Starting up a business is hard enough, but thinking about taking on debt is even worse. However, the time will come when you need it, so it’s best to be prepared. Do it the right way, you need to take on the proper steps and know the facts.
Fact #1: Small business credit reports are sometimes mixed with personal credit scores.
While you might think the two are separate, it’s possible for business and individual credit scores to be combined. Some credit agencies, like D&B and Credit.net keep track of only business credit data, while others like Experian and Equifax do both and then mix the info on the report for a small business.
Advertising hype may try to convince you that having a good business credit file can help your personal file. But, it’s really a better thought to make sure both are good. Today there is a lot of competition out there, so it’s important to have good credit everywhere. Sometimes it’s even necessary for a business owner to give their personal credit history so they can qualify for the loan or credit needed. So, it’s also important to keep your credit info safe.
Fact #2: The Paydex? Score isn’t the only score lenders use.
You may have heard of the Paydex Score offered by D&B. This is an important business credit scorer, but not the only one there is. Some lenders don’t even use it, or they may mix your personal and business scores. The agencies that tend to do that are Experian, Equifax, and the Small Business Exchange because they also collect individual credit data. And to make it even more confusing, some lenders report to one, but not all the agencies. So, know where you are with them all.
Fact #3: If you pay all your accounts, it still might not get you the credit you need
It’s always important to pay bills on time, but it is equally important to build a good credit profile. Even if you’ve been around 20 years or more, if you have no profile, you probably won’t be offered the type or amount of credit you want or desire. In order to build a good credit profile, you have to borrow or purchase merchandise from companies that then report the info to the credit agencies.
You must also have a good business plan in place and have a strong listing of your monetary transactions and other information on hand for possible use by potential lenders. Just find out what the lender you are using needs to do your application and you will have a much better chance of getting that loan.
Fact #4: You have to get it right when trying to build up your credit profile
Businesses’ credit reports aren’t protected by federal law like a personal account is. In personal dealings, you can dispute a charge, but not with business reports. That is why it is so important to make sure the info goes in right the first time. Even if you don’t think your company will make any cash that first or second year of operation, you still need to get everything set up properly. Make sure all your history goes to the proper credit agencies. And make sure everything is in order like getting the right occupational licenses, listing your phone number in directory assistance in the businesses’ name, and having a great business plan. So, have you ready to build business credit?