When must an appeal from a contracting officer's final decision be filed with the board of contract appeals?

The requirement to file an appeal from a contracting officer's final decision with the board of contract appeals is established by the Contract Disputes Act (CDA). According to the CDA, a contractor has 90 days from the date of receipt of the contracting officer's final decision to file an appeal. This period is intended to ensure that disputes are resolved in a timely manner, facilitating the efficient execution of contracts and preventing long delays that could impact project timelines and contractual obligations.

This 90-day timeframe is crucial for contractors to prepare their case and gather any necessary documentation or evidence to support their appeal before presenting it to the board of contract appeals. It provides a structured process within which both parties can seek resolution, fostering accountability and clarity in the contracting process. This is why the correct answer is 90 days; it aligns with the specific guidelines set out in federal contracting laws governing appeals related to contracting officer decisions.