In order for your company to be able to issue stocks, your company must have a CUSIP number. That's all part of the process, and there is an air of excitement in the company because it has grown to the point you and the board want to take your company public.

CUSIP is a nine-character number that identifies a specific security. Each CUSIP is unique for that security. The CUSIP is essential in the financial market because it helps to make clearing and settlement of trades run smoothly. You can find plenty of information on the CUSIP system. Here are various ways you can get CUSIP information:

1. Get a CUSIP number by working with a CUSIP consultant.

2. Acquire CUSIP information from ABA.

3. Rely on an online provider to get CUSIP training.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Work with a CUSIP consultant to get a CUSIP number

You should work with a consulting firm if you're feeling overwhelmed about taking your company public. Some consultants will help you get a CUSIP number. Other consultants will advise you on what you will need to get the CUSIP number. At times, you will need the services of a transfer consulting agent. The transfer agent can file the right application to get the CUSIP number.

I recommend: ContinentalStock provides transfer agent services; one service it provides is that it will show you how to get a CUSIP number. Stocktransfer also offers transfer agent services. You can contact Stocktransfer, and it will get the CUSIP number for you.

Get CUSIP information from ABA

You'll want to investigate the website of ABA (American Bankers Association). First, ABA owns the CUSIP distribution system. It creates, improves, and manages the system. ABA strives to ensure that trading, clearing, and settlement remains efficient throughout the market. Because of ABA,the CUSIP distribution system is a common language that financial institutions all over the world can understand and use.

I recommend: You will want to look first at ABA’s website; this website offers comprehensive information on CUSIP. You can also get great CUSIP advice from Eagle Traders’ website. Eagle Traders explains how CUSIP works. However, you will have to sign up in order to use this website.

Obtain CUSIP training from an online provider

If you want to understand how the CUSIP system works, then consider getting some CUSIP training. The training covers topics such as understanding corporate and municipal securities or cutting down on costs and recognizing risks. To take advantage of CUSIP training, you can get help with CUSIP in the following ways: online, attend classes in person, or view a webinar.

I recommend: Check CUSIP Global Services’ website, which is actually the website of CUSIP. CUSIP Global Services offers comprehensive information on CUSIP. You can also get assistance with CUSIP on Street Authority’s website. The company explains what a CUSIP is and how it works.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Make sure you understand how the service agreement works when it comes to CUSIP service. You'll also want to check out all the fees that are involved for accessing CUSIP Global Services' services.