DUNS, UEI, and EIN serve distinct purposes in federal contracting. DUNS, a 9-digit Dun & Bradstreet identifier, was replaced by UEI in April 2022. UEI is a 12-character alphanumeric identifier issued through SAM.gov for entity verification in government contracting. EIN is a tax identification number issued by the IRS for business taxation and banking. Organizations need both UEI and EIN for SAM.gov registration, with each serving different compliance requirements. The following sections explore their specific functions and registration processes.
Understanding DUNS, UEI, and EIN: Key Differences and Purposes
Business identifiers serve as essential numerical passports in the world of federal contracting and taxation. These unique codes—DUNS, UEI, and EIN—perform distinct functions within government systems.
The DUNS importance lies in its legacy as the original 9-digit identifier issued by Dun & Bradstreet for tracking business credit and federal contracts.
As the original entity identifier, DUNS established the foundation for federal contract tracking and business credit reporting across government systems.
UEI advantages include direct issuance through SAM.gov, eliminating third-party involvement since replacing DUNS in April 2022. The UEI is a 12-character alphanumeric identifier designed to streamline the entity verification process. These identifiers are comparable to SSNs for businesses in the federal system.
Meanwhile, EIN applications extend to payroll processing, business banking, and tax filing requirements. The federal systems require accurate EIN information for proper IRS tax identification and compliance tracking.
Identifier comparisons reveal critical distinctions: UEI focuses on entity verification for government opportunities, while EIN targets tax compliance.
Organizations seeking federal contracts need both a UEI for SAM registration and an EIN for tax obligations.
The Transition From DUNS to UEI: What Business Owners Need to Know
When April 4, 2022 arrived, a significant change occurred in federal identification requirements, marking the complete transformation from DUNS to the new Unique Entity ID (UEI) system.
This shift eliminated the need for third-party involvement, with UEIs now automatically generated during SAM.gov registration at no cost.
For business owners, this change simplified the federal registration process by removing potential fees and delays previously associated with DUNS. The new UEI is a 12-character alphanumeric value that replaces the nine-digit DUNS number.
However, transition challenges emerged as some legacy systems continued referencing DUNS numbers. Entities experienced registration process issues when SAM.gov validation problems blocked UEI generation. This transition was essential as UEI serves as a critical component in the entire federal procurement system.
Existing registrants were automatically transitioned, but federal contractors needed to manually update their E-Verify profiles with their new UEI.
Post-shift, all new federal funding applications now exclusively require UEI.
How Each Identifier Impacts Your Federal Contracting Eligibility
Understanding the role of each identifier creates a critical foundation for businesses seeking federal contracts. The UEI, now issued through SAM.gov, serves as the primary identification mechanism for entities pursuing government opportunities, replacing the previously required DUNS number as of April 4, 2022.
Meanwhile, an EIN remains essential for tax compliance but functions separately from the UEI in contracting processes.
Successful contracting strategies depend on maintaining accurate information across both identifiers, as discrepancies can delay or disqualify bids. Prior to the transition, DUNS numbers were uniquely nine-digit identifiers issued by Dun & Bradstreet for tracking businesses in federal systems. The UEI has become mandatory registration for any organization wanting to do business with the federal government through contracts or grants. Identifier accuracy directly influences an organization’s eligibility, with proper UEI registration streamlining the application process while valid EIN documentation ensures tax compliance requirements are met.
Entities must regularly verify both identifiers remain current in SAM.gov to uphold contracting eligibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Retrieve a Lost UEI Without Reapplying?
Lost UEI retrieval is possible without reapplication through multiple recovery methods. The UEI recovery process includes using SAM.gov’s entity search function, checking confirmation emails, contacting the help desk, or utilizing the FSD lookup service.
How Quickly Can I Obtain a New UEI?
Obtaining a new UEI through the UEI application process typically takes 7-10 business days for activation. This timeframe includes necessary UEI verification methods with external agencies like the IRS and DoD before becoming active.
Are UEIS Transferable During a Business Acquisition?
UEIs are not transferable during business acquisitions. For business continuity, acquiring companies must establish new SAM registrations under their own entity structure, receiving a new UEI through standard acquisition processes.
Can Foreign Entities Apply for a UEI?
Yes, foreign entities can apply for a UEI. The foreign entity eligibility requirements mandate obtaining an NCAGE code first, followed by completing the application process through SAM.gov, which is mandatory for U.S. government transactions.
Is a UEI Required for State-Level Government Contracts?
State contracts typically do not require a UEI, as UEI guidelines primarily apply to federal contracting. States generally maintain their own identification systems and requirements for government procurement processes.