Introduction
Before you can register a developer account for your business with Apple or Google, there’s one important step you’ll need to complete:
Get a DUNS number (a unique ID for your business from Dun & Bradstreet).
Why is this important?
Both Apple and Google require it to verify your business.
It helps ensure only real companies can create organizational developer accounts.
This guide will show you:
How to find out if your business already has a DUNS number
What to do if you need to request a new one
Step-by-step instructions to make the process simple
TL;DR Having a DUNS number is an essential step for any business planning to distribute apps as an organization. It simplifies your developer account setup and gives your business more flexibility and credibility on both the Apple App Store 🍏 and Google Play Store🤖.
What is a DUNS Number?
A DUNS number is a unique identifier for businesses, issued by Dun & Bradstreet. The acronym stands for “Data Universal Numbering System.” This number is used globally to identify specific companies and is often required when working with large organizations, governments, or tech platforms.
Why Do You Need a DUNS Number?
Both Google and Apple require your business to have a DUNS number if you want to register an organizational developer account. This number allows them to verify your business identity and helps prevent duplicate registrations.
Benefits of Organizational Developer Accounts
Company Branding:
With an organizational Apple developer account, your company name and not your personal name appears on the App Store where users download your app.
Access to Regulated Industries:
Some industries (e.g., medical) require an organizational developer account to publish apps.
Team Collaboration:
Organizational accounts allow you to grant other users access, making it easier to get support or collaborate.
Easier App Publishing on Google Play:
Google now requires individual developer accounts to have 20 testers before publishing. This rule doesn’t currently apply to organizational accounts, so registering as an organization is highly recommended.
Finding Out if Your Business Already Has a DUNS Number
Your business might already have a DUNS number, especially if it’s well-established or larger. There are several ways to check:
1. UPIK Search (Recommended)
The UPIK search is a reliable way to find your DUNS number, no matter where your business is registered.
Go to the UPIK search page: https://www.dnb.com/de-de/upik-en.html
Select your country.
Enter your company’s name and search.
2. Dun & Bradstreet “Find My D-U-N-S Number”
You can also search directly on the Dun & Bradstreet website.
In the dropdown menu, select “Find My Dun & Bradstreet D-U-N-S Number.”
Follow the prompts to search for your business.
What If You Can’t Find Your DUNS Number?
If your company doesn’t appear in these searches, you’ll need to request a new DUNS number. Both search tools above provide options to submit your business information if a DUNS number does not already exist.
How to Request a New DUNS Number
If your business does not already have a DUNS number, you’ll need to request one before you can continue registering your developer account.
Here’s how to request a new DUNS number:
Go to one of these sites:
Search for your business to confirm it doesn’t already have a DUNS number.
If your business isn’t listed:
Follow the prompts to start a new application.
You’ll need to provide some business details (like your official business name, address, phone number, and contact information).
Submit your application.
After submitting, you may receive an email asking for additional information or documents to verify your business.
How long does it take?
Processing times for new DUNS numbers can vary.
It can take a few days up to a couple of weeks for Dun & Bradstreet to process your request.
Sometimes, they may contact you for more information, which can add to the time.
Important note
SupaPass does not have any control over how long Dun & Bradstreet takes to issue your DUNS number.
We recommend applying as early as possible to avoid any delays in your developer account registration process.
If you have questions about your DUNS number application, please reach out directly to Dun & Bradstreet using the contact options provided on their website.