Voluntary Credit Rating: Why Some Companies Choose It

Not every credit rating is triggered by a bank mandate. Some companies choose to get rated voluntarily — sometimes referred to as an unsolicited or proactive rating — as part of a deliberate business strategy rather than in response to a specific lender requirement.

Common Reasons Companies Seek a Voluntary Rating

Anticipating future funding needs. Getting ahead of an expected larger facility, bond issuance, or investor round by building a rating track record in advance.

Strengthening negotiating position. Using an independent rating as leverage in ongoing discussions with existing lenders, even without an immediate new facility request.

Building stakeholder confidence. Providing large customers, suppliers or potential investors with independent validation of financial stability.

Benchmarking internal financial discipline. Using the rating process itself as a structured, independent check on the business's financial and governance practices.

How a Voluntary Rating Process Differs

The underlying rating methodology and process is the same as a lender-mandated rating — what differs is simply the trigger and timing, which the company controls rather than a specific transaction deadline.

Considerations Before Choosing to Get Rated Voluntarily

Since the process involves genuine cost, time and disclosure, companies considering a voluntary rating should be reasonably confident in their financial position and prepared to maintain the rating through ongoing surveillance, not just obtain it once.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does a voluntary rating cost the same as a mandated one?

The CRA's fee structure and advisory support requirements are generally similar; what differs is the trigger for seeking the rating, not the process cost itself.

Can a company choose not to publish a voluntary rating?

This depends on the specific agency's policies and whether the rating is intended for private or public use; it's worth clarifying this directly with the chosen CRA before starting the process.

Is a voluntary rating less rigorous than a mandated one?

No — the CRA applies the same independent assessment methodology regardless of what triggered the rating request.

Does FinMen Advisors help decide if a voluntary rating makes sense?

Yes — FinMen Advisors can help assess a company's growth plans and funding trajectory as an input to this decision, though the final choice rests with the company.

Considering a voluntary credit rating ahead of a future funding need? FinMen Advisors offers a no-cost initial assessment to help you think it through.