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Why your business credit score is important

31st JULY 2024 | 3 MIN

Running a small business can be an exciting journey filled with rewarding opportunities and challenges. Among the various aspects of managing your business, one crucial yet often overlooked factor is your business credit score. 

Statistics from the UK government show that only 39.6% of new businesses make it beyond five years. This is often because their finance options are limited. 

Understanding and maintaining a healthy business credit score can be the key to unlocking numerous benefits and ensuring the long-term success of your enterprise.

What is a business credit score?

Before we get into why you should pay attention to your business credit score, let’s have a quick recap on what it is. 

A business credit score is a numerical representation of your company's creditworthiness. Much like a personal credit score, it reflects your business's ability to repay borrowed money based on your financial history. 

In the UK, business credit scores range from 0 to 100, with higher scores indicating lower risk to lenders and suppliers.

Why is your business credit score important?

Let’s delve into what your business credit score means for your small business.

Access to funding

One of the most significant reasons to maintain a good business credit score is to ensure access to funding. Whether you’re seeking a loan to expand your operations, invest in new equipment, or manage cash flow, lenders will assess your business credit score to determine your eligibility and the terms of the loan. 

A higher score can not only increase your chances of approval but also secure more favourable interest rates, saving your business money in the long run.

Supplier relationships

Business credit scores are public information. This means that suppliers can check your business credit score before agreeing to payment terms. A strong credit score can help you negotiate better terms, such as extended payment periods or larger credit limits. This flexibility can be crucial for managing your cash flow and maintaining smooth operations.

Business insurance

Insurers may use your business credit score to assess the risk associated with providing coverage to your company. A higher credit score can lead to lower insurance premiums, reducing your overall operational costs. While a poor credit score might result in higher premiums or difficulty obtaining insurance.

Attracting investors

Investors are more likely to put their money into a business with a solid credit history. A good credit score demonstrates your company’s financial health and responsible management, making it an attractive proposition for potential investors. This can be particularly important if you’re looking to raise capital through equity financing.

Building business credibility

A good business credit score enhances your company’s reputation and credibility. It signals to partners, clients, and other stakeholders that your business is stable, trustworthy, and well-managed. This can open doors to new opportunities and partnerships that can drive your business forward.

Wrapping up

Your business credit score is more than just a number – it’s a vital aspect of your company’s financial health and success. 

By understanding its importance and taking steps to maintain or improve your score, you can unlock numerous benefits, from securing better financing options to building strong relationships with suppliers and investors. 

In the competitive landscape of UK small businesses and a challenging economy, a good credit score can be your ticket to growth and stability.