If you're one of the many business owners with a business that can't qualify for traditional credit, secured business credit cards may be a good solution. Unfortunately, many entrepreneurs overlook the value of these unconventional business tools. Before you write off secured business credit, there are some things you really should consider.
The Risk Factor
If you start your own business and you have spotless credit, chances are you'll qualify for some type of unsecured business credit card if you guarantee the card with your own personal credit rating.
If, however, your credit history isn't spotless and your business doesn't have a credit rating of its own, creditors are going to view you as a risk and unsecured credit is going to be hard to come by. In situations like this, your best bet is usually going to be secured business credit cards.
Not only can these credit cards provide you with a credit account in your company's name (which looks good when paying for business lunches), but they can help your business create its own credit rating so it can qualify for unsecured credit in the future.
Separating Business From Personal
Even if you have your own unsecured credit cards, but none in the name of your business, it's not a good idea to mix your business purchases with your personal ones. It's tempting to just use the credit you already have, but it's not a good idea. Not only does it create a bookkeeping nightmare, but it does nothing to help your business create a solid credit history.
Finding the Right One
When you do decide to pursue a secured business credit card, make sure you find the right one. There are varying interest rates, annual fees and security deposit requirement from one card to the next. If you only need a credit line of $500, there's no use in applying for one that requires a minimum deposit of $1,000. Look around and see what's out there and find the card that suits your business's needs.
While you may not be thrilled with the idea of forking over hundreds or thousands of dollars to create a line of credit for your company, it will be well worth it in the long run. Secured business credit cards can lead to unsecured business credit cards, which can lead to qualifying for business loans that can help your company reach its full potential.
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