Pumphouse

• Women-owned businesses today make up 30-40 percent of all American businesses and represent the fastest-growing segment of small businesses in the country. Despite the importance of these businesses, many women entrepreneurs feel they do not always receive the help or information they need from banks.
• "Women-owned businesses account for one of every four jobs in the country and generate close to $2.3 trillion in sales," said Susie Leinbaugh, Manager of Dallas Business Banking Group.
• Women Incorporated, the nation's largest organization devoted to the needs and concerns of women-owned businesses, was formed in late 1995. Women Incorporated provides access to discounts and services from more than 30 national premier suppliers and vendors, including AT&T, Federal Express and Kinko's.
• Research by Bank One indicates that women entrepreneurs seek access to information as well as credit. "Women business owners understand that knowledge is power in today's competitive business environment," Leinbaugh said. "They value support networks like Women Incorporated, that offer access to business ideas and information."

FYI - I would like to pass on some information regarding a new law to help consumers fight inaccurate credit reports.

Inaccurate credit reports can create havoc with both your personal and business financial dealings. From newspaper accounts, apparently inaccuracies in credit bureau files has been a widespread problem. I urge you to get a copy of your credit report. Find out what's in there. Your credit rating is one of your most valuable assets - protect it!

Here are some of the provisions in the new law, taken in part, from an AP article today:

1. Credit bureaus must have actual people available to answer questions - not just recordings - to talk to consumers.
2. 30 day limit on investigations for inaccuracies.
3. $8 cap on the cost of a routine credit report to consumers.
4. Banks, department stores and other creditors that supply information to the bureaus are legally bound to be accurate or to fix their errors.
5. Employers are prohibited from getting credit reports on job applicants without their permission.
6. Applications for credit cards must include the toll-free numbers provided by the Big Three credit bureaus for "opting out" of credit card lists. (removing your name from credit card companies' solicitations)

• Equifax, 800-685-1111
• Experian (formerly TRW), 800-682-7654
• Trans Union, 800-916-8800

• Equifax, 800-556-4711
• Experian, 800-353-0809
• Trans Union, 800-680-7293

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