Step-by-Step Guide to Registering for SAM
Self Help Resource for Federal Contractors
Can you register in SAM (System for Award Management) on your own? Yes, absolutely! This guide is here to empower you with the knowledge and tools needed to complete your SAM registration independently. Whether you’re a seasoned federal contractor or just starting out, this step-by-step resource simplifies the process, giving you the confidence to handle registration yourself.
However, for some applicants, the process of registering in SAM can feel overwhelming due to the complex requirements and the need for precise documentation. That’s why many businesses choose to work with professional SAM registration services, like those offered by the Federal Contracting Center. Our SAM experts help ensure your registration is accurate, save you valuable time, and provide peace of mind by maintaining compliance with strict federal guidelines.
Whether you decide to do it yourself or use trusted professionals, this guide is your starting point for accessing opportunities in the federal marketplace.
SAM Workspace
The SAM (System for Award Management) workspace is your ultimate hub for managing entity registrations and renewals to align with U.S. government requirements. This platform brings all your compliance needs into one central system, putting control right at your fingertips.
Your eligibility for government contracts relies on staying compliant. Don’t risk missing out on opportunities that could drive your business forward.
Once you’re logged in, your dashboard displays vital information, delivering a clear snapshot of your entity’s standing. Keep tabs on registration expiration dates, manage critical alerts, and address pending tasks with confidence. The workspace outlines exactly what’s required, guiding you through updates like business details, banking information, and certifications to ensure your entity remains ready and eligible.
Initial Verification
Start your Initial Entity Verification by selecting the option that best suits your needs. If you’re only looking to update or adjust key contact details, choose “Points of Contact updates” to make those changes quickly.
Alternatively, if your entire registration requires a refresh or renewal, opt for “Update/Renew entire registration” to ensure your information stays complete and compliant. Take a moment to determine what needs attention and make your selection to move forward with confidence.
Registration Purpose
Discover the Purpose of Registration for your entity under the “All Awards” category. This enables you to unlock opportunities, such as bidding on federal contracts and procurements guided by the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR)—a set of rules ensuring transparency and fairness in government acquisitions.
Additionally, it lets you apply for federal assistance like grants and loans, as outlined in 2 CFR 200. The page prompts you to confirm or modify the purpose of your registration. Simply select “Yes” if you need to make changes or “No” to proceed without adjustments. Take the time to align your registration purpose with your goals.
Confirm, Select, & Validate Your Entity
Streamline your registration process by moving through these three connected steps seamlessly.
Start with Confirming Your Entity by entering your legal business name and physical address to establish a secure foundation for your registration. Next, proceed to Entity Selection, where you’ll provide your UEI (Unique Entity Identifier), a unique code assigned to identify your organization, and your CAGE/NCAGE (Commercial and Government Entity Code/NATO Commercial and Government Entity Code), which is used for federal contracting and international registrations. After entering these details, you’ll be prompted to select a match from the results.
Finally, move to Validating Your Entity, where you’ll review and confirm the accuracy of the selected entity information, including providing the Years of Incorporation and the State of Incorporation. Each step ensures that your entity details are verified and precisely aligned for smooth registration. Take your time to provide accurate information and complete each section with confidence!
Confirming Your Entity
Entity Selection
Validating Your Entity
Entity Information
Public vs. Nonpublic Search
Easily review and manage your entity’s details under the Entity Information section. Here, you’ll find key information like your Registration, Unique Entity ID, Purpose of Registration, Physical Address, CAGE/NCAGE, and Expiration Date displayed for your reference.
You’ll also have the option to decide whether to include your entity in public search. Enabling public search makes your record visible on SAM.gov to include your record status, legal business name, and physical address, allowing state and local governments or other non-federal entities to view your details if they seek to do business with you. If you prefer to restrict this access, simply deselect the checkbox to make your information invisible to these entities while keeping it accessible to federal government users only.
Take a moment to consider how you want your visibility settings configured and make a choice that aligns with your business needs.
Core Data
Dashboard
The Core Data Dashboard for SAM Registration gives you a clear snapshot of your progress toward completing your entity’s registration.
On this dashboard, you’ll see the key sections that remain to be finished, including Core Data, Assertions, Representations of Certifications, and Points of Contacts. Each step is vital to ensuring your registration is accurate and compliant, allowing you to participate in federal opportunities with confidence.
Business Information
Complete the Business Information section to provide a comprehensive overview of your entity. This page asks you to answer specific questions to better describe your organization, ensuring accuracy throughout your registration.
Key details required include your entity’s start date, fiscal year end close date, entity division name and number, entity URL, and congressional district. Additionally, you’ll need to create an MPIN (Marketing Partner Identification Number), a secure identifier shared with authorized partner applications to facilitate transactions and partnerships.
Take your time to provide precise and complete information in each field. This ensures that your registration reflects your entity’s structure and details accurately, maintaining compliance and enhancing your opportunities for contracts and collaborations.
Physical & Mailing Addresses
Business Information Continued
Complete this continuation of the Business Information page by entering and verifying key details about your entity.
This section includes fields for your entity’s physical business address and mailing address, both of which are required for confirming your organization’s location and ensuring accurate correspondences.
You’ll also be asked to provide your Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) and Employer Identification Number (EIN). The TIN is used for tax-related purposes and can be either a Social Security Number (SSN) for individuals or an EIN for businesses. The EIN, assigned by the IRS, is a unique identifier that businesses use for tax reporting and filing. It serves as a component in ensuring tax compliance and distinguishing your entity in financial and legal records.
IRS Consent
The IRS Consent page is a key step in your registration process, enabling the necessary Consent of Disclosure of Tax Information. By completing this page, you authorize the submission of required details for a TIN Match to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).
It’s important to note that once you proceed, the information entered on this page cannot be edited while the TIN Match is being performed. To complete the form, you’ll need to use your MPIN (Marketing Partner Identification Number) as your digital signature, confirming your consent.
TIN Match
IRS Consent Continued
The TIN Match page helps verify your entity’s tax information with the IRS. This page includes both instructions and a form to guide you through the process. You’ll need to provide Taxpayer Information based on the most current tax year reported for your entity. It’s critical that the Taxpayer Name you enter matches exactly with the name the IRS has on file for your entity’s Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN), as reflected in your most recent tax return.
The form includes the following fields for you to complete:
- Taxpayer Name
- Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN)
- Taxpayer Address
- Signature with MPIN (Marketing Partner Identification Number)
Double-check all entries to ensure they match IRS records. Errors or discrepancies could result in delays, so take the time to review everything before submitting.
CAGE Code
The CAGE/NCAGE Code page is designed to help you provide and validate your organization’s CAGE Code, which is a unique identifier used in federal contracting and other government activities. The Commercial and Government Entity (CAGE) Code is essential for identifying your entity within the system and facilitates processes like contracts and grants.
If your entity already has a CAGE Code, you need to enter it on this page so SAM can check its validity. For those who are unsure of their CAGE Code or need assistance to obtain one, the page provides guidance on accessing the necessary information through the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) CAGE website. Ensuring you have the correct details will streamline the process.
Ownership Details
The Ownership Details page is a vital part of the SAM registration process, addressing requirements outlined in the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Subpart 4.18. This section ensures users provide information about the ownership and control of their entity, which is essential for meeting federal compliance standards. The details gathered here will be used to populate FAR Clause 52.204-17, which will later require certification during the Reps & Certs section.
On this page, you will need to answer the question, “Does another entity own or control the entity being registered?” You must select either Yes or No to proceed. This step is crucial for maintaining transparency and adhering to federal regulations. Ensure the accuracy of the ownership information you submit, as it plays a key role in completing your registration and avoiding potential compliance issues.
Predecessor Details
The Predecessor Details section plays a critical role in meeting the requirements of Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Subpart 4.1804(d). It asks users to disclose any predecessors to their entity, which refers to organizations that previously held federal contracts or grants and are linked to the current entity as its successor. This step ensures proper documentation and compliance with federal guidelines.
The information collected here will be used to complete a provision that must be certified in the Reps & Certs section of the process for registering in SAM. To comply, you’ll need to answer the question, “Are you a successor to a predecessor that held Federal Contracts or grants within the previous 3 years?” by selecting either Yes or No.
General Information
The General Information page provides a comprehensive overview of the entity being registered. This section requires you to supply key details about your organization, including the country and state of incorporation, the entity’s security level, and the highest security level held by any employee.
Additionally, you’ll need to provide information about your Entity Type, which classifies your organization as either a business or an organization. Depending on your entity, further details may be required, such as the institution type, disadvantaged business enterprise status, and Native American entity type, if applicable.
Organization Factors
General Information Continued
The Organization Factors page is an extension of the General Information section, designed to gather more specific details about your entity. This page helps determine whether certain factors apply to your organization. If none of the listed factors are relevant, you are prompted to select the ‘Not Applicable’ option.
Key fields on this page include Entity Structure, where you identify your organization’s structure as defined by the IRS, and Profit Structure, which requires you to specify your entity’s profit model. Another important section is Socio-Economic Categories, where you must indicate if your entity qualifies under classifications such as veteran-owned business, woman-owned business, EDWOSB (Economically Disadvantaged Women-Owned Small Business), joint-venture WOSB, joint-venture EDWOSB, community development corporation-owned firm, or minority-owned business.
It’s essential to select the factors that accurately describe your entity. Take the time to review your responses carefully before submission.
Financial Information
The Financial Information page is designed to gather essential financial details about the entity being registered, ensuring smooth transactions and compliance with federal requirements.
Key fields on this page include:
- Do you accept credit cards as a payment method? This field determines whether your organization can process payment via credit cards.
- Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT): A secure method of transferring money electronically between financial accounts.
- Automated Clearing House (ACH): A network used for processing electronic payments, such as direct deposits or bill payments.
- Remittance Address: The specific location where payments, such as checks or invoices, should be sent.
Executive Compensation Questions
The Executive Compensation Questions page focuses on gathering information to determine if your entity needs to disclose total compensation details for its five highest-paid executives. This section includes critical questions such as:
- Revenue Sources: Does your entity derive 80% or more of its annual gross revenues from U.S. federal contracts, subcontracts, grants, subgrants, loans, and/or cooperative agreements?
- Revenue Threshold: Does your entity earn $25,000,000 or more in annual gross revenues from the above-mentioned sources?
- Public Disclosure: Is the compensation of your senior executives publicly accessible through periodic reports filed under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 or Section 6104 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986?
Proceedings Questions
The Proceedings Questions page is designed to determine if your entity meets the conditions outlined in FAR 52.209-7, FAR 52.209-9, or 2 C.F.R. 200 Appendix XII. Users will need to provide information about whether their business or organization has a Unique Entity ID, if they are participating in Federal opportunities containing provisions from these regulations, or if they hold active Federal contracts or grants exceeding $10 million.
Additionally, you must disclose any relevant proceedings within the last five years, including criminal, civil, or administrative cases involving the entity or its principals. This includes cases that resulted in convictions, findings of fault, monetary penalties, or reimbursements exceeding specific thresholds. Providing complete and accurate answers is critical for maintaining compliance, ensuring transparency, and adhering to federal reporting obligations.
Assertions
NAICS & PSC Codes
The NAICS & PSC Codes page helps users define the goods and services their entity offers. Users can search for and add NAICS codes through a convenient search tool, then view the selected codes in a designated field. Within this field, one code can be marked as the primary to represent your entity’s main business activity.
A description field is also available, allowing users to provide additional details about their entity’s goods and/or services. Clear and accurate input ensures precise classification, aiding in alignment with federal or business requirements.
Size Metrics
The Size Metrics page outlines the organizational size of your entity, encompassing the parent organization, all branches, and affiliates worldwide. This information is essential for determining small business size status by industry, as defined by the SBA Table of Size Standards.
The page includes fields for entering worldwide annual receipts and the total number of employees. Additionally, there are optional fields to provide receipts and employee numbers specific to the location associated with the Unique Entity ID (UEI) being registered. Accurate data entry is crucial for ensuring proper classification and compliance with industry standards.
EDI Information
The EDI Information page provides users with the option to include their Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) information, if applicable. For most registrants, the default selection is set to ‘No.’ However, entities that utilize a Value-Added Network (VAN) provider can select ‘Yes’ and input their EDI details to enable electronic transactions and efficient communication with trading partners.
Users who choose to provide this information will need to complete specific fields, such as the EDI VAN Provider, ISA Qualifier, ISA Identifier, Functional Group Identifier, and the 820s Request Flag. Accurate entry of these details is critical to ensuring seamless data exchange and avoiding potential transactional issues. This feature is especially valuable for entities that rely on automated processes to manage their operations and maintain strong compliance with electronic communication standards.
Disaster Response
The Disaster Response page is for entities that wish to be listed in the Disaster Response Registry, enabling them to contribute to efforts during national emergencies. This includes services such as supply distribution, debris removal, reconstruction, and other critical disaster relief operations. Being part of this registry positions your entity as a resource for supporting the nation’s response and recovery activities.
On this page, users must indicate their preference to be listed in the registry, whether their company requires bonding, specify the bonding level if applicable, and define their geographic service area. Options for the service area include any state, one state, or multiple states. Completing this section is essential for entities eager to play an active role in emergency and disaster relief efforts, showcasing their capability and readiness to assist when it matters most.
Representations and Certifications
FAR Responses
The FAR Response 1, FAR Response 2, FAR Response 3, and FAR Response 4 pages guide users through a series of questions focused on the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR). These questions, spanning across four pages, are structured to complete a specific FAR provision and ensure your entity’s compliance with federal regulations.
Each page features carefully designed fields to gather essential information. Accurate and thorough responses are critical, as they directly impact your entity’s adherence to FAR requirements. By completing these pages, you confirm that your organization meets the necessary provisions, maintaining transparency and alignment with federal standards.
Architect & Engineer Response
The Architect & Engineer Response page is necessary for entities that selected a NAICS code associated with engineering or architect activities in the Assertions section. On this page, users are required to provide additional details needed to complete Standard Form (SF) 330 Part III, ensuring compliance and full disclosure of relevant qualifications.
If none of the applicable NAICS codes were chosen, the page will automatically be pre-filled to indicate that SF 330 Part III is not applicable to your entity. This streamlined approach helps ensure that only relevant submissions are requested, saving time and maintaining efficiency.
Defense Response
The Defense Response page is designed for entities involved in Department of Defense (DoD) funded or issued contracts. Here, users are required to answer questions related to the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS). If your entity has indicated an interest in pursuing DoD contracts, you will need to provide additional responses tailored to specific DFARS provisions.
Completing this page accurately is critical to ensure compliance with DoD contract requirements. It helps demonstrate your entity’s readiness to fulfill the unique standards and regulations associated with defense-related projects.
Financial Assistance Response
The Financial Assistance Response page outlines a standardized set of certifications and representations required under Federal statutes or regulations, aligned with grant guidance. Users who intend to apply for, or are currently receiving, federal grants or agreements must review and agree to these grant certifications and representations.
Maintaining the accuracy, currency, and completeness of this information is a critical part of registering in SAM. By ensuring these details are up-to-date, you uphold compliance and eligibility for federal financial assistance, paving the way for uninterrupted participation in grant or agreement programs.
SBA Profile
The SBA Business Certification page offers valuable information for businesses looking to enhance their visibility through the Small Business Administration’s Dynamic Small Business Search (DSBS). The DSBS serves as a powerful tool that federal agencies and contractors use to locate small businesses for potential contracting and partnership opportunities.
This page provides guidance on who qualifies to apply for certification and outlines the steps needed to complete the process. By securing this certification and being listed in the DSBS, your business can increase its chances of connecting with government agencies and contractors actively seeking small business participation.
Need help with your SAM registration?
Don’t stress—we’re here to assist! Our experts at the Federal Contracting Center are ready to save you time, ensure accuracy, and keep you fully compliant with federal requirements.
Don’t let registration challenges slow you down. Contact us today for professional guidance and get started on seizing federal opportunities with confidence!
Our SAM specialists are ready to take your call (855) 700-5143
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