B-186494: Jul 22, 1976

RULE NOW APPLIED BY THE GENERAL ACCOUNTING OFFICE (GAO) IS THAT GOVERNMENT AGENCIES MAY PAY INTEREST ON LATE PAYMENTS PURSUANT TO EITHER STATUTE OR CONTRACT PROVISION. 51 COMP.GEN. 251 (1971). IF CONTRACT BETWEEN COAST GUARD AND UTILITY COMPANY IS CONSTRUED AS OBLIGATING COAST GUARD TO PAY LATE CHARGES. THERE IS NO OBJECTION TO PAYMENT BASED ON ABSENCE OF STATUTORY PROVISION THEREFOR. 2. GAO BELIE...

B-186494: Jul 22, 1976

Payment by the Coast Guard of late charges for electrical service was questioned. Government agencies may pay interest on late payments pursuant to either statute or contract provision. The contract between the Coast Guard and the utility company provides for payment of rates approved by the state utility commission but states that bills shall be paid without penalty or interest; late payment char...