The CAGE code is one of those small administrative details that quietly decides whether your invoices get paid and your bids get processed. Here's what it is, how you get one, and how to keep it correct.
What a CAGE code is
CAGE stands for Commercial and Government Entity. It's a five-character code that identifies a specific facility or location of your business — tied to your physical address. Originally a defense system, it's now used across civilian agencies too. Unlike your UEI (which identifies your entity), the CAGE code identifies where the work happens.
How you get one
For almost everyone, the answer is automatic: when your SAM.gov registration activates, the system assigns a CAGE code (or links your existing one). You don't apply separately. If your business already has one — common for firms that have done defense subcontracting or sold to government entities — enter it during SAM registration and it will be validated.
Businesses with multiple locations can hold multiple CAGE codes, one per distinct address. This matters for manufacturers and contractors bidding work at different facilities.
Where it shows up
- Your SAM.gov registration and entity record
- Defense solicitations and awards (the DFARS requires it)
- Subcontract reporting forms from primes
- Your capability statement header, next to the UEI
How to check yours
You can look up CAGE codes through SAM.gov's entity search or the government's CAGE search tools. Verify that the code on your capability statement matches the address where you actually perform work — buyers cross-check this.
Fixing CAGE code problems
- Wrong address: update your SAM.gov registration; CAGE records sync from there. If you move, update SAM promptly — a stale address can delay payments.
- Wrong code on your documents: keep one master record (capability statement, proposals, invoices) and audit quarterly.
- Name changes or mergers: handle these in SAM first; the CAGE record follows.
The theme: CAGE is downstream of SAM. Keep SAM current and your CAGE code takes care of itself.