NAICS Code for Software Development
The NAICS code for software development is 541511, Custom Computer Programming Services. Custom software development, applications programming and custom web page design fall under 541511, Custom Computer Programming Services. If you publish your own software product and sell it to many customers, the right code is 513210, Software Publishers. Federal custom development is often posted under 541511 or 541512, so register both if you do both.
Related codes to add
Most businesses list several NAICS codes. Use 541511 as your primary if it covers most of your revenue, and add these when they describe work you also do:
| Code | Use it when | Size standard |
|---|---|---|
| 513210 Software Publishers | You publish and sell your own software product rather than build custom software for clients. | $47 million or less in receipts |
| 541512 Computer Systems Design Services | You integrate systems or advise on technology more than you write code. | $34 million or less in receipts |
| 518210 Computing Infrastructure Providers, Data Processing, Web Hosting, and Related Services | You host applications or provide cloud infrastructure. | $40 million or less in receipts |
Government contracts for this work
- Open federal contracts, top buyers and winners for this kind of work
- NAICS code for a web design business (also 541511)
How to choose
Your primary NAICS code should match the work that brings in most of your revenue, and it sets which size standard applies to you for most set-aside contracts. Read each code's Census definition before you register. Our guide on how to choose NAICS codes covers the trade-offs. To see whether you count as small under these codes, try the size standard checker.
Frequently asked questions
What is the NAICS code for software development?
The NAICS code for software development is 541511, Custom Computer Programming Services. Custom software development, applications programming and custom web page design fall under 541511, Custom Computer Programming Services. If you publish your own software product and sell it to many customers, the right code is 513210, Software Publishers. Federal custom development is often posted under 541511 or 541512, so register both if you do both.
What is the SBA size standard for NAICS 541511?
A business counts as small under NAICS 541511 with $34 million or less in average annual receipts, under the SBA's table of size standards. Federal contracts set aside for small businesses under this code are limited to firms that meet it.
Can I list more than one NAICS code?
Yes. In your SAM.gov registration you pick one primary NAICS code and can add as many others as describe work you can actually do. Add every code below that fits, because agencies search and set aside contracts by code.