What is the New Jersey purchasing threshold without a Qualified Purchasing Agent (QPA)?

In New Jersey, the purchasing threshold without a Qualified Purchasing Agent (QPA) is set at $2,625 for the lower limit and extends to $17,500 for the upper limit. This range indicates the maximum value of a purchase that can be made without requiring formal bidding or the involvement of a QPA.

When a municipality or public entity intends to make a purchase that falls within this threshold, they can typically utilize less formal procurement methods. This allows them to make quicker purchasing decisions while still adhering to the laws governing public procurement. If purchases exceed the upper limit of $17,500, formal bidding processes must be employed, reflecting the intent to ensure fairness, transparency, and accountability in public expenditures.

Understanding this threshold is crucial for public officials and managers to ensure compliance with state purchasing laws, which aim to promote responsible fiscal management and ensure that taxpayers receive fair value for their money.