The Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) is a 12-character alphanumeric code that replaced DUNS numbers for federal contracting in April 2022. To obtain a UEI, create a Login.gov account, access SAM.gov, navigate to “Entity Management,” select “Get Started,” and provide your business information including legal name, address, and TIN/EIN. The system typically processes requests within 1-2 business days at no cost. Maintaining an active registration guarantees continued eligibility for federal contracts and grants.
What Is a UEI and Why It Matters for Federal Contracting
The Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) represents a fundamental shift in federal contracting identification systems, replacing the former DUNS number as the standard identifier for organizations doing business with the U.S. government.
This 12-character alphanumeric code, implemented in April 2022, serves as the mandatory identifier for all entities seeking federal awards, including contracts and grants.
The UEI streamlines the registration process by eliminating third-party dependencies, as it’s issued directly through SAM.gov at no cost.
The UEI marks a welcome shift to direct, free registration through SAM.gov, freeing contractors from costly third-party intermediaries.
This change supports compliance requirements outlined in 2 CFR Part 25 while reducing administrative burdens for contractors.
For businesses, the contracting benefits are substantial.
The UEI enables award tracking, supports transparency in sub-award reporting, and serves as a prerequisite for bidding on government opportunities. Entities must maintain active registration status in SAM.gov to participate in policy renewals and transaction amendments with federal agencies.
It also facilitates participation in set-aside programs like Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) and integrates with federal systems like E-Verify for contractor compliance reporting.
This government-owned identification system represents a strategic move toward data integrity and improved transparency within federal procurement systems.
Step-By-Step Guide to Obtaining Your UEI Through SAM.Gov
Understanding how to obtain your UEI begins with following a structured registration process through SAM.gov.
The journey starts with account setup through Login.gov, which handles authentication for SAM.gov access. Users must provide an email address, create a password, and set up multi-factor authentication for security.
After establishing login credentials, the entity validation process commences. Business owners must enter their legal business name, physical address, and incorporation details in the system. The Entity Validation Service verifies both the existence and uniqueness of your business information.
The process requires submission of a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) or Employer Identification Number (EIN) for U.S. entities, along with supporting documentation.
Once validation is complete, navigate to the “Entity Management” widget in SAM.gov and select “Get Started.”
Answer the eligibility questions about your registration purpose. The system typically processes UEI requests within 1-2 business days after successful validation, sending a confirmation email upon completion.
After receiving your UEI, you can easily locate it again by logging into SAM and checking your registration details section whenever needed for government contracting opportunities.
Managing and Maintaining Your UEI After Registration
Once businesses complete their SAM.gov registration, maintaining an active UEI requires regular attention and compliance with federal guidelines. The UEI must remain active throughout the duration of any federal contract or grant to guarantee continued eligibility for payments.
Registration timelines are critical to maintain compliance. Entities must renew their SAM.gov registration annually, specifically every 365 days, to prevent expiration. Expired registrations require a complete renewal process to reactivate the UEI status.
UEI updates must be processed promptly when organizational changes occur. Contractors must:
- Update SAM.gov immediately following legal name or address changes
- Notify contracting officers of UEI changes within 30 days
- Validate entity information during each renewal cycle
System interactions between SAM.gov and other federal platforms occur automatically once updates are submitted.
Maintaining accurate registration prevents payment disruptions and guarantees seamless participation in federal contracting opportunities. Businesses should regularly review federal regulations to ensure they remain compliant with the latest requirements for government contracts in 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does UEI Validation Typically Take After Submission?
The UEI validation process typically requires 7-12 business days for completion, with most entities seeing activation within 10 business days after submission.
Processing time depends on several factors, including IRS tax validation and CAGE code assignment. External validations from third parties may extend the timeline beyond initial estimates.
System constraints such as federal holidays, peak registration periods, and technical maintenance can further impact processing durations.
Incomplete submissions or data discrepancies will restart the validation cycle.
Can Multiple Divisions of One Organization Have Separate UEIS?
Multiple divisions within a single organization typically cannot obtain separate UEIs unless they are legally distinct entities.
The organizational structure determines UEI assignment, with legally separate divisions (having their own Tax IDs/EINs) qualifying for unique division identifiers.
Non-legal subdivisions such as regional offices must operate under the parent organization’s UEI.
While SAM.gov allows entities to establish hierarchical relationships linking divisions to a parent UEI, this doesn’t create separate identifiers for each division.
What Happens if My Business Information Changes After UEI Assignment?
When business information changes after UEI assignment, entities must update their records through SAM.gov Workspace. This process involves accessing the entity record, modifying core data, and submitting changes for entity verification.
Changes to legal business name or physical address require documentation for validation.
Prompt updates guarantee:
- Accurate federal award records
- Successful annual registration renewal
- Proper sub-awardee reporting in FSRS
- Maintenance of active registration status
These updates help maintain compliance with federal requirements for entities conducting business with the government.
Are UEIS Transferable During Mergers or Acquisitions?
UEIs are not typically transferable during merger implications or acquisition processes.
When entities merge or acquire another business, the following applies:
- Existing entities retain their original UEIs for active contracts
- Newly formed legal entities must register in SAM.gov to obtain a new UEI
- No formal transfer mechanism exists in the SAM.gov system
- Original UEIs remain tied to the entity that initially registered
Organizations should maintain proper documentation of both UEIs during change periods to guarantee compliance with federal contracting requirements.
How Do International Entities Handle UEI Requirements Without U.S. Addresses?
International entities can register for UEIs without U.S. addresses directly through SAM.gov.
The shift from DUNS to UEI eliminated third-party validation requirements, simplifying international registration. Foreign organizations can use their local addresses during registration, as no U.S. presence is required.
However, entities may face language barriers when maneuvering SAM.gov. Global compliance standards apply differently based on funding thresholds—foreign entities receiving less than $25,000 may be exempt from UEI requirements for overseas work.