How to Get Store Credit Accounts for Tier 3 Business Credit

As your business credit profile grows and strengthens, you can start applying for Tier 3 store credit accounts. These accounts are typically offered by larger retailers and require a stronger business credit history than Tier 1 and Tier 2 vendors. Tier 3 accounts, such as those with Office Depot, Staples, and other major retailers, often require a good payment history, a solid Paydex score, and established trade lines.

Steps to Get Store Credit Accounts in Tier 3

Build Your Business Credit Profile
Ensure you've established a solid business credit profile, including:
- A Paydex score of 80 or higher (from Dun & Bradstreet)
- A strong Experian Business and Equifax Business credit score
- At least 5 to 8 trade lines reporting to credit bureaus
- Timely payments on existing credit accounts, especially with Tier 1 and Tier 2 vendors
Check Your Business Credit Reports
Review your business credit reports to ensure there are no errors or negative marks. Correct any inaccuracies, as larger retailers will often evaluate your credit history before approving a store credit account.
Apply for Tier 3 Store Credit
Tier 3 store credit accounts are available from major retailers that offer business credit cards or Net 30 accounts. These cards can be used to purchase business supplies and equipment while helping you further build your business credit profile.
Meet the Credit Requirements
Many Tier 3 accounts will require a stronger business credit score, typically a Paydex score of 80 or higher, a business history of 1-2 years, and a few established trade lines. Be prepared to provide financial documents, a D-U-N-S number, and your EIN (Employer Identification Number) during the application process.
Establish Personal Guarantees if Necessary
If your business credit is still growing, some Tier 3 accounts may require a personal guarantee, which means your personal credit will be considered as part of the approval process.

Tier 3 Store Credit Accounts – Where to Apply

Here's a list of popular Tier 3 store credit accounts where you can apply to further build your business credit:

1. Office Depot Business Credit Card
Office Depot Business Credit
Details: Office Depot offers a business credit card with revolving credit. It's an excellent option for purchasing office supplies, equipment, and other essentials while helping you build business credit. Requires a solid business credit profile.
2. Staples Business Credit Account
Staples Business Credit
Details: Staples offers a business credit card with flexible payment options. This card allows you to make purchases and pay over time, reporting your payment history to credit bureaus to help build your business credit.
3. Amazon Business Line of Credit
Amazon Business Line of Credit
Details: Amazon provides a business line of credit that can be used for purchasing supplies and equipment. This line of credit is ideal for businesses with an established credit profile, and payments are reported to business credit bureaus.
4. Lowe's Business Advantage
Lowe's Business Credit
Details: Lowe's offers a business credit card with Net 30 terms for commercial purchases. This card is perfect for businesses in construction, renovation, or real estate, providing flexibility and helping to build credit.
5. Home Depot Commercial Account
Home Depot Commercial Account
Details: Home Depot offers business credit with Net 30 or Net 60 terms, depending on your business credit profile. It's ideal for contractors or businesses that regularly purchase from Home Depot.
6. Shell Small Business Card
Shell Business Credit Card
Details: Shell offers a business credit card designed for fuel purchases. The card allows you to manage fuel expenses while building your business credit score.
7. BP Business Solutions Fuel Card
BP Business Solutions
Details: BP offers a business fuel card that reports to business credit bureaus. This is a great option for businesses with fleets or heavy travel requirements.
8. Best Buy Business Credit Card
Best Buy Business Credit
Details: Best Buy offers a business credit card for electronics and equipment purchases. This card reports to business credit bureaus, helping you continue building your business credit.
9. Dell Business Credit
Dell Business Credit
Details: Dell offers a business credit line for technology purchases, including computers, servers, and software. It's a great option for businesses looking to finance tech equipment while building credit.
10. Grainger Credit Account
Grainger Credit Services
Details: Grainger provides a commercial credit account for businesses that need industrial supplies, tools, and equipment. It's ideal for businesses in manufacturing or operations, with Net 30 terms and credit reporting.

Tips for Success with Tier 3 Store Credit Accounts

Maintain Timely Payments: Once approved, make sure you pay your invoices or balances on time. Timely payments are essential for maintaining and improving your business credit score.
Monitor Your Credit Regularly: Keep track of your business credit reports through services like Nav or CreditSignal to ensure that your payment history is being reported correctly.
Diversify Your Credit Accounts: Having a variety of credit accounts, including Tier 3 store credit, helps improve your business credit mix, which is a key factor in improving your overall business credit score.

Moving Forward

Securing Tier 3 store credit accounts is a major step in building a strong business credit profile. By applying for credit from major retailers like Office Depot, Staples, Amazon, and others, you can access valuable business supplies while strengthening your creditworthiness. These store accounts not only provide financial flexibility but also play a critical role in helping your business qualify for higher credit limits and better terms in the future.