If you've ever tried to apply for a federal grant or respond to a government contract, you've run into a wall: you need a UEI number before you can even submit an application. This guide explains exactly what a UEI is, why you need one, and how to get it — for free, in about 30 minutes.
What Is a UEI Number?
A Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) is a 12-character alphanumeric code assigned to every organization that does business with the federal government. It replaced the old DUNS number (issued by Dun & Bradstreet) in April 2022.
The UEI is now managed directly by the federal government through SAM.gov — no third-party vendor required, and no fee to obtain it.
You need a UEI if you want to:
- Apply for federal grants through grants.gov
- Bid on government contracts
- Register as a federal contractor or subcontractor
- Receive federal awards of any kind
Step-by-Step: How to Get Your UEI
Step 1: Go to SAM.gov
Visit sam.gov and click "Get Started." You'll need to create a login.gov account if you don't already have one. Login.gov is the federal government's single sign-on system — it's free and takes about 5 minutes to set up with identity verification.
Step 2: Register your entity
Once logged in, select "Register Your Entity." You'll be asked for:
- Legal business name — must match your formation documents exactly
- Physical address — a P.O. box is not sufficient; you need a street address
- Business type — select the correct category (sole proprietorship, nonprofit, LLC, corporation, etc.)
- NAICS code — your primary industry classification code (see census.gov/naics if you're unsure)
Step 3: Receive your UEI
After submitting your entity information, SAM.gov generates your UEI immediately. You'll see it on the confirmation screen. Write it down — you'll use it on every federal grant application going forward.
Step 4: Complete full SAM registration (if needed)
Getting a UEI is just the first step. If you want to apply for federal contracts or certain federal grants, you'll also need to complete full SAM registration, which includes:
- Banking information (for electronic funds transfer)
- Representations and certifications
- NAICS code selection
Full SAM registration takes 1–3 business days to activate after submission, and must be renewed annually or your registration will lapse.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using a P.O. box as your address. SAM.gov requires a physical street address. If you operate from home and don't want to list your home address, use a registered agent's address or a coworking space.
Name mismatches. Your legal business name in SAM.gov must exactly match your state formation documents. Even minor differences ("LLC" vs. "L.L.C.") can cause delays.
Forgetting to renew. SAM.gov registrations expire annually. Set a calendar reminder 60 days before your expiration date — lapsed registrations can disqualify you from active grant applications.
Waiting until the deadline. UEI registration is usually instant, but full SAM registration can take 1–3 business days. Don't start this process the day before a grant deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is getting a UEI free? Yes. SAM.gov issues UEIs at no charge. Be cautious of third-party services that charge fees to "help" you register — you can do it yourself for free.
Can an individual (not a business) get a UEI? Yes. Individuals, sole proprietors, and unincorporated associations can register and receive a UEI, not just formal business entities.
How long does UEI registration take? Your UEI is generated immediately upon submitting your entity information. Full SAM.gov registration (required for contracts and some grants) takes 1–3 business days.
Do I need a UEI for private foundation grants? Generally no. Private foundation and corporate grant programs don't require a UEI. It's specifically required for federal government funding.
What's the difference between a UEI and a CAGE code? A UEI identifies your entity. A CAGE (Commercial and Government Entity) code is an additional 5-character identifier assigned after SAM registration — primarily used for Department of Defense contracts and some federal procurement processes.
Can I have more than one UEI? Each legal entity gets one UEI. If you operate multiple legal entities (e.g., a nonprofit and a for-profit subsidiary), each needs its own UEI and SAM registration.