Do You Have A DUNS Number?

The federal Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has determined that there is a need for improved statistical reporting of federal grants and cooperative agreements. Pursuant to the Patriot Act, therefore, many federal funding sources now require that applicants for federal assistance have a Dun and Bradstreet (D&B) Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) number. The use of the DUNS number government-wide will provide a means to identify entities receiving those awards and their business relationships. The identifier will be used for tracking purposes, and to validate address and point of contact information.

The DUNS number will supplement other identifiers already required by statute or regulation, such as tax identification numbers. It will be required more and more frequently when municipalities apply for federal assistance. Therefore, we recommend that all of our customers get a designated DUNS number if they do not already have one.

Organizations can receive a DUNS number in one day, at no cost, by calling the dedicated toll-free DUNS Number request line at 1-866-705-5711. A DUNS number can also be obtained online at http://www.dnb.com. This takes 30 business days and there is no cost unless the organization requests expedited (1-day) processing, in which case a fee of $40 would be charged.

If you have any questions regarding new DUNS number requirements, please contact Linda Armstrong of our office.