Glossary

Trade reference

A statement from a supplier about how reliably a business pays its invoices — used to support credit decisions and to build a company's credit record.

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Definition

A trade reference is confirmation from a supplier of how promptly and reliably a business settles its accounts. New suppliers may ask for them before extending trade credit, and they contribute to the payment history behind a credit score.

Why it matters

Good trade references open more supplier credit and help build a young company's file. Paying suppliers on time earns them. See building business credit.

Funding for UK limited companies

Credicorp lends to your company, not to you personally — short-term working capital with no personal guarantee. See what your business could access.