Central Index Key (CIK)
The SEC uses the Central Index Key to identify who is submitting filings. Every company, fund, or individual filer receives a CIK when they first register with the SEC.
This identifier stays with the filer permanently, even if the company changes its name. It acts as a stable reference across all filings.
CIKs are used throughout the EDGAR system. They make it easier to group and track filings by the same entity over time.
Why It Matters
The CIK ensures filings are accurately linked to the correct entity. It helps prevent confusion and supports reliable data organization.
How is a CIK used to find SEC filings?
CIKs are commonly used to search the EDGAR database. Entering a CIK returns all filings associated with that entity. This is often more precise than searching by company name. It avoids issues with name changes or similar names.
Does a CIK ever change?
A CIK does not change once it is assigned. Even if a company merges or rebrands, the original CIK remains. New entities receive new CIKs. This consistency supports long-term tracking.
Why is the CIK important for data analysis?
CIKs act as a primary identifier in SEC datasets. Analysts use them to join filings, financial data, and metadata accurately. Without a stable identifier, large-scale analysis would be unreliable. CIKs make automation possible.
Real-World Example
An analyst tracks a company’s filings over several years using its CIK. Even after a name change, all historical filings remain linked to the same identifier.
Central Index Key (CIK) and FinFeedAPI
FinFeedAPI’s SEC API uses CIKs to organize and retrieve filings by entity. This allows users to consistently track companies across time and filings. Structured access simplifies large-scale SEC data workflows.