How to Update or Change Your SIC Code with Government Agencies and Organizations

Updated: 2026
Reviewed By: SICCODE.com Industry Classification Review Team
Data Lineage: About Our Data Team

SIC codes are not updated centrally. If an agency, lender, insurer, or data provider has your SIC code on file, you must contact that organization directly to request a change. Updating your SIC code in one system does not automatically update it everywhere else.

You may be asked for your company’s SIC code by many government agencies, financial institutions, insurers, and private organizations. In most cases, the SIC code you originally provided during an application or registration process becomes the primary SIC code on record for that organization.

Because SIC codes are maintained independently across systems, there is no single authority that propagates updates automatically. To correct or change your SIC code, you must contact each organization that uses it.

Why Updating Your SIC Code Matters

An incorrect SIC code can have real operational and financial consequences. Updating your SIC code ensures that your business is evaluated and categorized based on its actual activities—not outdated or misclassified information.

Risk & Cost Implications

Some insurers and lenders associate SIC codes with risk profiles. If your SIC code reflects a higher-risk activity than what you actually do, you may face inflated insurance premiums or unfavorable credit terms.

Eligibility & Compliance

Certain government grants, contracts, and incentive programs are industry-specific. An outdated SIC code can result in disqualification or misalignment with compliance requirements.

How to Update Your SIC Code

  1. Identify where the code is used: Determine which agency, lender, insurer, or data provider is requesting or displaying your SIC code.
  2. Confirm your correct SIC code: Use the SIC Code Lookup / Directory to verify the most accurate classification.
  3. Contact the organization directly: Request an update using their official process (forms, portals, or support channels).
  4. Document the change: Retain confirmation records for internal compliance and audit purposes.
  5. Repeat as needed: Each organization must be updated separately.

Who You May Need to Notify

When correcting or updating a SIC code, businesses often overlook where the classification may be stored. The checklist below highlights common stakeholders that frequently rely on SIC codes.

Financial & Insurance

  • Business banks and commercial lenders
  • SBA lenders and loan servicers
  • Credit card processors
  • Workers’ compensation carriers
  • General liability and commercial insurers

Government & Visibility

  • Secretary of State or state business registry
  • IRS (via Form 8822-B, if applicable)
  • OSHA and regulatory filings
  • Dun & Bradstreet and credit bureaus
  • Google Business Profile and industry directories

Establishment-level reminder: SIC codes are typically applied at the location level. If different sites perform different primary activities, each establishment may require its own SIC code update.

Helpful Reference Links

If you have questions about selecting the correct SIC code or navigating the update process, please fill out the form on this page and our team can assist.