UEI, DUNS, and CAGE codes serve distinct purposes in federal contracting. UEI replaced DUNS on April 4, 2022, becoming the mandatory identifier for SAM.gov registrations and federal contracts. CAGE codes, issued by the Defense Logistics Agency, identify physical facility locations rather than business entities. During SAM.gov registration, contractors receive a UEI automatically and may obtain a CAGE code if required. Understanding these identifiers helps contractors navigate federal procurement requirements effectively. The differences between these codes impact how businesses engage with government opportunities.
The Evolution From DUNS to UEI: What Government Contractors Need to Know
Three critical dates mark the changeover from DUNS to UEI in government contracting systems. The DUNS phase-out was first announced in July 2019, with the formal UEI adoption codified in August 2020 through 2 CFR 25 updates, and final implementation completed on April 4, 2022.
This identifier standardization transformed how contractors register for federal opportunities. Entities with active SAM.gov profiles received automatic UEI assignment, eliminating the need for third-party DUNS registration. The transition aimed to allow competition in validation processes rather than relying on a single vendor like D&B.
The alteration maintained historical continuity through DUNS-to-UEI mapping data while shifting data validation responsibilities directly to SAM.gov. The UEI serves as a unique identifier system for accurately tracking financial data across government interactions.
For contractors, this change brought significant benefits: streamlined registration processes, reduced costs by eliminating DUNS-related fees, and improved federal compliance through direct government management of entity identification systems. This change is especially important for organizations receiving federal grant dollars as having a UEI is now mandatory for accessing funding opportunities.
Understanding the Key Differences Between UEI, DUNS, and CAGE Codes
Government contractors must understand the distinct identification systems used in federal procurement, as each serves a specific purpose in the contracting ecosystem.
The identifier comparisons reveal fundamental differences in format and authority: UEI is issued by SAM.gov as an alphanumeric code, CAGE by the Defense Logistics Agency as a five-character code, and DUNS by Dun & Bradstreet as a nine-digit number.
Registration requirements vary across these systems. UEI is now mandatory for SAM.gov registration and all federal contracts, replacing the previously required DUNS number. Unlike the EIN which is used for tax identification purposes, the UEI specifically identifies entities applying for federal grants and contracts.
CAGE codes remain essential for defense contracts and inventory management, identifying physical locations rather than business entities. The CAGE code system provides a standardized method of identifying specific facility locations for government contracting purposes. All CAGE codes acquired after August 26, 2016 must undergo renewal every five years.
While UEI aims for universality across government systems, CAGE codes serve more specialized functions within defense procurement channels.
Navigating the SAM.gov Registration Process for Each Identifier
The SAM.gov portal serves as the central hub where contractors must register to receive government identification codes necessary for federal procurement opportunities. The registration process follows a structured approach, beginning with gathering essential documentation including business details, ownership information, and banking data.
SAM.gov functions as the essential gateway for contractors seeking federal procurement access through required government identification codes.
Understanding identifier importance helps businesses navigate registration challenges effectively. The process has been streamlined since the shift from DUNS to UEI, with the latter now automatically assigned during SAM registration. While DUNS numbers remain relevant for credit reporting purposes, they are no longer required for federal contracting. Registration in SAM.gov is legally required for any organization seeking to do business with the federal government.
For CAGE codes, which identify specific facility locations, the Department of Defense issues these during the SAM registration process. Entities can track the status of their CAGE code validation through the Entity Status Tracker provided after signing in to SAM.gov. The physical address used during registration must be a verifiable location where business is consistently conducted, not a PO box or virtual office.
Companies must remember that SAM registrations require annual renewal to maintain active status and eligibility for government contracts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can International Entities Obtain CAGE Codes?
International entities cannot obtain CAGE codes. Instead, foreign businesses must obtain NATO Commercial and Government Entity (NCAGE) codes as a prerequisite for SAM registration. CAGE Code Requirements specify this distinction for International Registration purposes.
How Quickly Can I Receive My UEI After Applying?
The UEI application timeline typically ranges from 1-4 business days for standard processing if no discrepancies exist. Complete SAM registrations may take up to 10 business days, though expedited UEI processing sometimes occurs during submission.
Are UEIS Transferable During Company Mergers or Acquisitions?
UEI transferability during mergers and acquisitions generally depends on the transaction structure. When legal entity status changes considerably, new UEIs are typically required, while asset purchases may necessitate registration updates within 30 days of ownership changes.
Can a Business Have Multiple CAGE Codes?
Yes, businesses can have multiple CAGE codes. This arrangement offers CAGE code benefits for different locations, subsidiaries, or business units, especially when operating distinct facilities or maintaining separate compliance requirements for government contracts.
What Happens to My DUNS Number After the Transition?
After the changeover, DUNS numbers remain valid for non-federal purposes but are retired as federal identifiers. They persist in legacy records for historical reference while UEI completely replaces their function in federal contracting systems.