3 Reasons Why Your Business Needs A DUNS Number
One action that businesses can take to improve their creditworthiness and build their business credit profile is by applying for a D-U-N-S number. Created by Dun & Bradstreet, the D-U-N-S number is a key factor that some lenders and vendors use when assessing a business.
Here we explain what a D-U-N-S number is, why your business might need one, and how to apply.
Here are some related posts:
- How Businesses Can Establish Credit in 7 Simple Steps
- The Power of Business Lines of Credit And Business Credit Cards
What Is a DUNS Number?
Dun & Bradstreet (D&B) is one of the major business credit reporting agencies, alongside Experian, and Equifax. In addition to compiling business credit reports, D&B also offers tools for business credit monitoring, sales insights, and funding preparation.
One of their most well-known services is the D-U-N-S number, which stands for Data Universal Numbering System.
The D-U-N-S number is a unique nine-digit identifier for businesses. Think of a D-U-N-S number like an EIN; it verifies your business identity to the rest of the world. It helps establish your business identity with lenders, vendors, and partners, and reduces the risk of confusion or fraud when others search for your business.
Why Do You Need A DUNS Number?
1. A DUNS Number Allows You To Verify Your Business Identity
A D-U-N-S number connects your business to a unique credit profile with Dun & Bradstreet. This helps differentiate your company from others with similar names and gives you more control over your public business credit presence.
While it doesn't guarantee protection against business identity theft, it makes impersonation harder and gives you visibility into what lenders and vendors see.
Once you have a D-U-N-S number, you can activate your Live Business Identity on D&B and monitor for any suspicious changes.
2. A DUNS Number Can Strengthen Your Business Credit Profile
Many lenders, vendors, and potential business partners request a D-U-N-S number to review your credit history before making decisions. It connects them to your D&B credit file, helping them assess your reliability as a borrower or partner.
Having a D-U-N-S number - especially alongside good payment history, low debt, and strong financials - adds credibility to your business.
You can also look up another company’s D-U-N-S number to vet potential partners, suppliers, or clients.
3. Some Grants and Contracts Require a DUNS Number
Although the U.S. federal government now uses the Unique Entity ID (UEI) system instead of D-U-N-S numbers for SAM.gov registration, some private sector grants, contracts, and vendors still request a D-U-N-S number as part of their application process.
Since getting a D-U-N-S number can take time (up to 30 days with the free option), it's smart to apply in advance rather than wait until you’re up against a deadline.
How Do You Apply for a DUNS Number?
Applying for a D-U-N-S number is free and straightforward. Visit the official Dun and Bradstreet website to start the application. You'll provide basic details about your business, such as name, address, ownership structure, and industry.
D&B offers different packages:
- Free : Includes your D-U-N-S number and access to CreditSignal, which alerts you to changes in your business credit.
- Expedited ($299) : Get your D-U-N-S in ~5 business days, plus access to a basic credit file.
- Full Package ($999) : Includes a detailed credit file and a business listing page on D&B's website to help promote your business.
Get Ongoing Help For Your Business
Need help navigating funding or credit-building tools for your business? We can help with grants, SBA loans, and other business financing options.