The federal government is now requiring applicants for federal funding to have a DUNS number from Dun and Bradstreet. A new toll-free number to call and have a DUNS number assigned to organizations was announced last week- 1-866-705-5711. Remember: You do NOT have to purchase credit services from Dun and Bradstreet to get a DUNS number. If they try to sell you these services, please let us know. State governments and large nonprofits have asked OMB for guidance on when they need more than one DUNS number. OMB is currently considering what standards should apply. We will be communicating your ideas on this issue to OMB in the next few weeks. Please send us your feedback to the following questions: A. What kinds of data are most useful or important for the federal government and the public to have about grants? Multiple DUNS should be compatible with these information needs so that useful data will be generated. B. What are the easiest or most useful ways for states and nonprofits to use multiple DUNS numbers? C. Are there other criteria we should consider? D. Possible standards for separate DUNS numbers could be based on: 1. Separate bank accounts or account numbers 2. Departments, chapters or other sub-entities within a state or nonprofit 3. Separate physical facilities 4. Different types of programs (i.e. job training, energy assistance) 5. Other? What makes the most sense from your perspective? Responses should be sent to Kay Guinane at kguinane@ombwatch.org, or Abbey Tyrna at tyrnaa@ombwatch.org, or call us at 202/234-8494. ---