On April 6, 2022, the FCC announced a transition from the Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) number to the Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) for SAM.gov effective April 4, 2022. In the Public Notice, the FCC noted that previously, entities seeking to register on SAM.gov were required to obtain a nine-digit unique DUNS number through the Dun & Bradstreet website. Only after a DUNS number was assigned, was an entity able to register on SAM.gov. Effective immediately, entities can now go directly to SAM.gov to request a UEI and no longer need a DUNS number to register.
Following the FCC’s Public Notice, USAC stated in an announcement that at this time, only entities that receive direct payments or disbursements from the FCC must obtain a UEI and complete full entity registration in SAM.gov. This includes Emergency Connectivity Fund Program (ECF) among other programs.
Additionally, USAC pointed out that program payments will continue as of April 4, 2022 without full entity SAM.gov registration to other Universal Service Fund (USF) recipients such as E-rate program, but recommends initiating this process as it will be required at a later date.
The FCC Public Notice can be viewed here
