What is MPIN and Why is it Important for Federal Contracting Registrations
Federal contracting can often be confusing, with a range of acronyms that can be difficult to remember and understand. One such acronym is MPIN, which stands for Marketing Partner Identification Number. In this article, we’ll explain what an MPIN is, why it is important, and how you can find it as part of your federal contracting registration.
What is an MPIN number and Why is it Necessary?
The MPIN is a nine-character code that must contain both letters and numbers and cannot contain spaces or special characters. It is mandatory for all SAM (System for Award Management) registrants to create an MPIN. The MPIN serves as your password to access government databases and applications, such as SAM.gov and Grants.gov, for registration and renewal purposes, as well as searching of contracting and award opportunities in the federal marketplace.
How MPIN fits in with SAM and UEI Registrations
When starting the SAM registration process at SAM.gov, the first step is to be assigned a UEI (Unique Entity Identifier) after your entity information is validated in the Federal Services Desk system. Once validated and assigned a UEI, you will move on to the body of the SAM registration, where you will be required to create your MPIN. Unlike your SAM registration, which has to be renewed annually, your MPIN does not require renewal. You can change or update it, but there is no requirement to do so.
MPIN vs CAGE Code
Once your completed SAM registration is approved, you will receive your CAGE (Commercial and Government Entity) Code. A CAGE Code serves as a unique identifier for your business and only one can be assigned to a specific legal entity. The MPIN, on the other hand, is created by you and serves as your password to access certain government contracting-related websites.
How to Look Up Your MPIN
If you forget or need to verify your MPIN, you can log into your SAM.gov account and click “View” across from your UEI number. Then, scroll down to the Points of Contact section, and you will find your MPIN at the bottom.
Don’t Attempt SAM Registration Alone
The process of registering for federal contracting can be complex and confusing, but you don’t have to go it alone. The team of federal contracting specialists at FedBiz Access are industry experts and can guide you through the registration process to help you obtain your UEI, MPIN, CAGE Code, and more as your first step into government contracting. With their help, you can navigate government contracting, including the myriad of government regulations and identifying who buys what you sell, how they buy, and how much they paid in the past.
In conclusion, the MPIN is an essential part of the federal contracting process and plays an important role in accessing government databases and applications in the federal marketplace. Don’t let the confusion and stress of the SAM registration process hold you back. FedBiz Access is a trusted advisor that’s here to help. Reach out to us today if you have any questions.
FedBiz Access (“FedBiz”) has an experienced team that takes the time to get to know your business and ask questions to ensure you have a solid contracting plan. FedBiz is a leading government contracting business development and marketing firm that provides SAM & DSBS registrations, as well as SBA Certification registrations, GSA Schedules, market research, and engagement strategy coaching.
FedBiz has over 22 years of experience working with thousands of companies worldwide to help them win over $35.7 billion in awards. From registration to award, FedBiz helps businesses succeed in the government marketplace.
