To find your UEI number in SAM.gov, log in with your login.gov credentials, navigate to your Workspace area, and select “Entity Management.” Your 12-character alphanumeric UEI will appear in your entity profile. If your UEI isn’t visible, wait 24-48 hours after registration completion, verify your TIN matches IRS records, and confirm your registration status shows “Active.” The Federal Service Desk offers assistance for persistent retrieval issues. Further instructions below explain troubleshooting steps for common access problems.
What Is the UEI and Why It Matters for Federal Contracting
The Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) represents a fundamental change in federal contractor identification, serving as the government’s new standard for recognizing entities that participate in federal awards. This 12-digit identifier replaced the previously used DUNS number on April 4, 2022, in accordance with 2 CFR Part 25 regulations.
The importance of UEI cannot be overstated for businesses seeking federal contracts. It serves as a compliance indicator and streamlines the identification process across all federal agencies. The UEI functions as a business identifier system similar to how social security numbers work for individuals.
Unlike DUNS numbers, which were issued by Dun & Bradstreet, UEIs are generated directly through SAM.gov, eliminating dependency on third-party services. All entities interacting with federal agencies must comply with UEI requirements to receive financial assistance.
UEI registration is mandatory for any entity wishing to pursue federal contracts or grants. The transition to UEI has provided enhanced security features compared to the previous system. The centralized system integrates with other government platforms like E-Verify, creating a thorough framework for entity management.
This alteration reduces administrative burdens while increasing efficiency in federal award tracking and management.
Step-by-Step Guide to Locating Your UEI in SAM.gov
Finding your Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) within the SAM.gov system requires maneuvering through specific steps designed to provide secure access to this critical business identifier. The process begins with logging into SAM.gov using valid login.gov credentials, which serve as the gateway to your entity information.
Accessing Your UEI
- Sign in to SAM.gov using your login.gov account
- Navigate to the Workspace area in your account dashboard
- Select “Entity Management” from the available options
- Locate your registered entity in the list
- View your entity profile, where the 12-character alphanumeric UEI is displayed
The entity verification process guarantees that only authorized representatives can access this identifier.
Registration requirements mandate that all information provided during the initial application matches what appears in your profile, maintaining data integrity across federal systems. Remember that your UEI is issued through sam.gov upon request and serves as the official identifier for your business when interacting with federal agencies. Maintaining accurate entity information is essential for compliance with federal requirements and prevents delays in procurement opportunities.
Troubleshooting Common UEI Retrieval Issues
While the standard process for accessing your UEI through SAM.gov is straightforward, users commonly encounter technical obstacles that require specific resolution strategies.
Most frequently, UEI visibility issues occur immediately after registration completion, requiring a 24-48 hour waiting period before the identifier appears in the system.
After completing your registration, expect a 24-48 hour delay before your UEI becomes visible in the system.
When experiencing registration errors, verify that your TIN/SSN matches IRS records exactly, including proper formatting with dashes. The validation process may include comparing information with IRS documents such as EIN assignment notices or recent federal tax returns.
System shift problems are another common challenge, particularly for organizations still using legacy DUNS references in their documentation. Remember that the UEI number has officially replaced the previously used DUNS number in federal systems.
Users should:
- Clear browser cache and cookies before attempting retrieval
- Confirm “Active” status in the registration dashboard
- Validate that all notarized letters were properly submitted
- Check for TIN mismatch notifications in the system
For persistent access failures, contact the Federal Service Desk through their webform or utilize their chat support during business hours (M-F 8am-8pm ET).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Transfer My UEI to Another Business Entity?
No, UEI numbers cannot be transferred between business entities.
The UEI transfer process does not exist within federal regulations, as each identifier is permanently linked to a specific legal entity’s taxpayer information.
Business entity considerations require that new organizations obtain their own UEI through SAM.gov registration.
During mergers or acquisitions, the surviving or acquiring entity must maintain its original UEI or register for a new one if previously unregistered.
How Quickly Will Partner Agencies Recognize My New UEI?
Partner agency responsiveness to a new UEI is typically immediate upon SAM.gov registration completion.
The UEI recognition timelines are streamlined through automated system integration across federal platforms. Most agencies can access the UEI instantly through SAM search tools, with the identifier automatically propagating to integrated government databases.
While bulk updates in some legacy systems may cause brief delays, the UEI generally becomes visible throughout federal systems without significant waiting periods.
What Happens to My UEI if I Change My Business Address?
Changing a business address has no impact on a company’s Unique Entity ID (UEI). The UEI remains constant despite address updates in the SAM.gov system.
When an address change occurs, the system initiates an eMod modification and sends notifications to authorized negotiators. This stability guarantees consistent identification across federal transactions.
The business address update becomes visible within approximately 24 hours, while the UEI continues to function without interruption.
Are International Entities Required to Obtain a UEI?
Yes, international entities are required to obtain a UEI for global compliance when doing business with the U.S. Federal Government.
The international registration process follows the same steps as domestic entities through SAM.gov, with one additional requirement: foreign organizations must first obtain a NATO Commercial and Government Entity (NCAGE) code.
There are few exceptions to this rule, primarily for foreign entities with subawards under $25,000, which may qualify for waivers.
Can Subcontractors Use the Prime Contractor’s UEI for Federal Projects?
No, subcontractors cannot use the prime contractor’s UEI for federal projects.
Federal compliance guidelines require all first-tier subcontractors to obtain their own unique entity identifier.
Subcontractor guidelines clearly state that prime contractors must guarantee their subs have individual UEIs before subaward execution.
While SAM.gov registration is not mandatory for subcontractors to obtain a UEI, having their own identifier is non-negotiable.
Only second-tier subrecipients and contractors may qualify for exemptions.