How to Build Business Credit from Zero in 90 Days

Building business credit from zero is one of the most impactful things you can do for your company's financial future. Here's the exact 90-day playbook.

Week 1-2: Foundation

1. Incorporate your business — Form an LLC or Corporation. Sole proprietorships can't build business credit independently.
2. Get your EIN — Apply at irs.gov for free. This is your business's social security number.
3. Open a business bank account — Use your EIN, not your SSN. Choose a bank that reports to business credit bureaus.
4. Get a dedicated business phone number — List it with 411 directory assistance.
5. Set up a professional business address — P.O. boxes work but a physical address is better.

Week 3-4: DUNS Number & First Accounts

1. Apply for a DUNS number at dnb.com — it's free.
2. Open your first Net 30 accounts — Start with easy-approval vendors:
3. Make small purchases on each account immediately.

Week 5-8: Build Payment History

1. Pay every invoice early — 10-15 days before the due date. Early payments push your Paydex score above 80.
2. Open 2-3 more vendor accounts — Diversify across different vendor types.
3. Apply for a secured business credit card — Put down $500-$1,000 as a deposit.
4. Keep utilization below 30% on the credit card.

Week 9-12: Monitor & Expand

1. Check your D&B report — You should see a Paydex score forming.
2. Apply for a fuel card — WEX, Fleet One, or Fuelman.
3. Consider a store credit card — Home Depot, Lowes, or Staples business cards.

By Day 90

• A DUNS number with payment history
• A Paydex score of 75-85+
• 5-8 trade references reporting to bureaus
• A business credit card with positive history
• The foundation to qualify for a business line of credit within 6 months