To obtain a UEI number, create a Login.gov account with multi-factor authentication, then visit SAM.gov and select “Get Unique Entity ID.” Enter your organization’s legal name, address, and tax identification number for validation against government databases. Complete the registration process, addressing any validation issues by uploading required documentation. Most entities receive their UEI immediately, while others may require additional verification steps. The following guide provides detailed troubleshooting for common registration challenges.
What Is a UEI Number and Why Do You Need One?
The Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) serves as the official identification number for organizations seeking to do business with the federal government. Implemented in April 2022, the UEI replaced the previously used DUNS number system and is now issued directly through SAM.gov. This government-provided identifier streamlines the process of tracking Federal funding allocations while reducing dependency on third-party systems.
Among the UEI benefits is simplified access to federal contracts, grants, and awards. Organizations must obtain this identifier to participate in government opportunities, as it functions similarly to a tax ID but specifically for federal transactions. Registration through SAM.gov is mandatory for all entities seeking federal financial assistance. The nine-digit identifier is request-based only and will not be automatically assigned to businesses.
The UEI is mandatory only for entities pursuing government business, not for those working exclusively with private companies. This system enhances transparency and accountability in federal award management across all agencies. The transition from DUNS to UEI requires existing entities to update their profiles in SAM to maintain continuity in federal engagements.
Step-by-Step Guide to Registering for Your UEI Number
Securing your UEI number requires following a structured five-step process designed to verify your entity’s legitimacy before granting access to federal opportunities.
The registration process begins by gathering essential business documentation, including your legal name, physical address, and tax identification number.
Next, create an individual Login.gov account with multi-factor authentication.
Multi-factor authentication during Login.gov account creation strengthens security for your entity’s federal registration credentials.
The entity validation phase follows, where your business information undergoes verification against government databases.
After validation, complete the SAM.gov registration by submitting core data about your organization’s structure, finances, and ownership details.
Finally, address any validation issues, such as uploading a notarized letter if required. Remember that the UEI is a 12-character alphanumeric identifier that uniquely represents your organization in federal systems.
Once approved, your UEI number becomes active immediately, and you can verify your status through a public SAM.gov search.
This new system replaces the previous DUNS number requirement, offering enhanced transparency and efficiency for government contractors.
Troubleshooting Common UEI Registration Issues
Despite following the proper registration steps, many applicants encounter persistent technical hurdles during the UEI registration process that can delay or prevent successful completion.
These technical glitches often appear as system timeouts during high-traffic periods or validation failures stemming from browser compatibility issues, with Chrome and Firefox offering the most reliable performance.
Data accuracy problems represent another significant obstacle, particularly when IRS EIN information doesn’t match application details or when legal entity names contain discrepancies across registrations. The importance of accurate data entry cannot be overstated as it helps prevent complications during both initial registration and future updates.
To resolve these issues, applicants should utilize the SAM.gov status checker to monitor progress and submit Federal Service Desk tickets for technical assistance, typically receiving responses within 48 hours.
Running pre-validation checks in SAM’s preview mode before final submission can help identify potential errors before they cause delays and starting the renewal process 2-3 months in advance is recommended to accommodate potential technical issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can International Entities Obtain a UEI Number?
Yes, international entities can obtain a UEI number.
The international eligibility requirements are similar to those for U.S. organizations seeking to engage in federal contracts or grants.
Foreign businesses must provide translated and notarized documentation during the application process, and may use their country’s tax identification number if they lack a U.S. EIN.
While SAM.gov operates primarily in English, the system accommodates international addresses and banking information for non-U.S. organizations.
How Quickly Can I Get a UEI in Urgent Situations?
UEIs are assigned immediately upon completed SAM.gov registration submission, with no formal expedited UEI requests process available.
However, the full registration activation requires IRS and CAGE validations, typically taking 3-10 business days.
For urgent application process needs, entities should register at least 10 days before deadlines and guarantee all information is accurate to prevent delays.
While the UEI itself appears instantly, the complete, usable registration requires validation by government systems.
Is a UEI Number Visible in Public Search Results?
UEI numbers can appear in public records depending on the entity’s chosen visibility settings during SAM.gov registration.
When registering, organizations must explicitly select whether their information is publicly visible or restricted. This data privacy option determines if the UEI appears in public search results.
Can Multiple UEIS Be Assigned to One Organization?
Yes, multiple UEIs can be assigned to one organization based on organizational structure and location factors.
Organizations with multiple physical locations receive separate UEIs for each address. Additionally, subsidiaries or divisions operating as distinct legal entities require their own UEIs.
SAM.gov accommodates this by allowing organizations to manage multiple UEIs under a single account. This structure guarantees proper tracking of federal awards across different organizational components.
What Happens to My UEI if My Business Relocates?
When a business relocates, its UEI number remains permanently assigned to the organization, but the business address information must be updated in SAM.gov.
During the relocation process, the entity should log into their SAM.gov account and modify their registration with the new physical location details.
If the organization operates from multiple locations, they may need separate UEIs for each physical address that conducts business with the federal government.