Short Form Contract
The template Short Form Contract is primarily for below-threshold, low value, non-complex goods and services. It can also be used for above-threshold non-complex goods and services, where appropriate
This is a template contract for low value non-complex goods and services.
The Short Form Contract is designed to ensure that you are able to use appropriate and proportionately ‘light touch’ contract terms for low-value procurements. This is aimed at avoiding the use of overly complex terms which can increase costs and act as a barrier to the involvement of small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs).
If you have any feedback on the use of the Short Form Contract, would like a copy of the previous versions or have any queries, please email modelservicescontract@gca.gov.uk.
The team that publishes the Short Form Contract became part of the Government Commercial Agency (GCA) on 1 April 2026. Documents may still refer to the Cabinet Office. All contract documents remain valid for existing and new contracts, and there are no changes to how you work with us.
Guidance on the Short Form Contract
Guidance on how to use the Short Form Contract
The Short Form Contract
The Short Form Contract consists of the following parts:
- The Cover Letter
- The Order Form
- The Conditions
- The Annexes
The Cover Letter explains how the contract is formed. The Order Form is the basis of the contract between you and the supplier. You must prepare this form prior to tender. The Conditions sets out the terms and conditions for the Short Form Contract. The Annexes cover (i) data processing, (ii) specification of the goods and/or services, (iii) charges, (iv) any supplier tender, (v) alternative optional IPR clauses, and (vi) security. The first Annex is mandatory, and the others are optional.
These parts are combined together in the following document:
List of changes for version 1.5 and 1.5A of the Short Form Contract
Version 1.5 of the Short Form Contract was published in February 2025. These documents tell you what has changed. For changes in version 1.5A (published September 2025) please see the Guidance document.
Terms for Specific Buyers
Annexes / Special Terms for Northern Ireland and NHS England Buyers. These Buyers can find the specific terms for their use on the following page:
Updates to this page
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Added a new collection: Terms for Specific Buyers
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Interim update to reflect changes for v1.5A
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Documents updated
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Updated to include the page link: List of changes for version 1.4 of the Short Form Contract
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First published.