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How to Register as a Vendor in Michigan

Where
SIGMA Vendor Self Service (VSS)
Cost
Free
How long
unknown (the official guide says you get a vendor code on the confirmation page when you submit; it gives no review time)
Last checked
2026-09-27

See 65 open bids in Michigan →

What it's for

SIGMA VSS is where Michigan state agencies post bids and grant opportunities. It is also where vendors keep the record the state uses to pay them. A free VSS account lets you respond to bids online, and it is the only way to get the state's email notices about new bids.

Have this ready

  • Taxpayer ID: your EIN, or your SSN if you are an individual or sole proprietor
  • Legal business name and entity type as shown on your IRS W-9
  • Your tax address (it must match your W-9), plus any separate ordering, payment or billing addresses
  • Primary contact name, phone and email
  • Commodity codes for what you sell, and your business types
  • Optional: EFT/bank information for direct deposit, and any attachments

Steps

  1. Open SIGMA VSS and sign up for a user ID and password. Verify your email address.
  2. Search to see whether your business already has a vendor record. Businesses that have been paid by the state before may already have one.
  3. Enter your account information: organization type (company or individual), TIN, and tax address.
  4. Add your primary address and any other addresses.
  5. Under business information, add your commodity codes and business types (and any discount terms).
  6. Check the summary page.
  7. Accept the W-9 certification (a statement signed under penalty of perjury).
  8. Submit. The confirmation page shows your vendor code. Save it.

After you register

  • New bids are matched to the commodity codes and email addresses in your profile. The state says this is "the only way to be notified of state bid opportunities," so add every code that fits.
  • Log in to keep your contacts, addresses and banking up to date. Payments and 1099s use this record.
  • For help, contact SIGMA VSS Support at SIGMA-Vendor@Michigan.gov or 517-284-0540.

Watch out for

  • Registration is free. Ignore any paid "Michigan vendor registration" service. You can do this yourself on sigma.michigan.gov.
  • DTMB building construction bids are also posted in SIGMA VSS. MDOT road and bridge lettings are separate: MDOT runs its own bid letting and contractor prequalification process (michigan.gov/mdot, Bid Letting).
  • Universities, cities and counties in Michigan run their own purchasing. A SIGMA account covers state agencies only.
  • If you sell food, you may need a separate license from the Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development (MDARD).

Certifications and bid preferences in Michigan

Standard bid forms for Michigan

These are the forms bidders are most often asked to sign or attach on Michigan state bids. Each bid lists exactly which ones it needs, and many agencies attach their own copies, so always use the version in the bid documents when there is one.

SIGMA Vendor Self-Service (VSS) Registration
Free state vendor account (commodity codes, business types, emails) needed to see and answer every state bid.
When: All state agency bids
State Construction Bid Form (in the bid documents)
Bids must be on the state's unaltered bid form; adding stipulations or qualifying the bid can get it rejected.
When: DTMB construction bids
Bid Security (5%)
5% of the bid as a bid bond, certified or cashier's check, or money order; letters of credit are not accepted.
When: DTMB construction bids
Performance Bond and Payment Bond
Bonds required from the winning contractor to guarantee completion and payment of subs and suppliers.
When: DTMB construction contracts over $50,000
Prevailing Wage Contractor Registration
Annual registration (about $500 fee under PA 10 of 2023) for contractors and subs with construction mechanics before bidding on state construction.
When: State construction contracts covered by Michigan prevailing wage
Certified Payroll Form (WH-347)
Certified payroll reports showing workers were paid prevailing wage and fringe rates, submitted through the state online system.
When: State construction contracts covered by Michigan prevailing wage (federal Davis-Bacon jobs follow federal rules)
Qualified Disabled Veterans' Preference (Construction Bidding)
Preference method under PA 431 of 1984 for qualified disabled-veteran-owned firms bidding on state construction; see DTMB's linked methodology document.
When: DTMB construction bids when claiming the preference
Guarantee and Indebtedness Statement (DTMB-0437)
Contractor closeout statement guaranteeing the work and confirming debts for labor and materials are paid.
When: Awarded DTMB construction contracts, at closeout

Common questions

Is it free to register as a vendor in Michigan?

Free

Where do I register to bid in Michigan?

SIGMA Vendor Self Service: https://sigma.michigan.gov/PRDVSS1X1/Advantage4

How long does Michigan vendor registration take?

unknown (the official guide says you get a vendor code on the confirmation page when you submit; it gives no review time)

What forms do I need to bid on Michigan state contracts?

Each bid lists its own forms. Ones bidders are commonly asked for include: SIGMA Vendor Self-Service (VSS) Registration; State Construction Bid Form (in the bid documents); Bid Security (5%); Performance Bond and Payment Bond; Prevailing Wage Contractor Registration. The full list with links to the official blank forms is on this page.

Sources

FindMyBids isn't affiliated with any government agency. Registration is free or low cost on official sites; you don't need to pay a third party. Always follow the official portal's instructions.

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