How to Register for a D-U-N-S Number

The D-U-N-S Number (Data Universal Numbering System) is a unique nine-digit identifier assigned to businesses by Dun & Bradstreet (D&B). This number is widely recognized by government agencies, corporations, and financial institutions around the world as a way to track and verify businesses. It plays a crucial role in helping you establish credibility, secure funding, and create business opportunities both domestically and internationally. Here’s everything you need to know about registering for a D-U-N-S Number.

Why You Need a D-U-N-S Number

Before diving into the registration process, let’s briefly go over why a D-U-N-S Number is essential for your business:

• Business Identification: A D-U-N-S Number is a globally recognized way of identifying your business. It’s used by suppliers, lenders, and even government entities to verify your company’s identity.
• Credibility & Trust: It boosts your business credibility and provides transparency, making it easier for you to establish trust with potential partners and clients.
• Access to Funding: Many financial institutions and creditors rely on your D-U-N-S Number to evaluate your business’s financial health and creditworthiness.
• Global Expansion: If you plan to do business internationally, many countries and corporations require a D-U-N-S Number for compliance purposes and to ensure your business meets global standards.
• Government Contracts: If you intend to do business with the U.S. government, the D-U-N-S Number is a mandatory requirement for contracts, grants, or loans.

Required Documents

The documents required include the following (this is subject to change based on Client selected):

• Evidence of company registration – CAC Certificate, CO2 (Allotment of Shares), CO7 (Directors Details)
• Proof of Address (Utility bill or other 3rd party document showing company address)
• Current 3 years Audited Accounts  with Auditor’s signature and Seal (If your company has been operating for more than 3 years).
• Current Tax Clearance Certificate (TCC) for 2021, 2022 & 2023
• VAT Letter – Introduction as VAT collecting Agent.
• PenCom Certificate (or list of Employees on a Company Letterhead if less than the number mandated by PenCom Act)
• Bank reference letter addressed to the Head of Procurement of your Client.
• Company Profile
• DPR/NUPRC Permits (If Client is into Oil & Gas)
• Do not hesitate to contact us if you require any clarification.

Step-by-Step Guide to Registering for a D-U-N-S Number

Step 1: Prepare Your Business Information

To register for a D-U-N-S Number, you’ll need to gather some basic information about your business. Ensure you have the following details ready:

• Legal Business Name: The official name of your company, as registered with local authorities.
• Business Address: The physical location of your business. If you operate online, you’ll need to provide a valid physical address.
• Phone Number: A working phone number that can be used to contact your business.
• Name of the Business Owner or Executive: Typically the owner or an executive responsible for managing the business.
• Legal Structure of the Business: Whether your business is a sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation, or LLC.
• Number of Employees: The total number of employees in your business.

Step 2: Visit the Dun & Bradstreet Website

Go to the official Dun & Bradstreet website to begin the registration process. Here’s the link you’ll need:

• D-U-N-S Number Registration Portal: https://www.dnb.com/duns-number.html

Once on the page, you will see the option to “Get a D-U-N-S Number” or “Request a D-U-N-S Number”. Choose this option to begin.

Step 3: Fill Out the Registration Form

On the registration form, you will be prompted to enter the information about your business that you gathered in Step 1. The form will typically ask for:

• Your business name (exactly as it appears in official records).
• The physical address of your business (this can’t be a P.O. box).
• The phone number and email address for your business.
• Details about your business structure (sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation, etc.).
• Name of the owner/primary contact for your business.
• Number of employees in your business.

Make sure the information is accurate and complete, as any discrepancies could delay the process or cause issues in the future.

Step 4: Verify Your Business Information

Dun & Bradstreet will review the information you’ve provided and may request additional verification or documentation if necessary. They may contact you to confirm business details such as:

• Legal documents: A copy of your business registration or tax identification number (TIN).
• Proof of Address: A utility bill or lease agreement showing your business address.

If your business has previously been registered with D&B or is already listed in their database, the verification process may be faster.

Step 5: Wait for Your D-U-N-S Number

Once your registration is complete and your information is verified, D&B will issue your D-U-N-S Number. The process usually takes about 8 to 10 business days, but it could take up to 30 days for some businesses, depending on the complexity of your registration.

If you’ve requested a standard D-U-N-S Number, you will receive it at no cost. However, if you’ve opted for any premium services, the number will be provided once payment has been processed.

Step 6: Use Your D-U-N-S Number

Once you’ve received your D-U-N-S Number, you can start using it for various purposes, including:

• Establishing business credit: Your D-U-N-S Number is key to establishing your business credit profile, which is used by creditors, vendors, and suppliers to assess your financial stability.
• Securing funding: Lenders will use your D-U-N-S Number to assess your eligibility for loans, grants, and other funding opportunities.
• Expanding your network: Your D-U-N-S Number can help your business gain recognition and access to opportunities for partnerships, government contracts, and international business.

For more enquiry on Dun and Bradstreet registration, kindly contact us at SOW Professional Services Ltd.

Website: www.sowprofessional.com

Phone: 07038254989

WhatsApp: https://wa.me/2348152451523