Category: Personal Credit

Why Are My Credit Scores Different?

“Why are my credit scores different?” is a common question because it’s a common occurrence. You check your credit scores with one source, but then a lender says you have a different score. Or you get your credit scores from two different websites and the numbers aren’t the same. It can be confusing, so let us explain what’s going on.  There are four main reasons why your scores may be different, and we’ll explore them in more detail here: Bureau:… Read More

Why Your Credit Score Might Drop for “No Reason”

Credit scores go up, and credit scores go down. If you monitor your credit scores over a longer period of time, you’re likely to run into a puzzling situation at some point. Nothing much changed in how you handle your accounts, but your credit score changed for no reason.  If this happens while you’re in the process of applying for credit cards, small business loans or other types of credit, a credit score drop can be downright scary. Here's why… Read More

Can I Raise My Credit Score 100 Points Overnight?

When you're a business owner in a cash crunch -- maybe you need some extra capital to make payroll this month, or open a new location -- the last thing you want to hear is that your credit score needs a lot of work before you can qualify for a business loan. You may be tempted when you see ads of promise of quick fixes like credit repair companies. Can you actually raise your personal credit scores 100 points overnight?… Read More

Can a Business Owner Build Credit Without a Social Security Number?

Savvy small business owners establish good personal and business credit. But some entrepreneurs find it additionally challenging to build credit because they are new to the United States and they don't have a credit history here. How do they get started? A reader of the Nav blog writes: “We have U.S. entity (in Ohio) established last year and in process filing first taxes. We are residents of Canada. Do have EINs. Would we be able to apply for the credit… Read More

3 Business Credit Cards That Can Help You Work on Your Credit

A credit card can be a vital tool for small business owners, but one that can feel out of reach when you’ve had problems with your credit. If your business has struggled in the past or you've defaulted on some loans as you've tried to get your business off the ground, you may have emerged with damaged credit. Thankfully, there are business credit cards that you can use if you have bad credit. Not only will these cards offer you… Read More

Is it Time to Upgrade Your Business Credit Card?

When a valuable tool becomes worn out or obsolete, it’s in your company’s best interest to upgrade it. And even more than most types of business equipment, you have a lot to gain by upgrading your small business credit card. The credit card industry is intensely competitive, and card issuers are constantly introducing new products with more generous rewards, more valuable benefits and even promotional financing offers.   Here are some signs that you need to upgrade your business credit… Read More