[Loomis]

D&B calls me (from India of course) about every 6 months to say that people are checking my business' credit, but the profile doesn't exist, blah blah blah. They're long on the sales pitch, but offer dubious results for your money.

Having a D&B profile won't keep you from having to make personal guarantees on business debts, even if you are incorporated. The best thing to do is establish a relationship with a community banker. Get to know them, make them see your creditworthiness, and make them work for your business. I avoid electronic deposits, as I like to walk into the bank and meet face-to-face with the banker so she can see us making regular deposits. It makes a difference, and she will go to bat for us if necessary.

A strong balance sheet and track record with your bank carries a lot more weight than a D&B profile. American Express and our insurers don't have any problem figuring things out without it.