SAM.gov Registration Guide
Everything you need to register your business and start bidding on federal contracts. Free registration, typically 7-10 business days.
📌 Note: You don't need SAM.gov registration to use GovIntel. Search contracts, get AI assistance, and explore opportunities right away. Registration is only required when you're ready to actually bid on a contract.
📋 Quick Checklist — Gather These First
EIN (Employer Identification Number)
Your business tax ID from the IRS. If you don't have one, apply at irs.gov.
Bank Account Information
Routing number, account number, and bank name for electronic fund transfers (EFT).
NAICS Codes
Industry codes that describe your business. Search at census.gov/naics.
Business Address & Contact Info
Physical address, mailing address (if different), phone, and email.
Authorized Representative
Someone who can legally sign for your business (owner, officer, etc.).
Before You Start
Set yourself up for success
SAM.gov registration is free but takes some preparation. Block out about 1-2 hours to complete it in one sitting, or save your progress and return later.
Pro tip: Use Chrome or Edge browser. SAM.gov can be finicky with Safari and Firefox.
- Create a Login.gov account first (SAM.gov uses it for authentication)
- Have all your documents ready — you'll need them throughout
- Your UEI (Unique Entity ID) will be assigned automatically during registration
- If you had a DUNS number, it's been replaced by the UEI
Important: Never pay for SAM.gov registration. It's completely free. Scammers often charge for "registration services."
Create Your Account
Login.gov + SAM.gov setup
- Go to SAM.gov and click "Sign In"
- You'll be redirected to Login.gov — create an account if you don't have one
- Set up two-factor authentication (required)
- Return to SAM.gov and click "Get Started" under Entity Registration
- Select "Register New Entity"
Login.gov tip: Save your authentication codes somewhere secure. You'll need them every time you sign in.
Entity Information
Tell the government about your business
This section validates your business exists and assigns your UEI.
- Legal Business Name: Exactly as it appears on your tax documents
- Physical Address: Your actual business location (no P.O. boxes)
- Start Date: When your business was established
- Business Type: LLC, Corporation, Sole Proprietor, etc.
- State of Incorporation: Where you registered your business
Heads up: Your business info will be validated against public records. Make sure everything matches exactly.
Core Data
The essential details
- NAICS Codes: Add all codes that apply to your work (primary + secondary)
- PSC Codes: Product and Service Codes — optional but helpful
- EFT/Banking Info: Where the government will send payments
- Electronic Business POC: Who handles electronic communications
- Government Business POC: Main contact for contracting matters
NAICS tip: Add your primary code first, then add secondary codes for related services. More codes = more visibility in searches.
Representations & Certifications
Legal attestations about your business
This is the longest section. You'll answer questions about your business size, ownership, and compliance with federal requirements.
- Small Business Size: Based on NAICS codes and SBA size standards
- Ownership: Who owns the business and their demographics
- Socioeconomic Status: 8(a), HUBZone, SDVOSB, WOSB, etc.
- Past Performance: Previous government contracts (if any)
- Certifications: Various compliance certifications
Be accurate: These are legal certifications. False statements can result in penalties or debarment from federal contracting.
Don't have certifications yet? That's okay! You can still register. Add certifications later as you obtain them (8(a), HUBZone, etc.)
Review & Submit
Final check and submission
- Review all sections for accuracy
- Your authorized representative must digitally sign
- Submit your registration
- You'll receive a confirmation email
- Wait for validation (7-10 business days typically)
After approval: You'll receive your CAGE code (if you didn't have one) and can start bidding on contracts!
What's next?
- Set a calendar reminder to renew annually (registrations expire after 1 year)
- Start searching for contract opportunities
- Consider pursuing small business certifications (8(a), HUBZone, etc.)
⏱️ Expected Timeline
Ready to Find Contracts?
While you wait for SAM.gov approval, start exploring opportunities with GovIntel.