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Understanding UEN and Special UEN in Singapore

23 May 2024

Editor: ET


In Singapore, the Unique Entity Number (UEN) is a critical identifier for businesses. Whether you are starting a new company or managing an existing one, understanding the importance of UEN and the benefits of opting for a Special UEN (SUN) can enhance your business operations.

This article, with insights from Expede.com.sg, explains what UEN and SUN are, and how they can benefit your business.


What is a Unique Entity Number (UEN)?


A Unique Entity Number (UEN) is an identification number automatically generated when a company successfully registers with the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA). The UEN serves as a unique identifier for entities across various government agencies in Singapore.


Importance of UEN

  1. Official Correspondence: All companies must include their UEN in business letters, statements of account, invoices, official notices, and other correspondences. This ensures proper identification and facilitates smooth communication with clients and partners.

  2. Government Transactions: When transacting with government agencies, citing the UEN is mandatory. It streamlines processes and ensures accurate record-keeping across different government databases.

  3. Regulatory Compliance: Including the UEN in all official documents helps businesses comply with regulatory requirements, avoiding potential penalties or legal issues.


Insight from Expede.com.sg: Ensuring that your UEN is correctly displayed on all official documents and communications is crucial for maintaining compliance and professionalism.


What is a Special UEN (SUN)?

For businesses seeking a more memorable and identifiable UEN, the Special UEN (SUN) is an optional service offered by ACRA. SUN allows companies to choose a preferred UEN from a list of reserved numbers. This can be particularly beneficial for branding and marketing purposes.


Benefits of Special UEN (SUN)

  1. Easy to Remember: A memorable UEN can make it easier for clients and partners to recall your business, enhancing brand recognition.

  2. Branding: A special UEN that aligns with your brand identity can strengthen your brand’s image and make your business stand out.

  3. Professionalism: A chosen UEN can convey a sense of professionalism and attention to detail, positively impacting your business’s reputation.


Costs of Special UEN (SUN)

The cost of opting for a SUN varies based on the tier of the chosen UEN:

  • Tier 1: $3,000

  • Tier 2: $1,000


Recommendation from Expede.com.sg: Consider the long-term branding benefits when deciding whether to invest in a SUN. While the initial cost may seem high, the potential return on investment through enhanced brand recognition can be substantial.


How to Apply for a UEN or SUN

  1. Standard UEN: By default, your company’s UEN will be automatically generated by BizFile+ upon successful registration with ACRA. No additional steps are required to obtain a standard UEN.

  2. Special UEN: If you prefer a SUN, you can choose from a list of reserved UENs. To apply, log into BizFile+ and follow the instructions for selecting and paying for your preferred UEN.


Expede.com.sg Tip: Plan ahead and decide whether a SUN is suitable for your business before completing the registration process. This can save time and ensure your preferred UEN is available.


Understanding and utilizing UEN and Special UEN (SUN) can significantly benefit your business operations in Singapore. By ensuring proper use of UEN and considering the advantages of a SUN, businesses can enhance their branding and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements. For more detailed advice and assistance with business registration, visit Expede.com.sg.

About Expede.com.sg: Expede.com.sg offers comprehensive business advisory services, helping businesses navigate the complexities of registration, compliance, and strategic growth in Singapore.

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