SAM.gov registration is mandatory before bidding on any federal contract — and it's free. To register in 2026, you'll need your EIN (exactly matching IRS records), bank account details, NAICS codes, and a notarized Entity Administrator Letter. The process takes 2 to 4 weeks and must be renewed every 365 days.
SAM.gov registration is mandatory before bidding on any federal contract — and it's free. To register in 2026, you'll need your EIN (exactly matching IRS records), bank account details, NAICS codes, and a notarized Entity Administrator Letter. The process takes 2 to 4 weeks and must be renewed every
SAM.gov registration is mandatory before bidding on any federal contract — and it's free. To register in 2026, you'll need your EIN (exactly matching IRS records), bank account details, NAICS codes, and a notarized Entity Administrator Letter. The process takes 2 to 4 weeks and must be renewed every 365 days.
This AIGovBid guide covers getting started for small business government contractors and explains the next steps contractors should take.
New SAM.gov registrations typically take 7 to 10 business days for the IRS and DHS validation processes to complete. After validation, the GSA requires a notarized Entity Administrator Letter before activating the registration, which can add another 3 to 7 business days. Budget 2 to 4 weeks from start to an active registration — more if documents are missing or need correction.
No. SAM.gov registration is completely free. The GSA does not charge any fee to register, renew, or update your entity record. If a third-party service offers to register you for a fee, you are paying for assistance that is not required — the entire process can be completed independently at sam.gov at no cost.
A Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) is the 12-character alphanumeric code assigned to every entity registered in SAM.gov. It replaced the DUNS number as the federal standard identifier in April 2022. You receive your UEI automatically when you begin a new entity registration at sam.gov — there is no separate application process. Your UEI is permanent and stays the same even when you renew each year.
SAM.gov registrations must be renewed every 365 days. If your registration expires, you cannot receive new federal contract awards and existing contracts may be affected. The GSA recommends beginning the renewal process at least 60 days before your expiration date to ensure continuous active status. Renewal requires reviewing and re-certifying all information, including Representations and Certifications.
The notarized Entity Administrator Letter is a physical letter printed on company letterhead, signed by an authorized Entity Administrator in the presence of a notary, and mailed to the GSA Federal Service Desk. It is required to confirm the identity of the person managing the SAM.gov account and must follow the GSA's exact template. Without this letter, the GSA will not fully activate your registration even if the online application is complete.
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