SAM.gov Registration Guide

What is SAM.gov?

SAM.gov (System for Award Management) is the official U.S. government website where entities register to do business with the federal government. Registration is required before you can:

• Apply for federal grants
• Bid on government contracts
• Receive federal payments

Before You Start

Gather these items before beginning registration:

Required Information

• Legal Business Name - Exactly as registered with IRS
• EIN (Employer Identification Number) - From IRS
• DUNS/UEI Number - Unique Entity Identifier
• NAICS Codes - Industry classification codes
• Bank Account Information - For EFT payments
• Point of Contact - Name, email, phone

Required Documents

• Articles of Incorporation (or equivalent)
• Business license (if applicable)
• W-9 form

Step-by-Step Registration Process

Step 1: Get Your UEI

The Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) has replaced the DUNS number:

1. Go to SAM.gov
2. Start the registration process
3. Your UEI will be assigned automatically
4. Save this number - you'll need it for all applications

Step 2: Create Your SAM.gov Account

1. Visit SAM.gov and click "Sign In"
2. Create a Login.gov account (required for SAM access)
3. Verify your email address
4. Set up multi-factor authentication

Step 3: Complete Entity Registration

1. Click "Get Started" under Entity Registration
2. Enter your UEI number
3. Complete all required sections:
   • Core Data (legal name, address, EIN)
   • Assertions (size, ownership)
   • Representations & Certifications
   • Points of Contact

Step 4: Submit and Wait

• Review all information carefully
• Submit your registration
• Wait for IRS TIN validation (7-10 business days)
• Registration typically takes 10-15 business days total

Maintaining Your Registration

Annual Renewal

• SAM registration must be renewed every 365 days
• Set a reminder 60 days before expiration
• Update any changed information during renewal

Keeping Information Current

• Update within 30 days of any changes
• Especially important: address, banking info, POC

Troubleshooting Common Issues

TIN Validation Failure

• Ensure legal name matches IRS records exactly
• Contact IRS if there are discrepancies
• May need to update IRS records first

Bank Account Validation

• Account must be in entity's name
• Allow 3-5 days for validation
• Contact your bank if issues persist

SAM.gov Help Resources

• Help Desk: 866-606-8220
• Email: Help@SAM.gov
• Live Chat: Available on SAM.gov
• Hours: 8am-8pm ET, Monday-Friday

Next Steps

Once registered in SAM.gov:

1. Create your Grants.gov account
2. Complete your eligibility profile on GrantNavigation
3. Start searching for opportunities!