AF Form 1046: Zero Overpricing Challenge Guide & Download – If you work in U.S. Air Force supply, logistics, or procurement, you’ve likely seen items in the supply system that just seem too expensive. The AF Form 1046 – officially titled Zero Overpricing Challenge/Referral – gives every Airman, Department of the Air Force civilian, and authorized contractor a direct way to challenge suspected overpricing and help save taxpayer dollars.
The form is still active and hosted on the official Air Force e-Publishing site. It is now managed under the Price Challenge and Verification Program (formerly known as the Zero Overpricing Program or ZOP) per DAFI 23-101, Materiel Management.
Download the latest fillable AF Form 1046 PDF here:
https://static.e-publishing.af.mil/production/1/af_a4/form/af1046/af1046.pdf
What Is the Zero Overpricing Challenge Program?
The Zero Overpricing Program (ZOP) – now officially the Price Challenge and Verification Program – lets anyone who reviews supply documents or catalogs report items believed to be overpriced. The goal is simple: reduce costs in the Air Force supply chain by identifying errors, better commercial sources, or unjustified price increases.
Successful challenges can lead to:
- Lower catalog prices
- Better contract terms
- Significant annual savings for the Air Force
- Monetary or intangible awards for the submitter through the IDEA (Innovative Development through Employee Awareness) program
Base-level examples from Scott AFB, Kadena, and other installations show the program actively encourages submissions to Logistics Readiness Squadron (LRS) Customer Support sections.
Why Submit an AF Form 1046? Key Benefits for U.S. Air Force Personnel
- Direct impact on readiness – Every dollar saved on overpriced parts stays available for mission-critical items.
- Personal rewards – Tangible savings can result in cash awards calculated from historical demand data. Even non-tangible benefits (new sources of supply) qualify for IDEA recognition.
- Easy process – No special approval needed to submit. Just provide clear evidence.
- Taxpayer accountability – Supports DoD-wide efforts to eliminate wasteful spending on spare parts and supplies.
Who Can Use AF Form 1046?
- Active-duty Air Force members
- Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve personnel
- Department of the Air Force civilians
- Authorized contractors working with Air Force supply accounts
You only need access to supply listings, FED LOG, D043, or purchase documents that show a suspicious price.
How to Fill Out AF Form 1046 – Step-by-Step Tips for a Strong Submission?
While the exact layout is on the fillable PDF, successful submissions (per historical Air Force guidance in AFPAM 23-117 and current practice) focus on these critical elements:
- Submitter Information – Name, rank/grade, organization, phone/email, and unit.
- Item Details – National Stock Number (NSN), part number, Commercial and Government Entity (CAGE) code, manufacturer name, and full nomenclature.
- Pricing Information – Current catalog or contract price, unit of issue, and your evidence of a lower fair price (commercial quote, alternate source, etc.).
- Justification (most important section) – Explain clearly why the item appears overpriced. Strong reasons include:
- Lower price available from a commercial vendor
- Identical or acceptable alternate item at lower cost
- Evidence of over-engineering or unnecessary specifications
- Recent price spike with no justification
Pro Tip: Attach supporting documents (screenshots from FED LOG, commercial quotes, etc.). Vague submissions are usually returned for more information. The more complete your package, the faster it moves through review.
Where and How to Submit AF Form 1046?
Submit the completed form to your local Logistics Readiness Squadron (LRS) Customer Support Section or the designated Price Challenge / ZOP Monitor. Many bases accept electronic submission via email.
Examples:
- Scott AFB: 375 LRS / [email protected]
- Other bases: Check your base supply One-Stop or LRS Customer Service bulletin for the current monitor.
The monitor logs the challenge, verifies data, and forwards it to the Source of Supply (SOS) or contracting office for formal review (typically within 60–90 days).
What Happens After You Submit?
- Local monitor reviews and validates the form.
- Package is sent to the appropriate Air Force or DLA Source of Supply.
- Technical and contracting experts evaluate the challenge.
- If approved:
- Price is adjusted
- Savings are calculated
- IDEA award process begins (you may be asked to complete AF Form 1000)
- You receive notification of results and any award.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is AF Form 1046 still current in 2026?
Yes. The form remains on the official e-Publishing site and is referenced in current DAFI 23-101 guidance.
Can I submit anonymously?
No. Awards require identification, and verification needs your contact information.
Do I need to use AF Form 1000 too?
Usually the ZOP monitor coordinates the IDEA application (AF Form 1000) after validation.
What if my challenge is denied?
You will receive an explanation. Denial does not affect future submissions.
Is there a minimum savings amount required?
No. Both large and small challenges are encouraged; even new sources of supply can qualify for recognition.
Ready to Save Money for the Air Force?
The AF Form 1046 remains one of the simplest and most effective tools Air Force personnel have to fight waste and improve stewardship of taxpayer funds. Whether you’re at a stateside base or supporting operations worldwide, your challenge can make a real difference.
Official Download Link (fillable PDF):
AF Form 1046 – Zero Overpricing Challenge/Referral
For the most current guidance, refer to DAFI 23-101 Materiel Management and your local LRS instructions.
Have you used AF Form 1046 before? Share your experience in the comments (or contact your base supply customer service) to help fellow Airmen maximize savings.
Sources: Official Air Force e-Publishing, DAFI 23-101 (2023), and supporting Air Force supply program documentation.