Policy
Offerors must provide their CAGE code (and parent entity CAGE code if applicable) before contract award for actions above the micro-purchase threshold when SAM registration or a unique entity identifier is required.
Overview
FAR 4.1802 establishes the policy for the use and reporting of Commercial and Government Entity (CAGE) codes in federal contracting. It requires offerors to provide their CAGE code to the contracting officer before contract award for actions above the micro-purchase threshold, provided there is a requirement to be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM) or to have a unique entity identifier. If an offeror is owned or controlled by another entity, the offeror must also provide the CAGE code and legal name of that parent entity. Contracting officers are responsible for including the contractor’s CAGE code in the contract and in any electronic transmissions of contract data to other systems.
Key Rules
- CAGE Code Requirement
- Offerors must provide their CAGE code before contract award for applicable contracts above the micro-purchase threshold.
- Parent Entity Disclosure
- If owned or controlled by another entity, offerors must also provide the parent entity’s CAGE code and legal name.
- Contracting Officer Responsibilities
- Contracting officers must include the contractor’s CAGE code in the contract and in electronic contract data transmissions.
Responsibilities
- Contracting Officers: Ensure receipt and inclusion of CAGE codes in contracts and electronic systems.
- Contractors/Offerors: Provide their own and, if applicable, parent entity CAGE codes and legal names prior to award.
- Agencies: Oversee compliance with CAGE code reporting and data transmission requirements.
Practical Implications
- This policy ensures accurate identification of contractors and their ownership structures, supporting transparency and data integrity in federal procurement systems. Failure to provide required CAGE codes can delay contract awards or result in non-compliance. Contractors should maintain up-to-date SAM registration and be prepared to disclose ownership information when required.