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CAGE Code Expiration: Do CAGE Codes Expire? How to Renew SAM.gov

One of the most common misconceptions in federal contracting: confusing a CAGE code with a SAM.gov registration. Your CAGE code is permanent — it never expires. But your SAM.gov registration expires every 12 months, and a lapsed registration can block payments and disqualify you from new awards.

CAGE Codes Are Permanent

DLA assigns your CAGE code when your SAM.gov registration is first approved. That code stays attached to your legal entity indefinitely — even if you let your SAM registration lapse, go out of business, or merge with another company. If you re-register in SAM.gov, DLA will relink your same CAGE code.

SAM.gov Registrations Expire Annually

Your SAM entity registration expires exactly 365 days after your last renewal. SAM.gov sends reminder emails at 60 days, 30 days, and 15 days before expiration. If you miss the deadline:

Your entity becomes 'Expired' in SAM.gov
You cannot receive new contract awards
DFAS may flag or delay payments on existing contracts
Your small business certifications tied to SAM may lapse

How to Renew Your SAM.gov Registration

Log into sam.gov with your login.gov credentials. Go to your entity workspace and click 'Renew.' Review and update all sections (Core Data, Assertions, Reps & Certs). Submit. Renewal typically takes 1–3 business days — much faster than initial registration. Tip: Start renewal 60 days before expiration to avoid any gap.

What Happens If You Let SAM Expire?

Expired SAM registrations can be renewed at any time — your CAGE code and UEI remain. However, during the lapsed period, contracting officers cannot award you new contracts, and some agencies will put payments on hold until registration is restored. There is no penalty fee for late renewal, but the operational cost can be significant.

Decode Any CAGE Code Instantly

Enter any 5-character CAGE code to see the company name, SAM status, and certifications.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will my CAGE code change if I renew late?

No. CAGE codes are permanent and do not change on renewal. Your UEI is also stable across renewals.

Can I autorenew my SAM.gov registration?

No — SAM.gov does not support automatic renewal. You must actively log in and renew each year.

What if my business information changed since last renewal?

Update all changed information during renewal — especially address, NAICS codes, and bank account. Submit the changes before or as part of renewal.

Is there a grace period after SAM expiration?

There is no official grace period. The moment your registration expires, your entity status changes to 'Expired' and you become ineligible for new awards.

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