Posted by admin on October 29th, 2009
Most businesses have to depend on business credit accounts some time or another in their existence. It will most likely be a case of not if yours will need to do so, but when will it happen? Because of that, here are some survival tips on business credit accounts:
Tip #1: Credit reports on small business may not be apart from individual credit report scores.
Have you thought that credit reports on businesses and their owners are separate? While that may be true, it also may not. It depends on the credit bureau doing the reports. Some, such as D&B and Credit.net, for instance, don’t keep data on individuals’ personal credit histories, but, agencies like Experian and Equifax sometimes mix the two together and give you a combined score.
While you may have seen advertising stating a good business credit file can help improve your personal credit history, think again. It’s vital to keep both of them in the best possible shape. Nowadays, this is very true because the business market is very competitive and one false move can destroy you. There are even some established businesses that have to supplement their credit histories with those of their owners so they can get loans or credit accounts. That means owners of small businesses better watch out and be sure to protect their own, as well as, their corporate credit ratings.
Tip #2: Paydex? Score is not the only scoring method.
You may know that credit lenders for business accounts usually use the Paydex Score offered by D&B. However, others don’t use it, instead employing credit reports and scores offered through Experian, Equifax, the Small Business Exchange, and other agencies. Some even limit their reports to one place. Find out what your card holder does so you know where you stand.
Tip #3: Even if you pay your accounts on time, you still may not be promised business credit.
The story was that one company tried to get a loan that had a large business and more than 20 employees. But, they didn’t take the time to develop a good credit file, so they weren’t able to get the loan they needed. Learn from their mistake by doing things to keep your profile in shape. Be sure to borrow or buy things from places that report your payments to the major credit reporting agencies. If not, you won’t have a history and it will be for nothing. You should also make sure there is a listing for your company’s financial information. Banks need this when you ask for a loan. Having a good business plan doesn’t hurt either.
Tip #4: Get things right the first time!
Credit reports for a business don’t share in being covered by federal laws like personal ones do. You have to make sure the data goes in right the first time, because unlike the personal reports, you can’t dispute the entries. Start now to make sure all is in place.
Even a business that may not make money for a time needs to be sure to have everything in place and ready to go for when it needs cash. If you take all the basic steps, have the proper business setup, correct licenses, good advertising program and a decent business plan, you have a better chance to get the credit accounts you need or desire. Be ready and keep these things straight and your business will soar.