SAM.gov Registration
SAM.gov is the official, free federal system for entity registration. A business that wants to bid directly on federal prime contracts generally needs an active registration and receives its Unique Entity ID through the process. Registration must be renewed every 365 days, while third-party providers charge only for optional managed support.
Quick Overview
What isSAM?
Organizations seeking to bid directly on federal prime contracts or apply directly for federal assistance generally need a SAM.gov entity registration. Some entities that only need an identifier for other reporting may request a UEI without completing a registration.
Common Eligibility Factors
- Unique Entity ID (UEI)
- Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN)
- NAICS Codes
Eligibility Requirements
Common factors reviewed for SAM; the issuing agency or certifier makes the eligibility decision
Unique Entity ID (UEI)
Obtain a Unique Entity ID, which replaced the DUNS number in April 2022. The UEI is assigned automatically during SAM registration.
Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN)
Your business must have an active EIN (Employer Identification Number) or SSN for sole proprietors.
NAICS Codes
Identify your primary and secondary NAICS codes that describe your business activities.
Banking Information
Provide banking details for Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) to receive government payments.
Business Documentation
Use the current SAM.gov checklist and be prepared to provide entity-validation documents if SAM.gov requests them. Required records depend on the entity and registration purpose.
Potential Program Benefits of SAM Certification
Benefits depend on the applicable program, buyer, solicitation, and continuing eligibility for SAM certification
Eligibility to submit offers for federal prime contracts
Automatic CAGE code assignment for defense contracts
Access to federal small business set-aside programs
Visibility to government buyers searching for contractors
Registration path for organizations applying directly for federal assistance
Foundation for additional SBA certifications like 8(a), HUBZone, and WOSB
Application Process
Common preparation and agency-review steps for SAM certification
Gather Required Information
Use the current SAM.gov checklist to collect the information required for your entity and registration purpose.
Create Login.gov Account
Create a Login.gov account to access SAM.gov. This is the federal government single sign-on system.
Complete SAM Registration
Enter all required business information, representations, and certifications in the SAM.gov system.
IRS Validation
Timing variesSAM validates your TIN with the IRS. This step can cause delays if information does not match.
CAGE Code Assignment
Timing variesDefense Logistics Agency assigns your CAGE code for defense contracting eligibility.
Commonly Requested Documents
The current agency or certifier checklist controls the records needed for a SAM application
DIY vs Professional SAM Help
Compare application preparation options; neither path changes the agency or certifier's decision standard
Do It Yourself
- No optional professional-support fee
- Learn the process yourself
- You organize the checklist, records, and responses
- You monitor agency or certifier requests and deadlines
Best for: Businesses comfortable interpreting the current program instructions and managing their own submission
Expert Assistance
- Requirements and checklist walkthrough
- Review common application risks
- Application organization and review
- Scope and customer responsibilities confirmed before engagement
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about SAM certification
What is SAM.gov registration?
SAM.gov (System for Award Management) is the official federal system for entity registration. Organizations that want to bid directly on federal prime contracts or apply directly for federal assistance generally need an active registration. Registration is free and must be renewed every 365 days.
How long does SAM registration take?
Allow at least 10 business days after submission for a registration to become active. Validation issues can take longer.
Is SAM registration free?
Yes, SAM.gov registration is completely free. Be cautious of third-party websites that charge fees for what the government provides at no cost. Professional registration services charge for their expertise in completing the registration correctly, not for the registration itself.
What is a CAGE code and do I need one?
A CAGE (Commercial and Government Entity) code is a 5-character identifier assigned during SAM registration. It is required for defense contracts and is automatically assigned by the Defense Logistics Agency as part of the SAM registration process.
How often do I need to renew my SAM registration?
SAM.gov says a registration must be renewed every 365 days to remain active. Begin early enough to resolve validation issues before the current registration expires.
What replaced the DUNS number?
The Unique Entity ID (UEI) replaced the DUNS number in April 2022. The UEI is now assigned automatically during SAM registration at no cost, eliminating the need to obtain a separate identifier from Dun & Bradstreet.
Can I register in SAM without an EIN?
Sole proprietors can use their Social Security Number (SSN) instead of an EIN. However, most business entities need an EIN from the IRS. Getting an EIN is free and can be done online at IRS.gov in about 15 minutes.
What information do I need for SAM registration?
The current SAM.gov checklist identifies the information required for each registration purpose. A U.S. entity registering for federal awards commonly needs its legal name and address, TIN, banking information, NAICS codes, and ownership or executive information. SAM.gov may request entity-validation records.
Primary Sources
Reviewed July 20, 2026. Program rules, portals, fees, and forms can change; use the issuing agency or certifier's current instructions before submitting.
Related Certifications
Separate program guides that may be relevant to your business
8(a) Certification
After SAM registration, businesses that may meet the current social- and economic-disadvantage criteria can assess 8(a) eligibility
Learn MoreHUBZone Certification
Businesses in economically distressed areas can qualify for HUBZone benefits
Learn MoreWOSB Certification
Eligible women-owned businesses can compete for WOSB set-asides under a 5% government-wide prime-contracting goal
Learn MoreNeed Help Preparing a SAM Application?
Book a consultation to discuss the SAM requirements, customer responsibilities, and available preparation support. The responsible agency makes the eligibility and approval decision.