SAM.gov Registration Guide: Step-by-Step for 2026

Before you can bid on federal government contracts, you need to register in SAM.gov (System for Award Management). This free registration is required for all businesses seeking federal contracts, grants, or assistance. Here's your complete guide to getting registered in 2026.

What You'll Need Before Starting

• EIN (Employer Identification Number) from the IRS
• Bank account information (for payment setup)
• NAICS codes for your business activities
• Business address and contact information
• Information about your business structure and ownership

Step 1: Get Your UEI

The Unique Entity ID (UEI) replaced the DUNS number in 2022. You'll get your UEI automatically when you register in SAM.gov - no separate application needed.

Step 2: Create a Login.gov Account

SAM.gov uses Login.gov for authentication. If you don't have an account:

1. Go to login.gov and click "Create an account"
2. Enter your email address
3. Set up two-factor authentication (required)
4. Verify your identity

Step 3: Start Your SAM.gov Registration

1. Go to SAM.gov and sign in with Login.gov
2. Click "Get Started" under Entity Registration
3. Select your entity type (business, individual, etc.)
4. Confirm you want to register (not just get a UEI)

Step 4: Complete Core Data

This section captures basic information about your business:

• Legal business name and DBA
• Physical and mailing addresses
• Business start date
• Fiscal year end
• EIN and state of incorporation

Step 5: Add NAICS Codes and Business Types

Select all NAICS codes that apply to your business. You can choose a primary code and multiple secondary codes. Also indicate:

• Small business status
• Socioeconomic categories (8(a), HUBZone, WOSB, SDVOSB, etc.)
• Business structure

Step 6: Financial Information

Enter your banking information for receiving contract payments via EFT (Electronic Funds Transfer). This includes:

• Bank name and routing number
• Account number and type
• Remittance address

Step 7: Points of Contact

Designate contacts for:

• Electronic Business (EB) - manages the SAM registration
• Government Business - primary contact for contracting
• Alternate contacts (recommended)

Step 8: Representations and Certifications

Complete the required certifications about your business. Answer honestly - false statements can result in penalties and debarment.

Step 9: Submit and Wait

After submission, SAM.gov validates your information. This typically takes 7-10 business days. You'll receive email updates on your status.

After Registration: What's Next?

Once registered, you can:

• Search and bid on contract opportunities
• Receive payments for awarded contracts
• Set up automated bid alerts with ProcurePing

Important: Your SAM.gov registration must be renewed annually. Set a reminder 60 days before expiration.

Common Registration Issues

• IRS validation fails - Ensure your EIN and legal name match IRS records exactly
• Bank validation fails - Verify account details with your bank
• Login.gov issues - Contact Login.gov support separately