What's your BUSINESS credit score?

You hear about credit scores all the time. But if you operate a small business your personal credit report affects more than the rate you get on a mortgage. If your credit is less than par, it could be a detriment to your business health.

Commercial credit reports do exist. Dun & Bradstreet, Experian and Equifax all maintain commercial reports. But to warrant a commercial report you've got to be big business. Most small companies live on personal credit. Suppliers are more likely to look at trade references and solid financial statements. Many industry vendors will not consider extending any credit for supplies until they done business with you for at least a year.

Review your Credit Report
So this gives you one more reason to stay on top of your credit report. Order your free reports from the three data collectors at AnnualCreditReport.com. If you should find errors act on them immediately by contacting the reporting agency directly.
Equifax - http://www.equifax.com/ Experian - http://www.experian.com/ TransUnion - http://www.transunion.com/

Tight Credit
The economy has caused many banks to tighten their lending, especially to small business. Before you go asking be sure your credit report is in order. Credit unions are often overlooked by small businesses, but can be a terrific resource for affordable loans. Because credit unions see the opportunity in business loans, you're like to find highly competitive financial services with great rates. You could also ask for a business credit card which can often give you a larger line of credit.