Can you get a business credit card without a business?

Quick insights

• If you earn money independently, you’re likely eligible for a business credit card—even if you don’t have a formal business.
• Freelancers and sole proprietors can apply with their SSN (social security number) rather than with an EIN (employee identification number).
• You may still need to provide income information with your business credit card application.

You don’t necessarily need an incorporated business—or business income— to get a business credit card. Whether you walk dogs for extra income or have a full-time freelance writing business, you could be eligible.

As long as you are attempting to earn a profit from your business, you can apply to most business credit cards. Officially incorporated businesses typically apply with an EIN, but most credit card issuers allow you to apply with your SSN.

Using a business credit card can be a helpful way for business owners to separate their personal and business expenses, track spending and build credit for their businesses. Read on to learn more about who’s eligible for a business credit card and how to apply for one.

Who may be eligible for a business credit card

If your work produces income, you can likely be considered for a business credit card provided you meet that particular card issuer’s qualifications. This could include a minimum credit score or other qualifications. According to Experian, it may be easier to be approved if you have a “good” credit score of higher—which translates to a FICO^® score of 670 or higher.

Here are just a few examples of businesses or “side hustles” that may be eligible for a business credit card:

• Babysitting
• Dog sitting or dog walking
• Freelance writing
• Ride share services
• Food delivery services
• Tutoring
• Selling vintage clothing online

While you may not initially think of these professions as needing a separate business credit card, there are many benefits to using one for work purposes.

Benefits of a business credit card

Using a business credit card can be a helpful way to track and manage your work expenses. Here are a few main benefits of applying for a business card as an individual:

• Keeping business and personal expenses separate. Using separate work and personal credit cards can simplify your taxes and bookkeeping.
• Accessing a line of credit for business purposes. As the adage goes, you need to spend money to make money. Having a line of credit allows you to borrow money for business expenses.
• Earning rewards for everyday business purchases. Business credit cards, like the Chase Ink suite of cards, often allow you to earn cash back or rewards points. Certain categories, like travel or office supplies, may also allow you to earn bonus points or cash back.
• Building a business credit score. Using your credit card responsibly over time can help you establish a business credit score. A higher business credit score may make it easier to get approved for a business loan in the future.

Business credit card requirements

Whether you have an incorporated business or not, applying for a business credit card is quite similar. Most credit card issuers will ask for personal details as well as information about your business.

Start by gathering the following information for your application:

• Business name: You may use your name if your business doesn’t have a name.
• Business structure: If you don’t have employees or an incorporated business, you may apply as a sole proprietor.
• EIN or SSN: Use your EIN if you have one; if not, use your SSN.
• Business industry: Choose the industry that best describes your work.
• Business revenue: Input your business income if necessary (this can be $0 if you have not made any income yet).
• Time in business: Include the amount of time you’ve been in business (if any).
• Employees: If applicable, list the number of employees you have.

Be careful not to inflate information to get approved; it’s important that you provide honest, accurate details. For example, a new business may need a credit card, but they likely don’t have any revenue just yet. This won’t automatically result in a rejection.

Can I apply for a business credit card with no business income?

Yes, you can apply for a business credit card even if you don’t have any business income. Credit card issuers typically look at your personal credit score and financial history to help make their decision.

While this is helpful for new businesses, keep in mind that some credit card issuers may require a minimum credit score for business credit card applications. So if you have a low credit score, it could impact your chances of being approved for a business credit card.

The good news is that after the initial inquiry of your personal credit score, the new line of credit for your business will become separate from your personal one. This means that your business credit utilization ratio and payment history might not affect your personal credit score.

It’s also important to note that the business owner will usually be considered personally responsible for the credit line on a business credit card. This means that the business owners would be responsible for any unpaid balances.

Factors to consider when applying for a business card

When you’re ready to research specific business credit cards, there are a few factors you may want to consider before applying:

• Welcome bonuses. Many business cards have generous welcome bonuses that include bonus points or cash back when you spend a certain amount of money in your first few months after opening the account.
• Reward bonus categories. If you consistently spend money in certain business categories, find a business credit card that will reward you for that. For example, the Chase Ink Business Cash^® credit card allows you to earn 5% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at office supply stores and on internet, cable and phone services each account anniversary year.
• Travel benefits. If you travel frequently for work, it may be wise to choose a card that provides related perks. For example, Chase Ink Business Preferred^® credit card points are worth 25% more when you redeem for travel through Chase Travel℠.
• Annual fees. Some business credit cards have annual fees, so read the terms and conditions before applying.

In summary

Regardless of what kind of business you have, you may be able to apply for a business credit card—typically, all you need is your SSN and some additional personal and business details.

In addition to accessing a line of credit for your business and building a business credit score, using a business credit card can be a great way to earn credit card points on your typical purchases.

So whether you have a part-time side job or a full-time freelancing career, consider applying for a business credit card to organize your finances and help you keep your work and personal expenses separate.