How a D-U-N-S Number Helps Your Business

What a D-U-N-S Number is

It is a nine-digit code that links to your business's record in Dun & Bradstreet's database.

Each location or entity can have its own number, so the record includes your legal name, address, ownership and industry. Other businesses and lenders can look it up to confirm you exist and see basic details. Dun & Bradstreet can also build a credit report and scores from reported payment history.

Where it matters

Government contracting, large-company vendor onboarding and some trade credit decisions often ask for a D-U-N-S Number.

• Government work: federal contractors and grant applicants have historically needed an identifier in the SAM.gov registration process. The federal system has changed which identifier it uses, so check the current requirement on SAM.gov.
• Large customers: some corporate buyers want one before adding you as a vendor.
• Trade credit: suppliers may check your file before offering net-30 terms.
• App and platform programs: certain developer or marketplace accounts request it.

How it connects to business credit

A number gives you a file. Payment history reported by vendors is what fills it and builds a score.

Building business credit means paying suppliers on time, using vendors that report to the bureaus and keeping your information consistent across sources. Learn more in our guide on how to build business credit and the difference between personal and business credit scores.

Keep in mind that many small business funders also look at the owner's personal credit, not just the business file.

How to get one

Dun & Bradstreet offers a free request process for the number. Check their site for the current steps and any paid add-ons.

You will typically provide your legal business name, address, phone, structure, owner details and what you do. Processing may take days to weeks. Be wary of paid packages you do not need, since the basic number is generally available without charge. Confirm details on the official Dun & Bradstreet site.

Make sure your business has its basics in order first: a registered entity, an EIN, a business bank account and a listed address.

Keep the record accurate

Check your profile periodically and correct errors in name, address or ownership.

Inaccurate data can slow vendor approvals or confuse lenders. Update your profile when you move, rename or change ownership. Pay vendors on time, since payment history is a major factor in your score.

Common mistakes with D-U-N-S profiles

Most problems come from inconsistent information and ignoring the profile after it is created.

Use the exact legal name and address that appear on your formation documents and tax filings. Mismatches can delay approvals. Do not pay for services you do not understand. Review your profile at least once a year, especially after a move, a name change or new ownership. Finally, remember that a number alone does not create a score. Regular on-time payments to suppliers that report to the bureaus do the real work.

Is it required for funding?

Generally not. Revenue, time in business, bank statements and credit matter more for most small business funding.

ROI Funder does not require a D-U-N-S Number. It considers businesses with 500+ FICO, 6+ months in business and $20,000+ monthly revenue, and a complete file is the application plus 3 months of business bank statements. Applying takes a few minutes and uses a soft credit pull.

If you want a longer-term path to larger credit, building a business credit file can help. Our guide on business credit score ranges shows how scores are read. For immediate needs, see working capital.