Most business credit denials start with setup problems: mismatched business information, weak verification signals, or incomplete tax and banking basics. This USA + Canada guide helps you build a clean, lender-verifiable foundation from day one.
Your EIN (USA) or BN (Canada) is the core identifier lenders, vendors, and bureaus use to recognize your business as legitimate and verifiable.
It connects your company across:
Key Insight: Even the best credit strategy fails if your business identity can’t be consistently verified across systems.
An EIN is a unique 9-digit number issued by the IRS to identify a business for federal tax and reporting purposes. It is commonly required to open business bank accounts, hire employees, file federal taxes, apply for vendor accounts, and establish business credit with lenders and bureaus.
The IRS issues EINs for free. Avoid third-party websites charging fees for EIN applications.
A Business Number (BN) is a 9-digit identifier issued by the CRA. It links your business to CRA program accounts such as:
New BN and program account registrations are online only via BRO; phone registration ended November 3, 2025.
The IRS allows eligible businesses to apply online and receive an EIN immediately after successful submission. This is the fastest and cleanest option.
You may also apply by fax or mail using IRS Form SS-4. Processing times vary depending on the submission method.
Best Practice: Use only one application method per entity to avoid receiving multiple EINs for the same business.
CRA guidance identifies BRO as the primary registration workflow for new BNs and program accounts. Online registration ensures faster processing and accurate account setup.
The RC1 form may be used to request a BN or additional program accounts when online registration is unavailable or not suitable.
Best Practice: Register only the program accounts you actually need to avoid unnecessary compliance or reporting obligations.