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How to Build Business Credit as a New Business: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Establish Your Business Plan Creating a business plan is the first step when starting a business. It serves as a roadmap, outlining your goals, target market, financial projections, and strategies for success. A well-crafted, documented plan also conveys your vision to important stakeholders like CPAs and attorneys so they can provide tailored financial and legal guidance. A CPA will use your plan to assess budgeting, tax planning, and funding strategies while attorneys will use it to advise on business structure contracts and compliance. Ultimately, a business plan will transform your vision to actionable steps, ensuring professional advisors can help you build a solid foundation for long-term success. 2. Register Your Business With your business plan in hand, and the direction of your advisors, it’s time to set up your business legally. Incorporate your business as an LLC, corporation, or form a partnership. This not only legitimizes your operations but also separates your personal and business finances. Additionally, you’ll also want to apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS, which acts as a social security number for your business. Make sure your business has a registered physical address and phone number, as lenders and credit bureaus will use this information to verify your business. 3. Open a Business Bank Account A dedicated business bank account is the foundation of good business financial management. By separating personal and business finances, you create clear financial records that help build your business’s financial reputation. At First Bank, we offer tailored business banking solutions to help you manage transactions, track expenses, and monitor cash flow—essential components for establishing your business credit. Pro Tip: Don’t settle for just any bank with business checking options. Spend some time researching banks and meet with a few different bankers to make sure you find a financial institution you believe in and a banker that you resonate with. The right banker will consider your full banking picture – offering holistic financial advice specific to your personal and business needs. At First Bank, we provide customized solutions based on a deep understanding of our customer’s financial history, goals, and needs. We even have a checking account that includes telehealth benefits for your employees. Click here to explore First Bank business checking account options or use this link to reach out to a First Bank Business Development Officer. 4. Obtain a D-U-N-S Number A D-U-N-S number from Dun & Bradstreet is essential for tracking your business’s credit. It serves as a unique identifier for your company, used by credit bureaus to assess your business’s creditworthiness. This step helps ensure that your business credit is separate from personal credit, which can lead to better loan terms and credit card offers in the future. Visit the Dun & Bradstreet website for more information on how to obtain a D-U-N-S number. 5. Establish Trade Lines with Vendors One of the best ways to build business credit is by working with vendors and suppliers that report to major business credit bureaus, such as Dun & Bradstreet, Experian, and Equifax Business. Establish trade lines by purchasing supplies or services on credit and consistently paying your invoices on time. A strong payment history is one of the most important factors in building a solid credit score. 6. Determine Your Credit Needs Business credit cards are an excellent short-term tool for building credit, especially when used responsibly. Additionally, you may want to consider other forms of credit that compliment your long-term business goals like a term loan for working capital or a commercial loan to purchase a building. Consulting with a trusted banking partner will help you determine the best financing package that makes the most sense for your business. First Bank offers a competitive business credit card featuring a wealth of benefits like 0% introductory APR, no annual fee, and powerful rewards program. To learn more about the First Bank Mastercard Business Card with Rewards, read our article “4 Reasons Why the First Bank Mastercard Business Credit Card is Good for Business”. 7. Monitor and Maintain Personal and Business Credit Personal credit is crucial for business financing, especially for small businesses and startups. Until business credit is established, an owner’s personal credit will be used by lenders to evaluate trustworthiness of the business itself. Everything from loan and credit approvals, interest rates and loan terms, personal guarantees, business credit card approvals, and business expansion opportunities will look at an owner’s personal credit score. Once your credit is established, it’s important to regularly monitor your credit reports for accuracy. Mistakes can happen, and any errors could negatively impact your score. By reviewing your credit reports from major bureaus, you can correct any inaccuracies and keep track of your credit performance. 8. Build Credit Gradually and Diversify Your Portfolio Building business credit is not an overnight process. Start by using small, manageable credit lines and paying them off in full each month. Over time, this demonstrates reliability to lenders and creditors, which can lead to increased credit limits and more favorable terms. Patience and consistency are key to long-term success. As your business grows, diversifying your credit sources can strengthen your overall credit profile. Consider applying for larger lines of credit, term loans, or equipment financing as your company expands. However, be mindful of your credit utilization ratio. Keeping your credit use below 30% of your available credit helps maintain a healthy score and shows that your business isn’t overly reliant on borrowing. 9. Manage Cash Flow Effectively Good cash flow management is the backbone of maintaining strong business credit. Make sure you always have enough cash on hand to cover expenses, ensuring you can make timely payments on any credit accounts. By maintaining a good relationship with your bank, you can improve your chances of securing future loans or credit increases. Why Choose First Bank for Your Business Banking Needs? First Bank is committed to being the best bank for business in North and South Carolina. We offer personalized service, local expertise, and a wide range of business banking solutions tailored to your needs. Our bankers will give you honest and sound advice that considers your unique situation and your long-term goals. Whether you’re looking to open a business account or apply for a line of credit, our team is here to support your financial growth every step of the way. Want to meet with a banker to discuss how you can improve your business credit? Request a meeting with a Business Development Officer or visit your local First Bank branch today to get started!

6 min read

How To Avoid Scams After Weather Emergencies and Natural Disasters

Potential Scam Scenarios Scammers use a variety of tactics to exploit people during the aftermath of disasters. Here are some of the most common scams to watch out for: 1. Imposter Scams Scammers often pose as safety inspectors, government officials, or aid workers, claiming they are there to help. They may ask for sensitive information or upfront payments for services, such as inspections or applications, that are usually provided for free by legitimate organizations. 2. FEMA Impersonators One common scam involves individuals impersonating FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) representatives. They may offer to help you with your FEMA application but will charge an upfront fee, which is not a part of any legitimate FEMA process. FEMA does not charge for applications or assistance. 3. Home Improvement and Debris Removal Scams After a natural disaster, many people need repairs to their homes or businesses. Scammers may pose as contractors offering quick debris removal or repairs but will often demand large sums of money upfront or perform subpar work, leaving victims with little recourse. They may also disappear after taking payment, leaving your property in worse condition. Recognize the Signs of a Scam While scammers can be clever, there are warning signs that can help you spot fraudulent behavior. Keep an eye out for these red flags: No Licensing Required: Scammers may claim they don’t need a license to do the work, which is false. Legitimate contractors should always have a valid license and insurance. Pressure to Sign a Contract Immediately: Scammers often offer a “discount” or say they can only fit you in if you sign a contract on the spot. This tactic is meant to pressure you into making a decision without careful consideration. Signing Over Your Insurance Check: If a contractor asks you to sign over your insurance claim check, beware. This can leave you vulnerable if the work is incomplete or of poor quality. Full Payment Upfront: Asking for full payment before any work is completed is a big red flag. Reputable contractors typically ask for a partial deposit, with the balance due upon completion of the work. Unusual Payment Methods: If someone asks you to pay by wire transfer, gift card, or cryptocurrency, it’s likely a scam. These payment methods are difficult to trace and recover if the contractor disappears. Ways to Avoid a Scam Protecting yourself after a natural disaster requires both awareness and due diligence. Here are steps you can take to reduce the risk of being scammed: 1. Know that FEMA Doesn’t Charge Application Fees FEMA provides disaster assistance for free, and they never charge for processing your application. If someone asks for money to help you qualify for FEMA funds, it’s a scam. Always verify through FEMA’s official website or hotline to ensure you’re dealing with legitimate representatives. 2. Verify Your Insurance Coverage Don’t rely on a contractor to tell you what your insurance covers. Always contact your insurance company directly for details about your policy. Additionally, never sign over your insurance check to a contractor. You want to maintain control over how your funds are spent to ensure the work is completed properly. 3. Be Skeptical of Immediate Offers for Repairs or Clean-Up In the rush to clean up or make repairs, it can be tempting to accept the first offer that comes along. However, unlicensed contractors and scammers often show up in disaster-affected areas promising fast fixes. Be cautious of anyone who demands cash upfront or won’t provide copies of their license, insurance, or a written contract. If they refuse to give you any of these, walk away. 4. Get a Written Contract and Read it Carefully Contract requirements vary by state, but even if your state doesn’t mandate a written agreement, always request one. A contract should outline the scope of work, materials to be used, payment schedules, timelines, and any guarantees. This provides you with legal protection if the contractor fails to deliver on their promises. Take Action: Protect Yourself and Your Community As we work together to rebuild after disasters, staying informed is the best defense against scams. Share this information with friends, family, and neighbors so that everyone in your community is aware of these fraudulent schemes. If you suspect you’ve encountered a scam or have been the victim of fraud, report it to local law enforcement, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), or FEMA’s Disaster Fraud Hotline. Recovering from a natural disaster is hard enough without having to deal with the fallout from scammers. By recognizing the signs and taking the proper precautions, you can help ensure that your recovery is smooth, safe, and scam-free. Additional Resources: Hurricane Helene: Recovery Scams How to Avoid Imposter Scams How To Avoid Scams After Natural Disasters Picking Up the Pieces After a Disaster Stay safe, stay informed, and protect yourself from those who might try to take advantage during these challenging times.

5 min read

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Am I Eligible for FEMA Relief? Here’s What You Need to Know

Who Qualifies for Assistance? Federal disaster aid is available for residents and business owners in the following counties: Alexander, Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Buncombe, Burke, Caldwell, Catawba, Clay, Cleveland, Gaston, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Lincoln, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Mitchell, Polk, Rutherford, Transylvania, Watauga, Wilkes, and Yancey. Not sure if you’re eligible? You can verify your eligibility and apply directly on FEMA’s website: DisasterAssistance.gov. What Assistance Does FEMA Offer? FEMA provides a range of relief programs aimed at helping individuals and businesses recover from disasters. Here’s a closer look at what you may be eligible to receive: 1. Housing Assistance This aid helps you secure safe shelter while your home is being repaired or rebuilt. FEMA can provide funds for: Rental Assistance: Financial support to rent a temporary residence if your home is uninhabitable due to disaster-related damage. Lodging Expense Reimbursement: If you had to stay in a hotel or motel, FEMA can reimburse you for these expenses. This is especially helpful if you were unable to find immediate rental options. Home Repair or Replacement: Grants are available to help repair or replace your home and address disaster-specific damages, such as water damage or mold. FEMA may also cover hazard mitigation measures that reduce the risk of future damage. Accessibility Needs: If you or someone in your household has a disability, FEMA can provide funds to make your home accessible. This might include ramps, grab bars, and other necessary modifications, even if these were not originally present before the disaster. Privately-Owned Roads, Bridges, and Docks: If the only access to your home has been damaged, FEMA can help cover repair costs for private infrastructure like roads and bridges. 2. Other Needs Assistance This program helps with essential expenses and serious needs beyond housing. Covered expenses include: Serious Needs: Grants to cover immediate necessities like food, water, first aid, prescriptions, and personal hygiene items, ensuring you have access to essentials during recovery. Displacement: If your home is uninhabitable, FEMA can help cover the cost of staying with family, friends, or in a hotel while you search for a more permanent solution. Personal Property: Financial assistance to repair or replace items essential to daily life, such as appliances, furniture, and work or school-related items like computers and tools. This can also include uniforms, books, and equipment needed for self-employment. Medical and Dental Expenses: If the disaster caused injury or damaged medical or dental equipment, FEMA can help cover the costs for treatment, equipment replacement, and prescribed medications. Funeral Costs: In the unfortunate event that the disaster resulted in a loss of life, FEMA offers support to cover funeral or reburial expenses. Child Care: For families facing increased child care costs due to the disaster, FEMA can provide funds to help cover these additional expenses. Assistance for Miscellaneous Items: Reimbursement for items like generators, dehumidifiers, and chainsaws that were purchased or rented to aid in the recovery process. Transportation: If your vehicle was damaged and you don’t have an alternative mode of transportation, FEMA may help cover the repair or replacement costs to ensure you have a way to get to work, school, or other essential places. Moving and Storage Expenses: FEMA can help with costs associated with moving and storing personal property, especially if it needs to be relocated temporarily during home repairs or if you need to move to a new residence. Each of these programs is designed to provide immediate and practical support, so you can focus on the well-being of your family and community as you rebuild after the disaster. How Do I Apply for FEMA Assistance? Applying for FEMA relief is straightforward. Here are the steps to get started: Apply Online: Visit DisasterAssistance.gov to apply for assistance. You can also download the FEMA App or call FEMA’s toll-free number at 1-800-621-3362. Register for an Account: If you’re applying online, you’ll need to create an account on Login.gov. This will allow you to save your application, upload documents, and check your status. Prepare Your Information: You’ll need details like your home and mailing address, Social Security number, insurance info, and bank details for direct deposit. Submit Your Application: Once you’ve completed the application, review it, make any necessary changes, and submit it. Be sure to save your application ID as you’ll need it for future communication with FEMA. What Happens After You Apply? After applying, FEMA will review your application and may contact you for additional information or to schedule an inspection. You can always log into your account on DisasterAssistance.gov to check your application status and receive updates. If approved, FEMA will disburse funds via direct deposit or a mailed check, based on your preference. For more information or to begin the application process, visit DisasterAssistance.gov, call FEMA at 1-800-621-3362, or use the FEMA App. Recovering from Disaster with FEMA’s Support If you’re affected by Hurricane Helene, you don’t have to face it alone. FEMA offers a range of programs designed to help you get back on your feet. Take advantage of these resources to help ease the journey to recovery.

5 min read

Free Financial Education Courses Built For You

We created a series of quick tutorials to share what we know with you, because a little financial know‑how can go a long way toward boosting your bottom line.

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