It's time to get BBB Accredited!

Ready to start the BBB Accreditation process?

If you’ve been in business for at least six months, you’re officially eligible* to apply for BBB Accreditation.

The fact that you’re considering BBB Accreditation is an indicator that you’re thinking bigger, that you’re holding your brand accountable to a high benchmark, and that you’re all in to be a part of a community committed to that same standard.

The good news? The application process is quick and easy. Here’s how to get the ball rolling:

Fill out the interest form or, if you’re ready to apply, fill out an application (you don’t need to fill out both). Take note that, at this stage, the application information required is used to create an accurate record for your business.

Some notes on the application:

·        The form can be filled out by you, or by a BBB team member if you don’t have email or online access, or are otherwise unable to fill out the application.

·        Be prepared to provide relevant details regarding business licenses, certifications and operational statistics (like how many full-time or part-time employees you have). You will also be asked to enter your annual revenue into your application.

·        You have 24 days to edit and submit your application once you’ve started.

Reach out to your local BBB! Under the interest form, you’ll see an option to “Contact Your Local BBB.” You can also use the online directory link titled “My BBB” at the top of the BBB.org homepage.

This is an opportunity to reach out and talk to a BBB team member about BBB Accreditation. It’s possible you've already taken this step, but as you start the application process, this gives you the opportunity to begin forging your relationship with your local BBB. When reaching out, be sure to verify with your representative that they’ve received your application.

If you have questions – ask them! Are you wondering: What happens next? How is the verification process carried out? How does the payment structure work? We’re big fans of transparency, so keep a running list of these important questions and ask them from the get-go.

Review the eight BBB Accreditation Standards.

All Accredited Businesses certify that they meet these standards and are committed to maintaining them. Because, in a market saturated with so many options, consumers want to know they’re dealing with a brand that’s honest, transparent, responsive and trustworthy. These values are exemplified by businesses who carry the BBB Accredited Business Seal.

So, when reviewing the Standards, ask how your business meets that first “B” in “BBB.” Consumers look to Accredited Businesses with the expectation of a “better” overall experience. Are you delivering on that expectation? Your commitment to these standards is where it all starts – it’s what keeps us in lockstep as a community accomplishing great things.

Your application will be reviewed by BBB. This process can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks to ensure every business is thoroughly vetted, but timelines may vary by BBB region. Keep in mind that BBB remains neutral throughout the process, and a business’s BBB Accreditation status is never predetermined.

During this review, the best thing you can do is to stay the course. If you’re meeting all the standards, keep up the good work! In the meantime, your information will be verified, and any required business licenses will be checked to ensure they are valid and up to date.

The three scenarios that may occur next are as follows:

1.      Your Accreditation is approved! If your business makes it through the application process, you will be invited to be a part of BBB’s community of Accredited Businesses. Congratulations!

2.      Your application is put on hold. This status occurs when more information is needed or when additional questions need to be addressed. Provide any information requested and we’ll move the application forward as quickly as we can.

3.      Your BBB Accreditation is denied. Although this is not the desired outcome, it’s not the end of the road. Some businesses might have failed to provide accurate records in their application. Others may be asked to address something like their customer reviews to determine how they can be more responsive to their customers. Whatever the reason, a business will be given details on how it failed to meet the BBB Accreditation requirements, and in many cases, will be given the opportunity to address the concerns before a final decision is made.

*Eligibility requirements may vary in some BBB regions. Please reach out to your local BBB to learn of the requirements in your region.