Avoiding Common Mistakes in SAM Registration – The Ultimate Guide

Many businesses fail to secure government contracts due to errors in their System for Award Management (SAM) registration. This guide highlights critical mistakes to avoid and provides a checklist for a successful registration.

Common Mistakes in SAM Registration

To improve your chances of winning federal contracts, avoid these common mistakes:

• Incorrect or Incomplete Business Information: Ensure that your business name, Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN), and DUNS/UEI number match official records.


• Failure to Properly Select NAICS Codes: Choose NAICS codes that accurately reflect your business’s capabilities to improve visibility to contracting officers.


• Not Optimizing Your Capability Narrative: Write a clear and concise capability statement that highlights your unique value proposition.


• Skipping Key Compliance Checks: Ensure that your registration complies with all necessary federal contracting requirements, including size standards and certifications.


• Neglecting to Update Your SAM Profile Regularly: Keep your profile updated to maintain eligibility and remain competitive.

Optimizing NAICS Codes and Capability Narratives

Properly selecting NAICS codes and refining your capability statement can significantly improve your discoverability:

• Use NAICS lookup tools to find the best-fit codes for your business.


• Clearly describe your company’s services and past performance in your capability narrative.


• Include keywords that federal agencies frequently search for in contract solicitations.

Importance of Regular Updates and Compliance Checks

Regular updates and compliance checks ensure that your SAM profile remains active and competitive:

• Review your registration at least every six months to update changes in business structure or capabilities.


• Stay informed on federal contracting rules and compliance updates via SAM.gov and USAspending.gov.


• Monitor your SAM expiration date to avoid disruptions in your eligibility.

Avoiding common SAM registration mistakes can streamline your federal contracting journey. By optimizing your NAICS codes, crafting a compelling capability narrative, and maintaining compliance, your business can stand out to federal buyers.

For expert guidance on federal contracting and SAM registration, contact GovPointe today!