STPP RFQ -16PBGC24Q0055.pdf

RFQ IFB RFP

WOMEN-OWNED SMALL BUSINESS

(WOSB) ELIGIBLE UNDER THE WOMEN-OWNED

SOLICITATION/CONTRACT/ORDER FOR COMMERCIAL ITEMS

OFFEROR TO COMPLETE BLOCKS 12, 17, 23, 24, & 30

1. REQUISITION NUMBER PAGE OF

2. CONTRACT NO. 3. AWARD/EFFECTIVE

DATE

4. ORDER NUMBER 5. SOLICITATION NUMBER 6. SOLICITATION ISSUE

DATE

7. FOR SOLICITATION

INFORMATION CALL:

a. NAME b. TELEPHONE NUMBER (No collect calls)

8. OFFER DUE DATE/

LOCAL TIME

9. ISSUED BY

13b. RATING

14. METHOD OF SOLICITATION

CODE

15. DELIVER TO 16. ADMINISTERED BY CODE

18a. PAYMENT WILL BE MADE BY CODEFACILITY

CODE

CODE

TELEPHONE NO.

17b. CHECK IF REMITTANCE IS DIFFERENT AND PUT SUCH ADDRESS IN

OFFER

18b. SUBMIT INVOICES TO ADDRESS SHOWN IN BLOCK 18a UNLESS BLOCK

BELOW IS CHECKED

SEE ADDENDUM

19.

ITEM NO.

20.

SCHEDULE OF SUPPLIES/SERVICES

21.

QUANTITY

22.

UNIT

23.

UNIT PRICE

24.

AMOUNT

(Use Reverse and/or Attach Additional Sheets as Necessary)

25. ACCOUNTING AND APPROPRIATION DATA 26. TOTAL AWARD AMOUNT (For Govt. Use Only)

28. CONTRACTOR IS REQUIRED TO SIGN THIS DOCUMENT AND RETURN

DELIVER ALL ITEMS SET FORTH OR OTHERWISE IDENTIFIED ABOVE AND ON ANY

ADDITIONAL SHEETS SUBJECT TO THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS SPECIFIED

29. AWARD OF CONTRACT: REF.

DATED . YOUR OFFER ON SOLICITATION

(BLOCK 5), INCLUDING ANY ADDITIONS OR CHANGES WHICH ARE

SET FORTH HEREIN, IS ACCEPTED AS TO ITEMS:

30a. SIGNATURE OF OFFEROR/CONTRACTOR

30b. NAME AND TITLE OF SIGNER (Type or print) 30c. DATE SIGNED

31a. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA (SIGNATURE OF CONTRACTING OFFICER)

31b. NAME OF CONTRACTING OFFICER (Type or print) 31c. DATE SIGNED

AUTHORIZED FOR LOCAL REPRODUCTION

PREVIOUS EDITION IS NOT USABLE

STANDARD FORM 1449 (REV. 2/2012)

Prescribed by GSA - FAR (48 CFR) 53.212

COPIES TO ISSUING OFFICE. CONTRACTOR AGREES TO FURNISH AND

OFFER

13a. THIS CONTRACT IS A

RATED ORDER UNDER

DPAS (15 CFR 700)

11. DELIVERY FOR FOB DESTINA-

TION UNLESS BLOCK IS

MARKED

SEE SCHEDULE

12. DISCOUNT TERMS

ARE ARE NOT ATTACHED

ARE ARE NOT ATTACHED

27a. SOLICITATION INCORPORATES BY REFERENCE FAR 52.212-1, 52.212-4. FAR 52.212-3 AND 52.212-5 ARE ATTACHED. ADDENDA

27b. CONTRACT/PURCHASE ORDER INCORPORATES BY REFERENCE FAR 52.212-4. FAR 52.212-5 IS ATTACHED. ADDENDA

17a CONTRACTOR/

OFFEROR.

CODE

8 (A)

SIZE STANDARD:

NAICS:

% FOR:SET ASIDE:UNRESTRICTED OR

SERVICE-DISABLED

VETERAN-OWNED

SMALL BUSINESS

HUBZONE SMALL

BUSINESS

SMALL BUSINESS

10. THIS ACQUISITION IS

EDWOSB

SMALL BUSINESS PROGRAM

STANDARD FORM 1449 (REV. 2/2012) BACK

19.

ITEM NO.

20.

SCHEDULE OF SUPPLIES/SERVICES

21.

QUANTITY

22.

UNIT

23.

UNIT PRICE

24.

AMOUNT

32a. QUANTITY IN COLUMN 21 HAS BEEN

RECEIVED INSPECTED ACCEPTED, AND CONFORMS TO THE CONTRACT, EXCEPT AS NOTED:

41a. I CERTIFY THIS ACCOUNT IS CORRECT AND PROPER FOR PAYMENT

32b. SIGNATURE OF AUTHORIZED GOVERNMENT

REPRESENTATIVE

32c. DATE

41b. SIGNATURE AND TITLE OF CERTIFYING OFFICER 41c. DATE

42a. RECEIVED BY (Print)

42b. RECEIVED AT (Location)

42c. DATE REC'D (YY/MM/DD) 42d. TOTAL CONTAINERS

40. PAID BY

32d. PRINTED NAME AND TITLE OF AUTHORIZED GOVERNMENT

REPRESENTATIVE

32e. MAILING ADDRESS OF AUTHORIZED GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVE 32f. TELPHONE NUMBER OF AUTHORZED GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVE

32g. E-MAIL OF AUTHORIZED GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVE

33. SHIP NUMBER 34. VOUCHER NUMBER 35. AMOUNT VERIFIED

CORRECT FOR

PARTIAL FINAL

37. CHECK NUMBER

38. S/R ACCOUNT NO. 39. S/R VOUCHER NUMBER

36. PAYMENT

COMPLETE PARTIAL FINAL

Attachment Page

PAGE 3 OF 90 16PBGC24Q0055

Combined Synopsis/Solicitation

(i) This is a combined synopsis/solicitation for commercial items prepared in accordance with the format in the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) subpart 12.6, as supplemented with additional information included in this notice. This announcement constitutes the only solicitation: quotes are being requested and no other written solicitation will be issued. The Government intends to award a Firm Fixed Price (FFP) contract under Simplified Acquisition Procedures (SAP) using FAR Part 13. NOTE: This serves as notice that the Government intends to negotiate a firm fixed price sole source purchase order with Bolton Partners D.C., Inc., 2200 Wilson Blvd Ste 810, Arlington, VA 22201-3361.

(ii) The solicitation reference number is 16PBGC24Q0055. This requirement is issued as a Request for Quote (RFQ).

(iii) This RFQ and incorporated provisions and clauses are those in effect through the latest applicable Federal Acquisition Circular (FAC) available at acquisition.gov as of the date of this document’s issuance.

(iv) This solicitation is not set aside for small business. The associated North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code is 541611 – Administrative Management and General Management Consulting Services.

(v) The Contract Line-Item Numbers, Items, Quantities, and Units of Measure (including options) are listed in Section 1, Price Schedule.

(vi) Description of requirements for the services. The PBGC seeks to obtain highly qualified and specialized professional services and personnel resources to support the PBGC's OBA and its departments/divisions in accurate and timely calculation of benefits for participants in various PBGC trusteed plans. Please see Section 2, Performance Work Statement.

(vii) PBGC anticipates a base contract period of 12 months, from January 22, 2025 - January 21, 2026, with one 12 month option period of January 22, 2026 - January 21, 2027.

(viii) The provision at 52.212-1, Instructions to Offerors – Commercial Items, applies to this acquisition.

Offeror shall submit pricing by inserting price for each line item directly into the Price Schedule set forth in Section 1. Additionally, the offeror shall complete the Assumptions and Price Summary Tabs of Attachment H, following the Instructions Tab

(ix) FAR 52.212-2, Evaluation Criteria, will not be utilized for this effort. The Evaluation and Basis of Award are as follows:

EVALUATION AND BASIS OF AWARD

The Government will make an award on the basis of technical acceptability, responsiveness to the RFQ, and Contracting Officer determination that the price awarded is fair and reasonable.

The following apply to this acquisition:

PAGE 4 OF 90 16PBGC24Q0055

Technical Acceptability: The Government will evaluate the Offeror’s quote to determine whether or not it meets all technical criteria set forth in the Section 2 – Performance Work Statement.

Price: The Government will evaluate the proposed price to determine whether or not it is adequate and reasonable to perform the technical requirements. The Government will also review the price quote for completeness and accuracy. The Contracting Officer will make a final determination regarding price reasonableness.

Responsiveness: The Offeror must comply with all requirements, terms, and conditions set forth in the RFQ. The Government will review the offeror’s quote to ensure it responds to the RFQ in its entirety. If the Offeror takes exception to any requirement, term, or condition, those exceptions must be stated clearly in the Offeror’s quote. Additionally, the Offeror shall identify technical and/or pricing assumptions in its quote, if applicable.

(x) FAR 52.212-3 Offeror Representations and Certifications—Commercial Items, applies to this acquisition. The Offeror shall complete only paragraph (b) of this provision if the Offeror has completed the annual representations and certification electronically via the System for Award Management (SAM) website located at https://www.sam.gov/portal. If the Offeror has not completed the annual representations and certifications electronically, the Offeror shall complete only paragraphs (c) through (u) of this provision.

(xi) The clause at 52.212-4, Contract Terms and Conditions – Commercial Items, applies to this acquisition.

(xii) The provision at 52.212-5, Contract Terms and Conditions Required to Implement Statutes or Executive Orders – Commercial Items, applies to this acquisition. The following clauses/provisions are included:

52.203-19, Prohibition on Requiring Certain Internal Confidentiality Agreements or Statements (JAN 2017) 52.204-10, Reporting Executive Compensation and First-Tier Subcontract 52.204-23, Prohibition on contracting for Hardware, Software, and Services Developed or Provided by Kaspersky Lab Covered Entities (DEC 2023) 52.204-25, Prohibition on contracting for Certain Telecommunications and Video Surveillance Services or Equipment (NOV 2021) 52.204-26, Covered Telecommunications Equipment or Services-Representation (OCT 2020) 52.209-10, Prohibition on Contracting with Inverted Domestic Corporations (NOV 2015) 52.222-3, Convict Labor 52.222-21, Prohibition of Segregated Facilities 52.222-25, Affirmative Action Compliance 52.222-26, Equal Opportunity 52.222-35, Equal Opportunity for Veterans 52.222-36, Equal Opportunity for Workers with Disabilities 52.222-50, Combating Trafficking in Persons 52.225-13, Restrictions on Certain Foreign Purchases (FEB 2021)

PAGE 5 OF 90 16PBGC24Q0055

52.232-40, Providing Accelerated Payments to Small Business Subcontractors (MAR 2023) 52.233-3, Protest After Award (AUG 1996) 52.233-4, Applicable Law for Breach of Contract Claim (OCT 2004)

(xiii) FAR 52.212-5(b): The Contractor shall comply with the FAR clauses in this paragraph (b) that the Contracting Officer has indicated as being incorporated in this contract by reference to implement provisions of law or Executive orders applicable to acquisitions of commercial products and commercial services:

52.203-17, Contractor Employee Whistleblower Rights (NOV 2023) 52.204-27, Prohibitions on a ByteDance Covered Application (JUN 2023) 52.204-28, Federal Acquisition Supply Chain Security Act Orders – Prohibition (DEC 2023) 52.204-7, System for Award Management

(xiv) The following FAR provisions and clauses are incorporated by full text:

52.204-29, Federal Acquisition Supply Chain Security Act Orders – Representation and Disclosures (DEC 2023)

(a) Definitions. As used in this provision, Covered article, FASCSA order, Intelligence community, National security system, Reasonable inquiry, Sensitive compartmented information, Sensitive compartmented information system, and Source have the meaning provided in the clause 52.204-30, Federal Acquisition Supply Chain Security Act Orders—Prohibition.

(b) Prohibition. Contractors are prohibited from providing or using as part of the performance of the contract any covered article, or any products or services produced or provided by a source, if the prohibition is set out in an applicable Federal Acquisition Supply Chain Security Act (FASCSA) order, as described in paragraph (b)(1) of FAR 52.204-30, Federal Acquisition Supply Chain Security Act Orders—Prohibition.

(c) Procedures.

(1) The Offeror shall search for the phrase “FASCSA order” in the System for Award Management (SAM)( https://www.sam.gov) for any covered article, or any products or services produced or provided by a source, if there is an applicable FASCSA order described in paragraph (b)(1) of FAR 52.204-30, Federal Acquisition Supply Chain Security Act Orders—Prohibition.

(2) The Offeror shall review the solicitation for any FASCSA orders that are not in SAM, but are effective and do apply to the solicitation and resultant contract (see FAR 4.2303(c)(2)).

(3) FASCSA orders issued after the date of solicitation do not apply unless added by an amendment to the solicitation.

PAGE 6 OF 90 16PBGC24Q0055

(d) Representation. By submission of this offer, the offeror represents that it has conducted a reasonable inquiry, and that the offeror does not propose to provide or use in response to this solicitation any covered article, or any products or services produced or provided by a source, if the covered article or the source is prohibited by an applicable FASCSA order in effect on the date the solicitation was issued, except as waived by the solicitation, or as disclosed in paragraph (e).

(e) Disclosures. The purpose for this disclosure is so the Government may decide whether to issue a waiver. For any covered article, or any products or services produced or provided by a source, if the covered article or the source is subject to an applicable FASCSA order, and the Offeror is unable to represent compliance, then the Offeror shall provide the following information as part of the offer:

(1) Name of the product or service provided to the Government;

(2) Name of the covered article or source subject to a FASCSA order;

(3) If applicable, name of the vendor, including the Commercial and Government Entity code and unique entity identifier (if known), that supplied the covered article or the product or service to the Offeror;

(4) Brand;

(5) Model number (original equipment manufacturer number, manufacturer part number, or wholesaler number);

(6) Item description;

(7) Reason why the applicable covered article or the product or service is being provided or used;

(f) Executive agency review of disclosures. The contracting officer will review disclosures provided in paragraph (e) to determine if any waiver may be sought. A contracting officer may choose not to pursue a waiver for covered articles or sources otherwise subject to a FASCSA order and may instead make an award to an offeror that does not require a waiver.

52.217-9, Option to Extend the Term of the Contract (MAR 2000)

(a) The Government may extend the term of this contract by written notice to the Contractor within 30 days; provided that the Government gives the Contractor a preliminary written notice of its intent to extend at least 30 days. The preliminary notice does not commit the Government to an extension.

(b) If the Government exercises this option, the extended contract shall be considered to include this option clause.

(c) The total duration of this contract, including the exercise of any options under this clause, shall not exceed 24 months.

PAGE 7 OF 90 16PBGC24Q0055

(xv) The following PBGC specific clauses are hereby incorporated by full text, as follows:

PBGC 52.201-7000, Contracting Officer’s Representative (JAN 2012)

The Contracting Officer's Representative (COR) is Gabriale Williams, who may be reached at williams.gabriale@pbgc.gov. The COR is authorized to assist in monitoring the work under this contract. The COR is responsible for the technical administration of the contract and technical liaison with the contractor.

The COR IS NOT authorized to change the scope of work or specifications as stated in the contract, to make any commitments or otherwise obligate the Government or authorize any changes which affect the contract price, delivery schedule, period of performance or other terms or conditions.

The Contracting Officer is the only individual who can legally commit or obligate the Government for the expenditure of public funds. The technical administration of this contract shall not be construed to authorize the revision of the terms and conditions of this contract. Any such revision shall be authorized in writing by the Contracting Officer.

The COR is authorized to review and recommend approval of:

(a) Technical matters not involving a change in scope, price, terms and conditions of the contract

(b) Progress reports

(c) Inspection and acceptance of services and deliverable products and

(d) Invoices.

The COR is not authorized to sign any contractual instruments or to direct any action that results in a change in the scope, price, terms or condition of the contract.

PBGC 52.2232-7009, Submission of Electronic Invoicing Using Invoice Processing Platform (IPP) for Time and Material, Labor Hours, and Fixed Price (FEB 2023)

(a) The contractor shall submit invoices for supplies and/or services provided under this contract using the Government's Invoice Processing Platform (IPP) web-based service application. The IPP application is available at www.ipp.gov. This website includes general IPP instructions and training materials. Questions about the IPP application should be directed to the IPP Customer Support team at the e-mail address or phone number shown on the IPP website under the "Contacts" tab.

(b) Inquiries concerning IPP enrollment or PBGCs specific processing requirements within IPP should be directed to PBGCs General Accounting Branch (GAB) by e-mail at invoicemanager@pbgc.gov or by phone at (202)229-4062.

(c) To constitute a proper invoice, the invoice must include the information listed below

PAGE 8 OF 90 16PBGC24Q0055

(1) Name and address of the contractor

(2) Invoice date and number

(3) Contract number, line item number, and, if applicable, the order number

(4) Description, quantity, unit of measure, unit price, and extended price of services performed and any supplies delivered, including: (i) The labor hours by labor category billed, the hourly rate for each labor category billed, and the total dollars billed by labor category for the billing period (meal periods and other labor-hours not directly supporting the contract are not billable) (not applicable to Fixed Price contracts), and (ii) The cumulative hours expended and dollars billed from contract inception through the current billing period (not applicable to Fixed Price contracts).

(5)(a) Shipping number and date of shipment, including the bill of lading number and weight of shipment if shipped on a Government bill of lading (not applicable to TIME and MATERIAL and LABOR HOURS contracts).

(5)(b) Dollar amount withheld unless the contract is for commercial products or services awarded under FAR Part 8 or Part 12. Five percent of the total direct labor billed must be withheld after $1,000,000 has been billed to the contract, up to a ceiling amount of $50,000, unless other terms have been negotiated. If other terms have been negotiated, they must be included in the contract (not applicable to Fixed Price contracts).

(6) Terms of any discount for prompt payment offered.

(7) Name, title, phone number, e-mail address, and mailing address of official to whom payment is to be sent.

(8) Name, title, phone number, e-mail address, and mailing address of official to be contacted in the event of an improper invoice.

(9) Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN), only if required to be on the invoice elsewhere in the contract.

10) Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) banking information.

(i) The contractor shall include EFT banking information on the invoice only if required elsewhere in this contract.

(ii) If EFT banking information is not required to be on the invoice, in order for the invoice to be a proper invoice, the contractor shall have submitted correct EFT banking information in accordance with the applicable solicitation provision or contract clause (e.g., 52.232-33, Payment by Electronic Funds Transfer - System for Award Management, or 52.232-34, Payment by Electronic Funds Transfer - Other Than System for Award Management).

(iii) EFT banking information is not required if the Government waived the requirement to pay by EFT.

(d) Supporting documentation to be submitted with the invoice must include the items listed below:

(i) Copies of time sheets indicating start and stop times of the personnel performing services under this contract (at PBGC's request, the contractor shall make available copies of any of the materials relevant to substantiating the hours billed) (not applicable to Fixed Price contracts).

(xvi) The date, time and place quotes are due: Quotes shall be submitted via email to the Contracting Officer (CO), Marius Morgan, at morgan.marius@pbgc.gov, and the Contract Specialists, Mandy Mathews at Mathews.erin@pbgc.gov, and Matthew Walton, Walton.matthew@pbgc.gov, no later than 12:00 PM Eastern Time (ET) on October 18, 2024.

PAGE 9 OF 90 16PBGC24Q0055

(xvii) Questions regarding this solicitation shall be submitted via email to the Contracting Officer (CO), Marius Morgan, at morgan.marius@pbgc.gov, and the Contract Specialists, and the Contract Specialists, Mandy Mathews at Mathews.erin@pbgc.gov, and Matthew Walton, Walton.matthew@pbgc.gov not later than 12:00 PM Eastern Time (ET) on 12:00 PM Eastern Time (ET) on October 11, 2024.

Responses to all inquiries/questions will be published by amendment to the solicitation. No information concerning this solicitation will be provided in response to telephone calls.

PAGE 10 OF 90 16PBGC24Q0055

Section 1 – Price Schedule

Contract Type: Firm Fixed Price

The Government anticipates award of a Firm Fixed Price (FFP) contract for Commercial Services. Propose unit and extended prices for each line item below:

Base Period CLIN Quantity Units Total Price

0001 - Actuarial Valuation S/W Closeout, & Post Valuation Support

1 Lot

Base Period Total $

Option Period One CLIN Quantity Units Total Price

1001- Actuarial Valuation S/W Closeout, 1& Post Valuation

Support1 1 Lot

Option Period One Total $

Total (Base Period + Option Period One) $

The Contractor shall provide all personnel, material, travel, and services in accordance with the Performance Work Statement set forth in Section 2. Invoices shall be submitted following Government acceptance and paid in arrears.

PAGE 11 OF 90 16PBGC24Q0055

Section 2

Performance Work Statement (PWS)

ASTD Actuarial Support Services

1. PROJECT TITLE. Actuarial Support Services for Strategic Target Pension Plans.

As a service-oriented, professionally managed agency that protects participants' benefits and supports a healthy retirement plan/system across the nation, the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (PBGC) leverages third party professional service vendors to provide actuarial support at the first sign of when an industry is showing signs of stress and pensions are at risk. This Performance Work Statement (PWS) outlines the acquisition of actuarial support services to the PBGC for seven Strategic Target Pension Plans. OBA Strategic Target Pension Plans are high-profile pension plans that OBA senior management has designated to be the largest and most complicated plans in OBA inventory.

TABLE 1: OBA Strategic Target Pension Plans

Project ID Project Name

1 23842800 BROOKS BROTHERS INC. PENSION PLAN

2 20132500 CONGOLEUM CORPORATION HOURLY RETIREMENT PLAN

3 23769600 RANDOLPH HOSPITAL RETIREMENT PLAN

4 23880100 BRIGGS & STRATTON PENSION PLAN

5 23935800 RETIREMENT PLAN OF CROUSE HOSPITAL

6 20132600 CONGOLEUM CORPORATION RETIREMENT PLAN FOR SALARIED EMPLOYEES

7 23902700 REMINGTON ARMS COMPANY INC. PENSION AND RETIREMENT PLAN

2. BACKGROUND.

The PBGC is a Government-Owned Corporation, established under Title IV of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) of 1974, as amended. The mission of the PBGC is to operate as a service-oriented, professionally managed agency that protects participants' benefits and supports a healthy retirement plan/system by: i) encouraging the continuation and maintenance of private pension plans, ii) protecting pension benefits in ongoing plans, iii) providing timely payments of benefits in terminated pension plans, and iv) making the maximum use of resources and maintaining premiums and operating costs at the lowest level consistent with statutory responsibilities. The termination insurance program currently covers more than 29,000 defined benefit pension plans. Additional background information is available at http://www.pbgc.gov/about/about.html. The Office of Benefits Administration (OBA) within PBGC manages the termination process of defined benefit plans, provides participant services (including calculation and payment of benefits) for PBGC trusteed plans, provides actuarial support for PBGC, and carries out PBGC's responsibilities under settlement agreements.

PAGE 12 OF 90 16PBGC24Q0055

The Actuarial Services and Technology Department’s (ASTD) mission is to provide actuarial expertise and support in the development, operation, and evaluation of PBGC insurance programs and to calculate and value termination benefits under Title IV of ERISA. The completion of calculations and determination of the present value of future liabilities is an iterative process and depends on the type and quality of information available to PBGC at the time of trusteeship. There are a series of phases that define this work, best described below:

1) Phase 1: Valuation Phase: During the Valuation phase, applicable PBGC federal limitations are applied to plan benefits, the present value of termination benefits are calculated, the benefit statements are programmed for the Benefit Statements and Retirement Statements (BSRS), and documentation of final policy decisions take place. At the end of Phase 1, the Valuation Phase, all valuation electronic files are submitted to Technology and Risk Management Division (TRMD) for software review and closeout.

2) Phase 2: Post-Valuation Phase: Once the Actuarial Case Report (ACR) is completed, Actuarial Case Processing Division (ACPD) continues into a post-valuation phase where other services are provided, including:

assistance with issuing benefit determinations, answering questions from the PBGC Appeals Division, and all participant requests until the case has closed. Plan Closing occurs at the tail end of this post- valuation phase.

3. SCOPE.

a. Objective/Program Outcomes

The objective of this contract is to obtain highly qualified and specialized professional services and personnel resources to support the PBGC's OBA and its departments/divisions in accurate and timely calculation of benefits for participants in various PBGC trusteed plans. The support is primarily provided to the OBA's ASTD and its four divisions, the Actuarial Services Division (ASD), the Actuarial Case Processing Division (ACPD), Actuarial Present Value of Future Benefits Division (APVFBD) and the Technology/TRMD. The contractor is expected to provide actuarial expertise to ensure timely and accurate completion of tasks associated with the valuation of termination benefits under Title IV of ERISA of 1974. The required services shall be provided in accordance with: Title IV of ERISA; applicable PBGC regulations, standards, settlements, policies, and procedures; and applicable OBA and ASTD operations and technical manuals.

The main program outcome of this contract is to acquire necessary actuarial support and expertise for the PBGC in order to meet its goal of paying pension benefits on time and accurately, and to maintain high standards of stewardship and accountability. This work is imperative to PBGC OBA meeting its overall mission.

PAGE 13 OF 90 16PBGC24Q0055

b. Performance Areas

The Contractor shall provide professional support services to assist the PBGC, OBA, and all related offices in ensuring the effective delivery of their mission and function as described in Section 2 - Background, above. The Contractor shall provide commercial, professional services that support all levels of pension plan complexities.

The Contractor shall provide necessary actuarial support and expertise to PBGC to meet its goal of paying pension benefits on time and accurately and maintain high standards of stewardship and accountability.

c. Project Parameters

The Contractor shall provide a variety of services to OBA, as outlined below in PWS Sections 5: Performance Requirements for the Strategic Target Pension Plans identified in Table 1:

3.1 Information Technology Program

The Contractor shall maintain the security of all records, both paper and electronic, at all times during the performance of this contract and shall immediately report the loss of PII information. The Contractor’s facilities shall be available to PBGC for inspection to support review and verification of the Contractor’s information security program. The applicable clauses that govern this program can be found in the contract under any Special Contract Requirements or Clauses.

Relevant Agency Directives: (These links will be accessible from GFE upon issuance after award):

PBGC Information Security Policy: PBGC Information Security Policy Link PBGC Privacy Program: Privacy Directive to FASD for

Publication (sharepoint.com) Use of Information Technology Resources: PBGC Policy on the Use of Information Technology Resources (sharepoint.com)

Protecting Sensitive Information: Directive: IM 10-03 Protecting Sensitive Information (sharepoint.com)

PBGC Records Management Program: PBGC Records Management Program (sharepoint.com)

3.2 Program Management

The Contractor shall provide project management services to ensure program coordination and implementation of procedures and resources necessary to accomplish requirements. The Contractor is responsible for all management and administrative tasks associated with executing this Contract, PAGE 14 OF 90 16PBGC24Q0055 including managing all resources required to perform the contract, contractor personnel, subcontractors, etc. Project plans and required updates shall be submitted, per the PWS, to PBGC to ensure production plans are achieved and required reporting to PBGC accomplished.

The Contractor shall attend progress meetings and other periodic meetings and shall submit required reports to the Contracting Officer Representative (COR) and others in PBGC, per the PWS.

d. Conformance and Applicable Policies

During the performance of this contract, the Contractor shall be required to conform to the policies and procedures outlined in the documents listed below. There may be additional constraints, i.e., department manuals /guidelines / procedures, etc., which will be provided to the Contractor upon issuance of the contract.

External Guidance

1. Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 Code of Federal Regulations: Legal Resources | Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (pbgc.gov)

2. PBGC's Federal Register Documents: Legal Resources | Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (pbgc.gov)

3. Regulations issued by the PBGC, the Internal Revenue Service, the Department of Labor, and official interpretations thereof;

ERISA and its amendments, etc.

4. The Contractor shall adhere to the constraints as described in the Actuarial Standards of Practice (ASOPs) promulgated by the Actuarial Standards Board and the American Academy of Actuaries.

Internal PBGC policy and procedures. The links (OBA Manuals - Home (sharepoint.com) will be accessible from GFE upon issuance after award.

1. PBGC Operating Policy Manual (including Past Updates by Fiscal Year):

2. OBA Operations Manual and any updates:

3. OBA Actuarial Technical Manual, including any updates:

4. Actuarial Calculation Toolkit Manual:

5. OBA Glossary:

6. Decision Logs

7. Procedural instructions, forms, and worksheets, as required and as approved by the PBGC, that are relevant to the services provided.

8. Policy and position papers developed by the PBGC

PAGE 15 OF 90 16PBGC24Q0055

9. Any case specific guidance or policy determination promulgated since the plan was trusteed by PBGC.

OBA procedures are subject to periodic updates. The contractor will be notified via email (PBGC email address) of any content updates to the procedures. The contractor shall conduct the OBA ASTD work consistent with the procedures, unless otherwise directed. Additionally, ASTD will consult with the contractor and provide written guidance for instances where the OBA Operations Manual or ASTD Procedures are not comprehensive.

4. APPLICABLE DOCUMENTS.

Applicable documents that apply to this requirement are listed below.

The Contractor must be guided by these documents to the extent necessary to perform this requirement.

TABLE 2 – APPLICABLE

DOCUMENTS

Publication No. Title Where to Obtain

NIST SP 800-53

Security and Privacy Controls for Federal Information, Systems and Organizations http://csrc.nist.gov/publications/PubsSPs.html

NIST SP 800-53A

Security Assessment and Authorization Policies and Procedures http://csrc.nist.gov/publications/PubsSPs.html

FIPS Pub 199

Standards for Security Categorization of Federal Information and Information Systems http://csrc.nist.gov/publications/PubsFIPS.html

PBGC Directive

GA 10-12, IM 05-

02, IM 05-09, IM

10-3

PBGC IT

Security and Privacy Policies and Procedures https://www.pbgc.gov/about/procurement/procurem ent-management-directives

PAGE 16 OF 90 16PBGC24Q0055

PBGC Directive

IM 05-07

PBGC

Information Technology Management https://www.pbgc.gov/about/procurement/procu rement- management-directives

36 CFR part

1194.24 (c), (d), (e)

Video and Multimedia Products https://www.law.cornell.edu/cfr/text/36/part-1194

5. PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS.

The tasks and subtasks described in this section identify those services the Contractor will be required to perform depending upon assignments made. The Contractor shall provide the required services in accordance with Title IV of ERISA;

applicable PBGC regulations, standards, settlements, policies and procedures; appliable OBA and ASTD manuals; PADMD manual and technical manuals; and required OBA quality standards and applicable government standards.

5.1. Performance Objective 1 – Actuarial Calculations.

The Contractor shall perform actuarial calculations for ACPD upfront work and final valuation. The upfront work calculations include estimated benefit adjustments, where participants who are in-pay when PBGC trustees a plan have their benefits reduced to PBGC- guaranteed benefit amounts; and benefit estimates, where participants who are not in-pay when PBGC trustees a plan are paid estimated benefits until ACPD’s valuation of the pension plan is final. Timely and accurate benefit adjustments and estimates provide a smooth transition from the prior plan administrator to PBGC administration and ensures PBGC pays accurate guaranteed benefits upfront to avoid overpayments and administrative burdens to both PBGC and the participants. The Contractor shall perform the valuation calculations using the data collection from Objective 1, the participant database, and the PDR from Objective 2 (if applicable, or the database provided by DMD). These final calculations convert estimated benefit adjustment and estimated benefits to final status. Following this, the Contractor shall determine the final benefit amount that PBGC will pay to participants, taking into account all plan provisions, PBGC limitations, and asset allocation. The following tasks are critical to this objective.

5.1.1 TASK 1 - FOR UPFRONT WORK

5.1.1.1 Subtask 1 – Estimated Benefit Adjustments (Cutbacks)

The Contractor shall:

5.1.1.1.1 Use applicable ASTD/OBA manuals and plan

documents to identify the applicable PBGC limits for each plan.

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5.1.1.1.2 Use the available participant data to identify

participants affected by PBGC limits.

5.1.1.1.3 Use the ASTD/OBA manuals and plan documents to

determine the plan benefit for affected participants.

5.1.1.1.4 Prepare database with participants data for benefit adjustment calculations.

5.1.1.1.5 Perform benefit adjustment calculations using the

applicable OBA/TRMD software. Using the applicable OBA/TRMD software, determine the effects of ERISA 4022 (guaranteed benefits), ERISA 4044 (allocated benefits), estimated plan assets, and Section 436 Limitations on PBGC-payable benefits to determine any reductions (cut-backs) of in-pay participant’s benefits.

5.1.1.1.6 Calculate Priority Category 3 benefits for cutback

calculations, if necessary

5.1.1.1.7 Provide preliminary analysis on the impact of plan

assets on participant benefits, if applicable.

5.1.1.1.8 Using the applicable OBA/TRMD software, the

Contractor shall apply ERISA Title IV regulations to calculate the final PBGC termination benefits for each Participant.

5.1.1.1.9 Be responsible for applying PBGC defined rates and

mortality tables to obtain the present value of the termination benefits.

5.1.1.1.10 Create a listing of the complete calculations for each participant. Prepare a list of participants whose benefit's will be cutback along with benefit statements and worksheets.

5.1.1.1.11 Research the plan population to complete the

required OBA memorandums.

5.1.1.1.12 Use the Automated Data Transfer (ADT) system to

identify, correct or explain data errors before termination.

5.1.1.2 Subtask 2 – Manual Estimates and Benefit Estimation Tool (BET).

5.1.1.2.1 Identify participants who need benefit estimates.

5.1.1.2.2 Determine feasibility of BET or manual estimates.

5.1.1.2.3 Provide manual estimates and documentation to

support these calculations when the BET is not available and when a BET is unable to handle a particular calculation.

5.1.1.2.4 Use the most recent standard language & software

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version or non-standard with pre-approval, and calculate estimated benefits used to place participants into an estimated pay status.

5.1.1.2.5 Use TRMD standard software (BSRS) to program

plan benefit for not-in-pay participants or provide manual benefit estimates in approved format.

5.1.1.2.6 Program applicable PBGC limits in the automated

and manual estimates.

5.1.1.2.7 Provide estimates for participants who are

close to commencement Required Begin Date (RBD), Early Unreduced Retirement Date (EURD).

5.1.1.2.8 Provide preliminary analysis on the impact of plan

assets on participant benefits, if applicable.

5.1.1.2.9 Calculate the lump sum amount as expected

retirement date for automated and manual estimates.

5.1.1.2.10 Use TRMD standard software to program retirement

statements at various dates with various beneficiaries, retirement worksheets (if necessary) and customized Payment Adjustment Calculation System statements.

5.1.1.2.11 Submit the BET along with documentation

including limitations, constraints, instructions and TRDM standard checklist.

5.1.1.2.12 Support OBA Plan Administration by

providing plan provisions overview and training(s) on BET.

5.1.1.3 Subtask 3 - Required Memos –

The Contractor Shall:

5.1.1.3.1 Prepare the required Upfront Memos including

Estimated benefit Adjustment Memo and Worksheet, Estimated Benefit Administration Memo, Section 436 Determination, Cash Balance Outlines and Employee Contributions Processing Evaluation, Successor Plan Determination memo and Earnings Offsets provisions summary.

5.3 TASK 2 – FOR

VALUATION – The

Contractor shall:

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5.3.2.1 Conduct Accrued Monthly Benefit (AMB) test.

5.3.2.2 Research and prepare plan factors including early, late, form conversion factors.

5.3.2.3 Conduct tolerance test based on guidelines in ASTD manuals.

5.3.2.4 Determine plan's actuarial equivalence for various purposes including interest rates and mortality tables.

5.3.2.5 Calculate plan benefits for in-pay and not in-pay

participants, and Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO) participant and alternate payees’

5.3.2.6 Calculate pre-termination benefit liabilities.

5.3.2.7 Apply applicable PBGC limits (maximum insurance limits, accrued at normal limits and phase-in limits) to various plan benefits.

5.3.2.8 Calculate benefit and liabilities on various Priority Categories (PC1- PC6)

5.3.2.9 Perform 4022(c) allocation and 4044 allocation.

5.3.2.10 Determine final PBGC termination benefit for each participant

5.3.2.11 Reconcile final PBGC termination benefit against estimated benefits.

5.3.2.12 Create valuation listings for all or sample of population using ASTD approved software.

5.3.2.13 Finalize termination benefits and liabilities and load results into PBGC systems for plan administration.

5.3.2.14 Calculate benefits as of various retirement dates for deferred vested participants

5.3.2.15 Finalize termination benefits and liabilities and load results into PBGC systems.

5.3.2.16 Support the QDRO(s) issues, such as (i) determining how the

QDROs assign benefits to the participant and the alternate payee(s); (ii) adjusting the benefits for the applicable PBGC limitations; (iii) determining when the benefit may begin for the participant and alternate payee; (iv) determining the form of benefit under which the benefits may be paid; (v) determining what happens upon the participant's death; (vi) determining what happens upon the alternate payee's death and (viii) provide detail documentation of calculations.

5.3.2.17 Use the ADT system to identify, correct, or explain data errors.

5.2. Performance Objective 2 – Benefit Statements and Retirement Statements (BSRS).

BSRS provide participants with the data collected in Objective 1 and 2 as well as the final actuarial calculations performed in Objective 3. The Contractor shall use the estimated and final actuarial calculations from Objective 3 to program BSRS for participants. When necessary, the BSRS should also be used to program statements for estimated benefit adjustment calculations. Since these statements go directly to the participants, the accuracy of the information and methodology of the calculations is imperative as is the simplicity for participants to understand the communication around these benefits. The following tasks are critical to this objective.

PAGE 20 OF 90 16PBGC24Q0055

5.2.1 TASK 1 – BENEFIT STATEMENTS AND

RETIREMENT STATEMENTS

5.2.1.1 Using the applicable OBA/TRMD software and

ASTD’s technical manual requirements, the Contractor shall prepare individual benefit statements that are easy-to-understand and follow.

5.2.1.2 Analyze participant population and determine

which populations need benefit estimates, retirement statements, benefit statements and worksheets.

5.2.1.3 Program BSRS software to generate

estimated benefit statements for participants not in-pay.

5.2.1.4 Program BSRS software to generate benefit

statement for estimated benefit adjustments, if necessary.

5.2.1.5 Program BSRS software to generate retirement

statements for in-pay participants.

5.2.1.6 Program BSRS software to generate benefit

determination statement at various dates for not-in-pay participants and beneficiaries at various dates with various spouses or beneficiaries.

5.2.1.7 Program retirement and benefit determination

statements at various dates for participants and alternate payees.

5.2.1.8 As applicable, complete programming to generate a

Benefit Statement Worksheet detailing complex benefit calculations.

5.2.1.9 Be responsible for testing and reviewing the

accuracy of the outputs from the BSRS for participants with various scenarios as part of the Software Closeout process (See Attachment A, Software Closeout Review Checklist)

5.2.1.10 Program BSRS systems to provide customized

Payment Adjustment Calculation System (PACS) statements to calculate optional forms conversion for nonstandard normal form of payment.

5.2.1.11 Submit BSRS files and checklist

5.2.1.12 Provide step-by-step BSRS instruction.

5.3. Performance Objective 3 – Actuarial Case Reports (ACR).

The Contractor shall prepare and submit a complete and accurate ACR. The ACR

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is the final documentation of all actuarial work called for hereunder. The ACR is a comprehensive report that outlines plan interpretations, supporting document, and calculations. The ACR finalizes the benefit adjustment and estimated calculations done in the upfront work and it includes the actuarial calculations from Objective 3 and BSRS from Objective 4. The ACR is important because a) it includes the final detail calculation and benefit amounts that are payable by PBGC, b) it serves as a guidebook for OBA administrators to use when communicating with participants, and

c) it is the official record of all benefit calculation and interpretations of the plan for all PBGC stakeholders. The following tasks are critical to this objective.

5.3.1 TASK 1 – ACTUARIAL CASE REPORT (E-

COPY) – The Contractor shall:

5.3.1.1 Prepare and submit in an approved standard

electronic format, an accurate and complete final ACR for PBGC review and comment. The report shall be prepared in accordance with PBGC procedures, format, and applicable templates, and shall contain all essential and pertinent information required by PBGC.

5.3.1.2 Prepare Table of Contents

5.3.1.3 Prepare Case Management System (CMS) Asset Screen.

5.3.1.4 Provide Certification of ACR. Upon completion of

each plan's work assignment, the Contractor shall provide certification as to the accuracy and completeness of the work it has performed (Attachment B: Actuarial Case Report Certification).

5.3.1.5 Develop and finalize Actuarial Case Memo (ACM)

and attachments listing participants whose benefits are impacted by PBGC limitations or any other issues that will be relevant for benefit administration. ACM shall include instructions for plan administration and the BSRS.

5.3.1.6 Develop and finalize the plan summary.

5.3.1.7 Develop and finalize plan factors.

5.3.1.8 Prepare benefit determination statement and

retirement statement samples.

5.3.1.9 Prepare valuation listing samples.

5.3.1.10 Include all calculations and statements for all

QDRO participants and alternate payees unless otherwise agreed upon.

5.3.1.11 Assemble and send hard copy ACR, upon request.

5.3.1.12 Prepare and submit all final and approved ACR e-

files with actuarial case report checklist (Attachment C) and software closeout review

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checklist (Attachment A)

5.3.2 TASK 2 – FINALIZE ACR

5.3.2.1 Coordinate with PBGC and correct any errors/issues

identified during the review of the report and shall then submit an accurate and complete final report to

PBGC.

5.3.2.2 Review and analyze comments from PBGC on the ACR.

5.3.2.3 Submit item-by-item response to PBGC comments on the ACR.

5.3.2.4 Review and analyze comments from PBGC regarding software.

5.3.2.5 Submit item-by-item response to PBGC comments

regarding software.

5.3.2.6 Re-submit results in e-file, if necessary

5.3.2.7 Prepare additional memos needed to finalize the ACR, including deviation memo and risk worksheet.

5.4. Performance Objective 4 – Post-Valuation Support.

After the valuation has been approved by ASD, the post-valuation support by the Contractor assists PBGC to resolve ensure that resolution of any outstanding and/or new participant calculation issues occurs. The Contractor shall assist with the communication of the valuation results to the participants and shall perform any PBGC-requested analysis on valuation calculations. This objective is critical because it helps OBA assist other departments in understanding the work completed as well as the use of the data resulting from the ACR completed under Objective 5. The following tasks are critical to this objective.

5.4.1 TASK 1 – POST-VALUATION

SUPPORT The Contractor shall:

5.4.1.1 Provide written and electronic easy to follow, step-by-step instructions for PBGC's benefit administrators to use in determining final PBGC benefits for larger cases.

5.4.1.2 Assist OBA in issuing Benefit Determinations Letters

including advising on optimal order of issues letters, determining entitlement, providing spreadsheet of participants with data from the valuation, and preparing manual and revised statements.

5.4.1.3 Reconcile various results and update BSRS and

database, as needed.

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5.4.1.4 Recalculate benefits using updated or newly discovered data.

5.4.1.5 Calculate benefits for QDRO participants and alternate payees, if these calculations were not included in the

ACR.

5.4.1.6 Reconcile results of the Seriatim Termination

Valuation with prior seriatim and aggregate estimates of the present value of PBGC-payable benefits based on plan Actuarial Valuation Reports, Form 5500s, etc.

5.4.1.7 Perform cash balance plan updates.

5.4.1.8 Perform re-valuation per request.

5.4.1.9 Document various post-valuation changes

5.4.1.10 Research potential errors found in previously finalized valuations that impact numerous participants and prepare individual calculations, benefits statements and/or plan level calculation tools for similarly situated Participants.

5.4.1.11 Determine PBGC benefits for undocumented claims

and missing participants.

5.4.1.12 Provide technical assistance in reviewing termination valuation reports, and supporting appeals, audits, and litigations.

5.4.1.13 Develop external communications regarding

provision and PBGC guaranteed limits and valuation results.

5.5. Performance Objective 5- Information Technology Program.

The Contractor shall adhere to PBGC information technology requirements as it relates to security of participant information. Adherence to this objective is critical in maintaining OBA commitment to protecting the privacy of pension plan participants.

The Contractor shall only use PBGC approved software or equipment in managing the data and performing the calculations. In addition to the control and security of information, fulfillment of this objective will allow for prompt resolution of any IT issues by the PBGC Service Desk thereby resulting in minimal work delay and timely deliverables. The Contractor shall adhere to all agency Directives as outlined in Section

3.5 and 3.d. The following tasks are critical to this objective.

5.5.1 TASK 1 – INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM

5.5.2 The Contractor shall:

5.5.2.1 Adequately secure both paper and electronic records

of all data, at all times.

5.5.2.2 All incidents should be reported via the Privacy

PAGE 24 OF 90 16PBGC24Q0055

Breach, Insider Threat, or Security Incident Reportal. Report any actual or suspected loss or compromise of Personally Identifiable Information (PII) immediately and no later than one (1) hour after occurrence. If a Contractor employee believes that sensitive information or PH has been improperly disclosed, lost, or otherwise compromised, send an email to PBGC Privacy Breach email and copy your supervisor, COR, and the Contracting Officer. The email should contain the following information:

Date and time of the possible breach Location of the breach (e.g., 445 12th

Street, SW, Washington, DC, or other) Nature of the breach (e.g., a misdirected document or email, the loss of computer hardware)

Type of PII involved (e.g., name, Social Security number, date of birth, Address)

Federal employees, Contractors, and others (e.g., plan sponsors, auditors) involved.

Any immediate harm known or observed.

Any corrective action already taken.

Contractor employee's name, phone number, position, and office location.

5.5.2.3 Make Contractor facilities available to PBGC for

inspection to support review and verification of their information security program.

5.5.2.4 Dispose of all paper records and electronic data

associated with work performed by the Contractor within one (1) year of the case being transferred to Plan Closing. Shred all paper records on-site at the Contractor’s location by a bonded and licensed shredding company. Provide annual statement certifying disposal of paper and electronic records.

Provide to the COR on October 1 of each contract year a statement that document disposal requirements have been completed.

5.5.2…