A DUNS Number, or Data Universal Numbering System identifier, is a unique nine-digit number issued by Dun & Bradstreet (D&B) to identify businesses globally. This number serves as a business’s credit ID, enabling lenders and other organizations to access a standardized credit report reflecting the company’s financial health, payment history, and risk level.
When applying for business loans, especially through traditional banks, credit unions, or government programs like those offered by the Small Business Administration (SBA), lenders typically request your DUNS Number. This enables them to retrieve your D&B credit report, which is vital for assessing the loan risk.
The verification process works as follows: when you submit your loan application, lenders input your DUNS Number to view your business’s credit file. This report includes payment history, a financial stress score predicting potential bankruptcy risk, credit limit recommendations, and verified company information such as address and size. These details, along with your submitted financial documents, help lenders evaluate your business’s ability to repay the loan.
Beyond loan applications, a DUNS Number is essential for businesses seeking government contracts or partnerships with large corporations, as it acts as a trusted identifier worldwide. Establishing a DUNS Number early helps build your business credit profile independently from your personal credit.
To obtain a DUNS Number, businesses provide their legal name, address, phone number, ownership details, and industry classification to Dun & Bradstreet via their website or phone. The process can take several days to weeks depending on verification and service level.
Maintaining accurate and updated business information with D&B, promptly paying vendors, and monitoring your business credit report effectively boosts your credit standing measured by the D&B Paydex score—a key metric lenders review during underwriting.
Common misconceptions include thinking a DUNS Number is only for large companies or that applying for one costs money. In reality, it’s free and vital for businesses of all sizes wishing to establish credibility for loans or government contracts.
For more detailed information on business loans and loan processes, visit our Business Loan Glossary and explore topics like Business Loan Underwriting and Business Loan Interest Rate.
For official guidance, see Dun & Bradstreet’s DUNS Number resource and the SBA’s loan information at sba.gov.