Learn about the transition from DUNS to Unique Entity ID (UEI) within the U.S. federal government system, its impacts, and obtaining process post-April 4, 2022.
The transition from the Dun & Bradstreet Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) to the new, SAM-issued Unique Entity ID (UEI) is a major change in how entities are uniquely identified within the U.S. federal government system. This transition, which concludes on April 4, 2022, is significant for all entities doing business with the federal government. Here's a detailed overview of this change:
Changing identifiers is fundamental.
Currently: The DUNS Number, a 9-character numeric value issued by Dun & Bradstreet, acts as the unique entity identifier.
Starting April 4, 2022: The Unique Entity ID (SAM), a 12-character alphanumeric value, will become the new unique entity identifier. It will be issued directly through the System for Award Management (SAM), eliminating the need for a third-party identifier.
The change affects entities registered in SAM.
Entities currently registered in SAM will be automatically assigned the new Unique Entity ID (SAM).
Both the DUNS Number and the new SAM UEI will be visible in SAM until April 4, 2022, after which only the SAM UEI will be utilized.
New registrations in SAM post-April 4, 2022, will only require the SAM UEI.
This transition simplifies the registration process, as entities no longer need to attain a DUNS number from Dun & Bradstreet.
Steps to obtain a Unique Entity ID after the transition period.
The process of obtaining a Unique Entity ID will be integrated into the SAM registration process.
On entering legal entity name and address, the system will validate and potentially match with existing records, issuing the UEI immediately upon confirmation.
If no match is found, entities will need to reach out to the Federal Service Desk for assistance.
The entire registration process, including validation, can require up to 10 business days to finalize.
The need for a new system.
The shift to a SAM-issued UEI eliminates the dependency on a third-party (Dun & Bradstreet) for entity identification.
This change aims to streamline the registration process, letting entities execute all steps inside the SAM system without needing to visit a separate website.
It also provides the government more flexibility in managing the UEI system in the future.
Pedro has extensive background as a Contracting Officer and Contract Specialist, has worked across seven federal agencies, managing contracts totaling over $1 billion in the professional and tech sectors. His notable tenure includes serving with the DoD/DARPA during the inception of their robotics program. Additionally, he played a pivotal role in initiating the Cyber Special Item Number (SIN) within the GSA's IT Schedule 70 as a Team Lead. After graduating from Harvard, he started Blackfyre to help you win your next contract.
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