While not legally required, this nine-digit identifier helps you unlock valuable opportunities—whether you're reviewing our best business loan lenders or pursuing government contracts.
Creditors and vendors rely on DUNS numbers to evaluate your company's financial health before partnerships. We'll walk you through what DUNS numbers are, how they compare to EINs and UEIs, who needs one, and the simple steps to get yours.
What Is a DUNS Number?
A DUNS number is a nine-digit identifier that tracks your business's credit history and financial performance. Since 1963, Dun & Bradstreet (D&B) has issued these numbers to businesses worldwide, now serving as the primary business verification system across 225 countries.
Each DUNS profile contains specific financial data: your company's payment records, credit score ratings, and past financial obligations. Banks use this information to evaluate business loan applications, while government agencies reference it for contract awards. Companies worldwide check DUNS numbers before entering partnerships or signing major contracts.
The system's value comes from its consistency. For example, when a business in New York wants to work with a supplier in Singapore, both can rely on DUNS numbers to verify each other's payment history and financial stability. This standardized approach to business verification helps companies make faster, more informed decisions about potential business relationships.
DUNS Number vs. EIN
DUNS numbers and Employer Identification Numbers (EINs) are distinct business identifiers from different organizations. The IRS issues EINs, which serve as official tax identification numbers for your business's tax-related responsibilities. These identifiers allow businesses to establish payroll, file taxes, and pay employees while meeting government obligations.
Dun & Bradstreet, a private company, issues DUNS numbers to track your business's financial and credit history globally, while EINs only function within the US. Organizations worldwide can access your DUNS profile to view your financial standing in real time.
Every US business must obtain an EIN, but DUNS numbers remain optional. You'll need one to secure government contracts, apply for grants, or expand internationally. Simply put: EINs handle tax compliance, while DUNS numbers build financial credibility at home and abroad.
DUNS vs. UEI
The US Government's System for Award Management (SAM) issues Unique Entity Identifiers (UEIs) for federal contracting. All organizations—from small businesses to local municipalities—must have a UEI to bid on federal contracts or receive federal funding. This requirement extends to:
For-profit businesses
Nonprofit organizations
Government contractors and subcontractors
State and local governments
The federal government now prefers UEIs over DUNS numbers for domestic operations, marking a shift from previous years. Outside the US, however, DUNS numbers remain the go-to identifier for businesses looking to build trust with international partners.
Who Needs a DUNS Number?
Businesses that want global partnerships or looking to establish strong financial credibility should get a DUNS number. While small businesses operating purely in local markets might not need one, your business will benefit from a DUNS number if you plan to:
Seek government contracts: Though UEIs are now preferred for US government work, many agencies still require DUNS numbers for contract awards and payments.
Apply for grants: Many grant programs require DUNS numbers as part of their application process.
Work with suppliers and vendors: Build trust with new business partners who will use your DUNS number to verify your company's reliability.
Access funding: Lenders and investors check DUNS numbers to evaluate your business's financial track record.
Expand globally: Companies worldwide use DUNS numbers to verify potential business partners.
How to Get a DUNS Number
Obtaining a DUNS number is free, easy, and can be done entirely online. Follow these steps to request a DUNS number for your business:
Visit Dun & Bradstreet's website: Head to the official website and locate the DUNS application section. If you prefer personal assistance, representatives are available at (888) 290-9574 to guide you through the process.
Provide company details: The application requires essential information about your organization, including your official business name, physical location, workforce size, legal structure, and establishment date.
Submit and wait: Standard processing takes 30 business days with no fees attached. For time-sensitive situations, you can choose expedited processing for a fee, which reduces the wait to eight days.
Verify information: A D&B representative might reach out via phone or email to confirm specific details and ensure the accuracy of your application.
Receive your identifier: Once verified, you'll receive your unique identifier via email. This permanent number begins monitoring your company's financial activities immediately, creating a trackable history for future reference.
