A UEI (Unique Entity Identifier) is a 12-character alphanumeric code required for all entities doing business with the federal government. Since April 2022, it replaced the DUNS Number system and can be obtained directly through SAM.gov at no cost. Organizations can register for just a UEI or complete a full SAM registration, which requires annual updates. This streamlined system eliminates third-party involvement, reduces delays, and enhances data accuracy across federal systems. The following sections explore additional benefits and registration details.
The Transition From DUNS to UEI: What You Need to Know
While many organizations had grown accustomed to using the DUNS number system, the federal government implemented a significant change in entity identification that affects all businesses working with federal agencies.
The DUNS shift began in July 2019 and was completed on April 4, 2022, after the Office of Management and Budget and General Services Administration finalized the streamlined identification process.
The DUNS to UEI transition culminated in April 2022, marking a major shift in federal entity identification systems.
During this implementation, SAM.gov experienced a planned downtime from April 1-4, 2022, as government systems were updated to accommodate the new UEI requirements.
The UEI implications for entities include mandatory compliance with 2 CFR Part 25 regulations, which now govern all federal requirements for entity management.
This change simplifies registration processes by eliminating third-party involvement, as UEIs are issued directly by the government.
While some organizations faced compliance challenges during the shift, the new system ultimately reduces costs and improves efficiency for businesses interacting with federal agencies.
Grants.gov and related portals have integrated the new UEI system to enhance entity identification accuracy across all federal grant applications.
Organizations receiving federal grant dollars are now required to have a UEI instead of a DUNS number to be eligible for funding opportunities.
The new UEI consists of a 12-character alphanumeric identifier that replaced the previous 9-digit DUNS number system for all nonfederal entities.
How to Obtain and Maintain Your UEI Through SAM
Securing a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) requires traversing the SAM.gov platform through a straightforward, cost-free process designed for businesses seeking to work with federal agencies. The registration process begins by creating an account on SAM.gov and completing the entity questionnaires with detailed organizational information.
Entities have two options: obtaining just a UEI or completing full SAM registration. Sub-awardees typically need only a UEI, while prime contractors require complete registration to bid on federal contracts. The system provides free video tutorials and technical assistance to guide users through each step.
Once registered, annual updates become critical to maintain eligibility for federal funding. Organizations must renew their SAM registration yearly, reporting any organizational changes promptly. The UEI is a 12-digit number that has officially replaced the previously used 9-digit DUNS number for all federal transactions. Proper EFT setup in your SAM profile ensures timely receipt of payments from federal agencies.
Failure to complete these updates may result in ineligibility for federal contracts or grants. The GSA offers extensive support resources to assist with both initial registration and ongoing maintenance requirements.
Key Benefits of the UEI System for Government Contractors
The UEI system offers considerable advantages for contractors maneuvering the federal marketplace. By eliminating fees previously associated with D-U-N-S Numbers, businesses achieve immediate cost savings while reducing administrative burdens during the procurement process.
Registration efficiency represents another cornerstone benefit, as contractors now complete all identification processes directly through SAM.gov without navigating external systems. The streamlined workflow generates UEIs in real-time, eliminating delays that previously impacted bidding timelines and award processing. The 12-character alphanumeric code serves as the official identifier for all entities doing business with the federal government.
Contractors also benefit from enhanced data accuracy across federal systems. When information updates in SAM.gov, these changes synchronize automatically throughout FPDS, CPARS, and other acquisition platforms. This centralization prevents discrepancies that could otherwise affect past performance evaluations or payment processing.
The self-service nature of UEI management empowers contractors to maintain control over their entity information without dependence on third-party validation systems, considerably reducing administrative overhead while improving compliance. The transition from DUNS to UEI represents a significant federal contracting simplification that makes government opportunities more accessible to businesses of all sizes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Foreign Entities Obtain a UEI?
Yes, foreign entities are eligible to obtain a UEI through SAM.gov registration.
The international registration process requires foreign organizations to provide specific documentation and meet U.S. government requirements. Foreign entity eligibility follows the same principles as domestic entities, though additional verification steps may apply.
All international businesses seeking to conduct transactions with U.S. federal agencies must complete this registration. The UEI assignment is free and mandatory for accessing government contract opportunities, grants, or other federal funding.
Is a UEI Required for Subcontractors?
Subcontractors typically need a Unique Entity ID (UEI) for federal contract work, but full SAM registration is not required unless they plan to bid as prime contractors.
The UEI application process for subcontractors is streamlined, allowing them to obtain this identifier without completing thorough SAM registration.
This requirement guarantees proper identification and tracking within the federal procurement system while simplifying administrative processes for entities that only engage with the government indirectly through prime contractors.
How Long Does It Take to Receive a UEI?
UEI numbers are issued instantly upon completion of SAM.gov registration.
The processing time depends entirely on the entity validation checks during the registration process. While the UEI itself has no separate waiting period, entities may experience delays in SAM registration approval if information requires manual verification.
Most straightforward registrations with accurate data receive their UEI immediately, while those with discrepancies may take additional time for resolution before the identifier becomes active.
Can My UEI Be Transferred to Another Business Entity?
UEI transferability is not permitted between business entities.
Each UEI is specifically assigned to a single entity during SAM registration and cannot be transferred, sold, or shared with another organization.
When ownership changes or a new business forms, that entity must complete its own SAM registration to receive a unique UEI.
Attempting to transfer a UEI between businesses violates federal regulations and may result in compliance issues or penalties.
What Happens if My SAM Registration Expires?
When a SAM registration expires, several consequences occur that affect an entity’s ability to do business with the federal government:
- The entity becomes ineligible to receive federal awards or contracts.
- Pending applications for federal assistance cannot be processed.
- Payment processing for existing contracts may be interrupted.
SAM renewal must be completed annually to maintain active status.
Entities should monitor expiration dates carefully and initiate the renewal process at least 45 days before expiration to avoid disruption of federal business activities.