Requesting Internet Number Resources as an Individual Business Entity

ARIN provides Internet number registry services, including the issuance of Internet number resources, to organizations within its service region.

Individuals operating as legally recognized businesses – whether under their own name or a distinct business name – may qualify to request Internet number resources from ARIN.

This page outlines the common business structures recognized in the ARIN region and what documentation ARIN may require to confirm your eligibility.

Common Business Structures
Type Definition Examples
Sole Proprietor / Sole Trader Operating under your own name or a registered business name. John Smith or “Smith IT Services”
Registered Trade Name Operating under a business name that is different from your legal name. John Smith doing business as “Smith IT Solutions”

Terms vary by region and may include:

  • DBA (Doing Business As)
  • FBN (Fictitious Business Name)
  • o/a (Operating As)
  • t/a (Trading As)
  • Assumed Name
Single-Member LLC or Sole-Shareholder Corporation A legally registered company owned and operated by one person. “Smith Technologies LLC”
Independent Contractor / Freelancer Providing services as an individual who is registered as a business or recognized as self-employed under local tax or licensing laws. Freelance network consultant registered with local tax authorities.
Professional Corporation (PC) or PLLC Licensed professionals operating under a registered entity. “Smith Professional IT Services, PC”

What ARIN May Request

ARIN may ask you to provide documentation such as:

  • Business registration or license
  • Tax identification number (e.g., Canada Revenue Agency Business Number [CRA BN], Quebec Enterprise Number [NEQ])
  • Other jurisdiction-specific business documentation

Your Responsibility

It is your responsibility to comply with all business and tax laws in your area. This includes:

  • Registering your business name, if required
  • Obtaining any necessary tax IDs
  • Meeting all legal requirements in your region

ARIN reserves the right to request supporting documentation and verify your eligibility before approving resource requests.

Additional Information by Country or Jurisdiction

While ARIN serves its defined service area, covering the United States, Canada, and parts of the Caribbean and North Atlantic, specific business registration requirements may vary by country or local jurisdiction. Please consult your local government or business registry for details.

United States

State or local business registration may be required if operating under a trade name or as an LLC, Corporation, or other formal entity. Requirements vary. Consult your state’s Secretary of State or local business registry.

Canada

  • CRA Business Number (BN): Required if collecting GST/HST, hiring employees, or registering certain tax accounts.
  • Quebec Enterprise Number (NEQ): Required for businesses in Quebec.
  • Provincial/Territorial Registration: Required if operating under a name other than your personal legal name.

Caribbean

Local business or trade name registration may be required. Some jurisdictions may also require a business or trade license, and/or tax registration.

If you have any questions regarding your eligibility or require assistance with the request process, please contact ARIN’s Registration Services Department using our Ask ARIN service.

Registration Services Help Desk
7:00 AM to 7:00 PM ET
Phone: +1.703.227.0660
Fax: +1.703.997.8844

Tips for Calling the Help Desk