Pre-award
Unique Entity IdentifierUEI
The 12-character ID that identifies an organization in the federal award system, replaced the DUNS number in 2022.
The Unique Entity Identifier is assigned through SAM.gov and is required for any organization that applies for or receives federal funds. In April 2022 it replaced the proprietary DUNS number as the government's standard entity identifier.
An organization's UEI must be active in SAM.gov for it to apply, receive awards, or draw down funds.
Why it matters
If the UEI or SAM registration lapses, the organization can't submit proposals or receive payments until it's restored.
Related terms
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