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Business Credit Checklist for Entrepreneurs: How to Build Business Credit the Right Way

  • Writer: Paris Powell
    Paris Powell
  • Aug 4
  • 3 min read

Updated: Aug 5

Establishing strong business credit is a game-changer for entrepreneurs looking to scale their operations, secure funding, and separate personal and business finances. Whether you’re launching a new business or leveling up your current one, this guide walks you through the essential steps to build business credit from scratch, with bonus tips on using subscription-based vendors.


1. Set Up Your Business the Right Way


Before you apply for any type of business credit, your company must be properly structured and visible. Lenders and vendors want to work with businesses that are legally established and professionally presented.


First Things First:

  • Register your business as an LLC or Corporation

  • Obtain an EIN (Employer Identification Number) from the IRS

  • Open a business bank account to keep personal and business finances separate

  • Set up a dedicated business phone number, email, and address

  • List your business in online directories (Google My Business, Yelp, etc.)


2. Get Your D-U-N-S Number


Think of your D-U-N-S Number as your business's credit ID. Issued by Dun & Bradstreet, it’s required to build a D&B credit file and is often needed to apply for government contracts or corporate credit.


How to Get It:

  • Visit dnb.com to apply for free

  • Required for vendor accounts, loans, and grant applications


3. Open Net-30 Vendor Accounts


Net-30 accounts allow you to buy now and pay within 30 days, perfect for building your payment history and improving your credit profile.


Top Net-30 Vendors to Start With:

  • Uline

  • Quill

  • Grainger

  • Summa Office Supplies

  • Crown Office Supplies


Tip: Pay early, not just on time, to boost your business credit reputation faster.


4. Add Subscription-Based Vendors


Don’t overlook subscription-based vendors, these are monthly or annual services you likely already use, and many report to credit bureaus. These small recurring charges can build consistent positive credit history with minimal effort.


Recommended Subscription Vendors That Report to Credit Bureaus:

  • Nav.com – Business credit monitoring with tiered plans; reports to major bureaus

  • CreditStrong Business – Installment credit builder for businesses

  • eCredable Business Lift – Reports utility and phone bills to business credit bureaus

  • Tillful – Business credit builder that reports usage and activity

  • CEO Creative – Offers Net-30 terms on marketing tools and supplies


Pro Tip: Choose subscriptions you’d already use (credit monitoring, marketing tools, web hosting) and ensure they report to bureaus like D&B, Experian Business, or Equifax Business.


5. Apply for a Business Credit Card


A business credit card is a powerful tool for managing cash flow, earning rewards, and building credit. Just be sure to use your EIN when applying and select a card that reports to business credit bureaus.


Top Business Credit Cards:

  • Chase Ink Business Unlimited – $0 annual fee, $750 bonus

  • Amex Blue Business Plus – $0 annual fee, 2x Membership Rewards

  • Wells Fargo Signify Business Cash – $0 annual fee, 2% flat cashback


6. Build a Strong Payment History


Just like with personal credit, consistent and responsible use is key.


Best Practices:

  • Always pay invoices and credit card bills on time

  • Avoid maxing out your credit lines

  • Keep your credit utilization low

  • Request credit limit increases after 3–6 months of positive activity


7. Monitor Your Business Credit


Monitoring allows you to catch errors, fraud, or negative marks early. Staying informed helps you take control of your credit profile and prepare for future funding opportunities.


Tools to Monitor Your Credit:

  • Nav.com – Free and paid plans

  • D&B CreditSignal – Free alerts on changes to your D&B profile

  • Experian Business – Track your Experian Business Score


Final Thoughts


Building business credit doesn’t happen overnight, but with the right foundation and a few strategic moves, including using subscription-based vendors, you can establish a creditworthy business in as little as 3–6 months.

 
 
 

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