DIRECT ANSWER
Definition
A Central Index Key (CIK) is the unique public identifier the SEC’s EDGAR system assigns to a filer account. It identifies the filer, while an accession number identifies one submission made by that filer.
At a glance
- Abbreviation
- CIK
- System
- SEC EDGAR
- Identifies
- Filer account
- Persistence
- Permanent; does not expire
01
How a CIK is used
EDGAR uses the CIK to organize submissions for a filer. Researchers use it to retrieve filing history more reliably than a name-only search. Form 13F manager pages should preserve the exact CIK reported by EDGAR.
02
How to look up a CIK number
Search SEC EDGAR by organization or individual name, open the matching filer page, and confirm the name and filing history. The filer page and filing metadata display the CIK. When similar names exist, use addresses, form types, and filing history to avoid selecting the wrong account.
| Step | Check |
|---|---|
| 1. Search EDGAR | Legal name or known filing name |
| 2. Open filer page | Name, address, and form history |
| 3. Record CIK | Keep it as a string so formatting is not lost |
| 4. Verify a filing | Match form type, report period, and accession number |
03
CIK format and zero-padding
A CIK is a numeric identifier that is often shown as a ten-character, zero-padded string in EDGAR data and URLs. For example, a shorter numeric CIK may appear with leading zeros when formatted for a filing context. Store the canonical identifier as text or reproduce the required padding when building SEC-compatible links.
04
CIK vs. EIN
A CIK is assigned for an SEC EDGAR filer account. An Employer Identification Number is a federal tax identifier issued by the Internal Revenue Service. They belong to different systems and should not be substituted or used as an assumed crosswalk.
05
What a CIK does not identify
- It does not identify a single filing; that is the accession number.
- It is not a CRD number.
- It does not by itself prove that two related legal entities are the same manager.
- It does not identify a security; Form 13F uses security identifiers such as CUSIP.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
What is a CIK number used for?
A CIK identifies a filer account in SEC EDGAR and groups the submissions associated with that filer.
How do I find a company’s CIK?
Search the company in SEC EDGAR, open the matching filer page, and confirm its name, address, and filing history. The filer page and filing metadata display the CIK.
Is a CIK the same as an EIN?
No. A CIK is an SEC EDGAR filer identifier, while an EIN is a federal tax identifier issued by the IRS.
Is a CIK the same as an accession number?
No. The CIK identifies the filer account; the accession number identifies one submission made by that filer.
SRC
Primary sources
Definitions and regulatory claims on this page are grounded in the following official public resources.