The UEI replaced DUNS numbers in April 2022. You get one automatically when you register on SAM.gov. This is your federal identification number for all government contracting.
How to get it: Visit SAM.gov and start a new entity registration. Your UEI will be assigned during the process at no cost.
Your SAM.gov registration must be active to bid on or receive federal contracts. Registrations expire annually and must be renewed.
How to get it: Complete your entity registration at SAM.gov. Allow 7 to 10 business days for processing. Set a calendar reminder to renew before expiration.
Your legal business structure (LLC, S-Corp, C-Corp, Sole Proprietor) must be correctly identified in SAM.gov. This affects your eligibility for certain contract types.
How to get it: Confirm your entity type with your business attorney or CPA, then select the matching option during SAM.gov registration.
North American Industry Classification System codes define what your business does. Government contracts are categorized by NAICS code, and SBA size standards are tied to specific codes.
How to get it: Search NAICS codes at census.gov/naics. Select primary and secondary codes that match your services. You can add up to 20 codes in SAM.gov.