Quick Answer
A DUNS number is a unique nine-digit identifier issued by Dun & Bradstreet that anchors a business credit profile and enables PAYDEX scoring based on payment history with reporting vendors.
Key Takeaways
- DUNS registration is free.
- PAYDEX ranges from 1–100; 80 represents on-time payment.
- PAYDEX above 80 typically requires consistent early payment to vendors.
How PAYDEX Differs From FICO
PAYDEX is based primarily on supplier payment history rather than revolving utilization or installment performance. Early payment can produce scores above 80 - something that has no analog in personal FICO scoring.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a DUNS number required?
It is required by many government contractors and reporting vendors. For most other purposes it is optional but strongly associated with a complete business credit profile.