SAM.gov Registration
SAM.gov registration is the mandatory first step for any business seeking federal government contracts. The System for Award Management (SAM) is a free government database where businesses must register to bid on contracts, receive payments, and be eligible for federal awards. Registration must be renewed annually to maintain active status.
Quick Overview
What isSAM?
Any business entity seeking to do business with the federal government must register in SAM. This includes contractors, grantees, and any organization receiving federal funds.
Who Qualifies?
- Unique Entity ID (UEI)
- Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN)
- NAICS Codes
Eligibility Requirements
Key requirements you must meet to qualify for SAM certification
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
Have your articles of incorporation, business licenses, and ownership information ready.
Benefits of SAM Certification
What you gain with SAM certification
Eligibility to bid on federal contracts worth over $700 billion annually
Automatic CAGE code assignment for defense contracts
Access to federal small business set-aside programs
Visibility to government buyers searching for contractors
Required for receiving any federal grant funding
Foundation for additional SBA certifications like 8(a), HUBZone, and WOSB
Application Process
Step-by-step guide to getting your SAM certification
Gather Required Information
1-2 daysCollect your EIN, NAICS codes, banking information, and business documentation before starting.
Create Login.gov Account
Same dayCreate a Login.gov account to access SAM.gov. This is the federal government single sign-on system.
Complete SAM Registration
2-4 hoursEnter all required business information, representations, and certifications in the SAM.gov system.
IRS Validation
3-5 business daysSAM validates your TIN with the IRS. This step can cause delays if information does not match.
CAGE Code Assignment
1-3 business daysDefense Logistics Agency assigns your CAGE code for defense contracting eligibility.
Required Documents
Documentation needed for your SAM application
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about SAM certification
What is SAM.gov registration?
SAM.gov (System for Award Management) is the official federal government database where all businesses must register to bid on government contracts, receive federal awards, or be eligible for grant funding. Registration is free and must be renewed annually.
How long does SAM registration take?
SAM registration typically takes 7-10 business days when all information is accurate. Common errors like TIN mismatches with IRS records can cause delays of 2-4 weeks. Professional assistance can help avoid these common pitfalls.
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 registration must be renewed annually. You can renew up to 60 days before expiration. Letting your registration lapse makes you ineligible for new contract awards and can delay existing contract payments.
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?
You need your EIN/TIN, business legal name and address, banking information for payments, NAICS codes describing your services, and executive/ownership information. Having accurate information that matches IRS records is critical for approval.
Related Certifications
Other certifications that may benefit your business
8(a) Certification
After SAM registration, minority-owned businesses should consider 8(a) certification for set-aside contracts
Learn MoreHUBZone Certification
Businesses in economically distressed areas can qualify for HUBZone benefits
Learn MoreWOSB Certification
Women-owned businesses can access 5% of federal contracts through WOSB certification
Learn MoreReady to Get Your SAM Certification?
Our experts will guide you through the SAM application process. Book a free consultation to discuss your eligibility and get started.