Beginning on October 1 all federal grant applicants must have a Dun and Bradstreet “DUNS” number (Data Universal Numbering System) to apply for or renew federal grants, or submit plans under mandatory grant programs. The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) announced the new requirement in a June 27 notice of final policy issuance. OMB said, “The identifier will be used for tracking purposes, and to validate address and point of contact information.” A universal identifier also eliminates the need for separate identification numbers in different federal agencies. The good news is that obtaining a DUNS number is relatively painless. Organizations can receive a DUNS number at no cost by simply calling Dun and Bradstreet’s dedicated toll-free DUNS number request line at 1-866-705-5711. The information needed to request a DUNS number is very minimal and you will receive your number in 24 hours. The DUNS number will be required regardless of whether the applicant is submitting a paper application or electronically filing through Grants.gov. For more information see our DUNS number fact sheet.