CAGE code assignment typically occurs within 3-7 business days after completing SAM registration for U.S. businesses. The code is delivered via email upon finalization and appears in the SAM profile. Delays may result from incomplete or inconsistent information submitted during registration. Government validation of mandatory data fields is required before assignment. Foreign entities face longer timelines due to NCAGE code requirements. Proper documentation and accurate information submission accelerate the approval process.
CAGE Code Assignment Process for U.S. Businesses
Before applying for a Commercial and Government Entity (CAGE) code, U.S. businesses must first obtain a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) through SAM.gov. This UEI serves as the foundation for all CAGE code prerequisites in the federal registration process.
The SAM registration process follows a streamlined approach for domestic entities. Businesses must prepare several essential documents: legal business name verification, physical address documentation (no PO boxes allowed), taxpayer identification numbers, and banking details for federal payments.
Additionally, companies need to identify their business size, ownership structure, and relevant NAICS codes. The physical address must be a verifiable location where business operations actually take place.
Once a complete SAM.gov registration is submitted, the system automatically forwards the entity information to the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) for validation. Ensuring complete accuracy in all submitted information can significantly reduce delays in the approval process. Unlike foreign entities, which require separate NCAGE registration before SAM, U.S. businesses receive their five-character CAGE code directly through this integrated system at no additional cost. Typically, businesses can expect the processing time for CAGE code assignment to take a few weeks from the date of completed registration.
Timeframe Expectations and Potential Delays
When can businesses expect to receive their CAGE code after completing the necessary steps? For U.S. entities, CAGE code assignment typically occurs automatically upon completion of SAM registration, which takes 3-7 business days. The code is emailed immediately after registration finalization and appears in the SAM profile.
U.S. businesses typically receive their CAGE code within 3-7 business days of completing SAM registration, delivered via email upon finalization.
Several factors influence the CAGE code assignment duration. Incomplete or inconsistent business information in SAM can trigger delays, particularly when legal names or addresses don’t match across systems. Government validation of mandatory data fields is part of this process and must be completed before CAGE code assignment. The DLA Customer Interaction Center can provide status updates if extended delays are encountered. While the application itself might take only a few hours to complete, the entire process can extend to several weeks depending on review requirements.
Foreign entities face longer timelines, as they must obtain NCAGE codes before SAM registration, adding 10-14 days to the process.
Common delay scenarios include data entry errors, system synchronization issues, and manual reviews required for business name conflicts.
To minimize delays, companies should validate all business information across systems before submission, verify DUNS numbers match IRS records, and monitor application status through SAM.gov’s tracking tools.
Managing Your CAGE Code After Assignment
Maintaining a valid CAGE code requires ongoing management after the initial assignment process concludes. U.S. entities must renew their CAGE codes every five years if they were assigned after August 26, 2016, while also conducting mandatory annual SAM registration updates.
When business changes occur, such as address modifications, legal name changes, or ownership restructuring, companies must immediately update their SAM profiles to maintain CAGE code validity. These updates are critical, as instant SAM edits automatically synchronize with CAGE records in the DLA system. Understanding the typical processing timeframes for these updates helps businesses plan accordingly and prevent disruptions to their federal contracting activities. For minor name changes like converting “and” to “&” or adjusting abbreviations, minimal documentation is required and these changes are processed without extensive procedures.
For effective CAGE code maintenance, organizations should:
- Proactively verify CAGE code accuracy in the “Entity Profile” section of SAM.gov
- Retain all assignment documentation for potential audits
- Designate staff responsible for annual updates
- Contact the DLA Customer Interaction Center for any unresolved discrepancies
Failure to maintain current SAM registration can result in CAGE code invalidation and subsequent contract disqualification. This disqualification could damage your organization’s business reputation and significantly reduce opportunities for securing future government contracts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Request a Specific CAGE Code Number?
No, specific CAGE code numbers cannot be requested.
In the CAGE code process, these identifiers are automatically assigned by the Defense Logistics Agency during SAM registration. The CAGE code significance lies in providing a unique identifier for entities doing business with the federal government.
The numbering system follows DLA’s internal protocols, not requestor preferences. Entities must complete their SAM registration accurately to receive their assigned CAGE code, which will appear in their registration record.
How Do Mergers or Acquisitions Affect Existing CAGE Codes?
Mergers and acquisitions have significant implications for CAGE codes. When companies merge or undergo acquisition processes, existing CAGE codes do not automatically transfer.
The new entity typically must:
- Submit a new SAM registration reflecting updated legal structure
- Provide merger documentation and proof of address changes
- Obtain new CAGE codes tied to the restructured entity
This process guarantees compliance, as CAGE codes are entity-specific and connected to particular legal names and physical locations.
Are CAGE Codes Transferable Between Business Locations?
CAGE codes are not transferable between business locations. Each physical location requires its own unique CAGE code, as these identifiers are tied to specific addresses, not just business entities.
When considering CAGE code portability, businesses must understand that relocating operations necessitates either a CAGE code update or a new application.
Business location changes, even within the same legal entity, often require notification to the Defense Logistics Agency and potentially new CAGE code assignment.
Can Multiple Businesses Operate Under One CAGE Code?
No, multiple businesses cannot operate under a single CAGE code.
Each CAGE code is specifically assigned to represent one business identity at a particular physical address. The Department of Defense designed this system to maintain clear supplier identification and accountability.
Companies with multiple locations or business units typically need separate CAGE codes for each entity, ensuring proper distinction between different business operations for government contracting purposes.
What Happens if My CAGE Code Application Is Rejected?
When a CAGE code application is rejected, the applicant should contact the DLA CAGE office (1-877-352-2255) to identify specific reasons for rejection.
Common causes include IRS TIN validation failures, duplicate addresses, or entity name discrepancies.
The application appeal process requires updating incorrect information in the SAM registration and submitting supporting documentation like IRS EIN confirmation letters or address verification documents before reapplying through SAM.gov.