CAGE code assignment begins automatically during SAM.gov registration with no additional action required. The system sends entity information to the DLA CAGE Program Office, which validates the physical address and business legitimacy. For international entities, obtaining an NCAGE code must occur before SAM registration. Once assigned, CAGE codes require renewal every five years and updating when business locations change. Proper maintenance guarantees continued eligibility for federal contracting opportunities.
The Automatic CAGE Code Generation Process During SAM Registration
When an entity begins the SAM.gov registration process, the Commercial and Government Entity (CAGE) code assignment initiates automatically without requiring prior action from the registrant. The system seamlessly forwards the submitted entity information to the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) in real-time for processing. Access to over $500 billion in federal government contracts becomes available once the CAGE code is successfully assigned.
During this automatic assignment, DLA’s CAGE Program Office conducts a thorough validation process focusing on two critical elements: physical address verification and entity legitimacy. Prior to starting this process, businesses must first secure a DUNS number through the Data Universal Numbering System.
Once validated, the CAGE code is generated within DLA’s systems and transmitted back to SAM.gov, where it populates in the entity’s registration profile.
Registrants need not interact directly with DLA unless discrepancies are identified during verification. The entire procedure occurs at no cost to the entity, as federal mandates prohibit charging for CAGE code issuance.
Special Requirements for International Entities and NCAGE Codes
All international entities seeking to do business with the U.S. government face distinct registration requirements that differ greatly from domestic organizations.
Foreign businesses must obtain an NCAGE code before initiating SAM registration, which validates their legal existence and physical location.
International vendors must secure NCAGE codes prior to SAM registration to authenticate their existence and location.
The NCAGE application process requires submission through NATO’s online portal for non-NATO entities, while NATO members work through country-specific codification bureaus.
Applicants must provide thorough international entity documentation, including:
- Legal business name registration proof (notarized incorporation certificates)
- Physical address verification (utility bills, lease agreements)
- Government-issued tax identification numbers
- Bank account details with SWIFT/BIC codes
Organizations must verify NCAGE codes align with their DUNS numbers to prevent registration blocks in SAM.gov.
Non-English documents typically require official translation and notarization.
Unlike domestic entities, international organizations cannot use PO boxes as valid physical addresses under any circumstances.
Developing a systematic approach to documentation gathering can help international entities unleash efficiency in their registration process.
Managing and Updating Your CAGE Code After Assignment
Once a CAGE Code has been assigned, businesses face ongoing responsibilities to maintain its validity and accuracy within the SAM.gov system. Organizations must renew their CAGE codes every five years if obtained after August 26, 2016, with renewal notifications typically sent before expiration. Allowing a CAGE Code to expire can result in losing contract eligibility and create significant delays in securing new government agreements.
When business locations change, CAGE code updates become necessary as these codes are directly linked to specific physical addresses. Companies should regularly verify their code information using the Entity Status Tracker on SAM.gov, which allows status checks using either the Unique Entity ID or CAGE code. The Entity Status Tracker requires users to sign in first before accessing registration details or checking entity status.
Addressing CAGE code discrepancies promptly is vital for maintaining federal contracting eligibility. Businesses should immediately contact the Defense Logistics Agency when mismatches occur between their SAM profile and CAGE code information to confirm compliance with government contracting requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a Dormant Business Retain Its Original CAGE Code Upon Reactivation?
Yes, a dormant business can retain its original CAGE code upon reactivation if the entity’s name, address, and tax ID remain unchanged. SAM.gov registration reactivation preserves the existing CAGE code for inactive entities.
How Do Parent-Subsidiary Relationships Affect CAGE Code Assignments?
Parent-subsidiary relationships require separate CAGE codes for each entity. Parent company responsibilities include managing related registrations, while subsidiary code requirements mandate independent SAM registration for federal contracting eligibility, even within corporate families.
Are Temporary CAGE Codes Issued for Emergency Contracting Situations?
Standard CAGE code procedures apply even in emergencies. There is no evidence that temporary assignments are issued for emergency contracting situations. Organizations must follow regular registration processes, though emergency procedures may expedite approval timeframes.
What Happens to CAGE Codes After Company Mergers or Acquisitions?
After mergers or acquisitions, CAGE code implications include potential updates or replacement. The acquiring company may retain its code while the acquired entity’s code is canceled, depending on the merger effects and organizational structure changes.
Can Entities Request Specific CAGE Code Alpha-Numeric Combinations?
Entities cannot request specific CAGE code alpha-numeric combinations. The Defense Logistics Agency assigns CAGE codes randomly based on available sequences. Custom CAGE codes or cage code preferences are not accommodated in the assignment process.