XL EagleTIN match (Taxpayer Identification Number match)
TIN match stands for Taxpayer Identification Number match. During SAM registration and renewal, SAM.gov sends your Taxpayer Identification Number and legal business name to the IRS to confirm they match IRS records. For most businesses the TIN is your Employer Identification Number (EIN). Sole proprietors may use a Social Security number, though an EIN is usually better for privacy.
If the name or number does not exactly match IRS records, the registration stalls. The fix is usually to enter your name exactly as it appears on your IRS EIN letter, or to update your name with the IRS first.
Why it matters to a small contractor
Pull out your IRS EIN assignment letter before starting SAM. Copy the legal name exactly, including punctuation and suffix, to avoid weeks of delay.
Example
A registration is rejected because the owner typed 'Smith HVAC LLC' while the IRS record says 'Smith Heating and Air LLC'. She resubmits with the exact IRS name and it clears.
TIN match: common questions
How do I find my exact IRS name?
Look at your EIN assignment notice from the IRS. If you lost it, the IRS can send a replacement letter confirming your EIN and name.
Can I use my DBA name?
Not for the TIN match. Use your legal name in that field. SAM has a separate field for a doing business as name.
Want the contract without the paperwork? Send XL Eagle your price on an open government job. We write and submit the bid under our registrations, free to you. Find open jobs →