SAM.gov walkthrough
Eight steps. No guessing.
The full path from zero to federally registered, certified, and findable by contracting officers. Plain language, no fluff.
- 01
Get a login.gov account
You need a personal login.gov account with two-factor enabled. SAM.gov will not let you in without it.
Open the page → - 02
Get your UEI
Unique Entity ID, the federal government's new identifier (replaces DUNS). Free. Issued through SAM.gov.
Open the page → - 03
Gather your entity documents
Legal business name, address, EIN from the IRS, banking info for Treasury direct deposit, NAICS codes you'll operate under.
- 04
Register your entity on SAM.gov
Takes about 45 minutes if documents are ready. Allow 7 to 10 business days for validation.
Open the page → - 05
Certify as VOSB or SDVOSB
Upload DD-214 and supporting docs through the SBA certification portal. This unlocks set-aside opportunities.
Open the page → - 06
Add your capability statement
Once registered, upload a one-page capability statement so contracting officers can find you.
- 07
Turn on opportunity alerts
Save searches for your NAICS codes and set email notifications for new solicitations.
- 08
Renew every 12 months
SAM registration expires annually. Calendar the renewal date, lapsed registrations cost you contracts.