RN PROGRAM
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 in the manufacturing, importing, or distributing of products covered by the Textile, Wool and Fur Acts. Businesses can use this number on their labels in lieu of their company name.
2) How much does it cost?
It is a free service.
3) How long does it take to get a RN number?
It takes 7-10 business days after receiving a completed application. We try to process in less time than this but cannot offer preferential treatment to any business regardless of situation.
4) Can I fax it to you or do I need to mail it in?
The application can be faxed or mailed, but please do not send more than one application.
5) Can I get a number today?
No. Applications are processed in the order they are received, and it can take 7 to 10 business days to process.
6) Can you call/fax me with my number?
No, we mail you an official letter letting you know the number you have been issued. However, if you call us, we will be happy to inform you over the phone. Please allow the 7 to 10 business days after applying to check on your number. You can also find your number on our website after the application has been processed. The website address is http://www.ftc.gov and then click on Business Guidance and then RN Lookup Service. You may then search by entering a key word of your company name.
7) Do I have to use an RN number.?
Not necessarily. If your company is in the USA, you may use your company business name on the labels instead of an RN number. The business name is the name that appears on business documents, such as purchase orders and invoices. Instead of labeling the goods with your RN number or business name, the goods may be labeled with the RN or business name of the company that is buying the goods from you. Or they could remain labeled with the RN or business name of the company that is selling the finished product to you, as long as the company is in the USA. Or they could be labeled with the business name of the foreign manufacturer.
8) Can I get the RN application off the Internet?
Yes. Go to the FTC website at http://www.ftc.gov and click on Business Guidance and then on Textile, Wool & Fur Matters. You will find a link to download the RN application.
9) My company is not in the USA. What can I use instead of an RN number?
If your company is the manufacturer, then the business name would satisfy the law instead of using the RN number. Another way to satisfy the law would be to label the goods with the RN number or business name of a company in the USA directly involved with importing, distributing, or selling the products.
10) 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 are substitutes for using the RN number. However, if the company in Canada is the manufacturer, then their business name would satisfy the law instead of using the RN number.
11) Can I have more than one RN number?
No. We assign only one RN number per company.
12) What is a WPL number?
Many years ago, WPL numbers were issued by the FTC to companies under the Wool Products Labeling Act. We no longer issue WPL numbers, but many are still used. They are used in the same manner as RN numbers.
13) Where can I get more information about RN numbers and the labeling of textile, wool and fur products?
We suggest that you review our business guide book, Threading Your Way Through the Labeling Requirements Under the Textile and Wool Acts. You can find the book on the FTC website where you found this RN FAQ. You may order a copy of the book over the telephone by calling our Textile Telephone Information number at 202-326-3553.