How to Select NAICS Codes

The North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) was created by the U.S. government to simplify data collection and data analysis in relation to the U.S. business economy. NAICS codes are not necessary to do business in the United States, although they are required to do business with the federal government, and many state and local governments require a NAICS code.



The government structured NAICS codes so that businesses can select their own codes from a list of business activities. The list is updated every five years. Tools are available to assist with the proper NAICS code selection.

• 1

  Go to the U.S. Census Bureau's web page with a NAICS search box. The web page is linked in the Resources section. Using the Census Bureau's search tool is the simplest way to find your NAICS code.

• 2

  Enter either keywords that best describe your business or your business' Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) code in the search box. The search box is in the upper left side of the web page. If you enter your business' SIC code, use this format: SIC 1234. Whether you use keywords or a SIC code, the search will result in a list of business activities and their NAICS codes.

• 3

  Click on the NAICS code that best describes your business' activities. Many businesses have more than one business activity that applies. Select the business activity through which your business primarily earns money. This will bring up a more detailed description and definition of the business activity that corresponds to the NAICS code.