What is a DUNS Number? A Comprehensive Guide to Its Legal Definition

Definition & Meaning

A DUNS number, or Data Universal Numbering System number, is a unique nine-digit identifier assigned to businesses by Dun & Bradstreet. This number helps to distinguish one business from another and provides access to a comprehensive database containing essential information about the company, such as its name, address, contact details, industry classification, and employee count. The DUNS number is widely recognized and used globally, identifying nearly 100 million businesses, including corporations, small enterprises, partnerships, and non-profit organizations.

Table of content

Legal Use & context

The DUNS number is often utilized in various legal contexts, particularly in business transactions, credit assessments, and compliance with government regulations. It is essential in sectors such as finance, procurement, and international trade, where verifying a business's identity and credibility is crucial. Users can manage related forms and procedures using resources like US Legal Forms, which offers templates for business registration and compliance documentation.

Key legal elements

Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A small business owner applies for a loan and provides their DUNS number to the lender. This allows the lender to quickly access the business's credit history and other relevant information.

Example 2: A government agency requires contractors to have a DUNS number to ensure that they are legitimate businesses before awarding contracts. (hypothetical example)

Comparison with related terms

Term	Definition	Difference
DUNS Number	A unique identifier for businesses assigned by Dun & Bradstreet.	Specific to business identification.
Employer Identification Number (EIN)	A unique number assigned by the IRS for tax purposes.	Used primarily for tax identification, not business verification.
Business License	A permit issued by a government agency allowing a business to operate.	Regulatory compliance rather than identification.

Common misunderstandings

What to do if this term applies to you

If you need a DUNS number for your business, you can apply for one through the Dun & Bradstreet website. Ensure you have all necessary information about your business ready. Additionally, consider using US Legal Forms to find templates for any related documentation you may need. If your situation is complex or involves significant financial decisions, consulting a legal professional may be beneficial.

Find the legal form that fits your case

Browse our library of 85,000+ state-specific legal templates.

This field is required

Quick facts

Attribute	Details
Typical Fees	Free for basic registration, fees may apply for additional services.
Jurisdiction	International, with a focus on U.S. businesses.
Possible Penalties	None directly related to having a DUNS number, but lack of it may affect business opportunities.