---
title: "Day 51: What Is a POA&M—and Why It’s Not a Free Pass"
description: A Plan of Action and Milestones (POA&M) help address gaps—but it’s not a substitute for compliance. Learn how to use it right.
---

[A Resource of Valuable-Industry Information on Relevant Topics](https://blog.valeonetworks.com)

# [Day 51: What Is a POA&M—and Why It’s Not a Free Pass](https://blog.valeonetworks.com/day-51-what-is-a-poam-and-why-its-not-a-free-pass)

 Written by [Valeo Networks](https://blog.valeonetworks.com/author/valeo-networks) | Sep 23, 2025, 3:10:00 AM

*POA&Ms are useful—but they’re not a loophole.*  
With 51 days left, many contractors are relying on Plans of Action and Milestones (POA&Ms) to address gaps in their CMMC readiness. But misuse can cost you eligibility.

**What Is a POA&M?**

A POA&M documents:

- Identified security gaps
- Planned remediation steps
- Timelines for completion

**Why It Matters**

- ✅ POA&Ms are allowed only for specific practices
- ❌ You cannot certify with critical gaps unresolved
- ✅ Must be tracked and closed within 180 days

**How Valeo Networks Helps**

We help you:

- Identify allowable POA&M items
- Build realistic remediation plans
- Track progress and close gaps
- Prepare for reassessment if needed

*Use POA&Ms wisely—or risk non-compliance.*

DON’T WAIT,

[**Start your POA&M review today**](https://valeonetworks.com/cmmc-services)📧 Contact: Jim Gast – [jim@valeonetworks.com](mailto:jgast@valeonetworks.com)

[View full post](https://blog.valeonetworks.com/day-51-what-is-a-poam-and-why-its-not-a-free-pass)

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