A defendant may file an answer with the reviewing official and the Office of Hearings and Appeals within 30 days of service of the complaint. An answer will be considered a request for an oral hearing.

In the answer, a defendant—

Must admit or deny each of the allegations of liability contained in the complaint (a failure to deny an allegation is considered an admission);

Must state any defense on which the defendant intends to rely;

May state any reasons why he or she believes the penalties, assessments, or both should be less than the statutory maximum; and

Must state the name, address, and telephone number of the person authorized by the defendant to act as defendant's representative, if any.

If the defendant is unable to file an answer which meets the requirements set forth in paragraph (b) of this section, the defendant 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.

If the defendant initially files 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.

For good cause shown, the ALJ may grant the defendant up to 30 additional days within which to file an answer meeting the requirements of paragraph (b) of this section. Such answer must be filed with OHA and a copy must be served on the reviewing official.