Become a Government Contractor: A Step-by-Step Guide to Registering on SAM.gov
Becoming a government contractor can open doors to lucrative opportunities, allowing your business to work on government projects, supply goods, and services, or support various governmental functions. However, the first critical step is registering your business on the necessary platforms, such as SAM.gov and various state contracting websites. While the process can seem daunting, this guide will walk you through the steps to help you get started.
​What is SAM.gov?
The System for Award Management (SAM) is the official website of the U.S. government where businesses must register if they wish to bid on federal contracts. Registration in SAM.gov is free but can be time-consuming and complex, with many potential pitfalls that could delay your application. Some companies charge high fees to assist in the registration process, but with the right guidance, you can complete it on your own.
Before starting your SAM.gov registration, gather the following information and documents:
• Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) and Employer Identification Number (EIN): Issued by the IRS.
• Business Information: Legal business name, physical address, mailing address, etc.
• Financial Information: Bank account information, including the routing number and account number for Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT).
• NAICS Code(s): North American Industry Classification System codes that define the type of work your business does.
Step 1: Prepare Your Information
​Step 2: Create a Login.gov Account
​SAM.gov uses Login.gov for secure access. If you don’t have an account:
1. Go to Login.gov.
2. Click on “Create an account.”
3. Enter your email address and create a password.
4. Confirm your email and set up two-factor authentication for added security.
Once your Login.gov account is ready:
1. Visit SAM.gov.
2. Click on the “Sign In” button and log in using your Login.gov credentials.
3. After signing in, you’ll be redirected to the SAM.gov dashboard.
4. Select the “Register Entity” option to begin the registration process.
Step 3: Register on SAM.gov
Step 4: Complete the SAM.gov Registration Process
The SAM.gov registration process is detailed, requiring accurate information. Here’s an outline of the key steps:
• Core Data: Enter your UEI, TIN/EIN, and business information. You'll also select your NAICS codes here.
• Assertions: Provide information about your company’s size, any certifications, and specifics about your business, such as if you qualify as a small business.
• Representations and Certifications: Fill out legal and financial information required for contract eligibility.
• Points of Contact (POC): Provide contact details for individuals in your company who can be contacted regarding contracts.
• Inaccurate Information: Ensure that all entered information matches your official records, especially the business name, address, and UEI.
• Incomplete Sections: Missing even a single required field can delay your registration.
• Outdated Financial Information: Ensure your bank details are current for EFT.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Additional Resources
To assist you in navigating SAM.gov’s complex registration, consider using the SAMextension, a Chrome extension that provides on-screen tooltips, video tutorials, and guided assistance at a fraction of the cost that third-party companies charge.
Step 5: Review and Submit
After filling out all sections, review your information carefully. Submit your registration, and SAM.gov will assign a CAGE code if you don’t already have one. The review process can take several days to weeks, depending on the completeness and accuracy of your submission.