Sometimes, even the registration process for federal contracting can be overwhelming and seem like infinite acronyms — UEI, CAGE, SAM, NAICS, MPIN. It’s understandable to get a headache just trying to remember what each of them stands for, but each is an important piece of the registration process if you want to get started in government contracting. One of the most critical pieces, and one that you’re definitely going to need to remember though, is your MPIN.
What is an MPIN number?
MPIN stands for Marketing Partner Identification Number, and it is an important code for all SAM registrants to create. The MPIN is nine characters in length, must contain both letters and numbers, and can’t have spaces or special characters.
These codes eliminate the need to recall information like bank account numbers for verifying transactions. Additionally, MPINs act as a secure alternative for user identification during mobile payments, offering an extra layer of protection compared to just remembering account details.
How do I get a MPIN number?
Once you have completed UEI registration and go through SAM registration, you are able to create your MPIN with the above criteria. Fortunately, while your SAM registration has to be renewed annually, your MPIN will not. You can change or update it if you’d like but there isn’t a requirement to do so.
What your MPIN is used for
If you think of your UEI number as the unique identifier or “username” for your business, your MPIN is like your password. You use the MPIN that you create to log into government databases and applications to look for contracting opportunities. These sites include SAM.gov, Grants.gov, and more, and are essential to participating in the federal marketplace.
How to look up your MPIN
Once you’ve completed your SAM registration, you can find your MPIN if you forgot or need to verify it. Log into your SAM.gov account and click “View” across from where your UEI number is displayed. From there, scroll down to the Points of Contact section and your MPIN will be at the bottom.
MPIN vs. CAGE Code
When you’ve completed your SAM registration, you often receive both your MPIN (if you create one), as well as a CAGE Code, so sometimes these can be mixed up. Similar to a UEI number in that it acts as a unique identifier for your business, a CAGE Code is assigned to each legal entity at individual physical addresses. MPINs, on the other hand, are used as a password and are created by you rather than having one assigned to you.
Don’t go through SAM registration on your own
The registration process and contracting acronyms can get overwhelming and convoluted, so don’t put all the responsibility and stress on yourself. FAMR has a team of federal marketplace experts who can help guide you through registration and beyond to get the federal contracts you deserve.
Whether you’re looking to register with SAM and find your first contact, or are an experienced government contractor looking to market your services to more agencies, FAMR has the experience and expertise to help.
Ready to embark on this journey? Connect with us online today or give us a call to take the first step toward unlocking your business’s potential in the federal marketplace!
