To update CAGE Code information, contractors must sign into SAM.gov using Login.gov credentials, navigate to Entity Status Tracker, and select “Update Entity” after searching with their Unique Entity ID or CAGE code. While CAGE codes don’t expire, SAM registration requires annual renewal with accurate business information. Companies should verify physical addresses, ownership details, and business records before submission. Contact the DLA at 1-877-352-2255 for validation issues. The following guide provides detailed troubleshooting steps for common validation problems.
Understanding CAGE Code Requirements and Renewal Process
When conducting business with the federal government, contractors must obtain and maintain a Commercial and Government Entity (CAGE) Code, a unique five-character identifier that validates their identity across all federal agencies.
This code serves as a critical element in the federal procurement process, linking contractors to specific physical locations.
The CAGE code significance extends beyond mere identification—it’s required for all federal contracts, particularly defense-related work.
The registration process occurs automatically when suppliers complete their System for Award Management (SAM.gov) registration.
Federal marketplace eligibility requires maintaining accurate and up-to-date CAGE code information at all times.
While CAGE codes themselves don’t expire, contractors must renew their SAM registration annually to maintain compliance.
Failure to keep this information current can result in contract ineligibility and suspension of business activities with federal agencies.
Companies with multiple locations should note that each performance site requires its own unique CAGE code.
For international suppliers and NATO partners, a specialized NATO Commercial and Government Entity code is required for similar identification purposes.
Step-by-Step Guide to Updating CAGE Information in SAM.gov
Now that the fundamentals of CAGE codes have been established, contractors need a practical approach to maintaining their information.
Updating CAGE code information in SAM.gov requires careful attention to detail and adherence to specific procedures.
To begin the process, contractors must log into SAM.gov using their Login.gov credentials. Once logged in, they should navigate to the Entity Status Tracker and enter their Unique Entity ID or current CAGE code. From there, select “Update Entity” to access the registration profile where CAGE code updates can be made.
The federal procurement system relies on CAGE codes as unique identifiers to track and manage contractor information effectively.
If contractors encounter CAGE validation failures during the update process, they should contact the dedicated support team at 1-877-352-2255 for prompt resolution.
SAM registration tips for successful updates include reviewing all entity information for accuracy, ensuring address details match legal documentation, and verifying that ownership information is current before submission. Remember that SAM registration must be renewed annually to maintain eligibility for government contracts.
Troubleshooting Common CAGE Code Validation Issues
Guiding through the CAGE code validation process presents several challenges for contractors seeking to establish or maintain their government registration status.
When CAGE code discrepancies occur, businesses typically receive validation email responses from DLA detailing specific issues that require resolution.
The most frequent validation problems include mismatched business information between SAM.gov entries and DLA records, duplicate address usage, and verification failures.
The SAM verification steps are essential for maintaining eligibility in the federal procurement system.
To resolve these issues, contractors should:
- Carefully review the validation failure notification
- Compare SAM.gov information with official business documents
- Contact DLA’s CAGE Code office at 1-877-352-2255
- Submit supporting documentation such as business formation papers or utility bills
- Update SAM.gov with corrected information once approved by DLA
Remember that physical address validation is critical as short-term virtual locations, PO boxes, and mail forwarding addresses are not accepted for CAGE code registration.
Proactive maintenance of accurate business records can prevent future validation complications.
Companies should consider starting the renewal process at least two months before expiration to avoid disruptions in government contracting eligibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Expedite the CAGE Code Validation Process?
No official expediting option exists for the CAGE code validation process.
However, businesses can facilitate faster processing by:
- Ensuring all entity information is accurate and consistent
- Promptly responding to DLA requests for additional information
- Having all supporting documentation prepared in advance
- Contacting the DLA Customer Interaction Center (877-352-2255) directly with specific concerns
These proactive steps may help reduce the standard 10-business-day processing timeline.
How Do Mergers or Acquisitions Affect Existing CAGE Codes?
Mergers and acquisitions considerably impact existing CAGE codes through specific merger implications and acquisition processes.
When companies combine, both entities may retain separate CAGE codes if operations remain independent.
However, when a smaller business merges into a larger one, a Novation Agreement must transfer contract obligations to the successor entity. This typically results in the smaller entity’s CAGE code being canceled after contract transfers.
All changes require proper documentation, including executed Novation Agreements approved by government contracting officers.
Are CAGE Codes Transferable Between Related Business Entities?
CAGE code portability between related entities is not standard practice. CAGE codes are assigned to specific legal business entities and cannot be simply transferred, even to affiliated companies.
When ownership changes through mergers or acquisitions, the proper mechanism is a novation process, requiring government approval. Each distinct legal entity must maintain its own CAGE code.
Related businesses, despite common ownership, need separate codes to maintain accurate federal contracting records and supply chain integrity.
What Happens if My CAGE Code Expires During Contract Performance?
When a CAGE code expires during contract performance, significant compliance issues arise. The contractor may face contract termination, payment delays, or disqualification from future opportunities.
CAGE code implications extend beyond administrative concerns to legal compliance requirements. The government cannot process payments to entities with expired CAGE codes, and system validations will fail.
Contractors must renew their CAGE code before expiration to maintain continuous contract eligibility and avoid disruptions to ongoing project work.
Can Multiple Divisions of One Company Have Separate CAGE Codes?
Yes, multiple divisions of one company can have separate CAGE codes.
When company divisions operate as distinct legal entities or business units, they may obtain individual CAGE codes. This approach enhances contract management efficiency by allowing more precise financial tracking for each division.
Even small companies with multiple business units can maintain separate CAGE codes. This arrangement is particularly beneficial for organizations with divisions that have different operational focuses or that manage separate government contracts.