Starting your own business can be an exciting journey, and forming a Limited Liability Company (LLC) is a popular choice for many entrepreneurs. An LLC offers personal liability protection and various tax benefits. Once your LLC is established, obtaining a credit line under your business’s Employer Identification Number (EIN) can provide the financial flexibility needed to grow your business. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of opening an LLC and securing a credit line under your business EIN.
Step 1: Choose Your LLC Name
- Brainstorm and Research: Select a unique name that reflects your business. Ensure the name is not already in use by checking with your state’s business registry.
- Follow Naming Rules: Your chosen name must comply with your state’s LLC naming rules, typically including “LLC” or “Limited Liability Company” in the name.
Step 2: File Articles of Organization
- Prepare the Articles: Complete the Articles of Organization form, which includes basic information about your LLC, such as name, address, and the names of the members.
- Submit the Form: File the form with your state’s business filing office. There is usually a filing fee, which varies by state.
Step 3: Create an Operating Agreement
- Draft the Agreement: Although not always required by state law, an operating agreement outlines the ownership and management structure of your LLC.
- Include Key Details: The agreement should cover how decisions are made, the roles of members, and how profits and losses are distributed.
Step 4: Obtain an EIN
- Apply for an EIN: An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is required for tax purposes and to open a business bank account. Apply for an EIN through the IRS website for free.
Step 5: Open a Business Bank Account
- Gather Required Documents: Typically, you’ll need your LLC’s Articles of Organization, Operating Agreement, and EIN.
- Choose a Bank: Open a business checking account in your LLC’s name. This helps separate your personal and business finances.
Step 6: Build Business Credit
- Establish Credit: Start building your business credit by opening accounts with vendors that report to business credit bureaus.
- Pay Bills on Time: Ensure timely payments to build a positive credit history.
Step 7: Apply for a Business Credit Line
- Research Lenders: Identify banks and financial institutions that offer business credit lines to LLCs.
- Prepare Documentation: You’ll need your EIN, business bank account information, and financial statements. Some lenders may also require a business plan.
- Submit Your Application: Complete and submit the application to your chosen lender.
Banks That Offer Business Credit Lines Under an EIN
- BlueVine
- Overview: BlueVine offers flexible business credit lines with fast approval and funding processes.
- Requirements: Requires a minimum credit score of 600, six months in business, and $120,000 in annual revenue.
- Benefits: Offers credit lines up to $250,000 with interest rates starting at 4.8%.
- Kabbage
- Overview: Kabbage provides a straightforward application process for business credit lines with quick access to funds.
- Requirements: Requires a minimum credit score of 640, one year in business, and $50,000 in annual revenue.
- Benefits: Offers credit lines up to $250,000 with monthly fees instead of traditional interest rates.
- Fundbox
- Overview: Fundbox offers short-term business credit lines with easy qualification criteria and rapid funding.
- Requirements: Requires a minimum credit score of 600, three months in business, and $100,000 in annual revenue.
- Benefits: Provides credit lines up to $150,000 with transparent pricing and no prepayment penalties.
- OnDeck
- Overview: OnDeck provides business credit lines tailored to small businesses with competitive rates and terms.
- Requirements: Requires a minimum credit score of 600, one year in business, and $100,000 in annual revenue.
- Benefits: Offers credit lines up to $100,000 with interest rates starting at 13.99% APR.
- Lendio
- Overview: Lendio is a loan marketplace that connects businesses with multiple lenders offering credit lines.
- Requirements: Varies by lender, but typically requires a minimum credit score of 550, six months in business, and $10,000 in monthly revenue.
- Benefits: Provides access to a range of credit line options with competitive rates and terms.
Conclusion
Opening an LLC and securing a credit line under your business EIN is a vital step in establishing and growing your business. By following this step-by-step guide and exploring options with these banks, you can navigate the process with confidence and ensure your business is set up for financial success. Always research and choose banks that best meet your business needs and offer favorable terms for business credit lines.
