How (and Why) to Register for a UEI Number

A UEI (Unique Entity Identifier) is a 12-character ID issued by the U.S. government. It replaces the old DUNS number and is used to identify your business or organization in government systems.

You need a UEI number if you plan to:

• Apply for federal grants, loans, or contracts
• Receive funding from a government program
• Work with an organization that receives federal funds (for example, as a vendor, contractor, or subrecipient)

Having a UEI number helps verify your business and track funding accurately. It’s free and only takes a few minutes to get through sam.gov.

Requesting vs. Registering Your UEI

Requesting a UEI means you are only getting your Unique Entity Identifier number.

• It’s a short process that confirms your business name and address.
• You’ll receive your UEI immediately after submitting your information.
• This is enough if you just need the number for documentation or to share with a partner organization.

Registering on SAM.gov includes your UEI but adds more information.

• You’ll need to provide your tax ID (EIN), banking information, and points of contact.
• Registration is required if you plan to apply for or receive federal grants, loans, or contracts.
• The approval process can take several days.

Which Do I Need?

• Request a UEI if you only need the number.
• Register your entity if you plan to receive federal funding.

What You’ll Need to Prepare

To make the process smoother, have the following ready before you begin your SAM.gov registration:

• Legal business name (must match your tax records)
• Physical address (no P.O. boxes)
• Contact information for your organization (email and phone)

If you are intending to register, you will also need:

• Tax Identification Number (EIN or SSN, depending on your business type)
• Bank account and routing numbers (for payments)
• Optional: Your NAICS code (industry classification), if you plan to apply for contracts

How to Apply

1. Go to SAM.gov
Visit sam.gov. This is the official U.S. government website. Getting a UEI is completely free—do not pay any third-party service.

2. Create a Login.gov Account
If you don’t already have one, go to login.gov and create an account using your email address. Set up two-factor authentication. Once that’s done, use your login.gov information to sign in to SAM.gov.

3. Request Your UEI
After logging in to SAM.gov:
Your UEI number will usually be issued immediately.

• Click “Get Started”
• Select “Get Unique Entity ID”
• Enter your business or organization’s legal name, physical address, and other basic information (such as your EIN if you have one)

4. (Optional) Register Your Entity
If you plan to apply for federal grants, loans, or contracts, continue with full registration in SAM.gov. This includes providing your banking and tax information and can take a few days to process.