What Is a UEI Number?
A UEI (Unique Entity ID) is the 12-character ID SAM.gov assigns to your business. It replaced the DUNS number on April 4, 2022.
UEI (Unique Entity ID) in plain English
A UEI is made of letters and numbers, not just digits. It's free, and it doesn't expire, but your SAM.gov registration must be renewed every year to stay active.
You can get a UEI without completing a full registration, but a UEI-only business can't bid on contracts as a prime contractor. To do that, you need a full registration.
Your UEI isn't your EIN or your CAGE code. The IRS issues the EIN, SAM.gov issues the UEI, and the Defense Logistics Agency assigns the CAGE code.
Related terms
- CAGE code: A CAGE code is a five-character ID the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) assigns to a business location that registers to bid on federal contracts.
- SAM.gov: SAM.gov is the free official government website where businesses register to work with the federal government and agencies post contract opportunities.
- Prime contractor: A prime contractor is the business that holds a contract directly with the government. It's responsible for all the work, including any it subcontracts.
Put it to work
- Look up a UEI or CAGE code
- Check a SAM.gov registration status
- What a UEI number is and how to get one
Looking for another term? Browse the full glossary or the government contracting glossary guide.