If you want to do business directly with the federal government as a prime contractor, registration in the System for Award Management, known as SAM, is almost always the first step. SAM.gov is the official government website where entities register to do business with the U.S. government, and it is where contracting officers confirm that a company is eligible to receive an award.
The process is not difficult, but it rewards preparation. Gathering the right information in advance can save days of back-and-forth.
Registration is free
This is worth saying first. There is no fee to register in SAM.gov or to obtain a Unique Entity ID. The government has repeatedly warned businesses about third-party companies that send official-looking letters or emails offering to register or renew for a fee. You are free to hire help if you want it, but you never have to pay the government to register, and you should be cautious about any message that implies otherwise. Use only the official site at sam.gov.
What to gather before you begin
Have the following ready before you log in:
- Your legal business name and physical address exactly as they appear on your formation documents and with the IRS
- Your Taxpayer Identification Number (an EIN or, for some sole proprietors, an SSN), matching IRS records
- Banking information for electronic funds transfer, including routing and account numbers
- Your NAICS codes, and product and service codes if you know them
- Information about your ownership, and about any parent or affiliated companies
- Points of contact for your registration, including electronic business and government business contacts
Mismatches between your SAM information and IRS records are a common cause of delay. If your name or address has changed recently, make sure the IRS has the update first.
How the process generally works
You will create a Login.gov account, which SAM.gov uses for secure sign-in. From there, you request a Unique Entity ID if you do not already have one, then complete the full entity registration. The registration includes core business data, assertions about your size and goods or services, representations and certifications, and points of contact.
The representations and certifications section deserves careful reading. You are making formal statements to the government about matters such as your size, ownership and compliance with various laws. Answer accurately, and if a question is unclear for your situation, talk to a government contracts professional or attorney before submitting.
Validation and the CAGE code
After you submit, your information is validated, and a Commercial and Government Entity (CAGE) code is assigned or confirmed through the Defense Logistics Agency’s CAGE program. Validation can take time, particularly if documents are requested to confirm your entity’s identity. Check the SAM.gov help resources for current processing guidance rather than relying on estimates from others.
After you are active
An active registration does not bring work on its own, but it makes your firm visible and eligible. Many contracting officers and prime contractors search SAM and the SBA’s small business search tool to find capable firms, so complete your profile thoroughly. Then put your expiration date on the calendar. Registrations must be renewed every year, and a lapse at the wrong moment can make you ineligible for an award you have worked hard to win.