A Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) is a solution by Dun & Bradstreet that provides a nine-character unique number to businesses. It is an identifier that puts the business into the commercial and government databases. Having a DUNS number makes the company credible for business expansions. Getting a DUNS number takes a few steps for any business, followed by some of the eligibility criteria to get one.
In this article, let's get the steps to obtain the DUNS number through the Dun & Bradstreet official site. The steps LLCBuddy editors shared here are general and can be different based on the business type.
Key Takeaways
- Applying for a DUNS is free — D&B never charges any money for it.
- You need the DUNS number for business expansion, credits, and many verifications.
- Businesses from foreign countries may be required to share additional information to get the DUNS Number.
- Any business can obtain DUNS number if they are eligible.
How to Get a DUNS Number?
There are two major ways through which one can apply for the DUNS number. One option is via the official website of Dun & Bradstreet, and another option is via telephone.
Get a DUNS Number Online:
For the online application, one must go to the official website of Dun & Bradstreet. The process is simple and takes around 30 working days to receive the unique number in your email. Here are the important steps to get the DUNS number for your business:
Step 0Look for the Business in the Database
On many occasions, your business gets a seat in the government and commercial database without a clear notification. So, before you apply for the DUNS number, you must check the database to ensure that your business name is not already in the list.
To do so, you can use Dun & Bradstreet's DUNS Lookup Tool. You must enter the legal name of your business and hit the "Search Business" button. If your business is in the database, it will show on the list. If not, then you will have to apply for the number.
Step 1Go to the Dun & Bradstreet's Official Website
Obtaining a DUNS number from Dun & Bradstreet requires you to register your business with the official D&B site. You must clarify if your business is formed inside the US territory or outside of it. Select the best-suited option from below,
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I have a U.S.-based business.
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I have a Canada-based business.
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I’m an Apple developer.
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I need a UFI to register with the FDA.
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I’m a Google Developer.
There may be different rules for Apple Developers and Google Developers. Hence, it is required to mention that and provide other necessary information.
Step 2Fill out the Information Requested
You must fill out the required information in this step. The following information must be shared before applying for the DUNS number,
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The legal name of the business
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Business address (For the offices or businesses in multiple locations, they must apply separate DUNS numbers for each location).
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Business phone number
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The name of the business owner, president, or CEO
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The legal structure of the business
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The year the business was created
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The primary business industry
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The total number of full- and part-time employees
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Whether you are a Home-Based Business
Make sure all of the above information is correct and legally compliant. For multiple locations, make sure to apply separate DUNS numbers with correct information, such as the name and the proper address for that locality/state/region.
Step 3Expedite DUNS Number Processing
After sharing the above-mentioned information, you will be redirected to the checkout page. In the checkout page, you will see an option to expedite the process. It is an optional step. You may or may not speed up the process. It takes up to 30 business days to process the DUNS number without expediting it. If you expedite the process, you can get the DUNS number in your email within 8 business days from Dun and Bradstreet.
Fast Fact
Obtaining DUNS number does not cost anything. However, expediting the process costs $229 for each number. If you have business in multiple locations, you have to pay $229 for each location where you're applying for a DUNS number and expediting the process.
Step 4Validate Your Information
This is the final step to get your DUNS number. Once you check out, a Dun & Bradstreet representative will contact you for information validation. The information you shared will be verified by the representative. It is required to match the data shared on the application; the number process may be hampered for your business.
Once the validation is done, the process is completed. Within 30 working days, the applicant will receive the number in their email from Dun & Bradstreet. If you are an Apple Developer or a Google Developer, you will get your DUNS number within 5 working days, without expediting it.
Get a DUNS Number Via Telephone:
Businesses can also apply for a DUNS number over the phone. They can call on the toll-free number 1-(866) 705-5711. A D&B representative will guide the caller for further steps to be takes to get their DUNS number.
Why Having a DUNS Number is Important?
Having a DUNS number is a big plus for any company across the globe. It is an identification that sorts of verifies the business as a credible one. From the expansion of the business, let your potential customers and partners know about your company.
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A DUNS number helps establish the credibility of a business on the international platform
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It works as a means of clear information about the business, verified by Dun & Bradstreet
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Potential partners, vendors, clients, and any other associates that want to work with you can access your information from the D&B database with the help of this number. It helps them decide whether to work with you or not
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Banks and other financial institutions will have proper knowledge about your business and company. That helps banks release loans and credits to your business.
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The DUNS Registered Solution (DRS) is a digital seal you can put on your business website. It will be a direct gateway to your business information with D&B. Your website visitors and targeted clients can get clear information about your company
Who Needs a DUNS Number?
A DUNS number is for every type of business. Any registered company, even if they are newly registered, can apply and obtain a DUNS number. For the newly registered companies, it is indeed important to have such an identification number to attract more investors, partners, and even vendors. The following business types require
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Professional Limited Liability Company (PLLC)
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S Corporation and C Corporation
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Professional Corporations
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General Partnership
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Limited Partnership
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Sole Proprietorship (under DBA)
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Non-profit corporation
All these companies/businesses can apply and obtain a DUNS number from Dun and Bradstreet.
In Conclusion
A DUNS number is as important as an Employer Identification Number (EIN). Businesses need a DUNS number to be considered credible for business expansions, loans, advances, and credit from financial institutions and banks. Besides, partners, vendors, and other associates who may want to do business with your company can get access to the information D&B has.
In every way, having a DUNS number helps a company to open a vast field for more opportunities for their work and business (if they want to expand in the future). Let us know if this article helps you to get your DUNS number easily.