2.0%.

Note1: Post-consumer recovered fiber in any percentage is 

encouraged, provided that the requirements of this Standard 

are met.

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 24 32 44

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Acidity: pH value by cold extraction shall average not 

less than 6.5

Bursting strength: Average not less than 

(lb/in2) 50 70 95

Tearing strength: Average each direction not less than 

(grams) 50 65 90

Thickness: Average (mils) 4.0 5.3 7.3

A tolerance of ±0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper 

shall be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 

inch from edge to edge.

Ruling and writing quality: Lines ruled and characters 

written with ball point and felt tip pens shall be clear 

and free from excessive feathering.

Erasing quality: Paper shall retain good ruling, writing, 

and typing quality, texture, and surface appearance, 

without ink spreading after repeated erasure.

Watermark2: Shall be the seal of the United States, 

with four stars, on the basis of four times on a sheet 17 

by 22 inches, one in each quarter. The watermark shall 

be clear and legible. When viewed from the felt side of 

the sheet, the design shall appear as illustrated in Part 

3 (Style C).

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: Shall target not less than 80%.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed DE 

(CIELAB) = 1.0.

Finish and Formation: Shall be uniform

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 250 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with equivalent area of 0.25mm2 or 

greater.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria in Part 4 shall apply.

1 This is a specialty grade and available in limited quantities. The grade has 100% cotton/linen fiber content. Unless the cotton/linen 

fibers used in the manufacture of the paper were recovered from an item used by the consumer, the cotton/linen fibers are not a 

post-consumer recovered fiber.

2 Full size copy will be provided upon request. The Government watermark may be waived at the discretion of the ordering agency.
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 63

JCP K10 — INDEX; WHITE AND COLORS

Index Paper — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For face 

and back offset printing of index cards, identification cards, office forms, notices, posters, covers, etc., requiring 

execution with pen and ink, erasing quality and above average permanence. Printed matter may include text, line 

illustrations, halftones and solid reverses.

Stock: Groundwood pulp not to exceed 1%.

Note: Not less than 10% post-consumer fiber. Any percent 

over 10 percentage points is encouraged provided that the 

requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis weight: 251⁄2 by 301⁄2 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 90 110 140 170

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Acidity: pH value average not less than 6.5 for white 

paper and 5.0 for colors

Bursting strength: Average not less than 

(lb/in2) 40 50 60 75

Tearing strength: Average each direction not less than 

(grams) 40 55 70 80

Thickness: Average (mils) 7.4 9.0 11.5 13.5

A tolerance of ±0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper 

shall be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 

inch from edge to edge.

Ruling and writing quality: Lines ruled and characters 

written with ball point and felt tip pens shall be clear 

and free from excessive feathering.

Erasing quality: Paper shall retain good ruling, writing, 

typing quality, texture, and surface appearance without 

ink spreading after repeated erasure.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria in Part 4 shall apply except as noted above.

Color: For a tight color match, designate a “precision” match in the solicitation.   If no designation is specified, the 

“regular” acceptance criteria will be applied in judging the acceptability of the color match between the standard and 

the supplied paper stock for hue, chroma, and saturation.

1 Contact the GPO for availability of these colors: blue, buff, green, pink, salmon or yellow. Exact matches to these color standards 

are available in mill run quantities.

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: The white paper shall target no less than 

88% or as specified.

Color1: The paper in the order (or publication) shall 

be uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE (CIELAB) = 1.0.

For colored stock, paper shall match one of the 

established color standards in Part 3 or match a 

color sample supplied by the ordering agency. Colors 

shall not fade or transfer (rub off) and shall appear 

even and uniform on the surface of the sheet. The 

sheet shall not be 2-sided.

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform.

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 650 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with equivalent area of 0.25mm2 or 

greater.

Option

Alkaline paper: This option is for products requiring 

above average permanence. Replace the properties in 

the basic standard above with the ones below.

Stock: 100% bleached chemical wood pulp.

Note: Not less than 10% post-consumer fiber. Any 

percent over 10 percentage points is encouraged 

provided that the requirements of this Standard are 

met.

Acidity: pH value by cold extraction shall be not less 

than 7.0. The paper shall contain not less than 2% 

calcium carbonate.

Note: Any deviation in this requirement is sufficient cause for 

rejection of the paper.
64 Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13

JCP K20 — 25% COTTON INDEX; WHITE AND COLORS 

Index Paper — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For high 

quality face and back offset printing of card indexes, identification cards, office forms, notices, posters, covers, 

etc., requiring execution with pen and ink, erasing quality and above average permanence. Printed matter may 

include text, line illustrations, halftones and solid reverses.

Stock: Not less than 25% cotton or linen fibers; the 

remainder bleached chemical wood pulp.

Note1: Not less than 10% post-consumer fiber. Any percent 

over 10 percentage points is encouraged, provided that the 

requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis weight: 251⁄2 by 301⁄2 inches 500 sheets 

(pounds) 90 110 140 170

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Acidity: pH value shall average not less than 7.0

Bursting strength: Average not less than 

(lb/in2) 40 65 85 100

Thickness: Average (mils) 7.4 9.0 11.5 13.8

A tolerance of ±0.0005 inch shall be allowed for the 

90, 110 and 140 pound stock and ±0.0008 inch for the 

170 pound stock. Paper shall be uniform and shall not 

vary more than 0.0004 inch from edge to edge.

Ruling and writing quality: Lines ruled and characters 

written with ball point and felt tip pens shall be clear 

and free from excessive feathering.

Erasing quality: Paper shall retain good ruling, writing, 

and typing quality, texture, and surface appearance, 

without ink spreading after repeated erasure.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria in Part 4 shall apply.

1 Unless the cotton/linen fibers used in the manufacture of this paper were recovered from an item used by the consumer, the 

cotton/linen fibers are not a post-consumer recovered fiber.

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: The white paper shall target not less 

than 88% or as specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed DE 

(CIELAB) = 1.0.

For colored stock, paper shall match one of the 

established color standards in Part 3 or match a 

color sample supplied by the ordering agency. Colors 

shall not fade or transfer (rub off) and shall appear 

even and uniform on the surface of the sheet. The 

sheet shall not be 2-sided.

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform.

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 250 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with equivalent area of 0.25mm2 or 

greater.
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 65

JCP K30 —100% COTTON INDEX; CREAM WHITE

Index Paper — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For high 

quality face and back offset printing of card indexes, identification cards, office forms, notices, posters, covers, 

etc., requiring execution with pen and ink, erasing quality and above average permanence. Printed matter may 

include text, line illustrations, halftones and solid reverses. A mill run grade.

Stock: 100% cotton or linen fibers.

No fluorescent (optical) brighteners shall be added to 

the pulp or paper during manufacture. Fluorescence, 

due to residual white water, broke, or natural fibers, 

is permissible; provided the increase in reflectance, 

measured with and without the ultraviolet component 

of a light source of 3100 Kelvin in combination with a 

C.I.E. (International Commission on Illumination) Z (blue) 

filter, does not exceed 2.0%.

Note1: Post-consumer recovered in fiber in any percentage is 

encouraged, provided that the requirements of this Standard 

are met.

Basis weight: 251⁄2 by 301⁄2 inches 500 sheets 

(pounds) 125

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Acidity: pH value shall average not less than 6.5

Bursting strength: Average not less than (lb/in2) 100

Thickness: Average (mils) 10.0

A tolerance of ±0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper 

shall be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 

inch from edge to edge.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria Part 4 shall apply.

1 The grade is 100% recycled with the 100% cotton/linen fiber content. Unless the cotton/linen fibers used in the manufacture of the 

paper were recovered from an item used by the consumer, the cotton/linen fibers are not a post-consumer recovered fiber.

Ruling and writing quality: Lines ruled and characters 

written with ball point and felt tip pens shall be clear 

and free from excessive feathering.

Erasing quality: Paper shall retain good ruling, writing, 

and typing quality, texture, and surface appearance, 

without ink spreading after repeated erasure.

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: Shall target 60% or as specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed DE 

(CIELAB) = 1.0.

Formation: Shall be uniform.

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 250 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with equivalent area of 0.25mm2 or 

greater.
66 Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13

JCP L10 — GLOSS-COATED COVER

Cover Paper — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For high 

quality multicolor face and back offset printing of covers for books, periodicals, etc. Printed matter may include 

text, line illustrations, halftones up to 150-line screen and solid reverses. 

Stock: Groundwood pulp not to exceed 1%.

Note: No post-consumer fiber is required. Any percentage 

of post-consumer fiber is encouraged provided that the 

requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis weight: 20 by 26 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 65 80 100

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Acidity: pH value by cold extraction shall average not 

less than 6.5

Bursting strength: Average not less than 

(lb/in2) 35 50 60

Tearing strength: Average each direction not less than 

(grams). 75 100 120

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent) 93 94 95

No individual specimen shall average less than 

(percent) 91 92 93

Gloss (75°): Average each side not less than 

(percent) (applies to all weights) 50

Smoothness: Average each side not to exceed 

(Sheffield units) (applies to all weights) 110

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: Average not less than 85% or as 

specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed DE 

(CIELAB) = 1.0.

Formation: Coating shall be uniform; shall be 

uniformly applied; shall not be gritty, mottled, 

stippled, or ribbed in appearance and shall not 

exhibit cracks or flake off.

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 100 specks per square 

meter. No sample sheet (81⁄2” x 11” in size) shall 

contain more than one defect with equivalent area of 

0.25mm2 or greater.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria Part 4 shall apply.
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 67

JCP L11 — NO. 1 GLOSS-COATED COVER 

Cover Paper — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For highest 

quality multicolor face and back offset printing of covers for books, periodicals, etc. Printed matter may include 

text, line illustrations, halftones up to 200-line screen and solid reverses. 

Stock: Free from groundwood or unbleached wood 

pulp.

Note: No post-consumer fiber is required. Any percentage 

of post-consumer fiber is encouraged provided that the 

requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis weight: 20 by 26 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 651 80 100 120

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Acidity: pH value of the coating shall average not 

less than 6.5

Bursting strength: Average not less than 

(lb/in2) 45 55 65 75

Tearing strength: Average each direction not less than 

(grams) 80 100 120 140

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent) 96 97 98 98

No individual specimen shall average less than 

(percent) 94 95 96 96

Gloss (75°): Average each side not less than 

(percent) (applies to all weights) 50

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria Part 4 does NOT apply.

1 The caliper (nominal thickness) for this weight stock may not meet USPS requirement. 

Smoothness: Average each side not to exceed 

(Sheffield units) (applies to all weights) 55

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: Average not less than 92% or as 

specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed DE 

(CIELAB) = 1.0.

Formation: Coating shall be uniform; shall be 

uniformly applied; shall not be gritty, mottled, 

stippled, or ribbed in appearance; and shall not 

exhibit cracks or flake off.

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 25 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2” x 11” in size) shall contain 

more than one defect with equivalent area of 

0.25mm2 or greater.
68 Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13

JCP L12 — NO. 2 GLOSS-COATED COVER 

Cover Paper — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For highest 

quality multicolor face and back offset printing of covers for book, periodicals, etc. Printed matter may include text, 

line illustrations, halftones up to 200-line screen and solid reverses. 

Stock: Free from groundwood or unbleached wood 

pulp.

Note: No post-consumer fiber is required. Any percentage 

of post-consumer fiber is encouraged provided that the 

requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis weight: 20 by 26 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 651 80 100 120

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Acidity: pH value of the coating shall average not 

less than 6.5

Bursting strength: Average not less than 

(lb/in2) 40 50 60 70

Tearing strength: Average each direction not less than 

(grams) 80 100 120 140

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent) 96 97 98 98

No individual specimen shall average less than 

(percent) 94 95 96 96

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria Part 4 does NOT apply.

1 The caliper (nominal thickness) for this weight stock may not meet USPS requirement. 

Gloss (75°): Average each side not less than 

(percent) (applies to all weights) 50

Smoothness: Average each side not to exceed

(Sheffield units) (applies to all weights) 110

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: Average not less than 88% or as 

specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed DE 

(CIELAB) = 1.0.

Formation: Coating shall be uniform; shall be 

uniformly applied; shall not be gritty, mottled, 

stippled, or ribbed in appearance; and shall not 

exhibit cracks or flake off.

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 50 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with equivalent area of 0.25mm2 or 

greater.
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 69

JCP L20 — VELLUM-FINISH COVER; WHITE AND COLORS

Cover Paper — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For high 

quality multicolor face and back offset printing of covers for book, periodicals, etc. Printed matter may include 

text, line illustrations, halftones up to 150-line screen and solid reverses. 

Stock: Groundwood pulp not to exceed 1%.

Note: Not less than 30% post-consumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points is encouraged provided that the 

requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis weight: 20 by 26 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 501 65 80 100

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Acidity: pH value by cold extraction shall average not 

less than 6.5

Bursting strength: Average not less than 

(lb/in2) 30 40 50 60

Tearing strength: Average each direction not less than 

(grams) 100 130 160 180

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent) 94 95 96 97

No individual specimen shall average less than 

(percent) 92 93 94 95

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: The white paper shall average not less 

than 88% or as specified.

Color2: The paper in the order (or publication) shall 

be uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE (CIELAB) = 1.0.

For colored stock, paper shall match one of the 

established color standards in Part 3 or match a 

color sample supplied by the ordering agency. Colors 

shall not fade or transfer (rub off) and shall appear 

even and uniform on the surface of the sheet. The 

sheet shall not be 2-sided.

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform.

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 650 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with equivalent area of 0.25mm2 or 

greater.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria Part 4 shall apply.

1 This weight is available in limited quantities.

2 Contact the GPO for availability of these colors: vermillion red, canary yellow, sun orange, Killarney green, Victoria green, Dutch 

blue, Venice blue, peach tan, pecan brown, saddle tan, brown, light gray and sand gray. Exact matches to these color standards 

are available in mill run quantities. 
70 Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13

JCP L21 —SMOOTH AND EMBOSSED COVER; WHITE AND COLORS

Cover Paper — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For higher 

quality multicolor face and back offset printing of brochures, programs, covers for books, periodicals, etc. Printed 

matter may include text, line illustrations, halftones up to 150-line screen and solid reverses on the smooth stock. 

Grade allows for unique finishes for special print requirements.

Stock: Groundwood pulp not to exceed 1%.

Note: Not less than 30% post-consumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points is encouraged, provided that the 

requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis weight: 20 by 26 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 65 80 100 130

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Tearing strength: Average each direction not less than 

(grams) 130 160 200 220

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria Part 4 shall apply.

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: The white paper shall target 88% or as 

specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed DE 

(CIELAB) = 1.0.

For colored stock, paper shall match one of the 

established color standards in Part 3 or match a 

color sample supplied by the ordering agency. Colors 

shall not fade or transfer (rub off) and shall appear 

even and uniform on the surface of the sheet. The 

sheet shall not be 2-sided.

Finish: Paper shall have a smooth-finish or as 

specified (linen, leatherette, felt, etc.).

Formation: Shall be uniform.

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 650 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with equivalent area of 0.25mm2 or 

greater.
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 71

JCP L23 — UNCOATED COVER 

Cover Paper — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For high 

quality multicolor face and back offset printing of brochures, programs, covers for books, periodicals, etc. Printed 

matter may include text, line illustrations, halftones up to 150-line screen and solid reverses. 

Stock: Groundwood pulp not to exceed 1%.

Note: Not less than 30% post-consumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points is encouraged, provided that the 

requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis weight: 20 by 26 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 50 65 80 100

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Bursting strength: Average not less than 

(lb/in2) 30 40 50 60

Tearing strength: Average each direction not less than

(grams) 100 130 160 180

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent) 94 95 96 97

No individual specimen shall average less than 

(percent) 92 93 94 95

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria Part 4 shall apply.

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: Shall target not less than 88% or as 

specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed DE 

(CIELAB) = 1.0.

Finish and Formation: Shall be uniform.

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 650 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with equivalent area of 0.25mm2 or 

greater.
72 Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13

JCP L24 —VELLUM BRISTOL COVER; WHITE AND COLORS

Cover Paper — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For multicolor 

face and back offset printing of brochures, programs, covers for books, periodicals, etc. Printed matter may 

include text, line illustrations, halftones up to 150-line screen and solid reverses. 

Stock: Groundwood pulp not to exceed 1%.

Note: Not less than 30% post-consumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points is encouraged, provided that the 

requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis weight: 221⁄2 by 281⁄2 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 57 67 80

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Bursting strength: Average not less than 

(lb/in2) 28 32 40

Tearing strength: Average each direction not less than 

(grams) 90 110 135

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent) 93 94 95

No individual specimen shall average less than

(percent) 91 92 93

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria Part 4 shall apply.

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: The white paper shall target 88% or as 

specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed DE 

(CIELAB) = 1.0.

For colored stock, paper shall match one of the 

established color standards in Part 3 or match a 

color sample supplied by the ordering agency. Colors 

shall not fade or transfer (rub off) and shall appear 

even and uniform on the surface of the sheet. The 

sheet shall not be 2-sided.

Finish and Formation: Shall be uniform.

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 650 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with equivalent area of 0.25mm2 or 

greater.
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 73

JCP L40 — UNCOATED LAID-FINISH COVER; WHITE AND COLORS 

Cover Paper — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For high 

quality multicolor face and back offset printing of brochures, programs, covers for books, pamphlets, etc. requiring 

attractive appearance. Has a rough, soft finish with decorative chain marks running at right angles to laid lines. 

Printed matter may include text, line illustrations, and halftones up to 150-line screen. 

Stock: Groundwood pulp not to exceed 1%.

Note: Not less than 30% post-consumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points is encouraged, provided that the 

requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis weight: 20 by 26 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 65 80 100

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Acidity: pH value shall average not less than 6.5

Bursting strength: Average not less than 

(lb/in2) 25 30 40

Tearing strength: Average each direction not less than 

(grams) 80 100 125

Chain marks: Shall run parallel to machine direction of 

the sheet and match the standard sample.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria Part 4 shall apply.

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: The paper white shall target 88% or as 

specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed DE 

(CIELAB) = 1.0.

For colored stock, paper shall match one of the 

established color standards in Part 3 or match a 

color sample supplied by the ordering agency. Colors 

shall not fade or transfer (rub off) and shall appear 

even and uniform on the surface of the sheet. The 

sheet shall not be 2-sided.

Finish: Paper shall have a laid-finish.

Formation: Shall be uniform.

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 650 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with equivalent area of 0.25mm2 or 

greater.
74 Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13

JCP L50 —MATTE-COATED COVER

Cover Paper — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For high 

quality multicolor face and back offset printing of brochures, programs, covers for books, periodicals, etc. Printed 

matter may include text, line illustrations, halftones up to 150-line screen and solid reverses. 

Stock: Groundwood pulp not to exceed 1%.

Note: No post-consumer fiber is required. Any percentage 

of post-consumer fiber is encouraged provided that the 

requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis weight: 20 by 26 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 65 80 100

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Acidity: pH value of the coating shall average not less 

than 6.5

Bursting strength: Average not less than 

(lb/in2) 40 50 60

Tearing strength: Average each direction not less than 

(grams) 80 100 120

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent) 95 95 96

No individual specimen shall average less than 

(percent) 93 93 94

Gloss (75°): Average each side not to exceed 

(percent) 25 25 25

Smoothness: Average each side not to exceed 

(Sheffield units) (applies to all weights) 120

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria Part 4 shall apply.

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: Average not less than 85% or as 

specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed DE 

(CIELAB) = 1.0.

Formation: Coating shall be uniform; shall be 

uniformly applied; shall not be gritty, mottled, 

stippled, or ribbed in appearance; and shall not 

exhibit cracks or flake off.

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 100 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with equivalent area of 0.25mm2 or 

greater.
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 75

JCP L60 — SILK / DULL-COATED COVER 

Cover Paper — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For high 

quality multicolor face and back offset printing of covers for books, periodicals, etc. Low glare. Sometimes 

referred to as satin. Printed matter may include text, line illustrations, and halftones up to 150-line screen and solid 

reverses. 

Stock: Groundwood pulp not to exceed 1%.

Note: No post-consumer fiber is required. Any percentage 

of post-consumer fiber is encouraged provided that the 

requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis weight: 20 by 26 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 65 80 100

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Acidity: pH value of the coating shall average not less 

than 6.5

Bursting strength: Average not less than 

(lb/in2) 30 40 50

Tearing strength: Average each direction not less than 

(grams) 80 100 120

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent) 95 95 96

No individual specimen shall average less than 

(percent) 93 93 94

Gloss (75°): Average each side not to exceed 

(percent) (applies to all weights) 25 to 40 

Smoothness: Average each side not to exceed 

(Sheffield units) (applies to all weights) 120

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria Part 4 shall apply.

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: Average not less than 85% or as 

specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall 

be uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE (CIELAB) = 1.0.

Formation: Coating shall be uniform; shall be 

uniformly applied; shall not be gritty, mottled, 

stippled, or ribbed in appearance; and shall not 

exhibit cracks or flake off.

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 100 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with equivalent area 

of 0.25mm2 or greater.
76 Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13

JCP L61 — NO. 1 SILK / DULL-COATED COVER

Cover Paper — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For highest 

quality multicolor face and back offset printing of reply cards, covers for book, periodicals, etc. Low glare. 

Sometimes referred to as satin. The 65-pound stock may not be suitable for use as a reply card. Printed matter 

may include text, line illustrations, and halftones up to 200-line screen and solid reverses. 

Stock: Free from groundwood or unbleached wood 

pulp.

Note: No post-consumer fiber is required. Any percentage 

of post-consumer fiber is encouraged provided that the 

requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis weight: 20 by 26 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 651 80 100 120

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Acidity: pH value of the coating shall average not less 

than 6.5

Bursting strength: Average not less than 

(lb/in2) 45 55 65 75

Tearing strength: Average each direction not less than 

(grams) 80 100 120 140

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent) 97 97 98 98

No individual specimen shall average less than 

(percent) 95 95 96 96

Gloss (75°): Average each side not to exceed 

(percent) (applies to all weights) 30 to 50

Smoothness: Average each side not to exceed 

(Sheffield units) (applies to all weights) 60

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria Part 4 does NOT apply.

1 The caliper (nominal thickness) for this weight stock may not meet USPS requirement. 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: Average not less than 90% or as 

specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed DE 

(CIELAB) = 1.0.

Formation: Coating shall be uniform; shall be 

uniformly applied; shall not be gritty, mottled, 

stippled, or ribbed in appearance; and shall not 

exhibit cracks or flake off.

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 25 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with equivalent area of 0.25mm2 or 

greater.
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 77

JCP L62 — NO. 2 SILK / DULL-COATED COVER

Cover Paper — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For highest 

quality multicolor face and back offset printing of reply cards, covers for book, periodicals, etc. Low glare. 

Sometimes referred to as satin. The 65 pound stock may not be suitable for use as a reply card. Printed matter 

may include text, line illustrations, and halftones up to 200-line screen and solid reverses. 

Stock: Free from groundwood or unbleached wood 

pulp.

Note: No post-consumer fiber is required. Any percentage 

of post-consumer fiber is encouraged provided that the 

requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis weight: 20 by 26 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 651 80 100 120

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Acidity: pH value of the coating shall average not less 

than 6.5

Bursting strength: Average not less than 

(lb/in2) 45 55 65 75

Tearing strength: Average each direction not less than 

(grams) 80 100 120 140

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent) 96 97 98 98

No individual specimen shall average less than 

(percent) 94 95 96 96

Gloss (75°): Average each side not to exceed 

(percent) (applies to all weights) 25 to 50

Smoothness: Average each side not to exceed 

(Sheffield units) (applies to all weights) 115

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria Part 4 does NOT apply.

1 The caliper (nominal thickness) for this weight stock may not meet USPS requirement. 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: Average not less than 88% or as 

specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed DE 

(CIELAB) = 1.0.

Formation: Coating shall be uniform; shall be 

uniformly applied; shall not be gritty, mottled, 

stippled, or ribbed in appearance; and shall not 

exhibit cracks or flake off.

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 50 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with equivalent area of 0.25mm2 or 

greater.
78 Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13

JCP L70 — COATED ONE-SIDE COVER (C1S) 

Cover Paper — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For multicolor 

face and back offset printing of folders, tent cards, and covers for book, periodicals, etc. Has good strength for 

scoring, folding and die cutting. Printed matter may include text, line illustrations and halftones up to 150-line 

screen and solid reverses. 

Stock: Free from groundwood or unbleached wood pulp.

Note: No post-consumer fiber is required. Any percentage of post-consumer fiber is encouraged provided that the requirements of 

this Standard are met.

Caliper: A tolerance of ±0.0005 inch shall be allowed 8pt 10pt 12pt 16pt 20pt 24pt

for the 8-point paper; ±0.0008 inch for the 10-, 12- 

and 16-point; and ±0.0010 inch for the 20 and 24-point.

Bursting strength: Average not less than (lb/in2) 40 50 60 70 90 120

Tearing strength: Average each direction not less than 

(grams) 75 100 120 150 160 180

Opacity: Average not less than (percent) 90 91 92 94 95 96

No individual specimen shall average less than (percent) 88 89 90 92 93 94

Gloss (75°): Average coated side not less than (percent) 50 50 50 50 50 50

Smoothness: Average each side not to exceed 

(Sheffield units) 110 110 110 110 110 110

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria Part 4 does NOT apply.

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: Average not less than 88% or as 

specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed DE 

(CIELAB) = 1.0.

Formation: Coating shall be uniform; shall be 

uniformly applied; shall not be gritty, mottled, 

stippled, or ribbed in appearance; and shall not 

exhibit cracks or flake off.

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 250 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with equivalent area of 0.25mm2 or 

greater.
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 79

JCP L72 — COATED TWO-SIDES COVER (C2S) 

Cover Paper — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For multicolor 

face and back offset printing of folders, tent cards, and covers for book, periodicals, etc. Has good strength for 

scoring, folding and die cutting. Printed matter may include text, line illustrations and halftones up to 150-line 

screen and solid reverses. 

Stock: Free from groundwood or unbleached wood pulp.

Note: Not less than 10% postconsumer fiber. Any percent over 10 percentage points is encouraged provided that the requirements of this 

Standard are met.

Caliper: A tolerance of ±0.0005 inch shall be allowed 8pt 10pt 12pt 14pt 16pt 20pt 24pt

for the 8-point paper; ±0.0008 inch for the 10-, 12- 

and 16-point; and ±0.0010 inch for 20 and 24-point.

Bursting strength: Average not less than (lb/in2) 40 50 60 65 70 90 120

Tearing strength: Average each direction not less than 

(grams) 75 100 120 130 150 160 180

Opacity: Average not less than (percent) 90 91 92 93 94 95 96

No individual specimen shall average less than (percent) 88 89 90 91 92 93 94

Gloss (75°): Average each side not less than (percent) 50 50 50 50 50 50 50

Smoothness: Average each side not to exceed 

(Sheffield units) 110 110 110 110 110 110 110

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria Part 4 does NOT apply.

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: Average not less than 88% or as 

specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed DE 

(CIELAB) = 1.0.

Formation: Coating shall be uniform; shall be 

uniformly applied; shall not be gritty, mottled, 

stippled, or ribbed in appearance; and shall not 

exhibit cracks or flake off.

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 250 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with equivalent area of 0.25mm2 or 

greater.
80 Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13

JCP L80 — CAST-COATED COVER

Cover Paper — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For highest 

quality multicolor face and back offset printing of reply cards, folders, tent cards, etc. Printed matter may include 

text, line illustrations, and halftones up to 200-line screen and solid reverses. 

Stock: Free from groundwood or unbleached wood pulp.

Note: No post-consumer fiber is required. Any percentage of post-consumer fiber is encouraged provided that the requirements of 

this Standard are met.

Caliper: A tolerance of ±0.0005 inch shall be allowed 8pt 10pt 12pt 15pt 24pt

for the 8-point paper; ±0.0008 inch for the 10-, 12- 

and 15-point; and ±0.0010 inch for the 24-point.

Bursting strength: Average not less than (lb/in2) 40 50 60 70 100

Tearing strength: Average each direction not less than 

(grams) 75 100 120 150 180

Gloss (20°) of coated side: Average coated side 

not less than (percent) 25 25 25 25 25

Smoothness: Average each side not to exceed 

(Sheffield units, coated side) 25 25 25 25 25

(Sheffield units, uncoated side) 120 120 120 120 120

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria Part 4 does NOT apply.

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: Average not less than 88% or as 

specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed DE 

(CIELAB) = 1.0.

Formation: Coating shall be uniform; shall be 

uniformly applied; shall not be gritty, mottled, 

stippled, or ribbed in appearance, and shall not 

exhibit cracks or flake off.

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 250 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with equivalent area of 0.25mm2 or 

greater.
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 81

JCP N10 — NO. 2 KRAFT 

Kraft Paper — FSC 8135

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For face and 

back offset printing of top covers for tablets, separators, wrapping for packages, etc. Printed matter may include 

text and line illustrations. 

Stock: 100% unbleached sulphate Kraft pulp.

Note: Not less than 5% post-consumer fiber. Any percent 

over 5 percentage points is encouraged provided that the 

requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis weight: 25 by 38 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 40 50 60 70 80

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Bursting strength: Average not less than 

(lb/in2) 28 34 38 42 47

Tearing strength: Average each direction not less than 

(grams) 70 90 110 130 150

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria Part 4 shall apply.
82 Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13

JCP O-10 — GUMMED, CONVENTIONAL ADHESIVE

Miscellaneous Paper — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For printing 

on the ungummed side of the sheet in the production of labels, etc., requiring adhesive to glass, paper, wood and 

similar surfaces except silicon-treated materials. Printed matter may include text and line illustrations. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria Part 4 shall apply.

Stock: 100% chemical pulp.

Note: post-consumer fiber in any percent is encouraged, 

provided that the requirements of this Standard are met.

 

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches (ungummed) 

500 sheets (pounds) 16 18 20

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Adhesive quality: The adhesive shall be light in 

color and have a distinct, visual color difference from 

the ungummed side. Gum shall not be obnoxious 

to taste or smell and shall be non-toxic. When 

properly moistened, the gummed paper shall adhere 

immediately and firmly to paper, cardboard, wood, and 

glass, except silicone-treated substrates.

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: Average not less than 81% or as 

specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed DE 

(CIELAB) = 1.0.

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform.

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 250 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with equivalent area of 0.25mm2 or 

greater.
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 83

JCP O-25 — OPTICAL CHARACTER RECOGNITION (OCR) BOND

Miscellaneous Paper — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For face 

and back offset printing. To be used on specified optical scanners. 

Stock: 100% bleached chemical pulp.

No fluorescent (optical) brighteners shall be added to 

the pulp or paper during manufacture. Fluorescence, 

due to residual white water, broke, or natural fibers 

is permissible provided the increase in reflectance, 

measured with and without the ultraviolet component 

of a light source of 3100 Kelvin in combination with a 

C.I.E. (International Commission on Illumination) Z (blue) 

filter, does not exceed 2.0%.

Note: Post-consumer fiber in any percentage is encouraged 

provided that the requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 16 18 20 24 32

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Acidity: pH value average not less than 4.5

Stiffness: Average each direction not less than 

(Gurley - milligrams) 30 40 50 100 200

Tearing strength: Average each direction not less than 

(grams) 30 35 40 50 60

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent) 78 80 82 85 90

No individual specimen shall average less than 

(percent) 76 78 80 83 88

Thickness: Average 

(mils) 3.0 3.3 3.8 4.8 6.1

A tolerance ±0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper shall 

be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 inch 

from edge to edge.

Porosity: Average not less than 

(seconds) 15 15 15 18 20

Smoothness: Average each side not to exceed 

(Sheffield units) (applies to all weights) 100 to 190

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: Average not less than 88% or as 

specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed DE 

(CIELAB) = 1.0.

Formation: Shall be uniform.

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 10 parts per million (ppm). No 

sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with equivalent area of 0.25mm2 or 

greater.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria Part 4 does NOT apply.
84 Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13

JCP O-26 — OPTICAL MARK READ (OMR) BOND; WHITE, VIOLET OR GRAY

Miscellaneous Paper — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For face and 

back offset printing. To be used on specified optical scanners. 

Stock: 100% bleached chemical pulp.

No fluorescent (optical) brighteners shall be added to 

the pulp or paper during manufacture. Fluorescence, 

due to residual white water, broke, or natural fibers 

is permissible provided the increase in reflectance, 

measured with and without the ultraviolet component 

of a light source of 3100 Kelvin in combination with a 

C.I.E. (International Commission on Illumination) Z (blue) 

filter, does not exceed 2.0%.

Note: post-consumer fiber in any percentage is encouraged 

provided that the requirements of this Standard are met.

White Violet Gray

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 21 21 21

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Dimensional stability: Shall not exceed 

(percent change)

Machine direction 0.10 0.10 0.10

Cross direction 0.25 0.25 0.25

Stiffness: Average each direction not less than 

(Gurley - milligrams) 100 100 100

Bursting strength: Average not less than 

(lb/in2) 25 25 25

Pick resistance: Average each side not less than 12-A 

Dennison wax number.

Opacity: Average (percent) 82 to 91 to 92 to

85 94 95

Note: Opacity shall be uniform throughout the form.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria Part 4 does NOT apply.

Thickness: Average (mils) 4.5 4.5 4.5

A tolerance ±0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper shall 

be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 inch 

from edge to edge.

Porosity: Average not less than 

(seconds) (applies to all weights) 30

Smoothness: Average each side 

(Sheffield units) (applies to all weights) 100 to 200

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: White paper shall target not less than 

81% or as specified.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall 

be uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE (CIELAB) = 1.0. The CIELAB values (III D65, 10° 

observer) of the color standards are:

White Violet Gray

L* = 94.4 89.8 70.0

a* = -0.8 1.0 9.0

b* = 3.8 1.0 9.0

Formation: Shall be extremely uniform.

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 10 parts per million (ppm). No 

sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with equivalent area of 0.25mm2 or 

greater.
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 85

JCP O-27 — OPTICAL MARK SENSE SCANNER (OMSS) BOND

Miscellaneous Paper — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For face 

and back offset printing. To be used on specified optical scanners. 

Stock: 100% bleached chemical pulp.

No fluorescent (optical) brighteners shall be added to 

the pulp or paper during manufacture. Fluorescence, 

due to residual white water, broke, or natural fibers 

is permissible provided the increase in reflectance, 

measured with and without the ultraviolet component 

of a light source of 3100 Kelvin in combination with a 

C.I.E. (International Commission on Illumination) Z (blue) 

filter, does not exceed 2.0%.

Note: Post-consumer fiber in any percentage is encouraged 

provided that the requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 24

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Moisture content: Average (percent) 5.0

A tolerance of ±0.5 percentage point shall be allowed.

Dimensional stability: Shall not exceed 

(percent change)

Machine direction 0.10

Cross direction 0.25

Stiffness: Average each direction not less than

(Machine direction, Gurley milligrams) 200

(Cross direction, Gurley milligrams) 100

Bursting strength: Average not less than (lb/in2) 19

Tearing strength: Average each direction not less than 

(grams) 65

Pick resistance: Average each side not less than 12-A 

Dennison wax number.

Opacity: Average not less than (percent) 90

No individual specimen shall average less than 

(percent) 88 

Thickness: Average (mils) 4.4

A tolerance ±0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper shall 

be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 inch 

from edge to edge.

Porosity: Average not less than (seconds) 20

Smoothness: Average each side not to exceed 

(Sheffield units) 100 to 200

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: Shall target not less than 81% or 

as specified. The reflectance in the 700 to 1,000 

nanometer region shall average not less than 70% 

when measured with a print contrast meter.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed DE 

(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 10 parts per million (ppm). No 

sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with equivalent area of 0.25mm2 or 

greater.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria Part 4 shall apply.
86 Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13

JCP O-60 — PLAIN COPIER, XEROGRAPHIC; WHITE AND COLORS (Archival Quality)

Miscellaneous Paper — FSC 7530

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For use in 

specified laser printers, high speed copiers, plain paper copiers, xerographic equipment and products requiring 

archival quality.

Stock: 100% bleached chemical pulp.

Note: Not less than 30% post-consumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points is encouraged provided that the 

requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 20

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Acidity: pH value by cold extraction shall be not less 

than 7.5. The paper shall contain not less than 2% 

calcium carbonate.

Note: Any deviation in this requirement is sufficient cause for 

rejection of the paper.

Moisture content: Average (percent) 4.5

A tolerance of ±0.5 percentage point shall be allowed.

Stiffness: Average each direction not less than

(Machine direction, Gurley milligrams) 135

(Cross direction, Gurley milligrams) 60

Note: Any deviation in this requirement is sufficient cause for 

rejection of paper.

Tearing strength: Average each direction not less than 

(grams) 40

Opacity: Average not less than (percent) 86

No individual specimen shall average less than 

(percent) 84 

Smoothness: Average each side not to exceed 

(Sheffield units) 120 to 200

Note: Any deviation in this requirement is sufficient cause for 

rejection of the paper.

Ruling and writing quality: Lines ruled and characters 

written with ball point and felt tip pens shall be clear 

and free from excessive feathering.

Curl: Paper shall lie flat before and after processing 

through high speed copiers or laser printers with 

either no tendency to curl or with a curl which can be 

overcome under reasonable working conditions.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria Part 4 shall apply except as noted above.

Surface: Shall be free from lint, fuzz, wrinkles, 

waviness, folds, holes, tears and other detrimental 

defects.

Size and trim: Sheets: Paper shall be furnished in the 

size(s) ordered and shall be flat, trimmed square on 

four sides with clean smooth edges, and evenly jogged. 

A tolerance of ±1/16 inch shall be allowed except 

for sheets 81⁄2 by 14 inches or less, then a tolerance 

of ±1/32 shall apply. Successive sheets within any 

package shall not differ from each other by more than 

1/32 inch. Paper shall be considered square if the 

variation does not exceed 1/32 inch.

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: The white paper shall target not less 

than 88% or as specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed DE 

(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

For colored stock, the commercial color for the 

specified shade shall apply except when an exact 

match to one of the established color standards 

in Part 3 is required or to match a color sample 

supplied by the ordering agency. Colors shall not 

fade or transfer (rub off) and shall appear even and 

uniform on the surface of the sheet. The sheet shall 

not be 2-sided.

Formation: Shall be uniform.

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 250 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with equivalent area of 0.25mm2 or 

greater.

Performance: Shipments of any qualified product 

shall perform satisfactorily on laser printers and high 

speed xerographic equipment. There shall not be more 

than one paper-caused jam or one document with 

unacceptable image quality due to the paper per 5,000 

continuous-copy run at atmospheric conditions of 21°C 

±5.5°C and 50% ±20% relative humidity.
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 87

JCP O-61 — HIGH QUALITY XEROGRAPHIC COPIER, LASER PRINTER

Miscellaneous — FSC 7530

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For use in 

producing camera-ready copies, specified laser printers, high speed copiers, plain paper copiers and xerographic 

equipment.

Stock: 100% bleached chemical pulp.

Note: Post-consumer fiber in any percentage is encouraged 

provided that the requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 24 28

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed. 

Moisture content: Average (percent) 4.5

A tolerance of ±0.3 percentage point shall be allowed.

Stiffness: Average each direction not less than

(Machine direction, Gurley milligrams) 150 200

(Cross direction, Gurley milligrams) 75 100

Note: Any deviation in this requirement is sufficient cause for 

rejection of paper.

Tearing strength: Average each direction not less than 

(grams) 36 40

Opacity: Average not less than (percent) 88 90

No individual specimen shall average less than 

(percent) 86 88 

Smoothness: Average each side 

(Sheffield units) 110 110

Note: Any deviation in this requirement is sufficient cause for 

rejection of the paper.

Ruling and writing quality: Lines ruled and characters 

written with ball point and felt tip pens shall be clear 

and free from excessive feathering.

Curl: Paper shall lie flat before and after processing 

through a high speed copier or laser printer with 

either no tendency to curl or with a curl which can be 

overcome under reasonable working conditions.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria Part 4 shall apply except as noted above. 

Surface: Shall be free from lint, fuzz, wrinkles, 

waviness, folds, holes, tears and other detrimental 

defects.

Size and trim: Sheets: Paper shall be furnished in the 

size(s) ordered and shall be flat, trimmed square on 

four sides with clean smooth edges, and evenly jogged. 

A tolerance of ±1/16 inch shall be allowed except 

for sheets 81⁄2 by 14 inches or less, then a tolerance 

of ±1/32 shall apply. Successive sheets within any 

package shall not differ from each other by more than 

1/32 inch. Paper shall be considered square if the 

variation does not exceed 1/32 inch.

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: Shall target 90% or as specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed DE 

(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Formation: Shall be uniform.

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 250 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with equivalent area of 0.25mm2 or 

greater.

Performance: Shipments of any qualified product 

shall perform satisfactorily on laser printers and high 

speed xerographic equipment. There shall not be more 

than one paper caused jam or one document with 

unacceptable image quality due to the paper per 5,000 

continuous-copy run at atmospheric conditions of 21°C 

±5.5°C and 50% ±20% relative humidity. 
88 Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13

JCP O-63 — PLAIN COPIER, XEROGRAPHIC COPIER, LASER PRINTER; COLORS

Miscellaneous Paper — FSC 7530

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For use in 

specified laser printers, high speed copiers, plain paper copiers and xerographic equipment. 

Stock: Groundwood pulp not to exceed 1%.

Note: Not less than 30% post-consumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points is encouraged provided that the 

requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 20 24 28

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Moisture content: Average (percent) 4.5

A tolerance of ±0.5 percent shall be allowed.

Tearing strength: Average each direction not less than 

(grams) 36 38 42

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent) 90 91 93

No individual specimen shall average less than 

(percent) 88 89 91 

Thickness: Average (mils) 4.0 4.5 5.0

A tolerance of ±0.0005 inch shall be allowed. Paper 

shall be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0004 

inch from edge to edge.

Ruling and writing quality: Lines ruled and characters 

written with ball point and felt tip pens shall be clear 

and free from excessive feathering.

Curl: Paper shall lie flat before and after processing 

through a high speed copier or laser printer with 

either no tendency to curl or with a curl which can be 

overcome under reasonable working conditions.

Surface: Shall be free from lint, fuzz, wrinkles, 

waviness, folds, holes, tears and other detrimental 

defects.

Size and trim: Sheets: Paper shall be furnished in the 

size(s) ordered and shall be flat, trimmed square on 

four sides with clean smooth edges, and evenly jogged. 

A tolerance of ±1/16 inch shall be allowed except 

for sheets 81⁄2 by 14 inches or less, then a tolerance 

of ±1/32 shall apply. Successive sheets within any 

package shall not differ from each other by more than 

1/32 inch. Paper shall be considered square if the 

variation does not exceed 1/32 inch.

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall 

be uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE (CIELAB) = 1.0. The commercial color for the 

specified shade shall apply except when an exact 

match to one of the established color standards 

in Part 3 is required or to match a color sample 

supplied by the ordering agency. Colors shall not 

fade or transfer (rub off) and shall appear even and 

uniform on the surface of the sheet. The sheet shall 

not be 2-sided.

Finish and Formation: Shall be uniform.

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 250 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with equivalent area of 0.25mm2 or 

greater.

Performance: Shipments of any qualified product 

shall perform satisfactorily on laser printers and high 

speed xerographic equipment. There shall not be 

more than one paper caused jam or one document 

with unacceptable image quality due to the paper per 

5,000 continuous-copy run at atmospheric conditions 

of 21°C ±5.5°C and 50% ±20% relative humidity.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria Part 4 shall apply except as noted above. 
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 89

JCP O-65 — PLAIN COPIER, XEROGRAPHIC; WHITE AND COLORS

Miscellaneous Paper — FSC 7530

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For use in 

specified laser printers, high speed copiers, plain paper copiers and xerographic equipment. 

Stock: Groundwood pulp not to exceed 1%.

Note: Not less than 30% post-consumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points is encouraged, provided that the 

requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 20 

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed. 

Moisture content: Average (percent) 4.5

A tolerance of ±0.5 percentage point shall be allowed.

 

Stiffness: Average each direction not less than

(Machine direction, Gurley milligrams) 130

(Cross direction, Gurley milligrams) 60 

Note: Any deviation in this requirement is sufficient cause for 

rejection of paper.

Tearing strength: Average each direction not less than 

(grams) 30

Opacity: Average not less than (percent) 86 

No individual specimen shall average less than 

(percent) 84

Smoothness: Average each side

(Sheffield units) 130 to 200

Note: Any deviation in this requirement is sufficient cause for 

rejection of the paper.

Ruling and writing quality: Lines ruled and characters 

written with ball point and felt tip pens shall be clear 

and free from excessive feathering.

Curl: Paper shall lie flat before and after processing 

through a high speed copier or laser printer with 

either no tendency to curl or with a curl which can be 

overcome under reasonable working conditions.

Surface: Shall be free from lint, fuzz, wrinkles, 

waviness, folds, holes, tears and other detrimental 

defects.

Size and trim: Sheets: Paper shall be furnished in the 

size(s) ordered and shall be flat, trimmed square on 

four sides with clean smooth edges, and evenly jogged. 

A tolerance of ±1/16 inch shall be allowed except 

for sheets 81⁄2 by 14 inches or less, then a tolerance 

of ±1/32 shall apply. Successive sheets within any 

package shall not differ from each other by more than 

1/32 inch. Paper shall be considered square if the 

variation does not exceed 1/32 inch.

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: The white paper shall target not less 

than 88% or as specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall 

be uniform and the color variation shall not exceed 

DE (CIELAB) = 1.0. For the colored stock, the 

commercial color for the shade shall apply except 

when an exact match to one of the established color 

standards in Part 3 is required or to match a color 

sample supplied by the ordering agency. Colors shall 

not fade or transfer (rub off) and shall appear even 

and uniform on the surface of the sheet. The sheet 

shall not be 2-sided.

Formation: Shall be uniform.

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 250 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with equivalent area of 0.25mm2 or 

greater.

Performance: Shipments of any qualified product 

shall perform satisfactorily on laser printers and high 

speed xerographic equipment. There shall not be more 

than one paper caused jam or one document with 

unacceptable image quality due to the paper per 5,000 

continuous-copy run at atmospheric conditions of 21°C 

±5.5°C and 50% ±20% relative humidity.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria Part 4 shall apply except as noted above.
90 Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13

JCP O-70 — 100% RECYCLED PLAIN COPIER, XEROGRAPHIC

Miscellaneous — FSC 7530

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For use in 

specified laser printers, high speed copiers, plain paper copiers and xerographic equipment; for products of a nonpermanent nature. 

Stock: Not less than 100% total recovered fiber of 

which at least 50% shall be post-consumer fiber. Postconsumer fiber in any percent over 50 percentage is 

encouraged provided that the requirements of this 

Standard are met.

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 20 24

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed. 

Moisture content: Average (percent) 4.5

A tolerance of ±0.5 percentage point shall be allowed.

 

Stiffness: Average each direction not less than

(Machine direction, Gurley milligrams) 130 150

(Cross direction, Gurley milligrams) 60 75

Note: Any deviation in this requirement is sufficient cause for 

rejection of paper.

Tearing strength: Average each direction not less than 

(grams) 30 50

Opacity: Average not less than (percent) 86 90

No individual specimen shall average less than 

(percent) 84 88 

Smoothness: Average each side 

(Sheffield units) (applies to all weights) 130 to 200

Note: Any deviation in this requirement is sufficient cause for 

rejection of the paper.

Ruling and writing quality: Lines ruled and characters 

written with ball point and felt tip pens shall be clear 

and free from excessive feathering.

Curl: Paper shall lie flat before and after processing 

through a high speed copier or laser printer with 

either no tendency to curl or with a curl which can be 

overcome under reasonable working conditions.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria Part 4 shall apply except as noted above.

Surface: Shall be free from lint, fuzz, wrinkles, 

waviness, folds, holes, tears and other detrimental 

defects.

Size and trim: Sheets: Paper shall be furnished in the 

size(s) ordered and shall be flat, trimmed square on 

four sides with clean smooth edges, and evenly jogged. 

A tolerance of ±1/16 inch shall be allowed except 

for sheets 81⁄2 by 14 inches or less, then a tolerance 

of ±1/32 shall apply. Successive sheets within any 

package shall not differ from each other by more than 

1/32 inch. Paper shall be considered square if the 

variation does not exceed 1/32 inch.

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: The white paper shall target not less 

than 88% or as specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed DE 

(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Formation: Shall be uniform.

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 250 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with equivalent area of 0.25mm2 or 

greater.

Performance: Shipments of any qualified product 

shall perform satisfactorily on laser printers and high 

speed xerographic equipment. There shall not be more 

than one paper caused jam or one document with 

unacceptable image quality due to the paper per 5,000 

continuous-copy run at atmospheric conditions of 21°C 

±5.5°C and 50% ±20% relative humidity.
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 91

JCP O-80 — CARBONLESS BOND; WHITE AND COLORS

Miscellaneous Paper — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For offset 

printing. Generally for use on multiple copies of forms, etc., eliminating the need for carbon paper. Printed matter 

may include text, lines and ruled lines. 

Stock: Free from groundwood pulp and all 

polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs).

Note: Not less than 30% post-consumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points is encouraged provided that the 

requirements of this Standard are met.

CB CFB CF

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 500 sheets (pounds) 

As specified in the solicitation.

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Opacity: Average (percent) 81 81 81

Ruling and writing quality: Lines ruled and characters 

written with ball point and felt tip pens on the face 

of the CB part shall be clear and free from excessive 

feathering.

Performance (reproducibility): Each part in a set shall 

be legible and the characters can be clearly read when 

written on the CB part with pencil, ballpoint pen, or with 

any impact typewriter. The images shall be permanent.

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: The white paper shall target not less 

than 79% or as specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed DE 

(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

For colored stock, paper shall match one of the 

established color standards. Standards are blue, 

buff, green, goldenrod, pink, salmon or yellow. Colors 

shall not fade or transfer (rub off) and shall appear 

even and uniform on the surface of the sheet. When 

a match to a specific Government color standard has 

not been designated, the commercial shade or white 

shall apply. Color coordinates for selected standards 

are included in Part 3.

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform.

Cleanliness: The dirt count for each side of the 

paper shall not exceed 650 specks per square meter. 

No sample sheet (81⁄2 x 11” in size) shall contain more 

than one defect with equivalent area of 0.25mm2 or 

greater.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria Part 4 does NOT apply.

CB = coated back; CFB = coated face and back; and CF = coated face: Coating contains microscopic capsules of a 

colorless dye.
92 Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13

JCP O-90 — PRINTABLE PLASTIC FILM (SYNTHETIC PAPER)

Miscellaneous Paper — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For 

multicolor face and back offset printing of manuals, maps, tags, outdoor billboards, etc., requiring a high degree 

of tear resistance including resistance to the action of water, mild aqueous solutions, grease, oils, frequent 

handling, extreme climatic temperatures, discoloration and must be durable. Printed matter may include text, line 

illustrations and halftones up to 175-line screen.

Stock: Shall be a non-cellulose substrate. 

Note: Recovered material in any percentage is encouraged, provided that the requirements of this Standard are met.

Caliper: Average (mils) 3.7 5.5 7.5 10.5 12.0 14.0 16.0

A tolerance of ±0.001 inch shall be allowed. Paper/film shall be uniform and shall not vary more than 0.0005 inch 

from edge to edge.

Opacity: Average not less than (percent) 90 91 92 94 94 95 95

Note: Some of the synthetic papers listed in the QPL found at gpo.gov are exclusively for offset printing. Some can be used for both 

offset printing and in copiers and printers. Contact the manufacturer of the synthetic paper for specific limitations and for end use 

applications. 

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria in Part 4 shall apply.

Folding endurance: Average each direction not less 

than (MIT double folds) 4,000

Aged film: Age material for 48 hours in fadeometer 

with a Xenon Light Source. After fading, the L* 

component of the color shall not decrease more than 

3 percentage points. And, folding endurance average 

each direction, not less than (MIT double folds) 2,000.

Surface: The film shall not flake, powder, crack, 

blister, or otherwise deteriorate during printing or other 

handling conditions; shall not discolor or become 

brittle; shall be uniform and free from mottle, and be 

free from particles that will pick, lift, fluff, or pile under 

normal conditions.

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: Shall not be less than 90% or as 

specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed DE 

(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform.

Cleanliness: The paper (film) shall be clean.
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 93

JCP O-91 — UNCOATED (TEAR-RESISTANT) SYNTHETIC PAPER

Miscellaneous Paper — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For multicolor 

face and back offset printing of manuals, maps, tags, outdoor billboards, etc., requiring a high degree of tear 

resistance and durability. Printed matter may include text, line illustrations and halftones up to 175-line screen.

Stock: Shall be a cellulose-based substrate.

Note: Recovered material in any percentage is encouraged, 

provided that the requirements of this Standard are met.

Caliper: Nominal (mils) 4 5 6 8 10 12

Tearing strength: Average each direction not less than 

(grams) 60 80 100 140 150 160

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent) 90 91 92 94 95 96 

Surface: The paper shall not deteriorate during printing 

or other normal handling conditions; shall be uniform, 

free from mottle, and free from any particles that will 

pick, lift, fluff or pile on use under normal conditions.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria Part 4 shall apply as noted above. 

Aged paper: Age material for 48 hours in fadeometer 

with a Xenon Light Source. After fading, the L* 

component of the color shall not decrease more than 3 

percentage points.

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: Shall be not less than 85% or as 

specified. 

Color: The paper in the order (or publication) shall be 

uniform and the color variation shall not exceed DE 

(CIELAB) = 1.0. 

Finish and formation: Shall be uniform.

Cleanliness: The paper (film) shall be clean.
94 Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13

JCP P10 — HIGH-FINISH MANILA TAG

Tag Board — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For face 

and back offset printing of file folders, tickets, tags, cards, notices, signs, covers for books and pads, etc., 

requiring strength and durability. Printed matter may include text, line illustrations and solid reverses.

Stock: Free from groundwood pulp.

Note: Not less than 20% post-consumer fiber. Any percent 

over 20 percentage points is encouraged provided that the 

requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis weight: 24 by 36 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 150

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Bursting Strength: Average not less than 

(lb/in2) 100

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria Part 4 shall apply. 

General appearance: The color, finish, and cleanliness 

shall conform to the standard sample(s) established by 

the Government.

Color: The paperboard in the order (or publication) 

shall be uniform and the color variation shall not 

exceed DE(CIELAB)= 1.0. Paper shall be manila or 

match the color sample supplied by the ordering 

agency. The commercial color standard is applicable 

unless specified that the color shall conform to the 

Government standard. Colors shall not fade and shall 

appear even and uniform on the surface of the sheet. 
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 95

JCP P20 — HIGH-FINISH FOLDER STOCK; NATURAL AND COLORS

Tag Board — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For face 

and back offset printing of file folders, etc., requiring strength and durability. Printed matter may include text, line 

illustrations and solid reverses.

Stock: 100% Kraft/sulphate pulp.

Note: Not less than 30% post-consumer fiber. Any percent 

over 30 percentage points is encouraged provided that the 

requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis weight: 24 by 36 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 105 150 165 250 330

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Stiffness: Average each direction not less than 

(Machine direction, Gurley milligram)

 2000 5000 6000 14000 15000

(Cross direction, Gurley milligram)

 800 1500 2000 7500 8000

Thickness: Average 

(mils) 8 11 14 18 24

A tolerance of ±0.001 inch shall be allowed.

Tearing strength: Average not less than 

Machine direction (grams)

 150 250 350 400 510

Cross direction (grams)

 200 300 400 500 620

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria Part 4 shall apply. 

Ruling and writing quality: Lines ruled and characters 

written with ball point or felt tip pens shall be clear and 

free from excessive feathering.

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Color: The paperboard in the order (or publication) 

shall be uniform and the color variation shall not 

exceed DE(CIELAB)= 1.0. 

For colored stock, paper shall match one of the 

established color standards or match the color 

sample supplied by the ordering agency. The 

commercial color standard is applicable unless 

specified that the color shall conform to the 

Government standard. Colors shall not fade and shall 

appear even and uniform on the surface of the sheet.
96 Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13

JCP Q20 — RAILROAD BOARD; WHITE AND COLORS

Cardboard — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For offset 

printing of signs, display cards, cloth or paper-stripped covers or two-piece covers for use with bindings such as 

plastic combs, wire-o and spiral. Printed matter may include text, line illustrations and solid reverses.

Stock: Facing sheets shall be uncoated and shall not 

exceed 25% groundwood pulp.

Note: Not less than 80% total recovered fiber of which 

15 percentage points shall be post-consumer fiber. Postconsumer fiber in any percent over 15 percentage is 

encouraged provided that the requirements of this Standard 

are met.

Thickness: Average (mils) 18.0 30.0 48.0

Tolerance (± inch) 0.001 0.002 0.0025

Curl: Paperboard shall lie flat with either no tendency 

to curl or with a curl which can be overcome under 

reasonable working conditions.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria Part 4 shall apply. 

General appearance: The color, finish, and cleanliness 

shall conform to the standard sample(s) established by 

the Government.

Brightness: The white board shall target not less 

than 79% or as specified.

Color: The paperboard in the order (or publication) 

shall be uniform and the color variation shall not 

exceed DE(CIELAB)= 1.0. 

For colored stock, paper shall match one of the 

established color standards or match the color 

sample supplied by the ordering agency. The 

commercial color standard is applicable, unless 

specified that the color shall conform to the 

Government standard. Colors shall not fade and shall 

appear even and uniform on the surface of the sheet.
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 97

JCP Q50 — CHEMICAL WOOD BOARD; COLORS

Cardboard — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For face and 

back printing of file folders, cards, open forms and covers for books and manuals requiring strength and durability. 

Printed matter may include text, line illustrations and solid reverses.

Stock: 100% chemical wood pulp.

Note: Not less than 50% recovered fiber. Post-consumer 

fiber in any percentage is encouraged provided that the 

requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis weight: 221⁄2 by 281⁄2 inches 500 sheets 

(pounds) 100

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Bursting strength: Average not less than (lb/in2) 80

Tearing strength: Average total both direction not less 

than (grams) 520

Thickness: Average (mils) 9.8

A tolerance of ±0.0005 inch shall be allowed. 

Paperboard shall be uniform and shall not vary more 

than 0.0004 inch from edge to edge.

Water resistance: Average not less than (minutes) 5

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria Part 4 shall apply. 

Abrasion: The abrasion loss shall be no greater than 

the standard sample when tested dry.

Curl: Paperboard shall lie flat with either no tendency 

to curl or with a curl which can be overcome under 

reasonable working conditions.

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Color: The paperboard in the order (or publication) 

shall be uniform and the color variation shall not 

exceed DE(CIELAB)= 1.0. 

Board shall match the blue or tan standard or 

match the color sample supplied by the ordering 

agency. The commercial color standard is applicable 

unless specified that the color shall conform to the 

Government standard. Colors shall not fade and shall 

appear even and uniform on the surface of the board.
98 Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13

JCP Q80 — HIGH-FINISH RED WALLET BOARD

Cardboard — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For face 

and back printing of file folders, expansion wallets, loose leaf or cloth-stripped covers for composition books. 

Printed matter may include text, line illustrations and solid reverses.

Stock: Principally chemical pulp; the remainder free 

from groundwood pulp.

Note: Not less than 20% post-consumer fiber. Any percent 

over 20 percentage points is encouraged provided that the 

requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis Weight: 24 by 36 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 160

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Bursting strength: Average not less than (lb/in2) 115

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria Part 4 shall apply. 

Writing quality: Characters written with ballpoint and 

felt tip pens shall be clear and free from excessive 

feathering.

Curl: Paperboard shall lie flat with either no tendency 

to curl or with a curl which can be overcome, under 

reasonable working conditions.

General appearance: The color, finish, and cleanliness 

shall conform to the standard sample(s) established by 

the Government.

Color: The paperboard in the order shall be uniform. 

Board shall match the commercial standard for red or 

as specified. Colors shall not fade. 
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 99

JCP R10 — PRESSBOARD; COLORS (TYPE III)

Miscellaneous Board — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For face and 

back printing of filing guides, cloth or paper-stripped covers, and two-piece covers for use with general purpose 

bindings such as combs, wire-o and spiral. Printed matter may include text, line illustrations and solid reverses.

Stock: Not less than 50% recovered fiber of which 

20 percentage points shall be post-consumer fiber. 

Note: Post-consumer fiber in any percentage over 20 

percentage points is encouraged provided that the 

requirements of this Standard are met.

Thickness: Average (mils) 15 20 25

A tolerance of ±0.001 inch shall be allowed for the 

15 and 20 mil pressboard. For the 25 mil board, a 

tolerance of -0.001 inch shall be allowed.

Bursting strength: Average not less than 

(lb/in2) 170 190 210

Density: Average 

(g/cm3) (applies to all thicknesses) 0.8 to 1.0

Surface: Shall be closed in texture, hard, smooth and 

free from irregularities and blisters.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance criteria Part 4 shall apply. 

Curl: Paperboard shall lie flat with either no tendency 

to curl or with a curl which can be overcome, under 

reasonable working conditions.

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Color: The paperboard in the order shall be uniform. 

Board shall match the established Government 

standard for blue, light green, red, or match the 

color sample supplied by the ordering agency. 

The commercial color standard is applicable, 

unless specified that the color shall conform to the 

Government standard. Colors shall not fade and shall 

appear even and uniform on the surface of the sheet. 
100 Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13

JCP R11 — PRESSBOARD; COLORS (TYPE I)

Miscellaneous Board — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For face 

and back printing of filing guides, cloth or paper-stripped covers, and two-piece covers for use with bindings 

such as combs, wire-o and spiral that require good durability. Printed matter may include text, line illustrations 

and solid reverses. Use where greater stiffness is needed. 

Stock: Not less than 50% recovered fiber of which 20 

percentage points shall be post-consumer fiber. 

Note: Post-consumer fiber in any percentage over 20 

percentage points is encouraged provided that the 

requirements of this Standard are met.

Thickness: Average (mils) 15 20 25

A tolerance of ±0.001 inch shall be allowed for the 

15 and 20 mil pressboard. For the 25 mil board, a 

tolerance of -0.001 inch shall be allowed.

Bursting strength: Average not less than 

(lb/in) 180 200 220

Density: Average 

(g/cm3) (applies to all thicknesses) 1.4 to 1.6

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The “precision requirements” of the acceptance criteria Part 4 shall apply. 

Surface: Shall be closed in texture, hard, smooth and 

free from irregularities and blisters.

Curl: Paperboard shall lie flat with either no tendency 

to curl or with a curl which can be overcome, under 

reasonable working conditions.

General appearance: The color, finish, and cleanliness 

shall conform to the standard sample(s) established by 

the Government.

Color: The paperboard in the order shall be uniform. 

Board shall match the established Government 

standard for blue, light green, red, or match the 

color sample supplied by the ordering agency. 

The commercial color standard is applicable, 

unless specified that the color shall conform to the 

Government standard. Colors shall not fade and shall 

appear even and uniform on the surface of the sheet. 
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 101

JCP R20 — NEWSBOARD

Miscellaneous Board — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For backing 

of pads and tablets, and for top and bottom protection in packaging. 

Stock: Not less than 80% post-consumer fiber. Any 

percent over 80 percentage points is encouraged 

provided that the requirements of this Standard are 

met.

Basis weight: 26 by 38 inches, 50 pounds 

(number sheets) 100

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Bursting strength: Average not less than (lb/in2) 50

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The acceptance of the acceptance criteria Part 4 shall apply. 

Thickness: Average (mils) 20

A tolerance of -0.001 inch and +0.002 inch shall be 

allowed. 

Curl: Paperboard shall lie flat with either no tendency 

to curl or with a curl which can be overcome under 

reasonable working conditions.

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.
102 Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13

JCP R30 — BOOK COVER BOARD

Miscellaneous Board — FSC 9310

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For 

production of rigid bindings of ledgers and text books when covered with materials such as buckram, book 

cloth, etc.

Density: Average 

(g/cm3) (applies to all thicknesses) 1.4 to 1.6

Curl: Paperboard shall lie flat with either no tendency 

to curl or with a curl which can be overcome under 

reasonable working conditions.

General appearance: The color, finish, and cleanliness 

shall conform to the standard sample(s) established by 

the Government.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

The “precision requirements” of the acceptance criteria Part 4 shall apply. 

Stock: Not less than 80% post-consumer fiber. Any percent over 80 percentage points is encouraged provided that 

the requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis weight: 251/4 by 301/4 inches 50 pounds 

(number) sheets 9 12 17 19 21 25 31 41

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Bursting strength: Average not less than 

(lb/in2) 800 600 450 425 385 315 255 210

Thickness: Average (inch) 0.22 0.17 0.12 0.11 0.098 0.08 0.065 0.049

A tolerance of ±0.003 inch shall be allowed, except for No. 9 and 12 board. Then a tolerance of ±5% shall be 

allowed. On boards with the shorter dimension over 32 inches, an additional 50% of the above thickness tolerance 

shall be allowed.
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 103

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR ENVELOPES1 

Writing quality: Characters written with felt tip and 

ball point pens shall be clear and free from excessive 

feathering.

Flap adhesive: The remoistenable adhesive on the 

sealing flaps of the envelopes shall have a minimum 

thickness of 0.0006 inch uniformly applied. The flap 

shall not stick to the body of the envelope, but shall 

be capable of being quickly and securely sealed using 

5 pounds of pressure after moistening. When opened, 

more than 20 seconds after sealing, the flap shall pull 

fibers from the body of the envelope over the entire 

adhesive area.

The adhesive shall be able to resist the heat and 

pressure of common office laser printers so the flap 

adhesive does not cause the flap to stick to the body of 

the envelope.

Size: The size of the envelope shall be as specified. 

No undersize envelopes are allowed. See QATAP for 

specific tolerances. 

1 The above requirements are in integral part of each envelope standard in the V-series.

General appearance: Envelopes shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) adopted by the Government.

Color: Envelopes shall have a uniform shade 

throughout the order.

Cleanliness: No envelope (up to 300 cm2 in size) 

shall contain more than two obvious and objectionable 

foreign particles with an equivalent area of 0.25 mm2 

or greater on the face of the envelope. The number of 

particles permitted is proportionately higher for larger 

envelope sizes.

Pressroom conditions: The bulk of these envelopes 

will be used in air-conditioned pressrooms maintained 

at 24°C ±2°C and 45% ±8% relative humidity or offices 

with atmospheric conditions of 21°C ±5.5°C and 50% 

±5% relative humidity.
104 Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13

JCP V10 — LIGHT-BROWN (KRAFT SHADE) ENVELOPE

Envelope

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For the 

insertion of correspondences, pamphlets, etc., manually or automated equipment. Suitable for letterpress and 

offset printing, processing in laser printers, automated mailing, sorting equipment. Printed matter may include text 

and line illustrations.

Stock: 100% Kraft/sulphate pulp.

Note: post-consumer fiber in any percentage is encouraged 

provided that the requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 24 28 32 40

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Bursting strength: Average not less than 

(lb/in2) 38 44 50 60

Writing quality: Characters written with ball point 

and felt tip pens shall be clear and free from excessive 

feathering.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

Additionally, see general envelope requirements and the acceptance criteria in Part 4 shall apply. 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Color: Shall be the manufacturer's standard brown 

kraft shade. The envelopes in the order shall have a 

uniform shade. 

Finish: Envelopes shall have a smooth finish or as 

specified.

Cleanliness: Shall be clean with no objectionable 

foreign particles on the surface that would detract 

from its usability.
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 105

JCP V15 — WHITE KRAFT ENVELOPE

Envelope

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For the 

insertion of correspondences, pamphlets, etc., manually or automated equipment. Suitable for letterpress and 

offset printing, processing in laser printers, automated mailing, sorting equipment. Printed matter may include text 

and line illustrations.

Stock: 100% Kraft/sulphate pulp.

Note: post-consumer fiber in any percentage is encouraged 

provided that the requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 24 28 32 40

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Bursting strength: Average not less than 

(lb/in2) 38 44 50 60

Writing quality: Characters written with ball point 

and felt tip pens shall be clear and free from excessive 

feathering.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

Additionally, see general envelope requirements and the acceptance criteria in Part 4 shall apply. 

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Color: Shall be the manufacturer's standard white 

kraft shade. The envelopes in the order shall have a 

uniform shade. 

Brightness: The white envelopes shall have 

brightness of not less than 82%.

Finish: Envelopes shall have a smooth finish or as 

specified.

Cleanliness: Shall be clean with no objectionable 

foreign particles on the surface that would detract 

from its usability.
106 Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13

JCP V20 — WRITING ENVELOPE; WHITE AND COLORS

Envelope

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For the 

insertion of correspondences, etc., manually or automated equipment. Suitable for letterpress and offset printing, 

processing in laser printers, automated mailing, sorting equipment. Printed matter may include text and line 

illustrations.

Stock: Groundwood pulp not to exceed 1%; the 

remainder shall be bleached chemical pulp.

Note: post-consumer fiber in any percentage is encouraged 

provided that the requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis Weight: 17 by 22 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 20 24 28 32 

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Bursting strength: Average not less than 

(lb/in2) 20 24 27 30

Opacity: Average not less than 

(percent) 86 87 89 91

No individual specimen shall average less than 

(percent) 84 85 87 89

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

Additionally, see general envelope requirements and the acceptance criteria in Part 4 shall apply. 

Writing quality: Characters written with ball point 

and felt tip pens shall be clear and free from excessive 

feathering.

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: The white envelopes shall have 

brightness of not less than 88%.

Colored Envelopes: The commercial shade for the 

color specified shall apply except when an exact 

match to one of the established “business” color 

standards in Part 3 is required or to match a color 

sample supplied by the ordering agency.

Finish: Envelopes shall have a wove finish or as 

specified.

Cleanliness: Shall be clean with no objectionable 

foreign particles on the surface that would detract 

from its usability.
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 107

JCP V40 — 25% COTTON BOND ENVELOPE

Envelope

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For the 

insertion of correspondences, etc., manually or automated equipment. Suitable for letterpress and offset printing, 

processing in laser printers, automated mailing, sorting equipment. Printed matter may include text and line 

illustrations.

Stock: Not less than 25% cotton or linen fibers. 

Groundwood pulp not to exceed 1%.

Note: post-consumer fiber in any percentage is encouraged 

provided that the requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis weight: 17 by 22 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 20 24

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Bursting strength: Average not less than 

(lb/in2) 20 24

Opacity: Average not less than (percent) 85 86 

No individual specimen shall average less than

(percent) 83 84

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

Additionally, see general envelope requirements and the acceptance criteria in Part 4 shall apply. 

Writing quality: Characters written with ball point 

and felt tip pens shall be clear and free from excessive 

feathering.

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: The envelopes shall have brightness of 

not less than 88%.

Finish: Envelopes shall have a wove finish or as 

specified.

Cleanliness: Shall be clean with no objectionable 

foreign particles on the surface that would detract 

from its usability.
108 Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13

JCP V90 — TYVEKTM-FINISH ENVELOPE

Envelope

Use information: This paragraph is informational only and is not exclusively definitive of the end use. For the 

insertion of correspondences, etc., manually or automated equipment. Suitable for letterpress and offset printing, 

processing in laser printers, automated mailing, sorting equipment. Printed matter may include text and line 

illustrations.

Stock: White spunbonded polyethylene with the 

characteristics of DuPont’s product No. 1073.

Note: Not less than 25% post-consumer material. Any percent 

over 25 percentage points is encouraged provided that the 

requirements of this Standard are met.

Basis Weight: 17 by 22 inches, 500 sheets 

(pounds) 18

A tolerance of ±5% shall be allowed.

Bursting strength: Average not less than (lb/in2) 140

Opacity: Average not less than (percent) 87

Thickness of single layer of polyethylene: 

Average (mils) 7.0

A tolerance of ±0.001 inch shall allowed.

Testing: Shall be conducted in accordance with methods in Government Paper Specification Standards Part 2. 

Additionally, see general envelope requirements and the acceptance criteria Part 4 shall apply. 

Writing quality: Characters written with ball point 

and felt tip pens shall be clear and free from excessive 

feathering.

General appearance: Paper shall conform to the 

standard sample(s) established by the Government.

Brightness: The envelopes shall have brightness of 

not less than 81%.

Finish: Similar to the commercial TYVEKTM product.

Cleanliness: Shall be clean with no objectionable 

foreign particles on the surface that would detract 

from its usability.
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 109

Part 2

TESTING STANDARDS

AND

DEFINITION OF TERMS
110 Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13

TESTING STANDARDS AND DEFINITION OF TERMS

General Information: The methods given in this Part 

of the Standard are required to be used in measuring 

the characteristics of papers that are specified in Part 

1, Specifications. Alphanumeric citations of methods 

refer to the methods of the Technical Association of 

the Pulp and Paper Industry (TAPPI), unless otherwise 

indicated. Testing laboratories are advised to provide 

themselves with current editions of all methods. 

Methods of TAPPI can be obtained from TAPPI, www.

tappi.org. Methods of the American Society for Testing 

and Materials (ASTM) can be obtained from www.astm.

org. Sources of other methods are given in the text.

Paper suppliers are required to make such tests as 

may be necessary to ensure the delivery of the finished 

paper fully complies with the applicable specifications 

and standard samples. When requested by the 

procuring office, copies of the records developed by the 

paper supplier in making such tests shall be furnished. 

All paper, including paper in the manufacturing 

process, is subject to inspection as authorized by the 

contracting office. 

Abrasion: Use method T-476.

Absolute moisture: Use method T-412.

Acidity (pH): (a) For uncoated papers, unless 

otherwise stated use method T-435. To make the 

test, weigh a specimen of 1.8 grams and add 125ml 

of distilled water. (b) For coated papers, use T-435, 

except to prepare the test specimen, use a razor 

blade and scrape the coating from an area from 5 

paper specimens until sample weight of 0.12 grams 

is accumulated. Place the sample in a clean beaker, 

add 50 ml of distilled water, let the coating sit and 

soak for one hour before taking the pH. (c) For a “cold 

extraction,” use method T-509.

Alkaline paper: Paper which has a pH value greater 

than 7; stock made by an alkaline manufacturing 

process. Paper longevity is enhanced.

Basis Weight: Use method T-410.

BCTMP: Bleached “chemi-thermo-mechanical pulp 

(CTMP)". It is pulp that has been bleached to a higher 

brightness, usually greater than 80%. CTMP is pulp 

produced by a less vigorous chemical process (lower 

temperature, shorter time, less extreme pH) and much 

of the lignin-component of the wood has not been 

removed.

Bleached: Process in which papermaking fibers are 

chemically treated to whiten, purify and stabilize the 

fiber.

Blocking: Use method D-918 of ASTM with the 

following modification. Take rectangular specimens 

4-1/2 by 6 cm. Use a top plate and weight such that 

the total mass is equivalent to 70 g/cm2 for coated 

paper. Prepare the specimens by soaking them in water 

at 25±5°C for 15 minutes. Ensure the water has free 

access to both sides of the specimen. Remove the 

specimens from the water. Shake each specimen gently 

to remove the excess water from surface. Restack the 

specimens and allow the assembly to dry at 25±5°C.

Brightness: Use method T-452.

Bursting strength: (a) For papers with a bursting 

strength less than 200 lbs/in2, use method T-403; 

greater than 200 lb/in2, use method T-807. (b) For 

the wet burst test, heat the cut specimens in an oven 

105°C for 15 minutes. Immediately soak the specimens 

in water at 23±2°C temperature for 60 minutes and blot 

in accordance with method T-456. Test specimen per 

T-403 or T-807, as appropriate.

Calcium carbonate: See filler.

Chemical pulp: Wood chips treated with chemicals to 

remove impurities such as lignin, resins, gums, etc. to 

be used for papermaking. There are two basic types: 

sulfite and sulfate (kraft) and variations of these. See 

stock.

Chlorine-free: A term used to describe a bleaching 

process. Two types are associated with a chlorinefree paper: “elemental chlorine-free (ECF)” or 

“totally chlorine-free (TCF).” An ECF paper is made 

from pulp bleached with chlorine dioxide, but not 

elemental chlorine; whereas, TCF paper is made 

from pulp bleached without using chlorine or chlorine 

compounds. This also applies to the recycled fiber 

component of the paper.

Cleanliness: See dirt or speck.

Color by visual comparison: Use method T-515. 

Visual color assessments are made in a light booth with 

light sources having color temperature of 5000 and 

7500 degrees Kelvin. Overall matches are described as 

“fair plus or good (or 0 demerits),” fair (or 4 demerits),” 

“fair minus or marginal (or 12 demerits),” and 

“unacceptable (or 36 demerits).”

Color by spectral reflectance: Use T-524 and 

equations for CIELAB.

Color deviation and variation: Calculate using the 

CIELAB equations described in TAPPI TIS 0804-04. 

Measurements are made under the following conditions: 

II D65, 10° observer with the specular component 

included.
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 111

Conditioning for testing: Use method T-402. The 

atmosphere in the immediate vicinity of the testing 

apparatus shall be controlled to the required conditions 

during the test.

Cotton fiber paper: Paper containing at least 25% 

or more fibers derived from lint cotton, cotton linters, 

cotton or linen cloth cuttings. These papers fall in 

the broad category of paper containing “recovered 

material.”

Dealing with outlying test determinations: Use 

method T-1205.

Defects in paper by visual examination: Insofar as 

practical, defects in paper which are determined by 

visual examination shall be classified and defined in 

accordance with the Dictionary of Paper published by 

TAPPI.

Density: Measure the thickness of the specimen in 

centimeters per method T-411. Measure the weight 

of the specimen in grams per square centimeter per 

method T-410. Divide the weight by the thickness and 

report the density in “g/cm3.”

Dirt: Use method T-437.

ECF: See chlorine-free.

Equilibrium relative humidity: Use method T-502.

Erasing quality: The term “erasing quality” shall be 

construed to mean the retention of good writing quality 

and appearance of the surface after complete erasure 

of inked lines using a “hard” eraser such as Eberhard 

FaberR Union 110, Faber Castell Eraser StickR 7099B, 

Weldon Roberts No. 38 or equivalent. Additionally, for 

map paper, the texture shall permit redrawing of sharp 

lines in ink after erasing.

Filler: The percent calcium carbonate in the filler shall 

be determined using method T-553.

Fluorescence: See optical brightener.

Folding endurance: Use method T-511.

Formaldehyde: Use method 111, “Tentative Method of 

Analysis for Formaldehyde Content of the Atmosphere 

(Colorimetric Method)” (43502-01-69T), by the 

Intersociety Committee, Methods of Air Sampling and 

Analysis, American Public Health Associations, pp 194-

198 or www.apha.org. 

FSC:  Federal Supply Class: This is a code number 

established by GSA and DLA. It is used to classify 

various materials and products used by the Federal 

Government. Several unique codes are used to identify 

types of printing substrates.

Gloss: Use method T-480 for 75° and T-653 for 20°.

Grain: See machine direction.

Groundwood pulp: Papermaking fiber produced 

by mechanical means. This fiber is not the same as 

bleached chemi-thermo-mechanical pulps (BCTMP) 

which is a semi-chemical pulp. See stock.

Light transmission: Use method E-308 of ASTM.

Machine direction: Use method T-409.

Opacity: Use method T-425.

Optical brightener: Use method T-452, appendix C.

Permanent paper: (a) A stock that can resist chemical 

and physical changes over an extended time period 

(e.g. several hundred years.) This paper is acid-free, 

has a high initial strength and retains its strength over 

time. (b) Pub. L. 101-423, Joint Resolution to Establish 

a National Policy on Permanent Paper was passed 

October 1990, and states “It is the policy of the United 

States that Federal records, books, and publications 

of enduring value be produced on acid-free permanent 

papers.” 

Pick resistance: Use method T-459.

PMU (Phosphor meter unit): Critical property in 

substrates used by the mail system. Specialized 

equipment furnished by the U.S. Postal Service to 

monitor the property.

Porosity: Use method T-460.

Post-consumer fiber: Fiber derived from material that 

has passed through the end user or consumer.

Recovered material: See definition in Solid Waste 

Disposal Act (Pub. L. 89-272) Sec. 6002, (h) Definitions.

RCRA: Resource Conservation and Recovery Act 

(Pub. L. 94-580); the beginning of establishing 

environmentally preferable standards for printing 

papers.

“Recycled” content paper: This term is not specifically 

defined in any statute but has come to mean paper 

containing any of the following recovered material 

categories: pre- and post-consumer fiber, pre- and post– 

manufacturing or industrial fiber, cotton or linen fiber, etc.

Reflectance (brightness) drop: Measure brightness 

at a specific spot using method T-452. Expose the spot 

to a xenon-arc lamp/continuous lamp fading apparatus 

for 48 standard fading hours per method 16E of the 

American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorist 

(www.aatcc.org). Recondition the sheet in the standard 

atmosphere and re-measure the brightness of the spot. 

The reflectance drop is the difference between the 

before and after exposure to the xenon-arc lamp.
112 Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13

Sampling: Sampling shall be conducted in accordance 

with method T-400. Agencies shall specify detailed 

plans and criteria for acceptance or rejection, tailored 

to specific end products, grades, end uses or other 

particular applications. Agencies may also specify 

detailed plans for visual examination of lots of paper 

for properties not included in this section. These 

documents shall be made available to the contractors 

and manufacturers.

Speck: A unit of dirt; any foreign matter 0.02 mm2 or 

larger embedded in the sheet and visible when the sheet is 

examined in a well-lit room at a distance of 12 to 18 inches 

with the sheet resting at a 45° angle from the normal. Note: 

It should not be necessary to lift or rotate the sheet to see 

the speck. See dirt.

Stiffness: For the Gurley test, use method T-543 and 

specimen size that is 64 mm long by 51 mm wide. 

Solid Waste Disposal Act: Amended RCRA establishing 

the definitions and categories of recovered material 

including post-consumer material.

Stock (fiber analysis): Use method T-401. 

Standards with the following requirements: (a) free 

from groundwood and unbleached wood pulp, or (b) 

100% bleached chemical wood pulp or (c) remainder 

bleached chemical pulp should be interpreted to mean 

the paper is free from lignin.

TCF: See chlorine-free.

Tearing strength (resistance): Use method T-414.

Tensile strength: Use method T-494. For wet tensile 

strength, heat the specimens at 105°C for 15 minutes. 

Then use method T-456.

Thickness: Use method T-411.

Unbleached: Paper or pulp not treated with bleaching 

agents.

Vegetable-fiber paper: Paper which contains a 

significant amount of “renewable” plant fibers, not 

wood or cotton fibers.

Watermark: A translucent design in the paper. It is 

pressed into the paper by using a dandy roll during the 

paper manufacturing process.

Water resistance: Use T-433 or T-441, as appropriate 

for the stock.

Writing quality: (a) When “pen and ink” is specified, 

the degree of feathering is determined by writing on 

the specimen using a 1% ink solution of either C.I. Acid 

Red 1 (C.I. 18050) or C.I. Acid Green 3 (C.I. 42085) 

using an extra fine pen nib such as Estabrook Falcon 

#048, Hunt #107, Hunt #512 or equivalent. (b) If “ball 

point and felt tip pens” are specified, test the surface 

for writing quality with any three commercially available 

brand name pens.
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 113

Part 3

STANDARD SAMPLES

AND

DRAWINGS
114 Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13

SAMPLES AND COLOR INFORMATION

Physical Samples.

The Government standard samples referenced in 

this publication may be obtained by contacting 

GPO’s Customer Service Office. For vendors and for 

prospective bidders, contact the Contracting Officer. 

Standard samples serve as the Government’s referee 

or physical samples for the different grades of paper 

specified in this publication but specifically provide 

a visual for properties such as finish and formation 

that are not quantified nor very easily described using 

metrics.

Samples of paper most commonly used in printing 

projects are available in a separate Government Paper 

Samples Book. This collection of samples shows a 

number of paper grades with different finishes and 

texture, weights and thickness, as well as the selection 

of Government established colors. These samples are 

used to assist with the design of a print project.

Specifying papers that meet these specification 

standards will ensure that the print project consist of 

papers that are the best value.

Color / Brightness.

Many specification standards offer flexibility in the 

selection of the color or brightness. There are a couple 

of ways to do this: (1) attach a color swatch to the 

requisition or (2) state the desired color by “product 

name and color name or EQUAL.” (Note: Product 

names and color should be verified periodically since 

paper companies frequently discontinue colors.)

When a specific color or brightness is not stated as 

a requirement, the color / brightness defaults to the 

requirements in the standard. Each standard ensures 

maximum competition for the paper grade.

There are a number of Government established colors 

with specific color coordinates as demonstrated on the 

right. Six of the established colors are common for the 

business paper grades: writing, bond, ledger, index 

and xerographic paper. (See Table 1.) Generally, these 

paper grades, unless purchased in a mill run quantity, 

are supplied as a commercial color match to the 

established standard of blue, buff, green, pink, salmon 

or yellow. Commercial color matches are not exact 

matches to the Government color but often suitable for 

the intended use.

The vellum-finish cover grade has an extensive set 

of established colors. A “good” color match to the 

Table 2 color standards is generally available through 

purchasing a mill run quantity which can be as small 

as 5,000 pounds up to 20,000 pounds depending on 

the color and manufacturer. GPO central office carries 

inventories of these colors.

A series of white and cream white color standards 

have also been established and inventoried for in-plant 

printing. (See Table 3.)

Color matches are measured instrumentally as well as 

assessed visually for their acceptability. If a tight color 

match is critical, specify a “precision” acceptance 

criteria requirement.

Table 1: Business paper color

Blue Pink

L*=81.5 L*=71.8

a*=-10.4 a*=35.5

b*=-5.0 b*=2.1

Buff Salmon

L*=88.5 L*=79.7

a*=-2.11 a*=1.3

b*=-25.7 b*=27.7

Green Yellow

L*=78.6 L*=79.7

a*=-16.2 a*=-7.7

b*=5.4 b*=40.6

Table 2: Vellum-finish cover color

Brown Saddle tan

L*=56.8 L*=46.1

a*=-10.4 a*=7.3

b*=-5.0 b*=18.9

Canary yellow Sand gray

L*=88.5 L*=70.4

a*=14.0 a*=2.8

b*=30.3 b*=16.6

Dutch blue Sun orange

L*=56.1 L*=67.8

a*=-3.6 a*=39.5

b*=16.3 b*=49.4
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 115

Killarney green Venice blue

L*=61.4 L*=77.4

a*=-18.2 a*=-17.0

b*=17.8 b*=-12.9

Light gray Vermillion

L*=68.8 L*=43.2

a*=0.5 a*=46.5

b*=10.2 b*=20.0

Peach tan Victoria green

L*=69.5 L*=64.7

a*=8.2 a*=-23.7

b*=26.0 b*=1.1

Peach brown

L*=63.5

a*=6.7

b*=22.6

Table 3: Select White Color Standard

B (88 Brightness) E (Cotton Papers)

L*=95.6 L*=94.0

a*=1.0 a*=-0.5

b*=-2.0 b*=4.0

C (72 Brightness) F (80 Brightness)

L*=92.0 L*=93.5

a*=-0.5 a*=-0.1

b*=7.5 b*=3.0

D(E30) Cream white

L*=93.5 L*=92.4

a*=-0.5 a*=10.9

b*=1.5 b*=-19.2

 
116 Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13

Two basic Government watermarks have been established. The Group I watermarks consist simply of the "eagle" and 

a"star" for each 25 percent of cotton/linen fiber specified for the paper.

The Group II watermarks have the word "recycled" in the design. The paper stock must have a postconsumer (PC) 

fiber content, whether it is a PC wood fiber or PC recovered (cotton/linen) fiber. Note: Recovered material (cotton/ 

linen) is not a PC recovered fiber.

DRAWINGS— Watermarks

Group I

* YEAR—9.5 mm (3⁄8′′) Figures

Style A: Watermark Design for 25% Bond and Ledger Papers

* YEAR—9.5 mm (3⁄8′′) Figures

Style B: Watermark Design for 50% Bond and Ledger Papers

* YEAR—9.5 mm (3⁄8′′) Figures

Style C: Watermark Design for 100% Writing, Bond, and Ledger Papers

Group II

* YEAR—9.5 mm (3⁄8′′) Figures

Style D: Watermark Design for Recycled 25% Bond and Ledger Papers

* YEAR—9.5 mm (3⁄8′′) Figures

Style E: Watermark Design for Recycled 50% Bond and Ledger Papers

* YEAR—9.5 mm (3⁄8′′) Figures

Style F: Watermark Design for Recycled 100% Writing, Bond, and Ledger Papers

Watermark

Two basic Government watermarks have been established. The Group I watermarks consist simply of the ‘‘eagle’’ and a

‘‘star’’ for each 25 percent of cotton/linen fiber specified for the paper.

The Group II watermarks have the word ‘‘recycled’’ in the design. The paper stock must have a postconsumer (PC) fiber

content, whether it is a PC wood fiber or PC recovered (cotton/linen) fiber. Note, recovered material (cotton/linen) is not a

PC recovered fiber.

DRAWINGS—Watermarks

* Location of year of manufacture

130
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 117

There are many construction styles for envelopes. The three most common styles of office envelopes used in 

Federal offices are shown below. Critical use information is included in each procurement contract. Generally these 

envelopes are suitable for insertion of correspondences either manually or by automated equipment; for letterpress 

and offset printing, processing in laser printers, and automated mailing sorting equipment. The printed matter may 

include text and line illustrations.

DRAWINGS— Envelopes

Envelopes

There are many construction styles for envelopes. The three most common styles of office envelopes used in Federal offices

are shown below. Critical use information are included in each procurement contract. Generally these envelopes are suitable

for insertion of correspondences either manually or by automated equipment; for letterpress and offset printing, processing in

laser printers, and automated mailing sorting equipment. The printed matter may include text and line illustrations.

DRAWINGS—Envelopes

131
118 Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 119

Part 4

STATUTORY AUTHORITY

AND

ACCEPTANCE CRITERIA
120 Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13

Introduction.

Attention is invited to the following sections of Title 44 

U.S. Code relative to the procurement of paper for the 

United States Government. By letter dated December 

17, 1998, the Joint Committee on Printing requested 

the GPO Director to carry out the Committee’s 

authorities and responsibilities contained in the 

following sections of Title 44.

Section 509-“Standards of paper; 

advertisements for proposals; samples.

The Joint Committee on Printing shall fix upon 

standards of paper for the different descriptions of 

public printing and binding and the Director of the 

Government Publishing Office, under their directions, 

shall advertise in six newspapers or trade journals, 

published in different cities, for sealed proposals to 

furnish the Government with paper, as specified in the 

schedule to be furnished applicants by the Director, 

setting forth in detail the quality and quantities required 

for the public printing. The Director shall furnish 

samples of the standard of papers fixed upon to 

applicants who desire to bid.

(Pub. L. 90-620, Oct. 22, 1968, 82 Stat. 1244.)

HISTORICAL AND REVISION NOTES

Based on 44 U.S. Code, 1974 ed., Section 5 (Jan. 12, 

1895, ch. 23, Section 3, 28 Stat. 601; Mar. 3 1925, ch. 

421, section 1, 43 Stat. 1105).

SECTION REFERRED TO IN OTHER SECTIONS

This section is referred to in section 515, 1121 of this title.”

Section 513-“Comparison of paper and

envelopes with standard quality.

The Director shall compare every lot of paper and 

envelopes delivered by contractor with the standard of 

quality fixed upon by the Joint Committee on Printing 

and may not accept paper or envelopes which do not 

conform to it in every particular. A lot of delivered paper 

or envelopes which does not conform to the standard 

of quality may be accepted by the Committee at a 

discount that in its opinion is sufficient to protect the 

interests of the Government. 

(Pub. L. 90-620, Oct. 22, 1968, 82 Stat. 1245.)

HISTORICAL AND REVISION NOTES

Based on 44U.S. Code, 1964 ed., Section 9 (Jan. 12, 

1895, ch. 23, Section 7, 28 Stat. 602; June 20, 1936, 

ch. 630, title VIII, section 13, 49 Stat. 1553).

SECTION REFERRED TO IN OTHER SECTIONS

This section is referred to in section 515, 1121 of this title.”

Section 514-“Determination of quality paper.

The Joint Committee on Printing shall determine 

differences of opinion between the Director of the 

Government Publishing Office and the contractor for 

paper respecting the paper’s quality and the decision of 

the Committee is final as to the United States. (Pub. L. 

90-620, Oct. 22, 1968, 82 Stat. 1245.)

HISTORICAL AND REVISION NOTES

Based on 44 U.S. Code, 1964 ed., Section 10 (Jan. 12, 

1895, ch. 23, Section 8, 28 Stat. 602; Mar. 3, 1917, ch. 

163, section 6, 39 Stat. 1121).

SECTION REFERRED TO IN OTHER SECTIONS

This section is referred to in section 515, 1121 of this title.”

Product Quality Index.

The following acceptance criteria shall be employed to 

evaluate the paper’s conformance to specification.

Paper that does not meet all specification values 

shall be accepted with no discount providing that the 

minimum acceptable Product Quality Index (PQI) has 

been met. 

The PQI for a specific paper is determined by assigning 

demerits to each deficient quality characteristic based 

on test results. The demerits assigned will vary with 

category of deficiency. A minor defect shall be assigned 

4 demerits, a major defect 12 demerits and a critical 

defect 36 demerits.

The PQI does not apply whenever an individual property 

requires “not less than” or “not greater than” in the 

specification. PQI is applicable only to properties 

where a tolerance is provided in the specification. “Not 

less than” means that the test results cannot be less 

than the requirement cited in the specification. “Not 

greater than” means that the test results cannot be 

more than the requirement cited in the specification. 

Not meeting the “not greater than” or “not less than” 

requirement means that the paper shall be considered 

critically defective, and subject to outright rejection.

Definitions.

Minor Defect: Any deviation from a specified value 

which does not materially reduce the usability of the 

paper for its intended purpose or require special 

procedures for printing or processing. 

Major Defect: Any deviation from specified values, 

other than critical, that could result in failure, or 

materially reduce the usability of the paper for its 

intended purpose; or may require special procedures 

for printing or processing, or is a significant deviation 

from specifications, established standards, or average 

process capability, or may materially affect the 

appearance of the product. 

Critical Defect: Any deviation from specified 

requirement that judgment and experience indicate 

would result in the paper being unusable for its 
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 121

intended purpose; or is a serious departure from 

specifications, established standards, or average 

process capability.

Product Quality Index (PQI) is equal to 100 minus 

the sum of the assessed demerits for each paper 

characteristic or property.

i = N

PQI = 100 - ∑ Ci

i = 1

where C= characteristic or property.

Paper having a PQI of 70 or greater shall be accepted 

at the contracted price as meeting the intent and 

requirement of the specification. Those having a PQI 

below 70 shall be considered as critically defective, 

subject to outright rejection.

Criteria for establishing the category of defect and 

demerits are as follows unless otherwise stated in the 

specification standard. 

 
122 Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13

1. Acidity (pH value)

a. Precision requirement

Deviation from requirement Category Demerits

Less than 0.20 pH unit Minor 4

0.20 to 0.40 pH unit Major 12

More than 0.40 pH unit Critical 36

b. Regular requirement

Deviation from requirement Category Demerits

Less than 0.40 pH unit Minor 4

0.40 to 0.60 pH unit Major 12

More than 0.60 pH unit Critical 36

2. Basis weight

a. Precision requirement

Deviation from requirement Category Demerits

Not as specified Critical 36

3. Brightness

Deviation from requirement Category Demerits

Less than 0.5 percentage 

point

Minor 4

0.5 to 1.0 percentage point Major 12

More than 1 percentage 

point 

OR

More than 2 percentage 

points below the target 

value.

Critical 36

4. Bursting Strength

a. Precision requirement

Deviation from requirement Category Demerits

Less than 5% Minor 4

5% to 10% Major 12

More than 10% Critical 36

b. Regular requirement

Deviation from requirement Category Demerits

Less than 10% Minor 4

10% to 25% Major 12

More than 25% Critical 36

5. Calcium carbonate-Same as 2.

6. Cleanliness-Same as 2.

7. Color deviation

a. Precision requirement

Deviation from requirement Category Demerits

Less than 0.5 DE over 

specified

Minor 4

0.5 to 1.5 DE over specified Major 12

More than 1.5 DE over 

specified 

OR

If standard states another 

DE value as being critically 

defective.

Critical 36

b. Regular requirement

Deviation from requirement Category Demerits

Less than 1.0 DE over 

specified

Minor 4

1.0 to 2.0 DE over specified Major 12

More than 2.0 DE over

specified

Critical 36

8. Color 2-sidedness-Same as 2.

9. Color variation

Deviation from requirement Category Demerits

More than 0.5 DE over 

specified

Critical 36

10. Equilibrium relative humidity

a. Precision requirement

Deficiency Category Demerits

Less than ±1 percentage 

point

Minor 4

±1 to ±2 percentage points Major 12

More than ±2 percentage 

points

Critical 36

b. Regular requirement

Deficiency Category Demerits

Less than ±3 percentage 

points

Minor 4

±3 to ±5 percentage points Major 12

More than ±5 percentage 

points

Critical 36

Demerit Assessments.
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 123

11. Folding endurance – Same as 4.

12. Gloss – Same as 4.

13. Opacity

a. Precision requirement

Deviation from requirement Category Demerits

Less than 1 percentage point Minor 4

1 to 2 percentage points Major 12

More than 2 percentage 

points

OR

Individual specimen averaging 

more than 0.5 percentage 

point below the stated 

minimum value.

Critical 36

14. Optical brighteners (fluorescence)

a. Precision requirement

Deviation from requirement Category Demerits

Less than 0.5 percentage 

point

Minor 4

0.5 to 1 percentage point Major 12

More than 1 percentage point Critical 36

b. Regular requirement

Deviation from requirement Category Demerits

Less than 1 percentage point Minor 4

1 to 2 percentage points Major 12

More than 2 percentage 

points

Critical 36

15. Pick resistance

a. Precision requirement

Deviation from requirement Category Demerits

Less than 1 No. below 

specified

Minor 4

1 to 2 No. below specified Major 12

More than 2 No. below 

specified

OR

Individual specimen averaging 

more than 1 No. below the 

stated minimum value.

Critical 36

16. Porosity - Same as 4.

17. Smoothness - Same as 4.

18. Stiffness - Same as 4.

19. Stock – specified fiber content or presence of 

unbleached or groundwood pulp

a. Precision requirement

Deviation from requirement Category Demerits

Less than 3 percentage points 

from specified

Minor 4

3 to 5 percentage points from 

specified

Major 12

More than 5 percentage 

points from specified

Critical 36

20. Tearing strength - Same as 4.

21. Tensile strength - Same as 4.

22. Thickness

a. Precision requirement

Deviation from requirement Category Demerits

Less than 2% Minor 4

2% to 4% Major 12

More than 4% Critical 36

b. Regular requirement

Deviation from requirement Category Demerits

Less than 4% Minor 4

4% to 8% Major 12

More than 8% Critical 36

23. Thickness variation edge to edge – Same as 4 

(regular requirement)

24. Water resistance - Same as 14.

25. All other measurable characteristic and 

properties, e.g. density, light transmission, 

reflectance drop, etc. – Same as 2.
124 Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13

26. Subjective or judgement characteristics and 

properties, e.g. erasing and writing qualities, 

watermark quality, finish, formation, etc.

Assessment Category Demerits

Fair or rating 2 Minor 4

Marginal or rating 3 Major 12

Unacceptable or rating 4 Critical 36

Examples: Assigning Category and Demerits and 

Determining the Product Quality Index (PQI) of the 

Paper Stock.

Below the calculation of Demerits is demonstrated 

for selected properties.

a. Acidity Requirement is 

not less than 6.5 Result is 6.3

Calculation 6.5 - 6.3 = 0.2

If Precision 

requirement

Major Category 

and 12 Demerits

If Regular 

requirement

Minor Category 

and 4 Demerits

b. Brightness Requirement is 

72 ± 2 Result is 69.2

Calculation 70 - 69.2 = 0.8

Major Category 

and 12 Demerits

c. Bursting 

Strength

Requirement is 

not less than 70 Result is 60

Calculation 70 - 60 = 10;

10/70 x 100% = 14.4%

If Precision 

requirement

Critical Category 

and 36 Demerits

If Regular 

requirement

Major Category 

and 12 Demerits

d. Stock Not more than 

1% groundwood Result is 3%

Calculation 3 - 1 = 2

Minor Category 

and 4 Demerits

e. Density Requirement is 

1.4 to 1.6 Result is 1.65

Calculation 1.65 - 1.6 = 0.05 

Use #2 - Not as 

specified

Refer to Item 28 

Critical Category 

and 36 Demerits

f. Formation Requirement is 

uniform

Result is "fair" 

and "rating 2"

Assesment is 

Minor Category 

and 4 Demerits

g. Color 

Deviation

Match provided 

Sample with DE 

not greater than 

0.25

Result is DE = 0.4

Calculation 0.4 is greater than 

the specified 0.25

Critical Category 

and 36 Demerits

Use #2 - Not as 

specified

Refer to Item 28 

Critical Category 

and 36 Demerits
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 125

Example 1

This paper has demerits assessed for the following 

properties:

ID Property Category Demerits

a. Acidity (regular) Minor 4

f. Formation Minor 4

g. Color deviation (precision) Critical 36

To calculate the Product Quality Index for the paper, 

and up all the demerits and subtract from 100

PQI = 100 - (4+4+36)

 OR 100 - 44

 = 56 or NOT EQUAL

Example 2

This paper has demerits assessed for the following 

properties:

ID Property Category Demerits

b. Brightness Major 12

c. Bursting strength (regular) Major 12

d. Stock Minor 4

To calculate the Product Quality Index for the paper, 

and up all the demerits and subtract from 100

PQI = 100 - (12+12+4)

 OR 100 - 28

 = 72 or EQUAL
126 Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 127

Part 5

BASIS WEIGHTS

AND

THICKNESS DATA
128 Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13

A. Text Papers 

Newsprint, JCP A15 Basis Weights 26.1 27.7 30.0

Thickness in mils 2.7 2.8 3.0

Uncoated Heat-Set Machine-Finish Web Text 

JCP A25

Basis Weight 35

Thickness in mils 2.2

Uncoated Machine-Finish Book End

JCP A50

Basis Weight 80

Thickness in mils 6.8

Heat-Set Web Text

JCP A55

Basis Weights 40 50 60 70 80

Thickness in mils 3.0 3.9 4.7 5.5 6.3

Uncoated Text

JCP A60

Basis Weights 40 50 60 70 80

Thickness in mils 3.0 3.9 4.7 5.5 6.3

No. 1 Smooth-Finish Text

JCP A61

Basis Weights 50 60 70 80

Thickness in mils 3.9 4.7 5.5 6.3

Uncoated Colored Text

JCP A63

Basis Weights 50 60 70 80

Thickness in mils 3.9 4.7 5.5 6.3

Uncoated Light-Weight Groundwood Text 

JCP A65

Basis Weight 35

Thickness in mils 3.0

Uncoated 100% Recycled Text

JCP A70

Basis Weights 40 45 50 60 70 80 100

Thickness in mils 3.0 3.5 4.0 4.8 5.5 6.2 8.2

Light-Weight Text (Bible paper)

JCP A75

Basis Weight 30

Thickness in mils 2.1

Opacified Text 

JCP A80

Basis Weights 40 50 60

Thickness in mils 3.1 3.9 4.7

BASIC SIZES FOR REAMS OF 500 SHEETS 

Bond, Writing: 17” x 22” Book, Text, Offset: 25” x 38” 

Bristol: 25.5” x 28.5” Cover: 20” x 26”

Index: 25.5” x 30.5” Ledger: 24” x 36”

Newsprint: 24” x 36”
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 129

Vellum-Finish Text

JCP A90

Basis Weights 50 60 70 80 100

Thickness in mils 4.3 5.1 5.9 6.7 8.2

Smooth and Embossed Text

JCP A91 (thickness applies to smooth finish only)

Basis Weights 60 70 80 100

Thickness in mils 5.0 5.6 6.3 7.9

Hi-Bulk Text (Return Mailer)

JCP A95

Basis Weight 70

Thickness in mils 7.0

Antique Text

JCP A100

Basis Weights 45 60 70

Thickness in mils 3.9 5.1 5.9

50% Cotton Antique Text

JCP A110

Basis Weight 40

Thickness in mils 3.5

50% Cotton Laid-Finish Antique Text

JCP A120

Basis Weight 70

Thickness in mils 5.5

Coated One-Side (C1S) Text

JCP A160

Basis Weights 60 70 80 100

Thickness in mils 3.2 3.9 4.5 5.2

Gloss-Coated Text (Publication Grade)

JCP A175

Basis Weight 38

Thickness in mils 2.2

Gloss-Coated Text

JCP A180

Basis Weights 50 60 70 80

Thickness in mils 2.6 3.0 3.3 3.6

No. 1 Gloss-Coated Text

JCP A181

Basis Weights 70 80 100

Thickness in mils 3.3 3.7 4.3

No. 2 Gloss-Coated Text

JCP A182

Basis Weights 70 80 100

Thickness in mils 3.3 3.7 4.3

Durable Gloss-Coated Text

JCP A205

Basis Weight 70

Thickness in mils 3.7

Water-Resistant Text

JCP A220

Basis Weight 60

Thickness in mils 4.2

High-Yield (Light Coating) Text

JCP A230

Basis Weights 35 38 40 45 50

Thickness in mils 2.9 3.2 3.3 3.5 3.8

Matte-Coated Text (Publication Grade)

JCP A235

Basis Weights 40 50 60 70

Thickness in mils 3.3 3.7 4.3 5.4
130 Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13

Matte-Coated Text

JCP A240

Basis Weights 60 70 80 100

Thickness in mils 3.7 4.3 4.9 5.5

Uncoated Laid-Finish Text

JCP A250

Basis Weights 60 70 80

Thickness in mils 6.0 6.5 7.4

Silk / Dull-Coated Text

JCP A260

Basis Weights 60 70 80

Thickness in mils 3.0 3.5 4.1

No. 1 Silk / Dull-Coated Text

JCP A 261

Basis Weights 70 80 100

Thickness in mils 3.5 4.1 4.7

No. 2 Silk / Dull-Coated Text

JCP A 262

Basis Weights 70 80 100

Thickness in mils 3.5 4.1 4.7

Uncoated-Permanent Text

JCP A270

Basis Weights 30 40 50 60 70

Thickness in mils 2.6 3.5 4.1 4.5 5.0

Matte-Coated Groundwood Text

JCP A280

Basis Weight 35

Thickness in mils 3.3

D. Writing Papers 

Writing

JCP D10

Basis Weights 12 16 18 20

Thickness in mils 2.4 3.0 3.4 3.8

Smooth and Embossed Writing

JCP D11 (thickness applies to smooth finish only)

Basis Weights 24 28

Thickness in mils 4.4 5.0

100% Cotton Fine Writing

JCP D50

Basis Weights 24 28 32

Thickness in mils 4.7 5.1 5.5

E. Map Papers

50% Map, Lithographic Finish

JCP E10

Basis Weights 16 20 28

Thickness in mils 2.6 3.0 3.9

High Wet-Strength Map, Lithographic Finish 

JCP E20

Basis Weights 20 24

Thickness in mils 3.7 4.1

Offset Map, Lithographic Finish

JCP E30

Basis Weights 40 50 60 70

Thickness in mils 3.0 3.5 4.1 4.9
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 131

Chemical Wood Map, Lithographic Finish

JCP E40

Basis Weights 20 22

Thickness in mils 3.7 4.1

50% Chart, Lithographic Finish

JCP E50

Basis Weight 36

Thickness in mils 5.3

G. Bond Papers

Chemical Wood Forms Bond

JCP G05

Basis Weights 9/10 11/12/13 15/16 18 20

Thickness in mils 2.4 2.6 3.0 3.3 3.7

Bond

JCP G10

Basis Weights 20 24 28 32

Thickness in mils 3.7 4.5 5.0 5.4

50% Recycled Bond

JCP G15

Basis Weights 10 12 15 18 20

Thickness in mils 2.4 2.8 3.2 3.6 4.0

25% Cotton Bond; Archival Quality

JCP G40

Basis Weights 16 20 24

Thickness in mils 3.6 4.2 4.6

25% Cotton Bond; 50% Recycled 

JCP G45

Basis Weights 16 20 24

Thickness in mils 3.6 4.2 4.6

25% Cotton Translucent Bond

JCP G50

Basis Weight 16

Thickness in mils 2.0

25% Cotton Opacified Bond; Archival Quality 

JCP G60

Basis Weights 20 24

Thickness in mils 4.0 4.4

25% Cotton Opacified Bond; 50% Recycled

JCP G65

Basis Weights 20 24

Thickness in mils 4.0 4.4

50% Cotton Bond

JCP G70

Basis Weights 16 20 24

Thickness in mils 3.7 4.1 4.5

100% Cottton Bond

JCP G80

Basis Weights 20 24

Thickness in mils 4.1 4.5

H. Parchment Papers 

100% Cotton Parchment

JCP H10

Basis Weight 32

Thickness in mils 5.6

100% Cotton Parchment

JCP H20

Basis Weight 65

Thickness in mils 7.7
132 Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13

Laser-Finish Parchment

JCP H30

Basis Weights 24 32 65

Thickness in mils 4.2 5.5 7.6

Smooth-Finish Diploma Paper

JCP H40

Basis Weight 65

Thickness in mils 7.6

J. Ledger Papers 

Ledger

JCP J10

Basis Weights 24 28 32 44

Thickness in mils 4.0 4.7 5.3 7.3

25% Cotton Ledger

JCP J20 

Basis Weights 24 32 44

Thickness in mils 4.0 5.3 7.3

100% Cotton Ledger

JCP J30

Basis Weights 24 32 44

Thickness in mils 4.0 5.3 7.3

K. Index Papers

Index

JCP K10

Basis Weights 90 110 140 170

Thickness in mils 7.4 9.0 11.5 13.5

25% Cotton Index

JCP K20

Basis Weights 90 110 140 170

Thickness in mils 7.4 9.0 11.5 13.8

100% Cotton Index

JCP K30

Basis Weight 125

Thickness in mils 10

L. Cover Papers

Gloss-Coated Cover

JCP L10

Basis Weights 65 80 100

Thickness in mils 6.8 8.1 9.8

No. 1 Gloss-Coated Cover

JCP L11

Basis Weights 65 80 100 120

Thickness in mils 6.8 8.0 9.6 11.4

No. 2 Gloss-Coated Cover

JCP L12

Basis Weights 65 80 100 120

Thickness in mils 6.8 8.0 9.6 11.4

Vellum-Finish Cover

JCP L20 

Basis Weights 50 65 80 100

Thickness in mils 5.8 7.7 8.6 10.8

Smooth and Embossed Cover

JCP L21 (thickness applies to smooth finish only) 

Basis Weights 65 80 100 130

Thickness in mils 7.4 8.4 10.2 13.8

Uncoated Cover

JCP L23 

Basis Weights 50 65 80 100

Thickness in mils 5.4 7.5 8.2 10.1
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 133

Vellum Bristol Cover

JCP L24 

Basis Weights 57 67 80

Thickness in mils 7.0 8.3 9.9

Uncoated Laid-Finish Cover

JCP L40 

Basis Weights 65 80 100

Thickness in mils 8.1 9.6 11.6

Matte-Coated Cover

JCP L50

Basis Weights 65 80 100

Thickness in mils 5.7 7.0 8.8

Silk / Dull-Coated Cover

JCP L60 

Basis Weights 65 80 100

Thickness in mils 6.2 7.7 9.2

No. 1 Silk / Dull-Coated Cover

JCP L61 

Basis Weights 65 80 100 120

Thickness in mils 6.8 8.1 10.1 12.1

No. 2 Silk / Dull-Coated Cover

JCP L62 

Basis Weights 65 80 100 120

Thickness in mils 6.8 8.1 10.1 12.1

Coated One-Side (C1S) Cover

JCP L70 

Basis Weights (C1S is sold by thickness)

Thickness in mils 8 10 12 16 20 24

Coated Two-Sides (C2S) Cover

JCP L72 

Basis Weights (C2S is sold by thickness)

Thickness in mils 8 10 12 14 16 20 24

Cast-Coated Cover

JCP L80 

Basis Weights (Grade is sold by thickness)

Thickness in mils 8 10 12 15 24

N. Kraft Paper

No. 2 Kraft

JCP N10

Basis Weights 40 50 60 70 80

Thickness in mils 3.8 4.2 4.8 5.3 5.9

O. Miscellaneous Papers

Gummed, Conventional Adhesive

JCP O-10

Basis Weights 16 18 20

Thickness in mils 3.2 3.5 3.8

Optical Character Recognition (OCR) Bond

JCP O-25

Basis Weights 16 18 20 24 32

Thickness in mils 3.0 3.3 3.8 4.8 6.1

Optical Mark Read (OMR) Bond

JCP O-26

Basis Weight 21

Thickness in mils 4.5

Optical Mark Sense Scanner (OMSS) Bond

JCP O-27

Basis Weight 24

Thickness in mils 4.4
134 Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13

Plain Copier, Xerographic (Archival Quality)

JCP O-60

Basis Weight 20

Thickness in mils 3.9

High Quality Xerographic Copier

JCP O-61

Basis Weights 24 28

Thickness in mils 4.4 4.8

Plain Copier, Xerographic, Laser Printer

JCP O-63

Basis Weights 20 24 28

Thickness in mils 4.0 4.5 5.0

Plain Copier, Xerographic

JCP O-65

Basis Weight 20

Thickness in mils 4

100% Recycled Plain Copier, Xerographic

JCP O-70

Basis Weights 20 24

Thickness in mils 4.0 4.6

Carbonless Bond

JCP O-80

Basis Weights (As specified in the solicitation) Thickness in mils

Printable Plastic Film

JCP O-90

Basis Weights (Grade is sold by thickness)

Thickness in mils 3.7 5.5 7.5 10.5 12.0 14.0 16.0

Uncoated Synthetic Paper 

JCP O-91

Basis Weights (Grade is sold by thickness)

Thickness in mils 4 5 6 8 10 12

P. Tag Boards

High-Finish Manila Tag

JCP P10

Basis Weight 150

Thickness in mils 11.4

High-Finish Folder Stock

JCP P20

Basis Weights 105 150 165 250 330

Thickness in mils 8 11 14 18 24

Q. Cardboards

Railroad Board

JCP Q20

Basis Weights (Grade is sold by thickness)

Thickness in mils 18 30 48

Chemical Wood Board

JCP Q50

Basis Weight 100

Thickness in mils 9.8

High-Finish Red Wallet Board

JCP Q80

Basis Weight 160

Thickness in mils 14
Government Paper Specification Standards | September 2019 | No.13 135

R. Miscellaneous Boards

Pressboard (Type III) 

JCP R10

Basis Weights (Grade is sold by thickness)

Thickness in mils 15 20 25

Pressboard (Type I)

JCP R11

Basis Weights (Grade is sold by thickness)

Thickness in mils 15 20 25

Newsboard

JCP R20

Basis Weight 100

Thickness in mils 20

Book Cover Board

JCP R30

Number of Sheets 9 12 17 19 21 25 31

Thickness in mils 220 170 120 110 98 80 65 

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