What Is a UEI Number? How to Get One for SAM.gov Registration
If you're trying to do business with the federal government, you've probably seen the term UEI pop up. A UEI number is one of the first things you need before you can register in SAM.gov and start bidding on federal contracts.
In this guide, we'll explain what a UEI number is, why it matters, how to get one, and how it works with your CAGE code.
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Get SAM.gov Registration HelpWhat Does UEI Stand For?
UEI stands for Unique Entity ID. It is a 12-character identifier the federal government uses to recognize your business in the System for Award Management (SAM.gov).
Before April 2022, the government used a DUNS number for this purpose. The UEI replaced DUNS to give the government more control over its vendor identification process.
Why Do You Need a UEI Number?
You cannot do business with the federal government without a UEI number. Specifically, you need it to:
- Register in SAM.gov
- Bid on federal contracts and subcontracts
- Receive federal grant payments
- Apply for SBA small business certifications
- Appear in the Dynamic Small Business Search (DSBS)
- Get paid by any federal agency
In short: no UEI means no federal contracts.
How to Get a UEI Number
You do not apply for a UEI number separately. It is automatically assigned when you register your business in SAM.gov.
Step 1: Create a Login.gov Account
SAM.gov uses Login.gov to verify your identity. Create an account with your business email and set up two-factor authentication.
Step 2: Start a New Entity Registration
Log into SAM.gov and select "Register Entity." Enter your business information, including your legal name, physical address, and tax ID.
Step 3: Submit and Wait for Validation
Once you submit your registration, SAM.gov will assign a UEI number to your business and begin the validation process. This usually takes 3–10 business days, depending on workload and whether your information is accurate.
Step 4: Confirm Your UEI
After validation, your UEI number appears in your SAM.gov profile. You can also search for it in the SAM.gov entity registry.
Where Can I Find My UEI Number?
You can find your UEI number in a few places:
- Your SAM.gov entity registration record
- Your SAM.gov profile dashboard
- The SAM.gov public entity search
- Any federal contract or grant award you receive
UEI vs CAGE Code: What's the Difference?
The UEI and CAGE code are both assigned during SAM.gov registration, but they serve different purposes:
- UEI: Identifies your business in the federal government's systems.
- CAGE Code: Confirms your business's physical location.
You need both to do business with the federal government. Learn more about CAGE codes here.
Does It Cost Money to Get a UEI?
No. Getting a UEI number through SAM.gov is completely free. However, the registration process can be complex, and many businesses hire a consultant to avoid mistakes and delays.
Get the Free SAM.gov Checklist
Make sure you have everything you need before registering, including your UEI, CAGE code, and NAICS codes.
Download the Free ChecklistCommon UEI and SAM.gov Registration Mistakes
- Using a P.O. box instead of a physical address
- Entering a business name that doesn't match IRS records
- Providing a TIN that doesn't match official documents
- Missing required NAICS codes
- Not setting up Login.gov correctly
Frequently Asked Questions About UEI Numbers
Can I get a UEI without registering in SAM.gov?
No. The UEI is assigned as part of the SAM.gov registration process. You must complete the registration to receive one.
How long does it take to get a UEI number?
The UEI is typically assigned shortly after you submit your SAM.gov registration. Full federal validation usually takes 3–10 business days.
Do I need a new UEI if I already had a DUNS number?
No. If you were previously registered in SAM.gov, your UEI was automatically assigned when the system transitioned away from DUNS numbers.
Can a business have more than one UEI?
Generally, no. Each business entity should have one UEI. Different divisions or locations of the same company may have separate registrations depending on their legal structure.
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- UEI number setup
- CAGE code validation
- NAICS code strategy
- Most registrations submitted in 3–5 business days