SAM.gov
The System for Award Management (SAM.gov) is the U.S. federal government’s official registration system. To bid on most federal contracts and grants, your organization must be registered and active in SAM.gov. Registration is free.
UEI (Unique Entity ID)
The Unique Entity ID replaced the old DUNS number as the official identifier for entities in SAM.gov. It uniquely identifies your organization across federal systems and is required to do business with the government.
CAGE code
A Commercial and Government Entity (CAGE) code identifies a specific business location. It is assigned during SAM.gov registration for U.S. entities and is used throughout federal contracting and logistics systems.
Getting set up
For the broader process of pursuing federal work, see our guide on how to respond to government RFPs.
Frequently asked questions
Is SAM.gov registration free?
Yes. Registering in SAM.gov is free. Be cautious of third-party sites that charge for it.
What is the difference between a UEI and a CAGE code?
A UEI uniquely identifies your entity within SAM.gov, while a CAGE code identifies a specific business location and is used across federal contracting systems.
Related terms & guides
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