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Are you ready to unlock opportunities in federal contracting?
Our SAM Success Checklist is the ultimate step-by-step guide to help you confidently register, optimize, and maintain your profile on SAM.gov—the gateway to government contracts.
What You’ll Get:
- A comprehensive, easy-to-follow checklist for completing your SAM registration without delays.
- Guidance on choosing the right NAICS and PSC codes to showcase your capabilities.
- Insider tips on optimizing your SAM profile to stand out to contracting officers.
- Instructions for securing small business certifications (8(a), WOSB, HUBZone, and more).
- Pro tips for maintaining compliance and leveraging SAM for federal opportunities.
Who It’s For:
- Small businesses, startups, non-profits, and any entities looking to win government grants and contracts.
- Entrepreneurs new to federal contracting who need clear, actionable guidance.
Don’t let the complexity of SAM registration hold you back. Download the SAM Success Checklist today and take the first step toward government contracting success!
Get the Checklist Now!
SAM Success Checklist
1. Preparation: Gather Essential Information
Before starting your SAM registration, make sure you have all the required details and documents ready.
- DUNS Number (now replaced by Unique Entity Identifier (UEI)): Ensure you have your UEI, which is obtained through SAM.gov.
- EIN/TIN (Employer Identification Number/Taxpayer Identification Number): This is used for tax purposes.
- Banking Information:
- Bank name
- Routing number
- Account number (used for electronic payments)
- Entity Information:
- Legal business name
- Physical and mailing address
- Business start date and incorporation details
2. Create a Login.gov Account
- If you don’t already have a Login.gov account, create one to access SAM.gov.
- Ensure you use a valid email address that you frequently monitor.
- Set up multi-factor authentication (MFA) for enhanced security.
3. Register Your Entity on SAM.gov
- Go to SAM.gov and log in using your Login.gov credentials.
- Begin the entity registration process by completing these sections:
- Core Data: Legal business name, UEI, DUNS (if applicable), and business address.
- Business Information: Provide your NAICS codes, PSC codes, and size determination based on SBA standards.
- CAGE Code: If you don’t already have one, SAM will assign a Commercial and Government Entity (CAGE) Code upon completion.
- Financial Information: Enter your bank account details for government payment purposes.
4. Select Your NAICS and PSC Codes
- Choose the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) codes that best represent your business activities.
- Use the NAICS Code Search Tool to find applicable codes.
- Add Product Service Codes (PSC) to further specify your offerings. This can help contracting officers find your company for targeted opportunities.
5. Representations and Certifications (Reps & Certs)
- Complete your Reps & Certs section in SAM, which is required for government contracting.
- Certify compliance with federal regulations, including FAR and socioeconomic requirements.
- Verify information such as small business status, ownership, and other representations (e.g., Woman-Owned, Veteran-Owned, HUBZone).
6. Claim Your Small Business Certifications (If Applicable)
- Check your eligibility for federal small business programs:
- 8(a) Business Development Program
- HUBZone Certification
- Woman-Owned Small Business (WOSB) and Economically Disadvantaged WOSB (EDWOSB)
- Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB)
- Use the SBA’s Certify platform (certify.sba.gov) to complete applicable certifications. These designations are crucial for accessing set-aside contracts.
7. Optimize Your SAM Profile
- Add a Capabilities Narrative that highlights your expertise and competitive advantages.
- Include relevant keywords related to your industry, services, and products.
- Upload past performance examples, awards, and other credentials to make your profile stand out.
- Keep your contact information current (email, phone, and POC).
8. Verify and Submit
- Carefully review all sections for accuracy.
- Double-check tax, banking, and business information to avoid delays.
- Submit your registration and monitor your email for approval updates.
9. Stay Current: Renew and Update Your SAM Registration
- Annual Renewal: SAM registration must be renewed annually to remain active. Update your profile to reflect any changes in your business.
- Monitor Compliance: Ensure all certifications and representations are kept up-to-date.
10. Leverage SAM for Opportunities
- Use SAM.gov’s search tools to find federal contracting opportunities:
- Search for Contract Opportunities to identify solicitations that match your capabilities.
- Monitor Sources Sought Notices to express interest in upcoming procurements.
- Respond to RFIs (Requests for Information) to establish your presence with contracting officers.
11. Additional Considerations
- Teaming and Partnering: Use SAM to identify potential teaming partners or subcontracting opportunities.
- SAM Notarization (If Required): Some entity types or foreign entities may need to complete a notarized letter of authorization.
- Technical Support: If you experience issues, contact the Federal Service Desk (FSD) for assistance (www.fsd.gov). Federal Processing Registry is also available on a fee-based basis.
Pro Tips for Success
- Be Thorough and Accurate: Incomplete or incorrect information can lead to delays or rejection. Double-check all data before submitting.
- Use Keywords Strategically: Optimize your profile with industry-specific keywords to improve visibility for contracting officers.
- Stay Organized: Keep a record of your SAM login, UEI, NAICS codes, and other important details for future reference.
- Leverage Training Resources: Use SBA and PTAC (Procurement Technical Assistance Centers) resources for guidance.
Need Help?
Contact the FPR Help Desk through the following methods:
Phone: 1-866-717-5267 (toll-free)
Email: help@federalprocessingregistry.com
Ready to Renew Your SAM?
Take the First Step by Clicking Below:
https://federalprocessingregistry.com/register-online/
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