To find your UEI number in SAM.gov, log into your account and navigate to the “Register/Update Entity” section. Select “My Registrations” to view your entity profiles. The UEI appears under “Entity Information” in the registration summary. You can also export registration details as a PDF through the “View Details” option. For organizations with multiple administrators, guarantee proper access rights are established to prevent disruptions when primary contacts are unavailable. The following guide outlines specific troubleshooting steps for common retrieval challenges.
Understanding the SAM.gov Dashboard and UEI Location
Maneuvering the SAM.gov dashboard requires familiarity with its core components, particularly for locating the Unique Entity ID (UEI). The system features a persistent navigation bar with tabs for Home/MY SAM, Search Records, Data Access, and Help, providing straightforward access to entity management tools.
When logged in, users can find their UEI through the MY SAM section, which centralizes all entity information. The UEI appears prominently on the entity registration summary page under Entity Information, alongside CAGE codes and tax identifiers.
For thorough dashboard navigation, users should check the Entity Dashboard, which displays real-time registration status and provides direct links to update UEI-associated data like addresses and banking information. The UEI has officially replaced the DUNS number system, creating a more streamlined process for entities seeking to participate in federal contracts and grants.
Step-by-Step Guide to Accessing Your UEI Number
Finding your UEI number through SAM.gov involves a methodical process that builds on understanding the platform’s layout. Users must first navigate to SAM.gov’s official website and log in with their credentials to begin the UEI registration processes.
Once logged in, follow these specific steps:
- Select the “Register/Update Entity” section on your dashboard.
- Click on the “My Registrations” tab to view active entity profiles.
- Locate your UEI under “Entity Information” in the registration summary.
For documentation purposes, users can export their registration details as a PDF through the “View Details” option.
SAM.gov account navigation requires attention to registration expiration dates, which should be verified while accessing the UEI to guarantee continued federal funding eligibility. Remember that maintaining an active registration status is mandatory for all EXIM transactions and policy renewals. It’s essential to gather all entity information before starting the registration process to ensure a smooth application experience.
Troubleshooting Common UEI Retrieval Issues
Maneuvering through UEI retrieval obstacles requires systematic problem-solving approaches when challenges arise.
Entity validation issues often stem from mismatches between the organization’s legal name and physical address in SAM.gov’s database, requiring additional documentation for verification.
Registration status problems typically occur when accounts become inactive, necessitating renewal within the system. This process may take up to ten business days to complete.
Login issues frequently result from incorrect login.gov credentials or authentication methods, potentially causing account lockouts after multiple failed attempts.
Technical support is available through the Federal Service Desk for users experiencing persistent difficulties.
Organizations should establish multiple user roles with administrator access to prevent disruptions when primary contacts are unavailable.
Documentation requirements increase when manual review becomes necessary, extending the timeframe for obtaining your UEI number.
Remember that the UEI has completely replaced DUNS numbers as the primary identification method for entities doing business with the federal government.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Transfer My UEI to Another Business Entity?
No, a UEI cannot be transferred to another business entity.
The UEI transfer process does not allow for reassignment between different organizations because each identifier is unique to a specific entity.
Business entity requirements mandate that each organization must obtain its own UEI through SAM registration.
When ownership or business structure changes, the affected entity must register separately rather than receiving an existing UEI, as federal regulations prohibit such transfers.
How Quickly Is a Newly Assigned UEI Activated for Use?
While the UEI number is assigned immediately upon SAM registration submission, the activation time for full UEI usage typically takes up to 10 business days.
This activation period involves several verification processes, including IRS and CAGE/DLA validations.
Complex registrations may require additional time, especially if verification issues arise or documentation requests are needed.
Once activated, the UEI becomes available for all federal transactions and remains valid for 365 days.
Will My UEI Change if My Business Address Changes?
No, a business address change will not result in a new UEI number.
Many entities have uei consistency concerns when relocating, but the UEI is designed to remain constant despite business address impacts.
When an address changes, the entity must update this information in SAM.gov through the eMod process.
The modification becomes visible within 24 hours after submission, while the UEI remains unchanged to maintain continuity in federal government transactions.
Are UEI Numbers Publicly Searchable Without a SAM.Gov Account?
UEI numbers are indeed publicly searchable without a SAM.gov account through the public search function.
Users can search by entity name, CAGE code, or UEI number to access basic registration information.
However, data privacy options allow entities to opt out of public display, making their information visible only to authenticated users.
The public search provides registration status, expiration dates, and point of contact details for entities that have not restricted their information from public view.
Can International Organizations Without U.S. Tax IDS Obtain UEIS?
Yes, international organizations without U.S. tax IDs can obtain UEIs.
The UEI application process includes special provisions for foreign entities, requiring them to provide alternative documentation to prove legal existence.
International organization requirements include submitting government-issued registration documents during the validation phase.
These entities must also obtain an NCAGE code before completing SAM.gov registration.
The entire registration process remains free of charge for all international organizations seeking UEIs.