Definition of the D&B DUNS Number:
The D&B DUNS Number is a unique nine-digit identifier for businesses. It is used to establish a Dun & Bradstreet business credit file, which is often referenced by lenders and potential business partners to help predict the reliability and/or financial stability of the company in question. If you want to bid on government proposals, you will need to get a DUNS Number for each physical location of your business.
Why do I need a DUNS Number?
The DUNS Number has been referred to as the “Social Security number for businesses.” In reality, it’s even more pervasive than Social Security. The system is used in dozens of countries around the world, including the U.S., Australia, and the European Union, and confers numerous benefits on businesses that participate. The business credit file associated with your business’s DUNS Number can help potential partners and lenders learn about your business and make informed decisions about whether or not to work with you as a client, supplier or partner. Even after you’ve signed a contract or accepted a loan, your DUNS Number can be used to help get a clear view of your business, which can help you negotiate for improved terms and conditions or a favorable line of credit.
UEI (Unique Entity Identifier) number definition
A Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) is a number issued by U.S. authorities through the System for Award Management (SAM) to identify companies and other entities that do business with the U.S. federal government.
The UEI has replaced the DUNS number as the authorized identifier for the federal government, and small businesses can obtain a UEI number directly from SAM.gov.
Any entity that does business with the federal government, whether to obtain federal contracts or receive federal funds, needs a unique identifier.
Since April 2022, the federal government has replaced the DUNS (Data Universal Numbering System) number, issued by Dun & Bradstreet, with a new business identifier, the UEI (Unique Entity Identifier), issued by the government itself.
Is an UEI the same as a DUNS number?
The UEI is totally different from the DUNS number. Although both numbers have the same purpose - to uniquely identify a company.
Dun and Bradstreet (D&B), an analysis company, creates DUNS numbers. The DUNS number is not simply an identification number, but is also linked to D&B's financial and accounting scores and ratings.
The US federal government generates and distributes the UEI on SAM.gov.
This is the authorized identifier for entities doing business with the federal government, and is not linked to a company's D&B credit ecosystem, as DUNS is.
Receiving an UEI directly from the government simplifies the process of obtaining a direct identification number, since it eliminates the need for a third party.
How do I obtain a UEI number?
If your entity is already registered on SAM.gov, it has already been assigned a UEI number. Simply log on to SAM.gov to access it.
If you need to obtain a UEI number on SAM.gov, you have two options. Entities intending to bid for contracts or grants directly with the federal government should go to SAM.gov and select "Register Entity" to receive an UEI number. Those wishing to obtain an UEI for subcontracting reports should select "Get Unique Entity ID".