A Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) is a 12-character alphanumeric code that replaced the DUNS Number in April 2022 for federal contracting purposes. The UEI is automatically assigned during SAM.gov registration at no cost, eliminating dependency on third-party providers. This government-managed identifier enables standardized tracking across federal systems and is mandatory for businesses seeking government contracts. The registration process involves creating a login.gov account and submitting business details for validation. Further exploration reveals important compliance requirements and system benefits.
Understanding the UEI and Its Purpose in Federal Contracting
The Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) serves as the cornerstone of federal procurement identification systems. This 12-character alphanumeric code replaced the DUNS Number in April 2022, eliminating dependency on third-party providers and streamlining entity validation processes. The identifier is automatically assigned during SAM.gov registration at no cost to businesses, nonprofits, and government organizations.
The UEI supports federal transparency initiatives by providing a standardized method for tracking entities across all government systems. It enables efficient cross-agency data sharing about eligibility and performance while reducing administrative burden. SAM registration is mandatory for all businesses seeking to participate in government contracting opportunities. The transition to UEI has also introduced enhanced security features that better protect sensitive entity information in government databases.
Required under 2 CFR Part 25, the UEI links to extensive entity records containing tax, ownership, and financial data. This universal identifier persists indefinitely unless an entity dissolves, requiring annual verification through SAM.gov to maintain active status.
How to Obtain Your UEI Through SAM.gov Registration
Obtaining a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) requires maneuvering SAM.gov’s registration process, which involves several specific steps designed to verify an entity’s legitimacy.
Business owners must first create a login.gov account to access the SAM.gov platform, where the UEI process begins.
To initiate SAM.gov registration, click the “Get Started” button on the homepage and complete all required fields with your entity’s information. The system requires accurate business details, including legal name, physical address, and incorporation information.
The validation process compares your submitted data against official records to guarantee authenticity. The Entity Validation Service verifies both the existence and uniqueness of your business before assigning a UEI.
This new UEI has replaced DUNS numbers as the primary identifier for all entities doing business with the federal government.
While initial registration takes approximately 10-15 minutes, complete processing may extend up to one month.
It’s critical that your organization name perfectly matches the taxpayer name associated with your TIN to avoid registration activation delays.
Remember that SAM.gov registration is entirely free, and once approved, your UEI becomes immediately available for government contracts and proposal submissions.
Key Differences Between UEI and the Former DUNS Number System
Since April 2022, the Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) has replaced the Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) as the standard identification method for federal procurement and assistance awards, marking a fundamental shift in government contracting processes.
The UEI advantages include government control rather than private third-party management, elimination of commercial credit reporting connections, and a streamlined acquisition process at no cost through SAM.gov. This addresses several DUNS limitations, particularly its ties to Dun & Bradstreet’s proprietary business credit scoring system and external validation requirements.
While the UEI serves exclusively for federal programs, DUNS numbers still maintain relevance in private sector applications like commercial lending and supply chain verification, creating distinct operational scopes between the two systems. Organizations using platforms like Grants.gov portal must ensure their registration information includes the UEI to maintain compliance with federal requirements. Existing holders of DUNS numbers automatically received a UEI during the transition to ensure continuity of service. The UEI consists of a 12-character, alphanumeric identifier that uniquely identifies entities registered in the federal award system.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can International Entities Obtain a UEI for U.S. Federal Contracts?
Yes, international entities can obtain a UEI through SAM.gov regardless of their physical location. The process requires submitting a legal business name and physical address for federal compliance verification.
While a UEI is the first step toward international eligibility for U.S. federal contracts, foreign organizations may need additional documentation such as NCAGE codes.
No U.S. EIN is required for UEI-only requests, though full SAM registration involves further steps for contract bidding.
How Long Does UEI Validation Typically Take After SAM Registration?
The UEI processing times are integrated with SAM registration timelines rather than existing as a separate validation step.
While no explicit UEI validation period is specified in official guidance, entities should expect the standard SAM registration process to take approximately 10-14 business days for completion.
SAM registration delays may occur if submitted entity information doesn’t match legal documentation.
The UEI becomes active once the complete SAM registration is approved, with no additional validation period required.
What Happens if My SAM Registration Expires Before Renewal?
When a SAM registration expires, organizations face immediate contractual consequences including ineligibility for new federal contracts and possible payment freezes on existing work.
The expired status disrupts financial operations through delayed invoices and grant application rejections.
The renewal process requires full data revalidation, which typically takes 10-15 business days to complete.
To avoid these disruptions, entities should initiate the renewal process 30-60 days before expiration, ensuring continuous eligibility for federal opportunities.
Can Subcontractors Use a Prime Contractor’s UEI for Federal Work?
No, subcontractors cannot use a prime contractor‘s UEI for federal work.
Subcontractor requirements mandate that each entity obtain their own unique identifier, even if full SAM registration isn’t required.
Prime contractor responsibilities include ensuring subcontractors have valid UEIs before awarding subcontracts.
Using another entity’s UEI constitutes misrepresentation and may violate the False Claims Act, potentially resulting in suspension or debarment from federal contracting opportunities.
Each business must maintain its own distinct UEI for proper identification and reporting.
Is a UEI Required for Small Purchases Under the Micro-Purchase Threshold?
A UEI is generally not required for purchases below the micro-purchase threshold of $10,000, according to standard federal micro purchase guidelines.
These small purchase exemptions allow agencies to bypass formal competition requirements and vendor verification processes.
However, individual federal agencies may still impose UEI requirements regardless of purchase size, and payment systems might request a UEI for processing.
Vendors should verify specific requirements with the purchasing agency before assuming exemption.