How to Get a D&B Number
Getting a D&B Number for My Small Business
Wondering how to get a D&B number? We explain how to go about getting a D&B number for a small business and we showcase a couple of extras from D&B that are worth investing in.
If your small business doesn't have a D&B number, you may be limiting your business growth.
Dun and Bradstreet (D&B) offers what it calls a D-U-N-S Number. More commonly, it's called a D&B number.
In effect, it's a unique nine-digit number that is widely recognized as the standard for identifying and keeping track of small business around the globe.
Do I Need a D&B Number?
The primary advantage of getting a D&B number is that it enhances the credibility of your business in the marketplace.
By getting a D&B number, you will ensure that your company is listed in D&B's database. In this way, potential customers, suppliers and lenders can easily find your company and learn about your business.
You can also use D&B as a credit reference. In fact, many small business owners find that they have to have a D&B number because creditors, suppliers and vendors ask for a firm's D&B number before offering them credit. It's a pretty standard way for businesses to determine whether another company is creditworthy.
How Do I Get a D&B Number
How hard is it to get a D&B number?
Not hard at all.
Just go to D&B's site to Apply for a D& B Number.
After completing the form, you will receive your D&B number (i.e. your D-U-N-S Number) within 30 business days. If you need to change your information in the future, you can do so by using D&B's eUpdate tool.
Need a D&B number faster than 30 days? Keep reading.
Don't Forget to Get a Credit File...and Get a D&B Number Fast
Getting a D&B Number won't automatically establish a D&B credit file for your company. If you are in a hurry and are requesting a D&B Number because you need to show others that your business is creditworthy but can't wait 30 days, you should proactively establish a credit file. To establish a credit file and obtain a D&B Number at the same time, get CreditBuilder Plus. This is a great first step in establishing business credit, which will ultimately allow you to get small business loans and small business credit cards that may not require a personal guarantee.
Plus, and this is important if you are in a hurry, CreditBuilder Plus lets you get a D&B D-U-N-S Number within a few days and a complete credit file within D&B's database. The price is a little high for many small businesses, but this product can unlock the floodgates of small business credit, which is worth a lot to many small business owners.
D&B also offers other products that let you monitor a D&B credit file. It's helpful to know what your credit file looks like because lenders and vendors are likely looking at it when they decide whether or not to offer you credit.
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Have questions about getting a D&B number, establishing a D&B credit file, or setting up a D&B PowerProfile? Ask away! We welcome all questions, comments, tips and suggestions.