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Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about SAM registration, renewals, and our services. Can't find your answer? Contact us directly.
COSTS & PAYMENTS
About Fees & Services
Q1. If SAM is free, why do I need to pay?
Ans: You do not need to pay. Each SAM account is different. There are accounts that require knowledge for each year of renewal and others that are not as complex.
An excellent comparison is the annual income tax. There are filings that do not require an accountant and there are others that require a "Schedule C" and the knowledge of an accounting firm. Filing your taxes is also free.
Our experienced staff is continually educated with the SAM, Federal Service Desk, DLA, and other agency updates. We make sure that the complexity of filling out the SAM data is executed and updated so your federal funding is not interrupted. If an update is not completed properly, your Federal Awards will not be received. Fees charged are admin fees. Our service is not a scam.
Q2. If SAM is free, why do I need to pay?
Ans: We charge a flat administrative fee: $349 for a 1-year SAM renewal, $599 for a 2-year renewal, and $899 for a brand new SAM registration. All plans include monitoring, updates, and ongoing assistance with SAM for the full term of your service.
Payments are securely processed by Stripe Payment Services. USA Filing LLC does not have access to or store your credit card information.
THE SAM PROCESS
Registration & Renewal
Q1. Can I renew SAM on my own?
Ans: It normally takes someone who is not familiar with the SAM portal 2 to 3 days to complete the SAM process. Our executive staff will have your SAM Registration Renewal completed and submitted within 24 hours. All of the information entered will be accurate to avoid any issues with your SAM account, making our service very cost-effective.
Q2. Why do I need SAM?
Ans: Registering with SAM and receiving a CAGE Code is required when receiving payments through the Federal Government. If you are doing any type of contracting with Government entities, you will receive your monies (through PIEE or other government payment portals or via bank transfer) which requires a SAM account.
Q3. How often do I need to renew my SAM account?
Ans: Your SAM account must be renewed and updated annually - every 365 days. We strongly recommend beginning the renewal process at least 60 days before your expiration date to avoid any disruption to your federal funding.
Q4. What happens if my SAM registration expires?
Ans: If your SAM registration lapses, your entity's status becomes "Expired" in the federal system. This can result in delayed or suspended payments from federal agencies, inability to bid on new contracts, and disruption to active grants or awards.
Reinstatement requires going through the full renewal process again, which can take additional time to process. This is why staying ahead of your renewal date is critical.
Q5. How long does it take to complete a SAM registration?
Ans: SAM.gov states that processing can take 7-10 business days after submission. However, errors or incomplete information can extend this significantly. Our team ensures your registration is submitted correctly the first time, reducing delays. We typically complete and submit your registration within 24 hours of receiving the necessary information from you.
Q6. Can I just sign up for SAM and have my account be active?
Ans: You can sign up for SAM, but your account will not be active until it is fully completed. You must acquire a SAM UEI Number and CAGE Code. If the account is not thoroughly completed, you will not receive your awards. It is suggested to use a company like ours with highly experienced account representatives to ensure a thorough registration.
SAM CODES & IDENTIFIERS
UEI Numbers, CAGE Codes & More
Q1. What is a UEI Number and where do I get one?
Ans: A Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) is a 12-character alphanumeric ID assigned by SAM.gov to identify your business in the federal system. It replaced the DUNS number in April 2022. You receive your UEI when you complete your SAM registration. It is required for all federal contracting, grant applications, and award payments.
Q2. What is a CAGE Code?
Ans: A CAGE (Commercial and Government Entity) Code is a 5-character ID assigned by the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) to entities that do business with the U.S. government. It is assigned automatically during the SAM registration process. Both your UEI and CAGE Code are required to receive federal payments.
Q3. Once I register with SAM and have a UEI Number, can I immediately begin receiving government funds?
Ans: No. A company like ours will show you where to register with other government agencies to enable you to bid on government projects, apply for grants, and register with the necessary agencies that you must qualify for. We will direct you at no additional charge.
Q4. Do I need SAM registration to apply for FEMA disaster relief?
Ans: Yes. Organizations and businesses applying for FEMA Public Assistance or other federal disaster relief programs must have an active SAM registration with a valid UEI number.
Q5. Is USA Filing LLC part of the federal government?
Ans: No. USA Filing LLC is an independent, private filing service. We are not affiliated with SAM.gov, the GSA, or any federal agency. We help businesses navigate the SAM system as a third-party administrative service. All payments are securely processed through Stripe - we never store your financial information.