If you’re an app developer looking to submit your app on the Apple App Store using a company or organization name, you’ll need a D-U-N-S Number. While many developers are concerned with coding, design and testing, this small but important step is frequently the most challenging aspect in setting up a Developer Account with Apple.
So what’s a D-U-N-S Number, and why does Apple want it? In this blog, we cover all you need to know — including what it means, how to get one in India, and how it influences the app publishing process.
What is a D-U-N-S Number?
A D-U-N-S Number, also known as a Data Universal Numbering System number, is a distinctive nine-digit identification number assigned to a company (or establishment) by Dun & Bradstreet (D&B). D-U-N-S Number is also a worldwide business identification number indicating a company/entity’s authenticity and track record of financial responsibilities.
D-U-N-S Number is similar to a business version of your Aadhaar Number — it helps verify the legitimacy and dependability of your organization.
Key points about the D-U-N-S Number:
- It identifies your company’s business on a global scale.
- It is used by 330+ million businesses around the world in 200+ countries.
- It allows for organizations, governments, and platforms (like Apple) to confirm your business is legitimate.
Why Apple Requires a D-U-N-S Number
Apple’s ecosystem is built on the idea of trust, authenticity, and accountability. As part of those procedures, Apple has built the D-U-N-S Number as part of the business verification procedure for enrolling in the Apple Developer Program.
Here’s why it matters:
1. Verification of Business Legitimacy
When registering as a business, Apple is obligated to validate that the business is authentic and properly formed. The D-U-N-S number assists in verifying your organization is registered and active in their databases.
2. Compliance and Security
Apple seeks to not only protect its users but also to confirm that only legitimate businesses are publishing apps. The D-U-N-S database confirms that your organization is compliant with international standards and not fraudulent.
3. Smooth App Store Operations
If you are registering an organization account, the D-U-N-S Number guarantees the name that is related to your organization will show on the App Store in the Seller section. If the D-U-N-S number is not registered, then your business entity will not transition correctly to register.
4. Faster Approval Process
A D-U-N-S Number makes verification easier and accelerates the process when enrolling in the Apple Developer program. In the absence of a D-U-N-S Number, Apple would typically verify documents manually, which would cause a delay.
Who Needs a D-U-N-S Number?
Not every developer needs one. Here’s a breakdown:
| Type of Developer Account | D-U-N-S Number Required? |
| Individual (Personal account) | No |
| Organization / Company | Yes |
If you wish to have the name of the business appear as the app’s publisher (and not your name), then you have to register as an organization. Apple requires you to have a D-U-N-S Number for that.
How to Get a D-U-N-S Number in India
The process of getting a D-U-N-S Number is free and rather simple, but you do have to have appropriate business documentation.
This is how you can obtain a D-U-N-S Number in India:
Step 1: Visit the Official D&B India Website
Head over to the official Dun & Bradstreet India site. Select to apply for a new D-U-N-S Number.
Step 2: Fill in Your Business Details
you will be asked for:
- Business Name (Legal name of the business)
- Company address and contact information
- PAN / GSTIN / CIN
- Type of business (Private Limited, LLP, Proprietorship etc)
- No of employees, year of incorporation, etc.
Step 3: Submit Supporting Documents
you may be required to upload
- PAN Card of the incorporation
- Certificate of Incorporation
- GST Certificate
- Proof of Address
Step 4: Verification by D&B
This is the review process, and this will include verifying your company details, and verifying your personal contact info.
Step 5: Receive Your D-U-N-S Number
This whole process can take about 5-10 business days to verify and will be assigned to you after verifying your business and providing your D-U-N-S Number.
How to Use D-U-N-S Number for Apple Developer Account
When you have your number, you can do the following:
- Navigate to the Apple Developer Enrollment page
- Choose the “Company / Organization” account type.
- Enter the D-U-N-S Number when prompted for it.
- Apple will then verify that information against its database with D&B.
- After being confirmed, your company is recognized as a verified organization for the App Store.
Common Issues and How to Solve Them
Sometimes developers encounter problems when they try to submit the D-U-N-S Number to Apple. Below are some common issues and how to troubleshoot:
1. Apple cannot Verify Your D-U-N-S Number
- Ensure that the name of your business and address precisely correspond to the name you submitted to D&B.
- If any of that information has changed, you will need to update that on D&B’s website prior to resubmitting your D-U-N-S Number.
2. You Don’t Have a Business Registered Yet
You must first register your company (Private Limited, LLP, etc.) with the Indian government before you can apply for a D-U-N-S Number.
3. Verification Delay
If you have not heard back from D&B in over 10 days, then I would recommend you contact D&B support with your application reference number. This will allow you to get feedback on your application status.
Benefits of Having a D-U-N-S Number Beyond Apple
While one of the biggest advantages of a D-U-N-S Number is associating your business with an Apple Developer account, there are other benefits as well:
1. Global Recognition
Having a D-U-N-S Number adds legitimacy for your business, especially when dealing with international clients or organizations.
2. Easier Business Verification
D-U-N-S Numbers are used for verification by many global platforms (Example: Systems for both Vendors or Government contracts).
3. Access to Financial Opportunities
It could increase the likelihood of obtaining loans or grants, or even be one of the prerequisites of a partnership.
4. Improved Transparency
With a D-U-N-S Number, businesses are able to validate your business in terms of a work partner.
Pro Tips for App Developers
If you are a developer looking to continue working, building or expanding your client list, inquire about a D-U-N-S Number:
- Get your D-U-N-S number as soon as you can. Don’t wait until you are moving along with the Apple registration.
- Keep your business name consistent across all applications (Example: PAN, GST, and your D&B profile).
- Continue your Apple Developer account on an annual basis so your business remains cataloged.
- Utilize your D-U-N-S Number as credibility when working with corporate clients.
Conclusion
A D-U-N-S Number is not just a necessity; it is your organization’s digital fingerprint in the connected business ecosystem. For app developers, it is the key to accessing the Apple Developer Program under a verified organization account.
When you obtain your D-U-N-S Number, you comply with Apple’s process to validate your organization and establish your business while also establishing credibility for your organization around the world. Whether a startup, small business, or an established organization, this can be the first step to establishing long-term growth and trust in the technology ecosystem.
FAQs
No, it is not necessary with an individual developer account, but it is for organization or company accounts.
Typically, it takes approximately 5–10 business days to receive a D-U-N-S Number in India, depending on how accurate or wrong the information was.
No. The D-U-N-S Number needs to be associated with a business entity, not an individual.
No, it does not cost money. You can obtain a D-U-N-S Number for free through Dun & Bradstreet’s India portal.
If your D-U-N-S Number does not match Apple’s records, you should contact D&B to update or correct your company information before re-submitting to Apple.
