What is UEI (Unique Entity Identifier)?
A 12-character alphanumeric identifier assigned to every entity registered in SAM.gov, replacing the former DUNS number.
The Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) is a 12-character alphanumeric ID assigned by SAM.gov to every entity that registers to do business with the federal government. As of April 2022, the UEI replaced the DUNS number (previously issued by Dun & Bradstreet) as the government's primary entity identifier.
The UEI is generated automatically during SAM.gov registration at no cost to the entity. It is used across all federal award systems including grants, contracts, and financial assistance. Every entity that receives federal funding — whether as a prime contractor, subcontractor, or grant recipient — must have a UEI.
The UEI is tied to the entity's legal business name and physical address. If a company changes its name or structure, a new UEI may be assigned.
Related Terms
A 5-character identifier assigned to entities that do business with the federal government, used to track contractors across contracts.
SAM.govThe System for Award Management — the official U.S. government website where businesses register to bid on federal contracts and where agencies post opportunities.