SAM.gov (SAM)
The System for Award Management — the official US government site where vendors must register before bidding on or receiving most federal contracts.
Definition
SAM.gov is the System for Award Management, the consolidated federal registration system maintained by the General Services Administration. Any entity that wants to do business with the federal government — bid on contracts, receive grants, register as a sub-recipient — must have an active SAM.gov registration. Registration assigns a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI), captures business information (NAICS codes, certifications, banking details, points of contact), and is the gateway to federal procurement. SAM.gov also publishes federal contract opportunities (formerly on FBO.gov) and award histories.
When it applies
Required before submitting a bid on any federal contract, applying for most federal grants, or registering as a subcontractor on a federal prime contract. Registration is free and lasts one year — renewal is required annually. Most state and local agencies do not require SAM registration, but many require their own equivalent vendor registration.
Examples
- Before bidding on a SAM.gov opportunity, vendors must complete entity registration including UEI, CAGE code (assigned by DLA), and NAICS code declarations.
- Federal subcontractors on contracts over the simplified acquisition threshold are also required to register in SAM.gov.