To correct a mistaken UEI assignment in SAM.gov, users must first access their Entity Dashboard with authorized credentials. After locating the target registration, select “Update” from the dropdown menu and review all Core Data sections. Verify the UEI, legal business name, and TIN match official records. Submit proper documentation, including Articles of Incorporation and recent bank statements, in high-resolution PDF format. The following process details specific steps to prevent common validation failures.
Common UEI Assignment Errors and Their Causes
While maneuvering through the SAM registration process, organizations frequently encounter several types of UEI assignment errors that can delay federal funding eligibility and contract awards.
The most prevalent issues stem from simple typographical errors during manual data entry, including missing characters or format misinterpretation of the 12-digit alphanumeric code. The importance of accurate data entry cannot be overstated as it directly impacts the verification process and overall registration success.
Entity validation failures represent another significant challenge, typically occurring when legal names or addresses in UEI records conflict with IRS documentation. Recent changes requiring Entity Administrators to be actual employees of the organization have added another layer of complexity to the validation process.
Entity validation errors often arise when business information doesn’t match official IRS records, causing registration delays.
System-related causes, such as browser compatibility issues or SAM.gov downtime, further complicate successful registrations. The transition from DUNS numbers to UEI codes in April 2022 created additional implementation challenges for many organizations.
Organizations also struggle with duplication problems, particularly when multiple registrations exist across regional offices or when legacy DUNS numbers incorrectly link to new UEIs.
Knowledge gaps about the auto-assignment process often exacerbate these registration hurdles.
Required Documentation for Successful UEI Correction
Successfully correcting a UEI assignment requires specific documentation that meets stringent federal verification standards. The primary documentation types include Articles of Incorporation with state seal, bank statements from the past five years, recent IRS Form 990 filings, state business licenses, and official government correspondence.
All documents must follow strict formatting guidelines, including English translations for non-English materials, high-resolution PDF scans, and consistent naming conventions.
When preparing submissions, avoid common pitfalls such as mismatched entity names, expired documents, or address discrepancies.
The standard review process takes 10 business days, during which entities should monitor the SAM.gov ticket system for communications.
Following submission best practices—like avoiding duplicate tickets and using the pre-validation checklist—significantly improves correction success rates.
This transition from DUNS to UEI system represents a federal initiative to streamline entity identification and reduce administrative burdens for grant applicants.
Step-by-Step Process to Update Your Entity Information
Once proper documentation has been gathered, entities must follow a specific sequence of actions within the SAM.gov system to correct UEI assignment errors.
The process begins by accessing the Entity Dashboard through authorized credentials and locating the target registration in the active listings panel.
Users must then select the “Update” option from the dropdown menu, which appears as an ellipsis symbol next to the expiration date.
The correction process requires systematic review of Core Data sections, ensuring the UEI, legal business name, and TIN information match official records.
Systematic Core Data review must validate UEI, legal name, and TIN against official documentation to ensure compliance.
Entity registration compliance requirements mandate updating all Points of Contact associated with the incorrect UEI, particularly the E-Business POC who controls system access.
The final step involves reviewing and recertifying all assertions and representations before submission for processing.
Maintaining accurate entity details is essential for compliance and streamlining government contracting processes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does a UEI Correction Typically Take to Process?
UEI correction processing times typically require several business days, depending on complexity.
Standard correction timelines for SAM.gov registrations average up to 10 business days for full processing. External reviews may extend this timeframe.
Organizations should plan accordingly, as validation processes can experience delays if documentation requires additional verification.
Promptly addressing discrepancies and maintaining accurate contact information helps expedite corrections.
Regular follow-up through the Federal Service Desk ticket system provides visibility into processing status.
Can I Use My Business While Waiting for UEI Correction?
Yes, organizations can maintain business operations while awaiting UEI corrections.
Entities with active SAM registrations can continue bidding on contracts, submitting grant applications, and receiving payments on existing awards.
However, financial implications may include potential payment delays for new contracts.
Companies should immediately notify contracting officers about pending corrections and document all communications to demonstrate compliance efforts.
Maintaining thorough records helps mitigate disruptions during this administrative process.
Are There Fees Associated With Correcting a UEI Assignment?
There are no fees associated with correcting a UEI assignment through the official SAM.gov system.
The correction process is completely free, as all SAM.gov registration services are provided at no cost by the federal government.
Entities should be cautious of third-party services that charge for assistance with UEI corrections.
For support with the correction process, organizations can contact the Federal Service Desk at no charge rather than paying unnecessary fees to outside parties.
What Happens if My Correction Request Is Denied?
If a correction request is denied, the entity faces potential bid disqualification or payment disruptions for active contracts.
The appeal process includes several options:
- Submit a reconsideration request with new supporting documentation
- Escalate through the Federal Service Desk for technical issues
- Pursue legal recourse if the denial affects contract eligibility
- Consult with procurement counsel about GAO protest options
Meanwhile, maintain parallel registration efforts to avoid contract performance issues.
Can Third-Party Agents Submit UEI Corrections on My Behalf?
Third-party agents can submit UEI corrections with proper agent authorization.
Entities must first establish formal delegation through SAM.gov’s entity management system. These third-party roles require specific permissions and documentation verifying their authority to act on behalf of the entity.
To authorize an agent, the entity administrator must complete delegation procedures in the system and maintain oversight responsibility.
However, the entity remains ultimately responsible for all information submitted, regardless of who manages the correction process.