The Unique Entity ID (UEI) is a mandatory 12-character alphanumeric identifier for organizations seeking federal funding or contracts. Organizations must register through SAM.gov, providing accurate business information and documentation for validation, which typically takes 1-4 days. The UEI system, implemented in April 2022, replaces DUNS numbers and eliminates third-party fees. Organizations should monitor their SAM.gov portal during validation and maintain current entity information. The following sections explore essential requirements and management strategies for UEI compliance.
Understanding the Unique Entity ID System and Its Purpose
While federal contracting and grant systems previously relied on DUNS numbers, the Unique Entity ID (UEI) system now serves as the government-wide standard for identifying organizations that engage with federal agencies.
The UEI system, implemented in April 2022, provides a standardized 12-character alphanumeric identifier for entities seeking federal funding through grants, loans, or contracts.
Federal entities now use a standardized 12-character code for seamless identification when pursuing government funding opportunities.
This centralized system operates through SAM.gov, offering free identification services and eliminating the need for third-party fees previously associated with DUNS numbers. Entities must provide their physical business address during registration, as P.O. boxes are not accepted.
Organizations receive their UEI automatically during SAM.gov registration or upon request if already identified in federal records.
The identifier remains permanent regardless of organizational changes, ensuring consistent tracking across federal systems and supporting transparent financial transactions between government agencies and external entities.
Essential Steps to Obtain and Manage Your UEI
Obtaining a Unique Entity ID requires careful preparation and attention to detail throughout the registration process. Organizations must first gather accurate entity information, including legal business names, addresses, and supporting documentation like tax records and incorporation certificates.
The Entity Validation Service verifies all submitted information before issuing a UEI. The process involves accessing SAM.gov, selecting “Get a Unique Entity ID Only,” and completing all required fields with precise information. Entities should be prepared to upload validation documents in acceptable formats, such as scanned PDFs, when requested by the system.
After submission, the validation process typically takes 1-4 days. Organizations must monitor their SAM.gov portal for updates and respond promptly to any requests for additional documentation.
Once issued, the 12-character UEI should be securely stored and used for federal procurement, grants, and contracts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Happens if My UEI Information Changes After Initial Registration?
When UEI information changes after initial registration, entities must promptly update their records in SAM.gov to maintain federal contracting eligibility.
Changes to business names, addresses, or incorporation details require immediate attention and may trigger an entity validation process. Supporting documentation must be submitted to verify updates, and failure to maintain current information can delay federal award disbursements.
Regular monitoring of SAM.gov communications guarantees smooth processing of information changes.
Can Multiple Organizations Share the Same UEI Number?
No, multiple organizations cannot share the same UEI number. Each UEI is exclusively assigned to a single entity and must remain unique within the federal procurement system.
Organizations with distinct legal identities, including parent companies and their subsidiaries, are required to obtain separate UEIs through SAM.gov registration.
This requirement guarantees accurate tracking of federal contracts and grants while maintaining compliance with government regulations for entity identification and verification.
How Long Does It Take to Receive a UEI After Applying?
The initial UEI application process takes approximately 10-15 minutes to complete, while the full registration typically requires 7-10 business days for processing.
However, the total timeline can extend up to one month if manual validation is needed or if there are issues with external verification through agencies like the IRS.
Organizations should monitor their email for status updates and respond promptly to any requests for additional documentation.
What Should I Do if My UEI Becomes Inactive?
If a UEI becomes inactive, organizations should first verify the status by logging into SAM.gov and reviewing any notification emails.
To reactivate, users should select the update/renew option in their SAM.gov workspace and complete the validation process. The reactivation typically takes 1-2 business days after submission.
If technical issues persist, contacting SAM.gov support or emailing DFCHelpwithSAM@dfc.gov can provide additional assistance for resolution.
Can International Organizations Apply for a UEI Through SAM.Gov?
Yes, international organizations can apply for a UEI through SAM.gov.
The process follows the same general steps as domestic entities, though international applicants may need to provide additional documentation, such as national identifiers.
Organizations must verify their legal business name, physical address, and other information through the Entity Validation Service.
The process is free, and entities can choose between obtaining a standalone UEI or completing full SAM.gov registration.
