A UEI (Unique Entity Identifier) number is obtained through SAM.gov by creating a Login.gov account, completing entity validation, and submitting business information for verification. The process requires matching your business name and address with federal records, potentially uploading documentation if automatic validation fails. Unlike the previous DUNS system, UEI registration is free and managed directly through the government platform. The sections below offer detailed guidance for traversing each registration step successfully.

What Is a UEI Number and Why You Need One

The Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) serves as the official identification number for businesses seeking to work with the federal government. Implemented in April 2022, the UEI replaced the previously used DUNS number system and is now issued directly through SAM.gov.

The UEI is now the standard federal business identifier, replacing DUNS and available directly through SAM.gov.

This government-managed identifier offers several UEI benefits, including its non-proprietary nature and zero-cost acquisition.

UEI eligibility is straightforward: any entity pursuing federal contracts or grants must obtain this identifier. Unlike its predecessor, the UEI simplifies the registration process by eliminating third-party dependencies and associated fees.

While the identifier itself does not expire, entities must renew their SAM.gov registration annually to maintain eligibility. Businesses operating exclusively in the private sector do not require a UEI, as it primarily facilitates identification within federal award systems. Organizations should ensure smooth SAM compliance by following the step-by-step registration process and maintaining proper documentation.

Step-by-Step Guide to Obtaining Your UEI Through SAM.gov

Obtaining a Unique Entity Identifier requires maneuvering through several specific steps on the SAM.gov platform, beginning with account creation and ending with successful UEI assignment.

The process starts with creating a Login.gov Account, which serves as the gateway to all federal government portals. Users must provide an email address, create a strong password, and set up two-factor authentication for security purposes. Organizations seeking federal contract opportunities must complete this registration to be eligible for government funding and grants.

Once logged in, the critical Entity Validation process begins, where SAM.gov attempts to match the business name and physical address with existing federal records. The system utilizes the Entity Validation Service to verify your organization’s information against official databases.

If an exact match is found, the system proceeds immediately. Otherwise, users must upload official documentation in English for manual review by SAM.gov representatives, who will communicate via email from fsdsupport@gsa.gov with further instructions.

Maintaining Your UEI and SAM.gov Registration

After securing your UEI through the SAM.gov platform, maintaining this identification number becomes an ongoing responsibility for any entity doing business with the federal government.

The registration requires renewal every 365 days to remain active, making regular registration updates vital for continued compliance requirements. Representations and certifications must be reviewed and updated during each renewal period to maintain federal contracting eligibility.

Entities must proactively manage their SAM.gov information, guaranteeing all details remain current and accurate. When changes occur to business information, organizations must update their SAM.gov profile promptly and notify Contracting Officers of UEI changes within 30 days. You can monitor your entity status through the Workspace menu on SAM.gov, which clearly displays whether your registration is active, inactive, or pending.

Maintaining accurate SAM.gov information isn’t optional—it’s essential for federal compliance and business continuity.

This notification process helps prevent contractual complications and maintains proper compliance with federal regulations.

Maintaining SAM.gov registrations is free of charge, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes.

Regular monitoring and updates to your registration help guarantee seamless business operations with federal agencies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can International Entities Obtain a UEI Number?

Yes, international entities can obtain a UEI number for conducting business with the U.S. federal government.

International registration follows the same process through SAM.gov as domestic entities. UEI eligibility extends to all foreign organizations, including cooperators and subrecipients requiring federal assistance.

The process is free of charge and must be renewed annually.

In rare circumstances, foreign entities with subawards under $25,000 may request waivers according to exceptions outlined in 2 CFR Part 25.

How Long Does the UEI Application Review Process Typically Take?

The UEI application review process typically takes three business days on average for most registrations.

The entire application timeline can extend up to ten business days if external agency reviews from the IRS and DLA/CAGE are required. Review duration depends on document accuracy and system workload.

Applicants receive email notifications as their status changes throughout the process. Complete registration becomes active only after passing all validations, which is necessary before interacting with federal funding opportunities.

Can I Transfer My UEI if My Business Structure Changes?

When a business structure changes through mergers, acquisitions, or ownership shifts, a UEI transfer is not directly possible.

Instead, organizations must update their entity information in SAM.gov to reflect these changes. Significant structural modifications may require obtaining a new UEI altogether.

The process involves submitting documentation that validates the new business structure and waiting for approval from the SAM.gov system administrators, which guarantees proper entity identification in government transactions.

What Happens if My SAM.Gov Account Gets Locked?

When a SAM.gov account gets locked, users lose access to critical functions including registration updates and contract opportunities.

Account recovery typically requires identity verification through the help desk or online support resources. During this period, contractors cannot receive federal payments or compete for new contracts, potentially causing financial strain.

Users should immediately begin registration troubleshooting by contacting SAM.gov support with detailed information about their account and following the prescribed security verification steps.

Are UEI Numbers Visible in Public Search Results?

UEI numbers can be either visible or hidden in public search results, depending on the entity’s preference during SAM.gov registration.

Entities have the option to restrict public visibility of their registration information, which would make their UEI inaccessible to non-federal entities and state/local governments.

If public visibility is not restricted, the UEI appears in the entity’s registration record in SAM.gov and on other platforms like Grants.gov under the organization’s profile.