To update NAICS and PSC codes during SAM.gov renewal, users must login via login.gov, select “Renewal” on their dashboard, and navigate to the “Goods and Services” section. There, they can add or modify primary and additional codes to reflect current business capabilities. Accurate code selection increases visibility to federal contracting officers and prevents missed opportunities. Regular updates guarantee proper classification for set-aside contracts and compliance with federal regulations. The following guide provides detailed implementation strategies for ideal results.
Understanding NAICS and PSC Codes in SAM.gov
Classification systems form the backbone of government contracting matchmaking in the federal marketplace. The NAICS classification system uses six-digit codes to categorize businesses by their primary economic activities, determining small business eligibility through established size standards.
Meanwhile, PSC categories employ four-digit alphanumeric codes to identify specific products and services that federal agencies purchase.
These complementary systems serve distinct purposes in federal procurement. NAICS codes reveal “how” a business operates and must align with a company’s primary revenue-generating activities. PSC codes describe “what” agencies purchase, focusing on deliverables within federal contracts. Together, they enhance a contractor’s visibility during market research.
During SAM.gov registration, businesses must select appropriate codes from both systems, as mismatched or inaccurate selections can considerably reduce opportunity visibility and lead to potential disqualification. Maintaining standardized communication between contractors and government agencies requires accurate code selection and registration. Regular updates to these codes are essential since they are used by government buyers to categorize spending and identify potential suppliers for new opportunities. Understanding proper NAICS classification is crucial as it provides a competitive advantage for businesses seeking to participate in the federal procurement process.
Step-by-Step Process for Updating Codes During Renewal
The renewal process for your SAM.gov registration offers an ideal opportunity to review and update your NAICS and PSC codes to reflect your current business activities.
Maintaining code accuracy is essential for matching your business with relevant government opportunities.
To update your codes during renewal:
- Log in to SAM.gov using your login.gov credentials
- Click the “Renewal” button on your dashboard
- Navigate to the “Goods and Services” section
- Select “Add/Remove NAICS Codes” or “Add/Remove PSC Codes”
- Enter your primary and additional codes that match your offerings
- Review selections carefully before saving changes
Plan these updates within your renewal timeline, as changes cannot be made once the renewal submission is complete. It’s recommended to maintain 5 to 15 relevant NAICS codes that align with your core business capabilities. Remember that contracting officers check your NAICS codes before awarding contracts to verify your qualifications. Incorrect code selection can significantly impact your eligibility and lead to disqualification from bidding processes that would otherwise be suitable for your business.
Best Practices to Maximize Your Code Updates
Strategically approaching your NAICS and PSC code updates requires careful preparation and attention to detail, which can greatly impact your business’s visibility to government procurement officers. Conducting thorough competitor analysis through SAM.gov’s public records reveals industry benchmarks, while guaranteeing code alignment with your actual capabilities prevents disqualification. Regular updates to reflect evolving business capabilities can significantly enhance your chances of being discovered by potential partners. Maintaining accurate SAM information is vital for eligibility in federal contracts and helps prevent administrative delays in the contract processing workflow. Small businesses should carefully select appropriate classifications as preferential treatment exists for federal contracts under $150,000.
| Best Practice | Benefit | Implementation |
|---|---|---|
| Cross-reference FPDS-NG data | Identifies trending codes | Review quarterly contract awards |
| Document code justification | Protects against challenges | Maintain evidence of capabilities |
| Enable automated alerts | Prevents missed opportunities | Configure SAM.gov notification settings |
For ideal results, upload updated capabilities statements simultaneously with code changes, and validate all selections using SAM.gov’s built-in tools. This verification process guarantees your business profile accurately represents your offerings while maintaining compliance with federal procurement regulations.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does the Code Update Process Typically Take?
The NAICS and PSC code update duration typically requires one business day for standard processing. More complex changes may experience delays during system high-traffic periods or if additional documentation is needed for code processing validation.
Can I Update My Codes Outside the Renewal Period?
No, updating codes outside the renewal period is not permitted within the SAM.gov process. NAICS and PSC code modifications must be completed during the designated 365-day renewal timeframe to guarantee registration compliance.
What Happens if I Select Incorrect Codes for My Business?
Selecting incorrect codes can lead to serious consequences of errors including missed opportunities, rejected bids, and compliance issues. Businesses should promptly focus on correcting mistakes through proper appeal processes to avoid continued negative impacts.
Is There a Limit to How Many Codes I Can Select?
No formal code selection limits exist for NAICS or PSC codes in SAM.gov. However, businesses typically benefit from selecting 5-15 relevant codes rather than excessive multiple code options that dilute focus and searchability.
Do International Contractors Need Different NAICS or PSC Codes?
International contractors utilize the same NAICS and PSC code requirements as domestic contractors. Their selection should accurately reflect their business activities regardless of location, though they should focus on codes relevant to U.S. market operations.