Form a legal business entity (LLC or corporation) and keep it active
Get an EIN from the IRS
Open a business bank account in the business’s legal name
Register the business with state and local requirements (licenses/permits)
Set up a dedicated business address (mailing address/registered agent if required)
Use your business legal name consistently on all applications
Obtain a D-U-N-S number (or equivalent business identity listing) if available
Build business credit with net-terms vendors that report to business credit bureaus
Apply for a business credit card that reports to business bureaus
Use a secured business credit card if needed
Keep personal and business finances separate at all times
Pay all business trade lines on time (or early)
Keep utilization low on business credit cards and revolving lines
Maintain stable business operations (avoid long inactivity)
Update business information promptly (address, phone, ownership/management changes)
Build a credit history length by keeping older accounts open when possible
Request credit limit increases only when appropriate and after good payment history
Monitor business credit reports regularly and correct errors
Use written agreements and invoices for all credit purchases
Keep detailed records of payments, invoices, and account correspondence
Avoid applying for many new accounts in a short period
Ensure the business is not overextended beyond cash flow capacity
Use trade references and vendor relationships consistently
Consider specialty lenders that report to business credit bureaus if traditional options are limited
Maintain general liability and other relevant business insurance
Stay compliant with tax and licensing obligations