How to Get a DUNS Number for Your Business

If you want to build business credit, apply for SBA loans, or bid on government contracts, one of the first things you need is a DUNS number. A DUNS number is a unique nine-digit identifier assigned by Dun & Bradstreet (D&B) that identifies your business in credit databases and government systems.

The good news: it is free to obtain. The process is straightforward, and completing it is a foundational step toward separating your personal and business finances. This guide walks you through exactly how to register for a DUNS number, what information you need, and what to do once you have one.

What Is a DUNS Number?

DUNS stands for Data Universal Numbering System. It is a nine-digit identification number created and maintained by Dun & Bradstreet, one of the major business credit bureaus.

Every DUNS number is unique to a single business entity and its physical location. It is used by lenders, government agencies, and vendors to identify and evaluate businesses. When a company pulls your D&B business credit profile, including your Paydex score, they reference your DUNS number to find your records.

Think of it as a Social Security number for your business. It does not replace your EIN (Employer Identification Number), but it serves a different and equally important purpose in the world of business credit.

Why Your Business Needs a DUNS Number

There are several practical reasons to register for a DUNS number:

• SBA loans and government contracts require it. If you plan to apply for SBA 7(a) loans or bid on federal contracts, a DUNS number is mandatory. The federal government uses it to track entities receiving funding.
• It helps you build business credit. Your DUNS number is tied to your D&B credit file. As you open trade accounts and make on-time payments, that activity builds your business credit profile. Learn more about how to build business credit from scratch.
• Lenders and vendors check your D&B profile. Many lenders review your Dun & Bradstreet report as part of the underwriting process. A strong business credit profile can work in your favor when seeking financing.
• It separates personal and business credit. Establishing a business credit profile with D&B helps create a clear line between your personal finances and your business finances.

Who Can Get a DUNS Number?

Any legitimate business entity can register for a DUNS number. This includes:

• Sole proprietorships
• LLCs
• Corporations (S-corps and C-corps)
• Partnerships
• Nonprofits

You do not need to be incorporated. Sole proprietors can apply using their Social Security number if they do not have an EIN. There is no cost to obtain the standard DUNS number.

How to Register for a DUNS Number: Step by Step

The registration process is simple, but it helps to be prepared before you start. Follow these five steps.

Step 1: Gather Your Business Information

Before you begin the application, collect the following details:

• Legal business name
• DBA (doing business as) name, if applicable
• Physical business address
• Mailing address (if different from physical address)
• Business phone number
• EIN (or SSN for sole proprietors without an EIN)
• Number of employees
• Estimated annual revenue
• Business structure (LLC, corporation, sole proprietorship, etc.)
• Name of the business owner or principal
• SIC or NAICS code (optional, but helpful for accurate classification)

Having this information ready will make the process faster and reduce the chance of errors in your listing.

Step 2: Check if You Already Have a DUNS Number

Dun & Bradstreet may have already created a record for your business based on public data, such as state filings or business directory listings. Before submitting a new application, search the D&B lookup tool at dnb.com to check whether your business already has a number assigned.

Skipping this step can result in duplicate records, which can cause confusion and delays when lenders or agencies try to verify your information.

Step 3: Submit Your Application Online

If no existing record is found, you can apply for a free DUNS number through the Dun & Bradstreet website (dnb.com). Here is what the process looks like:

1. Create an account on the D&B website.
2. Select the option to request a DUNS number.
3. Fill in your business details using the information you gathered in Step 1.
4. Review everything for accuracy and submit.

The free application typically takes up to 30 business days to process. D&B also offers an expedited option for a fee, which is usually processed within a few business days. The expedited service is not required, but it exists if you need the number sooner.

Step 4: Verify Your Information

After you submit your application, D&B may reach out by phone or email to verify the details you provided. Respond promptly to avoid delays. Before confirming, double-check that all information is accurate, especially your legal business name, address, and ownership details.

Errors in your D&B file can affect your business credit profile, so it is worth taking a few minutes to review everything carefully.

Step 5: Receive and Record Your DUNS Number

Once D&B processes your application, you will receive your nine-digit DUNS number via email. Store this number in a secure location. You will need it for:

• Business loan applications
• Government contract bids (via SAM.gov registration)
• Credit account applications with vendors
• Grant applications

Treat your DUNS number like any other critical business identifier.

What to Do After You Get Your DUNS Number

Receiving your DUNS number is just the starting point. Here is what to do next to make the most of it.

Open net-30 trade accounts. These are vendor accounts that give you 30 days to pay invoices. When those vendors report your payment activity to D&B, it starts building your Paydex score. Check out our guide to net-30 accounts to build business credit for specific options.

Monitor your D&B credit report. Errors happen. Review your Dun & Bradstreet profile periodically to make sure the information is accurate and that reported payments are correct. If you find mistakes, you can dispute them directly with D&B. You can also learn more in our guide on how to check your business credit score.

Use your DUNS number on financing applications. When you apply for business loans, lines of credit, or SBA financing, include your DUNS number. It gives lenders a way to pull your business credit profile, which can strengthen your application. For more on what lenders look for, read about SBA loan requirements.

If your business credit file has issues, our guide on how to fix and repair business credit covers the steps you can take to address them.

How a DUNS Number Helps With Business Financing

Lenders use the D&B profile tied to your DUNS number as one factor when evaluating loan applications. Your Paydex score, payment history, and business background all contribute to how lenders assess your creditworthiness.

This is especially relevant for SBA loans. The Small Business Administration requires a DUNS number for all applicants, and your D&B file is part of the review process. If you are considering an SBA loan, understanding the credit score needed for a business loan can help you prepare.

Having a DUNS number does not guarantee approval for any loan. However, building a strong business credit profile over time can improve your chances of qualifying for better financing terms.

BreadRoute is a financing marketplace that connects small business owners with lenders. Once you have your DUNS number and have started building your business credit, you can explore your options through our platform.

Next Steps

Ready to explore financing options for your business? BreadRoute connects you with lenders across SBA loans, term loans, lines of credit, and more.

Apply for Business Financing

You can also browse our lender network or read our small business financing guide to learn what to expect from the process.

This article provides general information and should not be considered financial or insurance advice.