Registration in the System for Award Management (SAM.gov) is a mandatory prerequisite for any business that wants to receive federal grants, contracts, or certain other federal funding. SAM.gov is the official U.S. government system for entity registration, and maintaining an active registration is required throughout the period of any federal award. This guide walks Texas business owners through each step of the SAM.gov registration process.
Step 1: Obtain a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI)
Before registering in SAM.gov, you need a Unique Entity Identifier. The UEI replaced the DUNS number as the official federal entity identifier. You can request a UEI during the SAM.gov registration process itself, or you can obtain one in advance through SAM.gov. The UEI is free and is assigned by the federal government. UEI guide.
Step 2: Create a Login.gov Account
SAM.gov uses Login.gov for authentication. If you do not already have a Login.gov account, create one at login.gov. You will need a valid email address and must set up multi-factor authentication. Use a business email address associated with your company.
Step 3: Start Your SAM.gov Registration
Log in to SAM.gov and select the option to register a new entity. You will be asked to identify your entity type (business, individual, government, or other). Most Texas small businesses will register as a business entity.
Step 4: Enter Core Business Information
Provide the following information during registration:
- Legal business name as registered with your state
- Doing-business-as (DBA) name if applicable
- Physical business address
- Mailing address
- Business start date
- Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS
- Business type and organization structure
- State of incorporation
Step 5: Enter NAICS Codes and Product/Service Codes
Select the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) codes that describe your business activities. You can select multiple codes. Also select Product and Service Codes (PSC) that describe what you sell. These codes determine which federal opportunities match your business.
Step 6: Provide Financial Information
Enter your banking information for electronic funds transfer (EFT). This is required if you plan to receive federal payments. You may also need to provide information about your accounting system and financial capabilities.
Step 7: Complete Representations and Certifications
SAM.gov requires you to complete a series of representations and certifications covering topics such as small business status, tax compliance, debarment status, and other federal requirements. Read each certification carefully and answer accurately. False certifications can result in federal penalties.
Step 8: Assign an Entity Administrator
Designate an Entity Administrator who will be responsible for maintaining the SAM.gov registration. This person will manage updates, renewals, and any changes to the registration. The Entity Administrator must be associated with the business.
Step 9: Submit and Validate
After completing all sections, submit your registration. SAM.gov will validate your information against IRS records and other federal databases. Validation typically takes 7 to 10 business days but can take longer if discrepancies are found.
Step 10: Renew Annually
SAM.gov registrations must be renewed every 12 months. Set a calendar reminder to renew before your registration expires. An expired registration will prevent you from receiving new federal awards and may affect existing awards.
Common Issues and Solutions
- IRS validation failure: Ensure your business name and EIN match exactly what the IRS has on file. Contact the IRS to resolve discrepancies.
- CAGE code delays: International businesses or first-time registrants may experience delays in CAGE code assignment.
- Login.gov issues: Ensure your multi-factor authentication method is working before starting the SAM registration.
Find Federal Programs for Your Business
SAM.gov registration is the gateway to federal grants and contracts. Our screening report identifies which federal and state programs match your business. Start your free screening →