To deactivate a CAGE code in SAM.gov, users must first confirm all government contracts are completed. Login to SAM.gov as an Entity Administrator, select “Update Entity,” then choose “Deactivate Entity.” Provide justification for deactivation and allow 7-12 business days for processing. Notify contracting officers within 30 days of deactivation. Unprocessed requests remain in the system for 90 days before automatic removal. The complete deactivation process involves several additional compliance considerations.
Understanding CAGE Code Deactivation Prerequisites
Steering CAGE code deactivation requires a thorough understanding of the underlying requirements and implications. Before initiating the deactivation process, entities must consider their current contractual obligations with government agencies, as an active CAGE code is mandatory for contract actions.
Deactivation prerequisites include confirming that no ongoing government contracts require the CAGE code, as premature deactivation could violate contractual obligations. Entities must also understand that while CAGE codes themselves don’t expire, their active status in SAM requires annual updates. Federal procurement system registration must be properly maintained until deactivation is complete.
Before deactivating a CAGE code, verify all government contracts are complete—active codes require maintenance even though they don’t technically expire.
Organizations should gather documentation showing completion or termination of all government contracts before proceeding.
Additionally, entities should note that deactivation affects the UEI association in SAM but doesn’t eliminate the CAGE code from federal systems entirely. This distinction matters for businesses that may need to reactivate their status for future opportunities. Businesses should verify that their physical address information is current in the system before proceeding with any deactivation steps. The five-character alphanumeric identifier must remain accessible in company records even after deactivation for historical tracking purposes.
Step-by-Step Guide to Deactivating Your CAGE Code in SAM
The complete deactivation of a CAGE code in the System for Award Management (SAM) involves several critical steps that entities must follow with precision.
Understanding the CAGE code implications and maintaining entity compliance throughout this process is essential for proper record management.
Federal contractors must ensure all documentation is current before initiating deactivation.
To deactivate a CAGE code in SAM:
- Log in to SAM.gov using the Entity Administrator credentials
- Navigate to the entity registration section
- Select “Update Entity” from the available options
- Choose “Deactivate Entity” when prompted for action type
- Provide required justification for deactivation
- Review all information for accuracy
- Submit the deactivation request
Remember that deactivating your entity in SAM will require restarting the complete registration process if you need federal contracts or grants again, which includes CAGE validation that typically takes up to 10 business days.
After submission, allow 7-12 business days for processing. Unprocessed deactivation requests remain in the system for 90 days before being automatically removed.
Monitor the email address on file for confirmation notices or requests for additional documentation.
Post-Deactivation Requirements and System Updates
Following a successful CAGE code deactivation, entities must navigate several critical system updates and compliance requirements to maintain proper status with federal agencies. The deactivation triggers automatic updates in GSA and DLA systems, marking the code as “inactive” or “cancelled” in federal databases. System renewal alerts help businesses track upcoming expiration dates and maintain compliance throughout the process.
Businesses must notify all contracting officers within 30 days to guarantee contract compliance and prevent payment processing disruptions. All pending invoices, contract modifications, and novation agreements must reference the new CAGE code to avoid payment delays. The five-digit ID numbers assigned by the Defense Logistics Agency must be properly tracked during this transition period.
Entities should monitor SAM.gov and DLA systems to confirm that updates have been properly processed. Federal reporting systems must reflect the code change to maintain the integrity of contract records and guarantee uninterrupted business operations with government agencies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a Deactivated CAGE Code Be Reactivated?
Yes, a deactivated CAGE code can be reactivated.
The reactivation process typically coincides with renewing the associated SAM registration, which may take approximately one month or longer to complete.
Deactivation implications include inability to conduct business with the federal government and potential loss of contracting opportunities.
To reactivate a CAGE code, entities must update their information in the SAM system, guarantee all documentation is current and accurate, and complete the necessary validation requirements.
Does CAGE Deactivation Affect Ongoing Contract Payments?
Yes, CAGE code deactivation directly affects ongoing contract payments.
Payment processing systems require valid, active CAGE codes to verify contractor identity and eligibility. When a CAGE code becomes inactive, payments may be delayed or halted until the code is reactivated.
Companies must maintain active CAGE codes to fulfill their contractual obligations without interruption. Deactivation can create administrative roadblocks in the payment workflow, potentially impacting cash flow and operational funding for contract performance.
Are International/Nato CAGE Codes Deactivated Through the Same Process?
International and NATO CAGE codes follow different deactivation processes than US CAGE codes.
While domestic codes are managed through SAM, NATO code processes are handled through the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA).
These CAGE code differences are significant for international contractors. Foreign entities must contact their national codification bureau rather than using the SAM system.
The validation timeframe may also vary based on the specific country’s procedures and requirements.
How Quickly Does Deactivation Take Effect Across All Government Systems?
The deactivation timeline varies across federal systems. SAM.gov deactivation typically synchronizes with core government databases within 1-2 business days, though system updates can be inconsistent.
Primary procurement platforms reflect changes more quickly than peripheral systems. While the Defense Logistics Agency and General Services Administration receive updates promptly, individual agency databases may take longer to synchronize.
There is no standardized timeline published for complete propagation across all government systems, making proactive registration management essential.
Can I Retain My CAGE Code When Changing Business Structure?
CAGE code retention during business structure changes depends on specific circumstances.
When both entities maintain separate locations post-change, they can retain their respective CAGE codes with appropriate SAM updates.
However, when merging or closing a location, the absorbed entity’s CAGE code is typically canceled.
Contractors must notify contracting officers within 30 days of any structure change and update SAM accordingly to maintain compliance with federal acquisition regulations.