DUNS Number
What is a DUNS Number?
A DUNS number (DUNS stands for Data Universal Numbering System) identifies a company.
How Does a DUNS Number Work?
Let's say Brad Smith of Tampa, Florida, owns a business called Brad's Bagels. Brad Johnson in Portland, Oregon, also opens a bagel shop called Brad's Bagels. They often buy things from the same bagel equipment supplier, and to avoid confusing the two, the bagel supplier asks them for their DUNS numbers when they place an order. By providing the DUNS number, the supplier can be sure of who is whom and communicate with the customers accordingly.
Dun & Bradstreet assigns DUNS numbers. Companies must provide basic information such as a legal name, headquarters address, a contact name, number of employees, and any other names under which the company does business. If a company has subsidiaries, each of those entities may have a DUNS number too. A DUNS number is never deleted or reassigned.
Companies that do business with the federal government often get DUNS numbers for free.
Why Does a DUNS Number Matter?
DUNS numbers are identifiers for companies large and small. More than 200 million businesses have one.
Personalized Financial Plans for an Uncertain Market
In today’s uncertain market, investors are looking for answers to help them grow and protect their savings. So we partnered with Vanguard Advisers -- one of the most trusted names in finance -- to offer you a financial plan built to withstand a variety of market and economic conditions. A Vanguard advisor will craft your customized plan and then manage your savings, giving you more confidence to help you meet your goals. Click here to get started.
