The Unique Entity ID (UEI) replaced the DUNS Number system in April 2022 as the standard identifier for organizations doing business with the U.S. government. This free, non-proprietary identifier is obtained through SAM.gov registration and does not expire, though annual SAM renewals are required. Organizations can choose between complete registration or a simplified “UEI-only” option. The system streamlines federal award management while integrating with multiple procurement platforms, offering entities enhanced accessibility and efficiency.
Overview of UEI Implementation and Features
The Unique Entity ID (UEI) represents a significant change in federal contractor identification, replacing the long-standing DUNS Number system in April 2022. This alteration marked an essential change for entities conducting business with the U.S. government, including contractors, grantees, and subcontractors. The UEI streamlines entity identification through SAM.gov, offering a more efficient and cost-effective solution for federal award management.
The process of obtaining a UEI has been simplified compared to its predecessor. New entities can receive their UEI through SAM.gov registration, either through complete registration or the streamlined “Unique Entity ID only” option. Existing SAM registrants automatically received their UEI during the April 2022 alteration, eliminating the need for additional action.
SAM.gov streamlines UEI acquisition through complete registration or simplified ID-only options, with automatic assignment for existing registrants during transition.
Unlike the DUNS system, which involved fees, the UEI is available free of charge through SAM.gov. A key advantage of the UEI system lies in its non-proprietary, government-managed nature. The identifier never expires, though entities must still renew their SAM registrations annually to maintain active status. The UEI serves as the authoritative identifier across federal systems, accessible through the SAM.gov Workspace for viewing and editing entity information. This permanence provides stability and continuity for organizations managing federal awards.
The UEI’s integration into federal systems extends across multiple platforms, including FPDS, FSRS, and CPARS. Prime awardees must use their UEI when reporting sub-awardee information in FSRS, and sub-awardees must provide their UEI for inclusion in federal reports. The system supports thorough award management through SAM.gov searches, APIs, and data extracts, ensuring seamless information flow across federal procurement systems.
Registration requirements for the UEI system maintain accessibility while ensuring proper oversight. There are no eligibility restrictions for basic UEI issuance, though specific requirements apply to different entity types. State and local governments must follow particular SAM.gov guidance for federal financial assistance, while direct grant recipients, such as Department of Education applicants, must complete full SAM registration rather than opting for UEI-only status. The transition to UEI has enhanced data security management by reducing dependence on third-party providers.
The system balances ease of access with regulatory compliance, supporting efficient federal award management while maintaining necessary oversight and accountability measures.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does It Take to Receive a UEI After Registration?
A UEI is assigned immediately upon successful completion of SAM.gov registration submission.
While the UEI number itself is available instantly, the full SAM registration activation process typically takes 3-10 business days for validation.
This timeline includes IRS tax verification and CAGE/DLA checks.
Complex cases or incomplete submissions may extend the activation period up to one month, though the UEI remains accessible throughout the verification process.
Can International Organizations Obtain a UEI Number?
Yes, international organizations can obtain a UEI through SAM.gov registration.
However, they must first secure an NCAGE Code from their country’s NATO Codification Bureau, which requires a 3-day processing period.
Organizations must guarantee their legal business names and physical addresses match exactly between SAM.gov and NCAGE records.
While U.S. tax identification numbers are required for entities paying U.S. taxes, they remain optional for international organizations not engaged in U.S. tax transactions.
What Should I Do if My UEI Validation Fails?
If UEI validation fails, organizations should first review the rejection reasons in their SAM.gov workspace.
Submit corrected documents through the Federal Service Desk (FSD.gov) using an incident ticket, ensuring all paperwork meets the 5-year recency requirement and matches the registered entity details exactly.
Monitor email notifications for EVS team instructions, and allow 14 business days for processing.
For urgent cases, contact MAS PMO at maspmo@gsa.gov with the UEI and incident details.
Is There a Fee for Obtaining a UEI?
There is no fee for obtaining a Unique Entity ID (UEI) through SAM.gov.
The registration process, including UEI acquisition, is completely free for all entities, whether they are prime awardees, sub-recipients, or federal organizations.
While some third-party companies may offer paid assistance services, these are not required, as SAM.gov provides the UEI at no cost and offers free support through their help desk.
Can I Update My Business Information After Receiving My UEI?
Yes, businesses can update their information after receiving a UEI through their SAM.gov account.
Key updates include physical address, points of contact, certifications, and contract-related details.
Organizations should maintain current information by:
- Logging into SAM.gov
- Moving to the entity registration section
- Making necessary modifications
- Submitting changes for review
Updates to core business information may trigger additional processes, such as eMod requirements for GSA contracts.
