What is SIRET used for in a business?
Discover all the practical and essential uses of the SIRET number in the daily life of a French business.
Last updated: January 2026
An essential identifier
The SIRET is much more than just a number: it's the official identity card of each establishment in France.
Legal identification
Administrative proof
Business credibility
Legal obligations
Mandatory mention on documents
Every establishment is required to display its SIRET number on all official documents:
- • Invoices and quotes
- • Commercial contracts
- • Purchase and delivery orders
- • Professional correspondence
Display at the business location
The SIRET number must be visible at the place of business (storefront, commercial premises, office).
Legal notices on website
For e-commerce and professional websites, the SIRET must appear in the legal notices.
Administrative procedures
Tax declarations
- VAT declaration
- Profit declaration
- Annual tax return
Social declarations
- Nominative Social Declaration (DSN)
- URSSAF registration
- Social contributions
Relations with administration
- Grant applications
- Public tender responses
- Aid and funding requests
Licenses and authorizations
- Professional license applications
- Operating authorizations
- Permits and approvals
Business relationships
Building trust with partners
The SIRET allows your clients and suppliers to verify the legal existence of your establishment and access your public information.
Opening a business bank account
Banks systematically require the SIRET to open a professional account and set up payment methods.
Taking out professional insurance
Liability, commercial premises insurance, legal protection: the SIRET is required for all professional contracts.
Obtaining certifications and labels
Quality, ISO standards, professional labels: the SIRET is necessary for certification processes.
Digital and online uses
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E-commerce and marketplaces
Mandatory to sell on platforms like Amazon, Cdiscount, or create an online store.
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Business applications and software
Invoicing, accounting, sales management: all professional software requires the SIRET.
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APIs and online services
Access to government APIs (data.gouv.fr, API Entreprise) and dematerialized administrative services.
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Online payment solutions
Stripe, PayPal, payment solutions: the SIRET is required to activate professional payments.
Specific situations
The SIRET is automatically assigned upon registration and allows you to begin all administrative and commercial procedures.
Each establishment (headquarters, branches, agencies) receives its own SIRET, allowing for separate administrative management.
In case of relocation, a new establishment can be created with a new SIRET, the old one being administratively closed.
The SIRET remains in the SIRENE database with the mention 'closed' and cannot be reused, thus preserving history.
Key benefits for your business
Official recognition
Legal proof of your establishment's existence to all stakeholders
Administrative simplification
A unique identifier for all your procedures and declarations
Professional credibility
Reassures your partners and clients about your legitimacy
Access to services
Unlock access to bank accounts, insurance and financing
FAQ about SIRET usage
No, you cannot issue official invoices without a SIRET. It's a legal requirement. If you're waiting for your number, you must wait before invoicing or use proforma invoices in the meantime.
Yes, mandatorily in your website's legal notices. For an e-commerce or professional site, you must display: SIRET, company name, headquarters address, share capital, VAT number, and contact details.
Missing SIRET on your commercial documents can result in fines up to €750 for individuals and €3,750 for legal entities. It's also a negative signal for your clients and partners.
Yes, if you sell regularly and professionally. Platforms like Amazon, Cdiscount, or Etsy require a SIRET for professional sellers. For occasional sales between individuals, it's not necessary.
SIRET is public information. You can find it on INSEE website, Pappers, Société.com, or Infogreffe. It should also appear in the legal notices of the company's website.
Important notice
Official Sources
This content is based on official French government sources:
Test with fictitious SIRET numbers
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