A business credit report can be started much the same as a consumer report commonly is, with small credit cards. The business can be approved for small credit cards to help them build an initial credit profile. These types of initial cards in the business world are commonly referred to as "vendor credit".

You must start a business credit profile and score with starter vendors. Starter vendors are ones who will give you initial credit even if you have no credit, no score, or no tradelines now. Most stores like Staples will NOT give you initial starter credit so DON'T even try applying.

Most stores will NOT approve a business owner for business credit unless the owner has an established credit profile and score, just like in the consumer world. Vendor accounts must be used first to establish a profile and score, and then store credit can be obtained. It usually takes only 90 days or less to establish a score and profile with tradelines.

A vendor line of credit is when a company (vendor) extends a line of credit to your business on "Net 15, 30, 60 or 90" day terms. This means that you can purchase their products or services up to a maximum dollar amount and you have 15, 30, 60 or 90 days to pay the bill in full. So if you're set-up on Net 30 terms and were to purchase $300 worth of goods today, then that $300 is due within the next 30 days.

Always apply first without using your SSN. Some vendors will request it and some will even tell you on the phone they need to have it, but submit first without it. Most credit issuers will approve you without your SSN if your EIN credit is strong enough.

If your EIN credit is not good enough, you might be declined and they then might ask for your SSN. No matter what ANY credit representative tells you, credit CAN be obtained based on your EIN only.

Some vendors who will approve you for initial credit even if you have no estaboished creidt now include Uline, Quill, and Monopolize Your Marketplace.

When your first Net 30 account reports your "tradeline" to Dun & Bradstreet, the D-U-N-S system will automatically activate your file if it isn't already. This is also true for Experian and Equifax.

You need to have a total of at least five (5) Net 30 day pay accounts reporting. Some vendors require an initial prepaid order before they can approve your business for terms. Your vendors do not necessarily have to serve 100% of your business needs.