Unauthorized Commitment - ´An agreement that is not binding solely because the Government representative who made it lacked the authority to enter into that agreement on behalf of the Government. Ref: FAR 1.602-3(a).
Ratification - ´Ratification is the act of approving an unauthorized commitment, by an official who has the authority to do so, for the purpose of paying for supplies or services provided to the government as a result of an unauthorized commitment. FAR 1.602-3(a).
All ratifications requires Commanding Officer’s endorsement (any $ amount) the CO is defined as the first General Officer in the chain-of-command above the individual who made it, Endorsements may not be “By direction”.
Punishments resulting from an Unauthorized Commitment:
1. Willful and Knowing violations are punishable by a fine of up to $5,000, imprisonment for up to 2 years (31 U.S.C. §§ 1350,1519)
2. Suspension from duty without pay, other administrative sanctions, demotion or termination of employment.