Protecting your UEI and CAGE Code requires implementing robust security measures across your SAM.gov account. Companies should enforce multi-factor authentication, limit administrative privileges, encrypt credentials using password managers, and establish role-based access controls. Regular audits of account activity, quarterly information reviews, and proper staff training prevent unauthorized modifications. Treating these identifiers with the same vigilance as financial information reduces vulnerability to fraud. The following strategies provide thorough protection for these critical business identifiers.

Essential Security Practices for UEI and CAGE Code Protection

Safeguarding your Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and Commercial and Government Entity (CAGE) code requires implementing robust security protocols across several critical areas. Organizations must prioritize both data encryption and access controls to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive identifiers.

Effective protection begins with implementing multi-factor authentication for all SAM.gov accounts, limiting administrative privileges to verified personnel, and conducting regular audits of account activity. Since UEI numbers are permanent identifiers that never expire, establishing strong security practices from the beginning is essential.

Companies should encrypt login credentials using password managers with AES-256 encryption and avoid public Wi-Fi when accessing SAM profiles. Regular password updates can significantly reduce the risk of credential theft and unauthorized account access. Both identifiers are crucial for federal procurement processes and must be protected with the same vigilance as financial information.

For maximum security, businesses should restrict UEI/CAGE disclosure to authorized federal contracting officers, mask sensitive identifiers in public documents, and monitor profile visibility settings.

Establishing non-disclosure agreements with third-party registration agents creates an additional layer of protection for these critical business identifiers.

Implementing Robust SAM.gov Account Management Protocols

Establishing robust SAM.gov account management protocols forms the foundation of effective UEI and CAGE code protection strategies. Organizations should implement role-based access control systems that limit SAM.gov profile modification capabilities to only authorized personnel. This prevents unauthorized changes to critical information and reduces security vulnerabilities.

Comprehensive user training programs are vital for all team members involved in SAM.gov management. These programs should cover proper documentation procedures, notification settings, and the implementation of quarterly review schedules to verify business information accuracy. Implementing multi-factor authentication can significantly enhance the security of your SAM account by adding an extra layer of protection against unauthorized access.

Organizations should designate specific Points of Contact responsible for SAM.gov updates and communications. These individuals should receive specialized training on compliance tools and be tasked with monitoring regulatory changes. Regularly logging into the system to check for important notifications and alerts helps maintain account integrity and ensures secure access to your organization’s profile.

Setting calendar reminders for regular reviews guarantees that EIN/TIN alignments, address information, and ownership structures remain accurate and up-to-date. Ensuring consistency in address formatting across all documentation is critically important to successfully navigate both IRS and CAGE validation phases during registration and renewals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Transfer My UEI or CAGE Code to Another Entity?

No, entities cannot transfer UEI numbers or CAGE codes to other organizations. The UEI transfer process is prohibited as both identifiers are tied to specific legal entities through government-established CAGE code ownership regulations.

What Happens to My Codes During a Company Merger?

During company mergers, CAGE codes generally remain unchanged unless SAM registration is deactivated. UEIs are retained through ownership shifts. Entities must update legal names in SAM’s Ownership/Control section to reflect merger implications while maintaining proper code retention.

How Quickly Can I Obtain Emergency Access to Expired Codes?

For emergency access to expired codes, users should contact the SAM/FSD Help Desk immediately at 1-866-606-8220. The help desk can assist with recovery procedures, though resolution timeframes may vary depending on verification requirements.

Are Foreign-Owned Companies Subject to Different CAGE Code Requirements?

Foreign-owned companies are subject to different CAGE code regulations, requiring NCAGE codes instead of standard CAGE codes. Foreign ownership implications include mandatory NCAGE acquisition before SAM registration, processed through NATO Codification bureaus.

Can Subcontractors Use Prime Contractors’ UEI for Government Submissions?

No, subcontractors cannot use prime contractors’ UEI for government submissions. Subcontractor eligibility requires obtaining their own unique identifier, while prime contractor responsibilities include maintaining distinct identification for contract management and reporting purposes.