How can a business start working with the U.S. government? The first step for any company that wants to win federal contracts is registering in the System for Award Management, also known as SAM. This process is required before bidding on projects, and it comes with many detailed SAM registration requirements that can be hard to manage alone. The Federal Contracting Center is a trusted consultant that helps businesses complete registration quickly and correctly.
One of the first things a company needs is a Unique Entity ID. This free number, issued on the SAM website, is used by the government to track businesses across different systems. Without it, you cannot begin the process.
Next, businesses must have a CAGE or NCAGE code. U.S. companies receive a CAGE code, while businesses outside the U.S. get an NCAGE code. This five-character code identifies the company’s physical address and is used for contracts and payments.
Bank account information is also required. The government needs the correct routing and account numbers to send payments. If these numbers are wrong, it can cause serious delays in getting paid for completed work.
A taxpayer identification number is another key requirement. This number allows the government to confirm a company’s tax status with the IRS. If the business is not in good standing, the registration will not move forward.
Businesses must also list important contact information. The government needs to know who to reach for contract questions or updates. Keeping this information current is critical. If contacts are outdated, a business could miss out on new opportunities.
Once registered, a company can start bidding on federal contracts. But registration does not last forever—it must be renewed every year. The renewal confirms that the information is still accurate. If a business forgets to renew, it will lose the ability to compete for new contracts.
The SAM process can take time, and mistakes can lead to long delays or missed chances. That is why many companies choose to work with experts who understand the system.
Are you ready to take the next step in growing your business with government contracts? The Federal Contracting Center can guide you through every stage of registration and renewal. Our team makes sure the process is completed correctly, so you can focus on winning contracts instead of worrying about paperwork. Contact us today to learn how we can help your business succeed in the federal marketplace.