Why do i need a duns number

A data universal numbering system or DUNS number is a unique, nine-digit series of numerals that identifies a business. Listed companies include major corporations, small business owners, nonprofit organizations, and partnerships. Its users include the U. The DUNS number provides information related to a company such as its official business title, name, financial data, trade name, payment history, economic status, and executive names.

Further, the number allows a company to search for information about other companies and helps businesses find potential customers, partners, or vendors.

Registering for a DUNS number is voluntary. However, the identifier is necessary to bid on local, state, or government contracts and apply for federal grants or other credit with a lender. It also allows for the confirmation of the credibility of a business and helps with conducting business with retailers and some foreign countries. Businesses based in the U. An authorized representative of the company must complete the application, and receiving a DUNS number may take up to 30 days.

However, the number can be obtained within 24 hours at no cost if applying as part of a federal government contract.

The authorized representative of the company will need to provide a legal company name, headquarters company name and address, physical address, mailing address, telephone number, contact name and title, and the number of employees at the physical location.

A DUNS number is specific to a physical location. Therefore, a company would need a separate DUNS for each of its physical locations such as a branch, division or headquarters.

It is the organization's responsibility to manage its DUNS numbers and verify that information is accurate. Accessed Nov. Congressional Research Service. Small Business. Company Profiles. Retirement Planning. I have an ecommerce business with no sales yet. I do have a cc and bills that I regularly pay for credit reporting. You can go ahead and request a D-U-N-S number if you have bills you are paying that may appear on your credit reports.

My SS? I understand that not having a DUNS number and doing business with your personal credit can negatively affect your personal credit, but how does having a DUNS number and good business credit affect your personal credit?? Thank you. The fact that you have a business credit rating does not mean there will never be a personal credit check.

Some lenders check personal credit, some check business credit, and some check both or neither. However, if your business does not have business credit established, it may have fewer borrowing options. I currently work overseas but am employed by the Federal government. We left the state of Virginia but do not have an address there until we return. Recently my spouse was hired for a job but needs a DUNS number because the job is an independent contracting job. One alternative is to open a virtual mailbox with a physical address.

I have a duns number i had it for a long time I need help how do I use it to get business credit for my business. DElinda, It sounds like your next step is to start building business credit. Our Youtube videos should help. Is there any other value to paying? Is the number more special? Comes with more advantages if you pay? Or possibly for a business loan or business deal that requires it. Otherwise, you are correct: no need to get it faster than the usual 30 days. By the way I am also in the process of getting FDA approval for this product.

Use the SBA local assistance locator to find your local office. If you have a Nav account and are having trouble with the process, you can reach out to our customer service team. If I have the number, is there a way for me to search for it? The D-U-N-S number lookup is by business name.

You may want to try their live chat to see if they can help you find your business. It only gives you 3 choices Sole Proprietorship, Partnership or Corporation to apply under.

Find registration, search, and application instructions for all users in the Grants. Email us at support grants. Manage Subscriptions Newsletter Archive. Social Media. Support Resources About Grants. You will need all of the information listed below to obtain a DUNS number: Name of organization Organization address Name of the chief executive officer CEO or organization owner Legal structure of the organization e.