DUNS Number Explained: How to Get a DUNS Number

If you’re looking to grow your business, secure government contracts, expand internationally, or publish apps on the Apple App Store, you’ll need a DUNS Number.

Issued by Dun & Bradstreet (D&B), this nine-digit identifier verifies your business worldwide. For mobile app developers, it’s essential since Apple requires a valid DUNS Number to enroll in the Apple Developer Program and register as a company account.

In this guide, we'll explain what a DUNS Number is, why you need it, and how to get a DUNS Number step by step. We'll also cover how to find a DUNS Number, perform a DUNS Number lookup, and verify a DUNS Number for accuracy.

What is a DUNS Number?

DUNS Number (Data Universal Numbering System) is a unique identifier assigned to businesses by Dun & Bradstreet. It's recognized globally and used to track a business's financial and operational credibility.

Think of it as a Social Security Number for your business, helping you build credit, gain trust from partners, and access opportunities like government contracts and Apple's developer ecosystem.

Why Do You Need a DUNS Number?

Having a DUNS Number offers multiple benefits:

Global Business Recognition: Essential for international trade and partnerships.

Business Credit Profile: Builds your business credit report with Dun & Bradstreet, which lenders and investors use to assess your reliability.

Government Contracts: Required to do business with many U.S. federal, state, and local government agencies.

Apple Developer Program: For organizations that want to release apps on the Apple App Store, a DUNS Number is mandatory. Apple uses this number to confirm that your organization is legally recognized and eligible for a company developer account. This allows you to:

• Publish apps under your business or brand name (instead of a personal account).
• Access organization-level developer tools and team management features.
• Meet Apple’s compliance requirements for app distribution and in-app purchases.

Vendor and Supplier Trust: Companies use a DUNS Number lookup to verify your authenticity before entering into contracts.

How to Get a DUNS Number (Step-by-Step Guide)

Getting a DUNS Number is free and straightforward. Here's a detailed step-by-step process:

Step 1: Check if You Already Have One

Many businesses already have a DUNS Number. Use Apple’s official D-U-N-S Number lookup tool or visit Dun & Bradstreet’s website to search by company name and location.

• If your company appears, you can retrieve and verify your DUNS Number instantly.
• If not listed, you can request one for free.

Step 2: Prepare Your Business Information

To apply for a DUNS Number, you'll need the following details:

• Legal name of the business
• Business address (physical location)
• Phone number
• Name of business owner or CEO
• Legal structure (e.g., LLC, corporation, sole proprietorship)
• Number of employees

Step 3: Submit an Application

If you don't already have one, you can apply for free:

• Visit Dun & Bradstreet's official DUNS
• Fill in your business information accurately
• Submit your request

Step 4: Wait for Processing

• Standard processing usually takes up to 30 business days.
• If you need it urgently (for example, for an Apple Developer account), you can request an expedited service (paid).

Step 5: Receive and Verify Your DUNS Number

Once your application is approved, you'll receive your nine-digit DUNS Number. Be sure to verify your DUNS Number and ensure your business details are correct in Dun & Bradstreet's database.

Quick Overview of DUNS Number Application

Requesting a D-U-N-S Number for Apple Developer Enrollment

Before enrolling in the Apple Developer Program, check if your organization already has a D-U-N-S Number. Many companies are automatically assigned one by Dun & Bradstreet for free.

Use Apple’s official D-U-N-S Number lookup tool to:

• Find your existing number
• Verify your organization’s information
• Submit your company details if you need to request a free D-U-N-S Number

When requesting via this tool, you’ll need to provide:

• Legal entity name
• Headquarters and mailing addresses
• Contact information

How to Lookup or Verify a DUNS Number

• Use the DUNS Number lookup tool on Apple or D&B’s website
• Search by company name and location
• Confirm that the listed information matches your registered details
• Update your profile with D&B if any discrepancies exist

Final Thoughts

A DUNS Number is essential for businesses aiming to build credibility, secure funding, and expand globally. For mobile app developers, it's a must-have for enrolling in the Apple Developer Program and publishing apps under your organization's name.

Tip for App Developers:

When applying for a DUNS Number, ensure the legal entity name and address match your business registration documents. This helps avoid delays when enrolling in the Apple Developer Program. Please get in touch with [email protected] and [email protected] any questions.