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How to Get a DUNS Number: What It Is and Why You Need One
May 10, 2026
May 10, 2026
A DUNS number is a unique nine-digit identifier assigned by Dun & Bradstreet (D&B) that tracks your business's credit profile and financial activity. If you're applying for loans, bidding on government contracts, or building vendor relationships, a Dun & Bradstreet number is one of the fastest ways to establish credibility. The good news: it's completely free to get one, and once assigned, your DUNS number stays with your business permanently.
Whether you're launching a new LLC or scaling an established company, a DUNS number opens doors with lenders, suppliers, and agencies that rely on D&B data to vet partners. Below, we'll cover what a DUNS number is, who needs one, how to apply, and how it ties into your business credit — plus how it compares to other identifiers like EINs and UEIs. If you're also exploring funding options, check out our best business loan lenders to compare what's available.
A DUNS number — short for Data Universal Numbering System — is a nine-digit business identification number created and maintained by Dun & Bradstreet. It's used worldwide to identify and track the financial health of over 500 million businesses. Think of it as a social security number for your company: unique, permanent, and tied to your credit history.
Financial institutions, government agencies, and potential partners use your DUNS number to pull your D&B business credit report. That report includes details about your payment history, company size, industry, and overall financial stability — all of which factor into business loan applications, vendor agreements, and contract bids.
Your D&B DUNS number also serves as the foundation for your PAYDEX score, a rating from 0 to 100 that D&B generates based on payment data reported by your vendors and creditors. The higher your PAYDEX score, the stronger your business credit profile looks to lenders and partners — making it a critical metric if you plan to pursue financing or large contracts.
It's easy to confuse a DUNS number with an Employer Identification Number (EIN), but they serve very different purposes. An EIN is a federal tax ID issued by the IRS — you need it to file taxes, hire employees, and open a business bank account. It's legally required for most business structures.
A DUNS number, on the other hand, is entirely optional. It's issued by D&B (a private company, not a government agency) and focuses specifically on tracking your business credit and financial reputation. You won't use it on tax forms, but you will need it if you want to build a D&B credit profile or apply for federal grants and contracts.
In short: your EIN identifies your business to the government for tax purposes, while your DUNS number identifies your business to the commercial world for credit and trust purposes. Most established businesses have both.
UEI (Unique Entity Identifier) is now required for all federal contracting through SAM.gov; DUNS numbers remain the standard for international business verification and credit monitoring. If you're only working with U.S. federal agencies, a UEI is what you need. But if your business operates globally or you want to build a D&B credit profile, your DUNS number is still essential.
Here's a quick breakdown of the key differences:
For more details on the federal transition, see the GSA's guide to Unique Entity Identifiers (UEIs).
While a DUNS number isn't legally required, it's a smart move for a wide range of businesses. You should consider getting one if you fall into any of these categories:
Sole proprietors and freelancers can get a DUNS number even without employees or a physical office — it helps establish business credit separate from personal credit. This is especially useful if you're trying to qualify for financing or vendor accounts on the strength of your business rather than your personal score.
Any LLC seeking financing, grants, or vendor relationships should get a DUNS number for LLC credibility as well. It signals to lenders and partners that your business is established and trackable through D&B's database, which can make a real difference when you're competing for contracts or negotiating payment terms.
The DUNS number application process is straightforward, and it won't cost you anything. Before you start, gather the following information — you'll need it to complete the form:
Once you have everything ready, follow these steps:
Obtaining a DUNS number through D&B's website is the most reliable route. Once assigned, your number is permanent — you won't need to renew or reapply.
If you're not sure whether your business already has a DUNS number — or you need to verify one for a vendor or partner — there are a few ways to find it.
The fastest option is D&B's free DUNS number lookup tool at dnb.com. Just enter your business name and location, and the system will search its database for a match. You can also call D&B's support line at (866) 705-5711 for direct assistance with finding or verifying a DUNS number.
If you've had a DUNS number before, check your previous business documents — loan applications, government contract paperwork, or correspondence from D&B. It's often listed on approval letters, grant applications, or vendor registration confirmations.
Your DUNS number is the key that unlocks your D&B business credit profile. Once you have one, D&B begins collecting payment data from your vendors, creditors, and trade partners to generate your PAYDEX score — a rating from 0 to 100 that measures how reliably you pay your bills.
A strong PAYDEX score (typically 80 or above) can improve your loan terms, help you negotiate better payment arrangements with suppliers, and make your business more competitive for contracts. Lenders routinely check D&B profiles before extending credit, and a solid business credit history can mean lower interest rates and higher credit limits. If your personal credit is holding you back, building a separate business profile through your DUNS number can open doors — learn more about getting a business loan with bad credit.
Building your business credit through a DUNS number also creates a financial identity that's separate from your personal credit — protecting your personal score while giving your business its own track record.
Yes, the basic DUNS number is completely free. If you need it faster than the standard 30-day processing window, D&B offers an expedited option (roughly 8 business days) for a fee.
Standard processing takes up to 30 business days at no cost. Expedited processing is available for approximately 8 business days if you're willing to pay a fee.
No. An EIN is a federal tax identification number issued by the IRS. A DUNS number is a business credit identifier issued by Dun & Bradstreet — it tracks your business's financial reputation rather than your tax obligations.
It's not legally required, but it's highly beneficial. A DUNS number for an LLC helps with loan applications, grant eligibility, vendor approvals, and building a business credit history independent of your personal credit.
Yes. Sole proprietors and freelancers can apply for a free DUNS number — no employees or physical office required. It's a practical way to start building business credit.
Use D&B's free lookup tool at dnb.com, or call their support line at (866) 705-5711. You can also check previous loan applications, grant paperwork, or correspondence from D&B.
A DUNS number is free, takes just minutes to apply for, and gives your business a financial identity that lenders, government agencies, and global partners can verify. Whether you're pursuing loans, contracts, or vendor relationships, it's one of the simplest steps you can take to build credibility and open doors. Head to D&B's website to get started.
Meagan Drew is a personal finance and loans expert at BestMoney.com. She has written for publications such as Investopedia, Apple News+, and SimpleMoneylyfe.com. With seven years of experience as a financial advisor, Meagan specializes in making complex topics like budgeting and investing accessible and engaging for everyday consumers.
