---
kind: "section"
citation: "45 C.F.R. § 1149.18"
title: "45"
number: "1149.18"
heading: "May I file a general answer?"
url: "https://uscodex.org/cfr/45/1149.18"
---

# §1149.18. May I file a general answer?

- (a) If you are unable to file a timely answer which meets the requirements set forth in [§ 1149.17(b)](/cfr/45/1149.17.md?p=b), you may file with the reviewing official a general answer denying liability, requesting a hearing, and requesting an extension of time in which to file a complete answer. A general answer must be filed within 30 days of service of the complaint.
- (b) If you file a general answer requesting an extension of time, the reviewing official must promptly file with the ALJ the complaint, the general answer, and the request for an extension of time.
- (c) For good cause shown, the ALJ may grant you up to 30 additional days within which to file an answer meeting the requirements of [paragraph (b)](#b) of this section. You must file the answer with the ALJ and serve a copy on the reviewing official.

## Notes

### Authority

Authority: 5 U.S.C. App. 8G(a)(2); 20 U.S.C. 959; 28 U.S.C. 2461 note; 31 U.S.C. 3801-3812.

### Source

Source: 79 FR 67081, Nov. 12, 2014, unless otherwise noted.