The D-U-N-S Number

The Data Universal Numbering System number is Dun & Bradstreet's nine-digit identifier for your business. It is free, and it is the key that opens a D&B credit file - the file behind the PAYDEX score.

Why it matters

Vendors that report to D&B report against your D-U-N-S number. No number, no file, no score - no matter how perfectly you pay. It is also required for many government contracts, grants, and some lender applications.

Key facts

• A D-U-N-S number is free from D&B's website; expedited options exist but the standard request costs nothing.
• One number per legal business entity at a given location.
• The D-U-N-S record carries your company name, address, phone, industry codes, and size - keep them accurate and consistent.
• D&B only generates a PAYDEX score once enough trade experiences are reported to the file.
• D&B may market paid monitoring after registration; the number itself is free.

In practice

1. Request the D-U-N-S number at dnb.com with your exact legal name and address.
2. Record the number with your EIN and bank details in one business identity document.
3. Before applying for vendor credit, confirm the business name and address the vendor will report match the D&B record.