Classified information obtained for preparation of a bid must be returned or destroyed within how many days after the opening date if the bid was not submitted or withdrawn?

• A. 90 days
• B. 180 days
• C. 365 days
• D. 730 days

Answer: (B)

Classified information used to prepare a bid must be treated as sensitive material and handled for a defined period after the bid opening. If no bid is submitted or the bid is withdrawn, that material should be returned or destroyed within 180 days of the opening date. This six-month window strikes a balance: it gives time to recover or sanitize the information while limiting how long it sits in someone’s hands, reducing the risk of exposure. Destruction or return should be done through approved procedures, with proper documentation or certification to confirm completion. Longer timeframes would unnecessarily extend exposure, while shorter ones could rush proper handling.