The HCA must approve or disapprove requests for “unusual” progress payments.

Before providing for progress payments based on costs, the contracting officer shall request the Office of the Chief Financial Officer to provide advice and assistance about a contractor’s financial condition and the adequacy of its accounting system and controls.

The contracting officer shall ensure that the contract finance office provides to the contracting office:

(a)  The date and amount of each progress payment to a contractor; and

(b)  Written recommendations if findings warrant action by the Government.

The HCA must approve any action recommended under FAR 32.503-6. Upon approval, the contracting officer shall request the contract finance office to suspend or reduce payments.

Reduction of the liquidation rates specified in paragraph (b) of FAR 52.232-16 may be made only with the contracting officer’s approval after coordination with the contract finance office. Upon approval, the contracting officer shall request the finance office to reduce the rate.