What is a DUNS Number?
A DUNS number is a unique nine-digit ID developed by Dun & Bradstreet in 1962. It helps identify and access data on businesses worldwide. A DUNS number establishes your business’s identity and monitors its credit history. This provides credibility and allows potential partners to learn about you. It is required for government contracts.
How to Get a DUNS Number?
To get a DUNS number, you need to provide your organization’s name, address, phone number, and a contact person. Processing takes up to 30 days to verify your information. Faster expedited service is available for a fee. Your DUNS number will be emailed to you when ready.
Why Do I Need a DUNS Number?
A DUNS number is like an ID card for your business. It protects your business name from being similar to others. The number allows anyone to view your credit profile with Dun & Bradstreet, demonstrating your business’s reliability to lenders, suppliers, and partners. While it facilitates getting credit, you cannot directly apply for business credit cards with only a DUNS number.
You should maintain up-to-date business information with Dun & Bradstreet through their customer service. Accurate, current details enhance your credibility. If you ever work with the government, a DUNS number and active registration in the System for Award Management are required. So obtaining one now can be beneficial even if you do not need it yet.
The DUNS number stays with your business even if you stop trading. You can use the same DUNS number as you expand internationally. It is used to check identity when enrolling in programs like Apple Developer.