How to Register in SAM.gov
A complete walkthrough of the System for Award Management registration process for federal contractors.
In This Guide
Why SAM Registration Is Required
The System for Award Management (SAM) is the official U.S. government system for vendor registration. An active SAM registration is mandatory before your organization can receive any federal contract or grant award. It's also where contracting officers search for potential vendors, making it a critical visibility tool.
SAM registration is free — never pay a third party for what you can do yourself at SAM.gov. The process takes 30-45 minutes for initial data entry, but full registration can take 7-10 business days for government validation.
Step 1: Get Your UEI Number
The Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) has replaced the DUNS number as the primary business identifier for federal procurement. When you begin SAM registration, the system will automatically assign a UEI to your entity if you don't already have one.
You'll need your legal business name, physical address, and information about your business structure. Make sure the information matches your IRS records exactly — discrepancies will delay validation. If your entity was previously registered with a DUNS number, your UEI was automatically assigned during the transition.
Step 2: Complete Core Data
SAM registration requires detailed information in several categories. Business information includes your legal name, DBA names, physical and mailing addresses, EIN/TIN, business start date, and fiscal year end.
Select all applicable NAICS codes for your business — these determine which contract opportunities you're eligible for and your small business size standard. Choose your primary NAICS code carefully, as it affects your default size determination.
Provide your banking information for electronic funds transfer (EFT). This is how the government will pay you. You'll need your bank routing number, account number, and account type.
Step 3: Representations and Certifications
The representations and certifications section is where you declare your business size, socioeconomic status, and compliance with various federal requirements. This section determines your eligibility for small business set-aside programs.
Key representations include your small business status for each NAICS code, socioeconomic certifications (8(a), HUBZone, SDVOSB, WOSB), and compliance statements covering topics from tax delinquency to felony convictions.
Answer every question carefully and truthfully. False representations can result in criminal penalties, civil liability, and debarment from government contracting.
Step 4: Points of Contact and Renewal
Designate points of contact for government, electronic, and past performance purposes. The government POC is who contracting officers will contact; make sure this person is responsive and knowledgeable about your capabilities.
After submission, your registration enters a validation queue. The IRS validates your TIN, and the Defense Logistics Agency's Commercial and Government Entity (CAGE) program assigns or validates your CAGE code. This process takes 7-10 business days.
Critical reminder: SAM registration must be renewed annually. Set calendar reminders 60 and 30 days before expiration. An expired registration means you cannot receive new contract awards, and some agencies won't process invoices against expired registrations.