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CAGE Code Resources and Tools in SAM

SAM.gov offers extensive CAGE Code lookup tools for federal contractors and government agencies. Users can search by company name or CAGE code to access entity information, registration status, and associated NAICS codes. The system integrates with the DLA Commercial and Government Entity portal for efficient verification. Annual updates maintain code validity, while the Entity Status Tracker provides real-time registration status updates. Advanced features include supplier filtering and automated linkage to federal procurement systems for enhanced management capabilities.

Essential CAGE Code Lookup Tools Available in SAM.gov

cage code lookup resources

SAM.gov provides extensive CAGE Code lookup resources for federal contractors and government agencies. The system integrates with the DLA Commercial and Government Entity portal, allowing users to search by company name, CAGE code, or partial company name for efficient entity identification. Step-by-step navigation guides help users effectively search and locate CAGE code information through the SAM interface.

The Entity Status Tracker stands out as a valuable tool, accepting either CAGE codes or Unique Entity IDs to deliver real-time registration status updates. Search results typically display thorough information including entity name, address, registration status, CAGE code, and associated NAICS codes.

All lookup tools are freely accessible to the public, supporting transparency in federal contracting processes. This integration guarantees that contracting officers can easily verify an entity’s eligibility status before awarding federal contracts or grants. Understanding the STATUS_CODE indicators helps users determine if a company is currently operational or under restrictions. For entities experiencing CAGE validation failures, the system provides contact information for resolution through multiple channels including phone and email support.

How to Validate and Maintain Your CAGE Code Status

cage code validation process

Validating and maintaining a CAGE Code requires understanding the multi-step verification process that federal contractors must navigate. The process begins with entity validation in SAM.gov, where the system checks submitted information against official records.

CAGE Code validation begins with SAM.gov entity verification, where contractors’ information undergoes rigorous authentication against official records.

After initial SAM.gov submission, entities undergo two key validations: IRS Consent Validation and DLA/CAGE Code assignment. The DLA conducts its own separate verification, which typically takes 2-3 weeks to complete.

Contractors must provide their legal business name, physical address, TIN/EIN, and banking information during registration. The Entity Status Tracker allows monitoring of this process by entering the Unique Entity ID or CAGE code.

To maintain validity, businesses must update SAM registrations annually and promptly report any significant changes to business information to avoid penalties. Remember that using virtual locations or P.O. boxes as your physical address will result in rejection of your application. Maintaining a valid CAGE Code ensures federal procurement eligibility and smoother interactions with government agencies.

Advanced Features for CAGE Code Management in SAM

cage code management tools

Federal contractors who have established their CAGE Code can leverage several advanced management tools within the SAM system to optimize their procurement operations. These capabilities include enhanced supplier selection using CAGE Code filtering, designation of Procurement Card as a Supplier Site Purpose, and automated linkage of suppliers to CAGE Code records. Initial registration times typically range from days to weeks for new contractors seeking CAGE Codes.

SAM’s integrated data management connects with federal procurement systems like FPDS-NG and eSRS/FSRS, centralizing contract information through CAGE Codes. The platform also provides real-time status verification via the Entity Status Tracker and CAGE Code search tools. The system supports streamlined payment processes for suppliers with accurately maintained CAGE Code information. Additionally, SAM utilizes standardized identification processes that are essential for government and defense agencies working with suppliers.

For administrative control, SAM offers role-based access management with specialized roles such as Financial Application Administrator to maintain security over CAGE Code information and guarantee proper audit trails.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Foreign Suppliers Obtain a CAGE Code Through SAM?

Foreign suppliers cannot obtain standard CAGE codes through SAM. Instead, they must acquire NCAGE (NATO Commercial and Government Entity) codes before completing SAM registration.

This process requires foreign entities to request codes through the NATO Codification System, either via their country’s Codification Bureau or NSPA’s ePortal website.

After receiving an NCAGE code, foreign suppliers must enter it in the Core Data section of their SAM entity registration.

What Happens if My Company Relocates After CAGE Code Assignment?

When a company relocates after CAGE code assignment, the company must update its CAGE code information to reflect the new physical location.

The original code remains valid on existing documentation, but the company must notify the contracting officer within 30 days of the change.

U.S. contractors should submit change requests through https://cage.dla.mil, while international contractors must contact their National Codification Bureau or NSPA.

Only the entity identified by the code can request these changes.

How Do CAGE Codes Differ From NCAGE Codes?

CAGE codes apply to entities located within the United States and its territories, while NCAGE codes identify businesses located outside these areas.

Both utilize a five-character alphanumeric format and serve similar identification purposes.

The primary differences lie in their registration processes: U.S. entities register through DLA, often via SAM, while international entities register through NATO Support and Procurement Agency using the NATO Codification Tools ePortal.

Can Multiple CAGE Codes Be Assigned to One Company?

Yes, multiple CAGE codes can be assigned to a single company.

Companies with different business units, physical locations, or operational divisions may receive separate CAGE codes for each distinct entity. This practice helps the federal government identify specific company locations for contracting purposes.

Each unique operational unit can maintain its own CAGE code while remaining under the parent company’s overall structure, facilitating more effective contract management and compliance tracking.

Is a CAGE Code Required for Subcontractors on Federal Projects?

CAGE codes for subcontractors on federal projects depend on specific contract requirements. They are not universally mandated for all subcontractors.

Requirements typically arise when:

  1. The contract explicitly requires it through FAR clauses
  2. Subcontractors need access to classified information
  3. The scope of work involves security-sensitive roles

Subcontractors should consult the prime contractor and review contract documentation to determine if a CAGE code is necessary for their participation.

Requirements may vary by project and subcontractor role.

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