To obtain a CAGE Code, complete a SAM.gov registration with accurate business information, including legal name, physical address, and TIN matching IRS records. The system automatically forwards your information to the Defense Logistics Agency for CAGE Code assignment without requiring a separate application. Once processed, the code appears in your SAM profile, and you’ll receive an email notification. Remember to renew your SAM registration annually and your CAGE Code every five years to maintain eligibility for federal contracts.
Preparing Your Business for SAM Registration
Preparation stands as the foundation for successful CAGE Code acquisition through the SAM registration process. Before accessing SAM.gov, businesses must gather all required documentation that exactly matches IRS records. This includes the organization’s legal name, physical address (no P.O. boxes), and Taxpayer Identification Number or Employer Identification Number.
The accuracy of documentation is critical to prevent processing delays that could extend the registration timeline. Businesses should verify their physical address format with the postal service and guarantee all business details remain consistent across registration documents. Additionally, organizations must prepare:
- A notarized authorization letter
- Banking information for payment processing
- Financial information for verification during registration
International entities operating outside the U.S. will need an NCAGE Code before beginning the SAM registration. The entire registration process typically requires 10 business days for activation after submission of all required information.
Creating a login.gov account is required before accessing the SAM system, and following the entity registration checklist guarantees no steps are missed. Remember that SAM registration is mandatory for all businesses seeking to secure government contracts or grants.
Navigating the CAGE Code Assignment Process
The entire CAGE Code assignment process flows through the System for Award Management (SAM.gov), serving as the central pathway for businesses seeking this essential identifier.
Once an entity completes its SAM registration with all required information, SAM automatically forwards the submission to the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA).
The DLA handles the CAGE Code assignment without requiring separate applications or additional steps from the registering entity. Upon successful processing, the system generates a unique CAGE Code, which appears in the entity’s SAM profile.
CAGE Code assignment occurs automatically through DLA once SAM registration is complete, with no additional steps needed from businesses.
Maintaining accurate business data in SAM.gov is critical for successful CAGE Code assignment and ongoing compliance requirements.
Simultaneously, registrants receive email notification containing their assigned code.
For international entities, obtaining a NATO CAGE (NCAGE) code must occur before SAM registration can be completed.
All CAGE codes issued after August 26, 2016 require renewal every five years to maintain validity in the government contracting system.
This identifier is crucial for federal procurement processes and helps the government track businesses in their databases efficiently.
For entities requiring further assistance with the registration process, the DLA Customer Interaction Center is available via email or phone to address specific CAGE Code inquiries.
Maintaining and Renewing Your CAGE Code
Maintaining a valid CAGE Code requires vigilant attention to renewal requirements and regular verification procedures. SAM registrations must be renewed annually to preserve active status, while CAGE codes issued after August 26, 2016 require renewal every five years. These codes expire after five years of inactivity.
Businesses should initiate the renewal process at least two months before expiration to accommodate potential processing delays. When renewing, users should log into SAM.gov, verify all information for accuracy, and guarantee the CAGE code is correctly listed.
Implementing security best practices, such as strong passwords and two-factor authentication, protects against unauthorized access.
For renewal assistance, organizations can contact the SAM Help Desk or the DLA Customer Interaction Center. Setting calendar reminders helps prevent missed deadlines and maintains continuous eligibility for government opportunities. Regular monitoring of your CAGE Code expiration date is essential to avoid disruptions in federal contract opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Multiple Divisions of One Company Have Separate CAGE Codes?
Multiple divisions within a single company can indeed maintain separate CAGE codes. This arrangement is permissible when divisions operate independently, maintain distinct physical addresses, or require separate contractual management.
Each division must have its own DUNS number alongside the unique CAGE code. Both large corporations and small businesses can request division-level CAGE code assignments by demonstrating separated business structures or management needs.
This approach enhances contract management efficiency while providing clearer delineation of business responsibilities.
How Long Does CAGE Code Assignment Typically Take?
CAGE code assignment typically takes up to three business days after SAM registration validation is complete.
However, external reviews or additional verifications may extend this timeframe to ten business days.
The entire process, including SAM registration and CAGE code assignment, generally requires 4-6 weeks when completed independently.
Using a Certified Registration Specialist can reduce the overall timeline to approximately 2-4 weeks, provided all documentation is accurate and complete.
Can I Expedite My CAGE Code Application Process?
While there is no official expedited service offered directly by the DLA or SAM for CAGE code applications, third-party services specializing in SAM registration can sometimes help streamline the process.
These services handle paperwork and communications but cannot guarantee faster government approval.
Entities applying for security clearance may be eligible for a different process using DOD Form 2051 instead of SAM, which could potentially bypass standard workflows while maintaining similar timeframes.
Are CAGE Codes Transferable During Business Acquisition or Merger?
CAGE codes are not automatically transferable during business acquisitions or mergers.
When a business is acquired or merged, the process requires formal novation and documentation. The Defense Logistics Agency requires an executed Novation Agreement before processing any CAGE code transfers.
For asset transfers, the transferee typically assumes the CAGE code from the transferor after proper documentation.
Simple name changes or conversions (such as from corporation to LLC) generally don’t require CAGE code transfers but still need documentation.
What Happens if My Business Relocates After CAGE Code Assignment?
When a business relocates after CAGE code assignment, the CAGE code itself remains valid.
The business must update its physical address in SAM.gov, which will automatically update the CAGE database. The new address must be a legitimate physical location where business is conducted, not a PO box or virtual address.
The company should notify contracting officers about the relocation and guarantee all required validation documents reflect the new address to maintain contract eligibility.