The UEI (12 alphanumeric characters) is the primary business identifier for federal procurement systems, replacing DUNS in 2022, and links to legal business entities regardless of location. The CAGE code (5 characters) is issued by the Defense Logistics Agency, ties to physical addresses, and supports defense-related procurement. Both identifiers are required for SAM registration, though UEI requires annual renewal while CAGE codes need updates only when location or entity changes occur. The following sections explore their distinct roles in government contracting processes.
Understanding UEI and CAGE Code: Core Definitions and Purposes
Identifiers serve as the backbone of federal contracting systems, allowing the government to track and manage business relationships efficiently.
The UEI significance lies in its role as the primary business identifier for all federal procurement systems since 2022, replacing the previously used DUNS number. This 12-character alphanumeric code uniquely identifies entities across government systems, streamlining procurement processes. The UEI is essential for SAM registration and mandatory for all organizations seeking federal contracts or grants.
The UEI has revolutionized federal procurement by creating a standardized identification system that enhances efficiency across government transactions.
In contrast, CAGE code utility centers on defense-related procurement. This five-character alphanumeric identifier, issued by the Defense Logistics Agency, standardizes identification for suppliers and facilities doing business with the Department of Defense. The CAGE code is required for selling to the government and supports various procurement processes across agencies. Unlike many registration services that charge fees, the CAGE code application process is completely free through proper channels.
While the UEI is mandatory for all federal contracting, the CAGE code serves specific defense and security-related functions, particularly for tracking facilities with security clearances.
Key Format and Application Differences Between UEI and CAGE Code
The structural anatomy of UEI and CAGE code differs greatly, affecting how businesses interact with government procurement systems.
UEI consists of 12 alphanumeric characters (excluding “O” and “I”), while CAGE codes use 5 characters without such restrictions. These format characteristics directly impact their application scope. Both identifiers are required for registration on the Federal System for Award Management (SAM).
UEIs link to legal business entities regardless of physical locations, making them ideal for federal financial assistance tracking. Conversely, CAGE codes tie specifically to physical addresses, enabling precise supply chain management for defense purposes. CAGE codes are managed by DLA specifically for Department of Defense contracting activities. The UEI has officially replaced DUNS numbers as the primary identifier for entities doing business with the federal government.
Compliance management also varies greatly between identifiers.
UEI requires annual SAM.gov renewal with emphasis on digital identity verification. CAGE codes need updates only when location or entity changes occur, focusing primarily on validating physical locations for defense logistics systems and NATO operations.
How UEI and CAGE Code Impact Government Contracting Processes
While navigation through government contracting might seem labyrinthine, UEI and CAGE codes serve as essential navigational tools that fundamentally reshape procurement processes. These identifiers streamline contractor identification and enhance procurement efficiency across federal agencies. Entities must renew annually their SAM registration to maintain compliance with federal requirements. The UEI has become particularly important since it replaced DUNS numbers as the primary identifier in the federal government’s systems.
| Impact Area | UEI | CAGE Code |
|---|---|---|
| Identification | Universal tracking across agencies | Facilitates vendor verification |
| Payments | Simplifies payment tracking | Streamlines payment processing |
| Security | Guarantees regulatory compliance | Enables classified project access |
| Operations | Reduces bureaucratic delays | Enhances vendor credibility |
| Opportunities | Opens federal market access | Facilitates strategic partnerships |
Both systems work in tandem to guarantee compliance verification while reducing administrative burdens. Government buyers rely on these identifiers to quickly assess vendor credibility and qualification status, ultimately creating a more efficient procurement ecosystem that benefits both agencies and contractors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a Foreign Entity Obtain a UEI or CAGE Code?
Foreign entities can obtain a UEI through SAM.gov registration after securing an NCAGE code (not CAGE). The foreign eligibility requirements include a structured registration process beginning with NCAGE application through NATO channels.
What Happens if My CAGE Code or UEI Expires?
Expired CAGE codes prevent federal contract eligibility and halt payments on existing contracts. UEI renewal requires annual SAM registration updates to maintain validity, though the identifier itself doesn’t expire, only its usability becomes limited.
How Long Does It Take to Receive a UEI?
UEIs are typically assigned immediately upon successful SAM.gov registration. Processing time can be affected by application requirements and accuracy of submitted business information. No standard waiting period exists for UEI assignment in normal circumstances.
Can One Business Have Multiple UEIS or CAGE Codes?
Businesses typically maintain one UEI per entity during business registration. Multiple CAGE codes may be permitted in limited circumstances, such as operating under different names or for specific NATO purposes, but multiple identifiers are generally discouraged.
Are UEI and CAGE Codes Publicly Accessible Information?
Both UEI and CAGE codes are public records without significant data privacy protections. They can be freely accessed through SAM.gov and DLA databases, enabling contract research, compliance verification, and procurement transparency for all interested parties.