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Can two companies have the same CAGE code?

No, two separate legal entities cannot have the same CAGE code. Check your company’s CAGE Code below using our SAM Registration Status Check!

 

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How much does a CAGE code cost?

There is no cost to obtain a CAGE code,

 

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Is my CAGE code the same as my SAM number?

The change to the Unique Entity ID (SAM) does not impact the CAGE/NCAGE code. What is the connection between the new unique ID and the CAGE code, if any? The Unique Entity ID (SAM) and the CAGE code are separate identifiers. You can check your companies SAM Registration which will include the CAGE Code and UEI Number by using the tool by clicking below.

Need to renew?

If you need assistance on the renewal process, you can give our help desk a call at 1-888-646-9998. You can also browse our renewal page by clicking the button below.

What is the difference between a CAGE Code and NCAGE?

CAGE codes are the specific codes assigned to entities located in the United States. NCAGE codes are assigned to entities located outside of the United States. They are to register their entities through the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA).

Find out your entity’s CAGE code by using the tool below

 

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If you are ready to start the renewal process, you can give our help desk a call at 1-888-646-9998 or browse our renewal page by clicking below.

Do I need a CAGE Code to do my SAM registration?

Yes, every business is required to obtain a CAGE code in order to do business with the federal government.

 

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Is my UEI the same as my Cage Code/SAM number?

No, UEI numbers and Cage Codes (also called SAM numbers) are two separate entity identifiers. It is important to distinguish between both when registering for federal contracts.

 

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UEI vs. Cage Code: Understanding the Differences for Government Contracting

Government contracting can be a complex and competitive arena, and it’s essential to understand the various identification codes that are used in this world. Two of the most crucial codes are the UEI (Unique Entity Identifier) and Cage Code. In this blog post, we’ll explore the differences between UEI and Cage Code and why they matter for businesses pursuing government contracts.

What is a UEI (Unique Entity Identifier)?

A UEI, or Unique Entity Identifier, is a relatively new concept introduced by the U.S. federal government. It is part of a broader initiative to simplify and standardize the identification of entities doing business with the government. The UEI replaces the D-U-N-S Number, which was previously used as a unique identifier for entities.

Key Characteristics of a UEI:

  1. Randomly Generated: UEIs are randomly generated alphanumeric codes assigned to each entity. They are unique and cannot be reused.
  2. Managed by SAM: UEIs are managed and assigned through the System for Award Management (SAM) portal, the central registration system for government contractors and grant recipients.
  3. Single Identifier: Unlike the D-U-N-S Number, which often required multiple identifiers for different government systems, the UEI is intended to be a single, universal identifier for each entity.

What is a Cage Code?

A Cage Code, or Commercial and Government Entity Code, has been in use for a more extended period than the UEI. It is primarily used to identify suppliers and contractors for the Department of Defense (DoD) and other federal agencies. Cage Codes have historically been associated with the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA).

Key Characteristics of a Cage Code:

  1. Alphanumeric Identifier: A Cage Code consists of a five-character alphanumeric code assigned to entities that do business with the DoD and other government agencies.
  2. Assigned by DLA: Cage Codes are assigned by the Defense Logistics Agency’s Defense Logistics Information Service (DLIS).
  3. Used in Defense Contracts: While Cage Codes are widely recognized across the federal government, they are particularly important in defense contracting.

Differences Between UEI and Cage Code:

  1. Purpose: UEIs are designed to be a universal identifier for entities conducting business with the federal government, encompassing all agencies. Cage Codes, on the other hand, are primarily associated with the DoD but are also recognized by other agencies.
  2. Assignment Authority: UEIs are assigned through the System for Award Management (SAM), while Cage Codes are assigned by the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA).
  3. Format: UEIs consist of a random alphanumeric code, while Cage Codes are five-character alphanumeric codes.
  4. Scope: UEIs aim to replace multiple identifiers used across different government systems, providing a single, unified identifier for entities. Cage Codes are specific to government contracting and are primarily used in defense-related contracts.

Conclusion

In summary, understanding the differences between UEI and Cage Code is essential for businesses seeking government contracts. While UEIs are intended to provide a universal identifier for all federal government contracting, Cage Codes are historically associated with the Department of Defense and are widely used in defense contracting. Both codes play critical roles in identifying and verifying entities in government contracting, and businesses should ensure they have the appropriate codes depending on their contractual engagements and agencies they work with.

 

If you are unsure if you have a SAM Registration, use the lookup tool by clicking the button below

 

Need to Register or Renew a SAM Registration?

If you need assistance with SAM, contact the USBRI Help Desk at 1-888-646-9998 or get started with a CRS today by clicking the button below

What is an NCAGE code?

The U.S. Government assigns a Commercial and Government Entity (CAGE) code to organizations to facilitate the supply chain. For non-U.S.-based organizations, the code is referred to as the NATO Commercial and Government Entity (NCAGE) code.

 

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What is the difference between a CAGE code and a DUNS number?

DUNS number is assigned to the lowest organizational level. CAGE code is assigned per legal entity at individual physical addresses.

 

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What is a Cage Code?

A Commercial and Government Entity (CAGE) code is a unique identifier assigned to suppliers to various government or defense agencies, as well as to government agencies themselves and also various organizations. CAGE codes provide a standardized method of identifying a given facility at a specific location.

The CAGE system includes CAGE Workbench, CAGE XML, CAGE Web Services, and CAGE Public.

The CAGE Public provides a unified solution for searching CAGE codes (CAGE Search and Inquiry – CSI), finding required forms, requesting a new CAGE code or updating an existing CAGE code, news, training and frequently asked questions.

 

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