Reputation is everything when it comes to running a small business. Requesting help for your small company is really no different from requesting help as an individual.

This is why many small business owners choose to secure a Dun & Bradstreet Number, also known as a D-U-N-S Number, soon after registering with the state. A DUNS # is a unique nine-digit ID that is assigned to each physical location of a business. So if you have 3 different business locations throughout a state, you’ll need a different number for each location. It is required if you want to apply for certain types of contracts and assistance for your business.

A DUNS number is similar to a social security number for an individual person, except that it identifies a registered business entity.

If you want consideration for government contracts in the future, you are going to need a DUNS. Some financial institutions might also ask you for your DUNS number when you apply for financial assistance.

There are several benefits to getting a D&B D-U-N-S Number for your new small business:

• You have a chance to show creditors and suppliers that you’re financially stable
• You become a member of the D&B business network, which is searched over 58 million times per year
• You have the opportunity to bid on contracts that specifically ask for a D-U-N-S number from applicants
  

And when you opt for expedited processing of a DUNS there’s one more important benefit:

• Documenting of your company’s business credit  can begin in just 5 days instead of the normal processing period of 30 days

Whether you’re thinking about registering a business, or have already registered with your state, it’s a good idea to look into getting a D-U-N-S Number for your company. Keep in mind that the information that will be requested when you apply includes:

• The Company’s Legal name & DBA
• The physical and mailing address of the business
• Telephone number
• The name and title of the company representative
• Employee count

StartUpaSmallBiz.com provides step by step guidance for prospective and existing small business owners. Click here to begin.