WHAT IS A CAGE CODE?
A CAGE Code is a five (5) position code that identifies companies doing or wishing to do business with the Federal Government. The format of the code requires that the first and fifth position be numeric, while the second, third and fourth may be any mixture of alpha/numeric characters, excluding I and O. All positions are non-significant.
WHY DO I NEED A CAGE CODE?
The code is used to support a variety of mechanized systems throughout the government. The code provides for a standardized method of identifying a given facility at a specific location. The code may be used for a Facility Clearance, a Pre-Award survey, automated Bidders Lists, pay processes, source of supply, etc. In some cases, prime contractors may require their sub-contractors to have a CAGE Code also.
HOW DO I GET A CAGE CODE?
Supplement (DFARS) have been amended to require contractor registration in the DoD System for Award Management (SAM) database prior to the award of any contract, basic agreement, blanket ordering agreement or blanket purchasing agreement unless the award results from a solicitation issued on or before May 31, 1998. Having a CAGE Code alone is no longer sufficient to qualify a contractor to do business with DoD. Parts 204, 212, and 252 of the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation.
All SAM registrants are validated through the CAGE system. If you have a CAGE Code, it will be identified and applied to your Trading Partner Profile (TPP). If you do not have a CAGE Code, and are a U.S.* company, one will be assigned to you.
You can register with SAM at https://sam.gov or call for assistance at 1-888-227-2423.
* Non- U.S. companies CAGE code information https://www.dlis.dla.mil/nato_poc.asp
HOW TO RECEIVE A CAGE CODE FOR SECURITY CLEARANCE
Registrants that require a CAGE Code for a Security Clearance or for the assignment of a DODAAC Code do not need to go through SAM. They can submit the request on the DOD Form 2051, “Request for Assignment of a Commercial and Government Entity (CAGE) Code” Section A must be filled out and signed by their sponsoring government agency. The agency may also request the CAGE Code on their agency letterhead.
WHO ASSIGNS AND MAINTAINS CAGE CODES?
The Defense Logistics Information Service (DLIS) in Battle Creek, MI is the only authorized source of CAGE Codes.
IS THERE A FEE FOR CAGE CODES?
No. At this time, there are no associated subscription charges related to the assignment/maintenance of CAGE Codes.