Registered
Number: Frequently Asked Questions
1) What is an RN Number?
RN stands for Registered Identification Number.
It is a number issued by the FTC to U.S. businesses
that manufacture, import, distribute, or sell products
covered by the Textile, Wool, and Fur Acts. Businesses
can use this number on product labels in lieu of
the company name.
2) Do I have to use an RN number?
No. You are required to label covered products to
show the name or identifying number of a U.S. business
responsible for manufacturing or marketing the product
or the name of a foreign manufacturer. Therefore,
you may use your company business name on the label
instead of an RN. The business name is the full
name that appears on business documents, such as
purchase orders and invoices. It is not a trademark,
brand, or designer name (unless that is also the
name under which the company conducts business).
Alternatively, the goods may be labeled with the
RN or business name of the company that is buying
the goods from you - such as a distributor or retailer.
If you are acquiring the finished products from
a U.S. manufacturer, importer, or distributor, they
can remain labeled with the RN or business name
of that company. RN numbers are available only to
businesses residing in the U.S. However, imported
goods can be labeled with the name of their foreign
manufacturer.
3) How do I get an RN number?
We
encourage you to apply online. FTC Commission
staff will review the application and you will be
notified by regular postal mail. If you choose not
to apply online, you can mail or fax your application.
The mailing address is: Division of Enforcement,
FTC, 600 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, Washington, DC
20580. The fax number is 202-326-3197.
4) How long does it take to get an RN number?
It is faster if you apply online. Online applications
are processed within 3 business days. A letter will
be mailed to you shortly thereafter. If you apply
by fax or regular mail, it can take 7-10 business
days after a properly completed application is received.
5) Will the FTC telephone or fax or email my
number?
No. The FTC will mail you a letter via the U.S.
Postal Service advising you of the number that has
been issued. However, you can find your number on
their website's RN Lookup Service as soon as the
application has been processed. You can search the
RN database for your number by entering a key word
of your company name.
6) How much does it cost?
There is no charge for this service.
7) My company is not in the U.S. What can I use
instead of an RN number?
If you are a foreign manufacturer, the business
name of your company can be used on the label. Alternatively,
the goods can be labeled with the RN or business
name of a company in the U.S. that is directly involved
with importing, distributing, or selling the products.
8) Can I use my IRS number or a Canadian CA number
instead of an RN number?
No. Neither your IRS number nor a Canadian CA number
can substitute for a business name or RN on the
label. However, for goods made in Canada, the business
name of a Canadian manufacturer on the label will
satisfy the legal requirement.
9) Can I have more than one RN number?
No. The FTC only assigns one RN number per company.
10) What if my business moves after I obtain
an RN number?
You are required to update the information in your
application if there is any change in your business
name, address, or legal business status. Your RN
is subject to cancellation if you fail to do so.
You can update this information online or by downloading
and mailing or faxing the RN application form. You
are also encouraged to update other information
that may change, such as telephone number, e-mail
address, products, or type of business.
11) What is a WPL number?
Many years ago, WPL numbers were issued by the FTC
to companies manufacturing wool products subject
to the Wool Products Labeling Act. WPL numbers are
no longer issued, but many are still in use. They
are used in the same manner as RN numbers.
12) Where can I get more information about RN
numbers and the labeling of textile, wool and fur
products?
We suggest that you review the business guide book,
Threading Your Way Through the Labeling Requirements
Under the Textile and Wool Acts. You can order
a printed copy of the book by calling the Textile
Telephone Information number at 202-326-3553.
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