To get business credit without linking it to your SSN, register an LLC or corporation and obtain an EIN. Open a business bank account using your EIN, then establish credit by getting a DUNS number and using net-30 vendors that report to business credit bureaus. Make timely payments to build your business credit score, then apply for business credit cards and lines of credit under your EIN. While some lenders may require a personal guarantee, strong business credit can minimize SSN dependence.

The time it takes to build business credit depends on several factors. If you register your business, obtain an EIN, and open accounts with vendors that report to business credit bureaus, you can start seeing a credit profile within 30 to 60 days. However, building strong business credit that qualifies for higher credit limits and loans typically takes 6 to 12 months with consistent on-time payments and responsible credit usage. The more accounts you have reporting and the better your payment history, the faster your business credit will grow.

While building business credit and securing funding can seem complicated at first, it’s definitely something you can do. The key steps—registering your business, obtaining an EIN, and opening accounts with vendors that report to credit bureaus—are straightforward. As long as you stay organized, make timely payments, and monitor your credit, you’ll build a strong credit profile over time. With patience and persistence, you can successfully establish business credit and secure the funding you need to grow your business.