1. Entity name and address do not match the IRS letter
The TIN match against the IRS is the most common stall. The entity name in SAM must match the name on the EIN letter (CP 575 or 147C) exactly — including punctuation. If you do not have the CP 575, request a 147C from the IRS Business and Specialty Tax Line; it usually arrives by fax in 10–15 minutes.
2. CAGE code on the wrong physical address
DLA assigns the CAGE based on physical location. If the SAM physical address moved, the CAGE has to catch up before SAM will activate. The CAGE update goes through cage.dla.mil and is usually decided in three to five business days.
3. Notarized letter for entity administrators (when required)
Most domestic entities no longer need a notarized letter for routine renewals, but if SAM asks for one, send it the way SAM asks. Hand-mark the entity name and UEI on the letter and ship it to the address SAM provides in the notice.
4. Reps and certs that contradict your business
If your reps and certs say you are not a small business under your primary NAICS but the SBA size standard says you are, fix it. Inconsistencies between reps and certs and your NAICS profile slow validation and can affect set-aside eligibility later.
5. Bank account information that does not match the bank
Routing-and-account info must match the bank's records for ACH validation. If you switched banks recently, confirm the routing number is the ACH routing number (not wire) and that the account name matches the legal entity name.
Common questions
How long does a new SAM registration take?
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Typical end-to-end is 7–10 business days when no items stall. Renewals are faster when nothing has changed.
Do I have to pay for SAM.gov?
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No. SAM.gov registration is free directly from the federal government. Third-party services that charge to file are optional and not required.
What is a UEI and where do I find it?
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The Unique Entity ID is a 12-character SAM-issued identifier that replaced the DUNS number. You can find it on your SAM entity profile after registration is approved.