Section 2.503 - May an appeal be dismissed without a decision on the merits?Yes, the reviewing official may dismiss an appeal without a decision on the merits when:
(a) You are late in filing your appeal;(b) You lack standing because you do not meet the requirements of § 2.200 for bringing an appeal;(c) You have withdrawn the appeal;(d) You have failed to pay a required appeal bond;(e) The reviewing official lacks the authority to grant the requested relief;(f) If you are represented and your representative does not meet the standards established in 43 CFR part 1 related to eligibility to practice before the Department, and you have failed to substitute yourself or an eligible representative after being given an opportunity to do so; or(g) The reviewing official determines there are other circumstances that warrant a dismissal and explains those circumstances in the dismissal order.