What is a CAGE code and how do I get one?
A CAGE (Commercial and Government Entity) code is a 5-character alphanumeric identifier assigned by the Defense Logistics Agency to every business that does or wants to do federal contract work. You get one automatically as part of SAM.gov entity registration — you don't apply separately.
The CAGE code is issued by the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) and identifies your business to federal buyers across all agencies. The code is 5 characters (letters and numbers, no vowels or special characters) — for example, 3FKA6 or 7YQL2. Every SAM.gov-registered business has one.
You do NOT apply for a CAGE code separately. It's issued automatically as part of SAM.gov entity registration. During registration, SAM.gov transmits your business information to DLA, which assigns your CAGE code within 3-14 business days. New registrations often take 2-4 weeks total from start to active status because CAGE assignment is one of the longer sub-steps.
Foreign entities receive an NCAGE (NATO Commercial and Government Entity) code instead of a US CAGE code. NCAGE registration is through the Department of State Bureau of Political-Military Affairs. Foreign vendors registering on SAM.gov must obtain their NCAGE first, then complete SAM.gov registration.
Where CAGE codes appear: on every federal contract, purchase order, subcontract, payment record, and set-aside eligibility check. Federal small business set-aside verifications (8(a), HUBZone, WOSB, SDVOSB) use CAGE code to verify eligibility. If your CAGE record is out of date (wrong address, wrong ownership status), your set-aside eligibility can be blocked.
Common CAGE issues: (1) Losing track of your CAGE code — check it in your SAM.gov entity record under "Entity Overview." (2) CAGE code inactive because SAM registration lapsed — re-register on SAM.gov to reactivate. (3) Multiple CAGE codes for the same business — this shouldn't happen but occasionally does after mergers or address changes; contact DLA to resolve.