How to Register on SAM.gov and Obtain Your UEI and CAGE Code

Before your business can compete for most federal government contracts, grants, or other federal opportunities, you must register in the System for Award Management, commonly known as SAM.gov.

During this process, your business will receive a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and a Commercial and Government Entity (CAGE) Code.

What Is SAM.gov?

SAM.gov is the official U.S. Government system used to register businesses seeking federal contracts, maintain vendor information, search federal opportunities, manage representations and certifications, and verify eligibility for federal awards.

What Is a UEI?

The Unique Entity Identifier is a 12-character alphanumeric identifier assigned by the federal government.

What Is a CAGE Code?

The Commercial and Government Entity Code is a five-character identifier assigned to contractors doing business with the federal government.

Before You Begin

Business Information

• Legal business name
• Physical address
• Mailing address, if different
• Taxpayer Identification Number or EIN
• Date of incorporation
• State of incorporation

Payment and EFT Information

Before starting, gather the payment and EFT details SAM.gov requires for your entity registration and keep them secure.

Business Classification Information

• Primary NAICS Code
• Secondary NAICS Codes
• Business size information
• Ownership structure
• Socioeconomic certifications, if applicable

Step 1: Create a Login.gov Account

SAM.gov uses Login.gov for authentication. Visit Login.gov, create an account, verify your email address, enable multi-factor authentication, and keep your Login.gov credentials secure.

Step 2: Create a SAM.gov Account

Visit SAM.gov, sign in using Login.gov, complete your user profile, and accept the terms and conditions.

Step 3: Request a UEI

Inside SAM.gov, select Get Started, choose Register Entity, indicate that you want to do business with the federal government, and enter your company information. SAM.gov will validate your business information and assign a UEI.

Step 4: Complete Entity Registration

You will be asked to provide core data, assertions, NAICS codes, business size information, products and services offered, and representations and certifications.

Step 5: Validate Your Entity Information

SAM.gov will validate your business name, address, and tax information. If there are discrepancies, you may be required to submit additional documentation.

Common causes of delays include address mismatches, incorrect EIN information, and inconsistent business names.

Step 6: Receive Your CAGE Code

After validation and approval, your registration becomes active, your CAGE Code is assigned, and your entity becomes visible in federal procurement systems.

Step 7: Verify Your Registration

• UEI assigned
• CAGE Code assigned
• Registration status is Active
• NAICS codes are accurate
• Payment information is correct
• Contact information is current

Common Registration Mistakes

Paying Third Parties

SAM registration is free. While consultants may provide assistance, registration itself does not require payment.

Using Incorrect Business Information

Always use your legal business name, official IRS records, and accurate EIN information.

Selecting Incorrect NAICS Codes

Your NAICS codes determine how agencies find your business.

Letting Registration Expire

SAM registrations must be renewed periodically.

What to Do After Registration

• Create a capability statement
• Research target agencies
• Identify potential teaming partners
• Monitor federal opportunities
• Track contract awards
• Build a capture pipeline
• Develop a proposal strategy

Final Thoughts

Obtaining your UEI and CAGE Code is one of the most important milestones in your government contracting journey.