What are net-30 accounts?

Net-30 accounts are trade credits that allow businesses to pay for goods or services within 30 days of receiving an invoice without incurring interest charges. 

These accounts are often offered by vendors to help provide financial flexibility to companies, especially new or small businesses. The company receives goods and services upfront and pays for them 30 days later, helping to manage cash flow and other business finances.

Some net-30 vendors report payment history to business credit bureaus. Like corporate credit cards, loans, leases, and other lines of credit, properly managed Net-30 accounts can improve a business’s credit history and benefit newer startups with a shorter credit history.

Payment terms for net-30

With many net-30 accounts, payment is due 30 calendar days from the invoice date. However, in some cases, the payment period can be counted from the date the customer receives the goods or service rather than from the invoice date. 

The vendor should clearly state the specific payment terms in the agreement. 

How do you qualify for a net-30 account?

To be authorized for a net-30 account, your business must have a good credit history, meet specific vendor requirements, provide necessary documentation, and have been operating for at least 30 days. 

However, each vendor will have its own requirements for qualifying for a net-30 account.  For instance, some vendors may require that the business owner hold a 25% or higher interest in the company. Others may need an initial deposit or a minimum purchase obligation.

Net-15 vs. net-30 vs. net-60 vs. net-90

The number of days before the payment’s due date may vary. 

The most common and standard net payment term is net-30. With net-15 credit terms, the borrower faces a relatively fast turnaround time. Net-60 and net-90 terms are generally offered only to customers with proven creditworthiness. 

Whether a net-30 or -60 is better for a business depends on its needs and cash flow. If the business expects to make the cash within 30 days, then a net-30 might be more suitable. 

Ultimately, the choice of net terms will depend on the vendor's cash flow, the customer's credit history, and the industry's standards. 

What types of finances do net-30 accounts replace?

Net-30 accounts can replace or supplement credit cards (including personal cards used for the business), business loans, and trade or vendor credits. 

What are personal guarantees (PGs)?

Personal guarantees (PGs) are a form of collateral security in which the borrower pledges personal assets (such as a home, vehicles, or savings) to the lender to secure loan repayment if the business defaults on the loan.

Lenders often require PGs for new businesses that lack a strong business credit score or assets to secure the loan. PGs shift the risk from the lender to the individual guarantor, making the lender more willing to provide financing. 

If the business defaults, PGs can have severe personal financial implications, so guarantors are generally advised to carefully consider the risks of PGs and even obtain independent legal advice before signing the PG.

Why get a net-30 account?

The payment flexibility of net-30 accounts provides flexibility in managing cash flow, which can be particularly helpful for companies that rely on monthly revenue to cover costs. Also, Net-30 accounts typically do not incur interest charges if paid on time, making them a cost-effective way to access short-term financing without additional financial burden.

Since vendors may report net-30 payments to major credit reporting agencies (e.g. Experian business credit reporting, these accounts can help establish a small business's solid credit profile and improve its credit scores.

Net-30 accounts can also lead to cost savings for the business if the vendor offers early payment discounts.. 

The bottom line is that net-30 accounts provide businesses with cash flow flexibility, do not charge interest, help build business credit, and offer potential discounts for early payments.

Improved business credit with the big 3 business credit bureaus

To improve your business credit with the three major business credit bureaus, Dun & Bradstreet, Equifax, and Experian, you must take the following steps:

• Ensure your business information is accurate and up-to-date across all three bureaus. 
• Check that your business name, address, EIN, and other details are correct, and promptly update any changes to your business information with each bureau.
• Establish a business credit file with Dun & Bradstreet. To do this, apply for a DUNS number, a unique 9-digit identifier for your business. Then, provide D&B with details about your business operations and financials.
• Make payments to vendors and suppliers on time or even early. Timely payments to vendors who report to the credit bureaus help build your business credit profile. 
• Consider asking vendors to report your payment history if they have not done so. 
• Obtain a business credit card and make on-time payments. Use a card issuer that reports to the major business credit bureaus. 
• Monitor your business credit reports regularly. Check your credit reports with each bureau at least annually to ensure accuracy. If you find errors or inaccuracies in your reports, dispute them.

By improving your business credit standing with the three major credit bureaus, your business can qualify for better financing terms and vendor relationships.

Build trade credit

Building trade credit involves establishing a positive payment history with vendors and suppliers. 

Creating a good track record of paying suppliers on time is crucial because it helps businesses get the things they need, such as inventory, materials, or services, without paying for them immediately. 

By handling these payment agreements well and paying on time, businesses can improve their reputation, have more flexibility with cash flow, qualify for better deals on loans or credit, and strengthen their financial position.

Increase purchasing power

Increasing purchasing power means enhancing a business's ability to buy more goods and services with the same amount of money.

Negotiating with vendors for better terms, having the right business insurance, and applying for a business line of credit, such as a corporate credit card, can increase purchasing power. 

These actions allow businesses to optimize their financial resources and make more efficient purchasing decisions to support growth and success.

Improve cash flow

Improving cash flow is key for businesses for several reasons.

First, it ensures the company can meet its short-term obligations, such as paying rent and payroll. It also helps cushion the impact of unexpected expenses, revenue fluctuations, or periods of uncertainty. 

Finally, it provides opportunities to invest in business growth projects. Simply put, businesses cannot pay staff, restock inventory, or keep the lights on without the proper cash flow.

Ways to improve cash flow include keeping a weekly or monthly forecast to plan for the future and ensure sufficient funds are available, reducing spending, increasing prices, avoiding tying up too much cash in excess inventory, and improving the accounts receivable management. 

Drawbacks of net-30 accounts

The main downsides of net-30 accounts are the following:  

• Vendors may charge higher prices to offset the extended payment terms. While net-30 terms provide payment flexibility, the higher prices can impact the business's profit margins and competitiveness.
• Strings attached, such as membership fees, can offset benefits. Vendors may impose extra costs that can reduce the financial benefits of using net-30 terms.
• Penalties for late payments can add financial strain. Net-30 accounts often come with late fees for delayed payments, which can incur extra costs and damage the business's credit, reputation, and vendor relationships.
• Personal credit checks might make it challenging to qualify for some net-30 accounts. Vendors may require personal credit checks as part of the qualification process for net-30 accounts. This step can be a challenge for businesses, especially newer or smaller ones, because of the added layer of scrutiny, which could limit access to favorable payment terms.

How to apply for a net-30 account

Once you've assessed your business' financial capability to ensure you have the systems to manage a 30-day payment, choose the right vendor and apply for a net-30 account.

Choosing  the right vendor

Quality of goods/services: Conduct thorough research to ensure that the vendor offers top-notch goods and services, keeps a great reputation, and has a simple credit application process.

Terms and conditions: Read the terms and conditions and the fine print to understand any fees or membership costs associated with the net-30 payment terms. 

Customer service: Consider the vendor's customer service offerings when making your decision. If you are buying products that require constant communication with the customer service team, check to see whether the vendor offers free repairs and what customer service entails.

Before applying

Take the following steps:

1. Get an EIN

An EIN (Employer Identification Number) is a unique 9-digit number assigned by the IRS to identify your business. You can apply for an EIN online, by fax, or by mail through the IRS website.

2. Register with your state

Most states require you to register your business with the Secretary of State's office. Depending on your business structure, you will have to file articles of organization or incorporation, which you can do online or by sending paper forms through snail mail. 

3. List your phone number

When registering your business with the state, you must typically provide a business phone number. (Although not required, having a dedicated business phone number can help establish the company's credibility and professionalism.)

4. Get a DUNS number

A DUNS (Data Universal Numbering System) number is a unique nine-digit identification number provided by Dun & Bradstreet (D&B), a prominent business credit bureau. You can apply for a DUNS number online through the Dun & Bradstreet website.

During the application 

Apply directly with the vendor. Have your documents ready and file all the paperwork according to the terms and conditions.

The 19 best net-30 account vendors for building business credit

1. Crown Office Supplies Net-30

Reports to: Dun & Bradstreet (D&B), Experian, Equifax

Products/services offered: Office supplies, janitorial supplies, electronics, and equipment

Need to know: 

• Must be in business for at least 90 days
• Approved tradelines are between $800-$5,000
• Annual fee is $99 and must be paid before you can access your tradeline
• The first minimum purchase amount is $30

Application link: NET 30 Application - Crown Office Supplies 

2. Shirtsy Net-30

Reports to: Major business credit bureaus

Products/services offered: On-demand t-shirt printing

Need to know: 

• No annual or membership fee
• Late payments may incur fees ranging from $15 to $39, depending on the outstanding balance

Application: Shirtsy – On Demand Tee Printing

3. Newegg Business Net-30

Reports to: Major business credit bureaus

Products/services offered: Tech products

Need to know: 

• Must first create a Newegg Business account
• Late payments may incur fees, but the specific penalty amounts are not specified
• No annual or membership fee specified
• Trucking for large orders available

Application: Create an Account - NeweggBusiness

4. Coast to Coast Office Supply Net-30

Reports to: Tier 1: Equifax; Tier 2: Dun & Bradstreet (D&B) 

Products/services offered: Office supplies, software, and e-books

Need to know: 

• Must register for a business account
• Two tiers available – Tier 1: Provides access to a limited product selection, with easier qualification requirements; Tier 2: Offers the full product catalog, but may require a PG for approval
• During checkout, must  click on the button that says, “Bill My Net 30 Terms Account”
• Minimum $75 initial purchase
• No annual or membership fee specified

Application: Business Account (coasttocoastofficesupply.com)

5. Uline Net-30

Reports to: Major business credit bureaus

Products/services offered: Shipping supplies, janitorial, and facility maintenance items

Need to know: 

• Do not need to provide a Social Security number or business bank account information
• Need to provide EIN or Tax ID number
• Does not require an extensive business credit history, but may review any existing trade credit references or vendor accounts
• No annual or membership fee specified

Application: Credit / Net 30 Terms (uline.com)

6. Quill Net-30

Reports to: Dun & Bradstreet (D&B) and Experian

Products/services offered: Office supplies

Need to know:

• Need to create a Quill business account
• Must add at least $100 worth of items in the cart
• In the checkout process, must select the "Invoice My Account" option to apply for the net-30 terms
• Quill will then run a credit check on the business
• No annual or membership fee specified

Application: Cleaning & Office Supplies for Every Workspace | Quill.com

7. Creative Analytics Net-30

Reports to: Dun & Bradstreet (D&B), Equifax Business, and Creditsafe

Products/services offered: Digital campaigns, conversion-optimized websites, and apps

Need to know: 

• Business must be established for at least 30 days
• Annual fee is $79
• Initial credit limit is $1,000 and is reported monthly to the credit bureaus
• Minimum $100 purchase to qualify

Application: Business Membership Account Application | Creative Analytics

8. Grainger Net-30

Reports to: Dun & Bradstreet (D&B)

Products/services offered: Industrial, maintenance, and office supply products across various categories

Need to know: 

• No minimum purchase requirement to qualify, however at  least $50 in purchases is preferred
• Initial credit limit is $1,000, can be increased by contacting Grainger's customer service
• 1-1.5% late fee of unpaid balance
• No annual or membership fee specified

Application: Financing Information (grainger.com)

9. JAM Industrial Supply Net-30

Reports to: Dun & Bradstreet (D&B) and other major credit bureaus

Products/services offered: Industrial supplies

Need to know: 

• No minimum purchase requirement disclosed
• No annual or membership fee specified

Application: Net 30 Terms with JAM Industrial Supply

10. Staples Net-30

Reports to: Not specified

Products/services offered: Office supplies, furniture, technology, and cleaning products

Need to know:

• Advertised for business of at least 20 employees
• No minimum purchase requirement disclosed
• No annual or membership fee specified

Application:  Staples Business Accounts

11. Namynot Net-30

Reports to: Major business credit bureaus

Products/services offered: Digital marketing services (content, video, web, and mobile solutions)

Need to know:

• Business must be established for at least 90 days
• Does not require  personal credit check or PG
• Up to $10,000 line of credit
• No application fee or monthly membership

Application:  Net 30 Business Accounts. Purchase Services Now, Pay Later! - NAMYNOT Inc.

12. HD Supply Net-30

Reports to: Major business credit bureaus

Products/services offered: Maintenance, Repair, and Operations (MRO) products, Janitorial and Operational Supplies & Equipment (OS&E), and renovation services

Need to know:

• Initial net-30 credit limit ranges from $500 to $1,000
• 1.5% late fee per month of past-due invoices
• No minimum purchase requirement disclosed
• No annual or membership fee specified

Application:  equifax-8801.my.salesforce-sites.com

13. Amazon Pay by Invoice  Net-30

Reports to: N/A

Products/services offered: A wide product selection

Need to know:

• Invite-only program 
• Must have an Amazon Business account 
• Amazon Business Prime Essentials is $179 per year for up to 3 users
• If you’re eligible, you will receive a notification from Amazon Business

Application:  Amazon.com: Amazon Business Pay by Invoice

14. Branded Apparel Club Net-30 (Previously called the Business T-Shirt Club)

Reports to: Major business credit bureaus

Products/services offered: Branded apparel

Need to know:

• Net-30 credit limit is $2,500
• Annual membership is $69.99

Application:  Branded Apparel Club

15. Office Depot OfficeMax Net-30

Reports to: Not specified

Products/services offered: Office supplies, printing, and furniture

Need to know:

• No annual fee or membership
• Payments due in full each month
• May require a PG for new customers (e.g.  smaller businesses with little history)

Application:  Office Depot PROX: Content Modal (citibankonline.com)

16. The Office Garner Net-30

Reports to: Major business credit bureaus

Products/services offered: Office supplies, apparel, electronics, kitchen appliances, and business cards

Need to know:

• Minimum purchase requirement is $45
• One-time processing fee is $69

Application:  About NET 30 Account - Office Garner

17. The CEO Creative Net-30

Reports to: Major business credit bureaus

Products/services offered: Office supplies, electronics, and custom design and branding services

Need to know:

• Annual fee is $30
• Must be in business for at least 30 days
• Must have a clean business credit history

Application:  Join Business NET 30 Account Today! - The CEO Creative

18. Strategic Network Solutions Net-30

Reports to: Experian and Creditsafe

Products/services offered: IT products and services

Need to know:

• Must be in business for at least 30 days
• Must have a clean business credit history
• Minimum purchase is $90
• Annual membership fee is $49

Application:  Strategic Network Solutions (stntsol.com)

19. JJ Gold International Net-30

Reports to: Dun & Bradstreet (D&B) and Experian

Products/services offered: Hair and beauty, gifts, home and decor, jewelry, men's gifts, and  eyewear

Need to know:

• Must be in business for at least 30 days
• Must have a clean business credit history

Application:  JJ Gold NET 30 - GET MORE WITH THE NET 30 ACCOUNT

Best practices for building business credit with net-30 accounts

Pay on time

Pay on time to build your reputation, foster a solid professional relationship with the vendor, and ensure your business' credit score does not suffer. 

Track your spending

To track your spending, separate your business and personal expenses. Open a business bank account and credit card. Leverage expense management tools and accounting software and establish an expense tracking process to collect, organize, and store receipts, invoices, and other expense documentation. Set up performance metrics and track against them regularly.

Monitor your credit

Monitoring your credit will help you stay proactive and address any issues promptly that may be affecting your score. Regularly check your business's score at major bureaus, such as Dun & Bradstreet, Equifax, and Experian, to understand the company's creditworthiness, payment history, and any reported transactions impacting its credit.

Use corporate cards

By responsibly using corporate credit cards, your business can establish and improve its business credit profile, which is essential for accessing financing and other credit-based services in the future. 

There are other benefits, as well. Corporate card accounts have tools to track and manage employee spending, simplifying expense management processes and ensuring transparency in financial transactions. 

They also often come with higher credit limits than personal credit cards, giving your business added flexibility with cash flow management. 

Corporate cards also shift the liability from the individual making the purchase to the business entity, protecting personal assets and reducing the risk for small business owners. Lastly, corporate cards often come with rewards for certain purchases and payments, giving you access to discounts, cash back, or travel rewards.

Alternatives to net-30 accounts for building business credit

Loans

Loans are another alternative to net-30 accounts. Loans can build credit history, improve credit scores, access larger credit amounts, and diversify the business's types of credit. 

Leases

Business leases refer to leasing equipment, vehicles, and other assets without the full upfront capital investment required for purchases. These leases can help establish credit history, improve the business’ credit score, and ultimately diversify the credit mix. 

They can be beneficial for businesses that need access to resources to open, operate, and grow but may not have the cash flow for purchases upfront. 

Rho 

Rho offers corporate credit cards that can serve as P-cards, short for procurement or purchasing cards. P-cards are business-liable credit cards that make purchasing business expenses easier.

Business credit cards can complement or serve as an alternative to net-30 accounts by offering improved cash flow, credit-building opportunities, financing flexibility, and expense management tools and capabilities.

The Rho Corporate Card can serve as your P-card because you can set strict spend controls and restrictions on your Rho Corporate Cards. 

An added benefit is that Rho Corporate Cards can simplify and streamline the business’ spend management processes, so you and your team can spend fewer hours on administrative busy work and more time on strategy. 

What's the difference between a vendor vs. a financial tradeline?

Vendor tradelines

A net-30 account is a tradeline, meaning a credit offered by a trade business. The vendor provides goods or services to the business, which must be paid back within 30 calendar days of the invoice. These vendors can include manufacturers, wholesalers, service providers, etc. 

Not all vendor tradelines report payments to credit bureaus, but some do and can help you build your credit history. 

Financial tradelines

A financial tradeline is a credit account or relationship with a financial institution. These include business loans, lines of credit, leases, and credit cards. 

Financial tradelines secure loans, credit, or other financing from lenders. When paid off on time, they help demonstrate the business's creditworthiness.

FAQs about net-30 accounts

What is a net-30 account?

A net-30 account is a trade credit or vendor account that allows a business customer to pay for goods or services within 30 calendar days of the invoice date rather than requiring immediate payment.

How many net-30 accounts should I have?

The number of net-30 accounts a business should have depends mainly on the company's cash flow and business needs. The key is using a net-30 account responsibly so it benefits rather than hinders the business.

Is Costco a net-30 account?

Several large retailers and suppliers, such as Costco, Home Depot, Office Max, and Staples, provide net-30 accounts to their business clientele. Walmart used to offer a net-30 account but now offers other lines of credit. 

How much does a net-30 account cost?

The cost of a net-30 account depends on the vendor. Some vendors offer net-30 accounts for free. Others require a yearly membership or a minimum purchase amount. 

What are some examples of net-30 accounts?

Uline, Quill, Amazon Business, Costco, Home Depot, Office Max, and Staples offer net-30 accounts. 

What are the net-30 account requirements?

Generally, the requirements to open a net-30 account include a business registration proof, EIN, positive business credit history, and balance sheets, and some vendors may require a PG. 

Where can I get a net-30 account?

You can identify and connect with local vendors who offer net-30 accounts and who report to major business credit bureaus. You can also get a net-30 account at national retailers such as Uline, Quill, Amazon Business, Costco, Home Depot, Office Max, and Staples.

How can I get net-30 terms?

To get net-30 terms, assess your business's financial health and cash flow to see if you can pay back on time without financial strain. Then, identify a vendor who offers net-30 terms and apply for a loan.

Conclusion: Simplify spend management with Rho

Net-30 terms are a helpful cash flow management tool that can help businesses prioritize immediate cash use for more strategic operational uses. 

As you consider working with vendors, two time-consuming steps in the AP automation process are invoice management and payment. Rho AP Automation can help streamline vendor payments, transforming a time-consuming process into a seconds-long workstream. 

Want to learn more about Rho AP Automation? Schedule a demo with a Rho specialist today. 

Rho is not a bank. Banking services and cards issued by Webster Bank, N.A. Member FDIC.