CAGECODE (Commercial And Government Entity Code)

What is CAGECODE (Commercial And Government Entity Code)?

The Commercial and Government Entity (CAGE) code is a five-character alphanumeric identifier assigned to suppliers to various government or defense agencies. It is a critical piece of identification required for entities looking to conduct business with the U.S. Federal Government, ensuring standardized vendor tracking and information management.

Definition

The CAGE Code serves as a unique identifier for a specific facility at a specific location. It's primarily used within the U.S. Federal Government to identify contractors, vendors, and government entities. Maintaining an active CAGE Code is essential for any organization seeking to participate in federal contracting, as it is tied to your registration in the System for Award Management (SAM.gov). This code is integral to contract award and payment processes. The CAGE code is being phased out in favor of the Unique Entity ID (UEI).

Key Points

• Unique Identification: The CAGECODE uniquely identifies a specific facility at a particular location, ensuring accurate tracking and payment.
• SAM.gov Requirement: It is obtained and maintained through registration in SAM.gov, tying your entity information to the government's vendor database.
• Mandatory for Federal Contracting: A valid CAGECODE is generally required to bid on, be awarded, and receive payment for federal government contracts.
• Phased Out: The CAGE code is being phased out in favor of the Unique Entity ID (UEI).

Practical Examples

1. Submitting a Proposal: When submitting a proposal in response to a government solicitation, your CAGECODE is required to identify your organization. Without a valid code, your proposal may be rejected.
2. Receiving Payments: After winning a contract, your CAGECODE is used to process payments through electronic funds transfer (EFT). An incorrect or inactive code can delay or prevent payments.
3. Registering for GSA Schedules: To register for a General Services Administration (GSA) Schedule, you must have an active SAM.gov registration, which includes a valid CAGECODE.