---
title: Why Do Solicitation Numbers Sometimes Not Match
description: Solicitation numbers are important identities for opportunities, but customers sometimes notice that the numbers displayed in Federal Compass do not match the numbers they see elsewhere.
---

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# Why Do Solicitation Numbers Sometimes Not Match

## Solicitation numbers are important identities for opportunities, but customers sometimes notice that the numbers displayed in Federal Compass do not match the numbers they see elsewhere.

#### **Common Reasons Solicitation Numbers May Differ**

1. Placeholder or Temporary Numbers 
     1. Agencies often assign a temporary internal number before the final solicitation number is released. Federal Compass displays the number that’s available at the time.
2. Amendments and Updates 
     1. When agencies update or reissue notices, they may change the solicitation number (for example, moving from a Sources Sought ID to a Solicitation ID).
3. Multiple Tracking Numbers 
     1. Some agencies assign multiple identifiers (e.g., an internal tracking number + a solicitation number). Federal Compass will display whichever number the source system publishes.
4. Source System Variations 
     1. Federal Compass reflects what’s provided by the original source (e.g., [SAM.gov](http://sam.gov/)). If the source itself changes or updates the number, the change will be reflected here as well.

#### **Common Misunderstanding**

Some users assume Federal Compass is changing solicitation numbers. In reality, the numbers come directly from the source agency, and differences occur when the agency updates or reassigns them. 

#### **Best Practices**

- Always refer to the latest **solicitation number** listed in the agency’s official posting.
- Use Federal Compass’s **Notice History tab** to track when changes were made and click through to the original source for confirmation.
- If you’re tracking an opportunity in your pipeline, update your records if the solicitation number changes to keep everything consistent.

Solicitation numbers may not always match because agencies update, replace, or use temporary identifiers. Federal Compass reflects what the agency provides, so checking the **Notice History** and original posting is the best way to confirm. 

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If you have any questions, please reach out to the CSM team for further assistance, [support@federalcompass.com](mailto:support@federalcompass.com).

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