How to Apply for a Business Credit Card (Even If You Don’t Think You Have a Business!)
Hey friend! Did you know you don’t need to run a huge company to apply for a business credit card? If you’ve ever sold something on Facebook Marketplace, babysat for a neighbor, or even walked someone’s dog, you might have a business already. Let’s break it all down in simple steps so you can start earning points and miles like a pro!
Why Should I Get a Business Credit Card?
Business credit cards are like the golden tickets of travel rewards. They often come with HUGE welcome bonuses, better earning rates on things like office supplies, gas, or internet, and help you keep your personal and “business” expenses separate.
It’s one of the fastest ways to rack up points and miles if you love to travel.
Do I Need to Own a Real Business?
Nope! You don’t need a storefront, employees, or an LLC. Many people qualify as a “sole proprietor,” which just means you’re working for yourself, even if it’s small stuff like:
- Selling crafts on Etsy or Facebook Marketplace
- Babysitting or tutoring
- Dog walking or pet sitting
- Freelancing (photography, blogging.)
- Renting out a room on Airbnb
- Driving for rideshare or delivery apps
Basically, if you’re making money outside of a regular job (even just here or there), you’ve got yourself a business!
What If I’m Just Starting Out?
That’s okay! If you don’t have a registered business, no problem, you’re going to register as a sole proprietor and you’ll simply use your name and social security number when filling out the application. The business address will be your home address.
Why Are Business Cards So Lucrative for Points and Miles?
Here’s the fun part! Business cards often have higher welcome bonuses than personal cards. For example, a Chase Ink card might give you 100,000 points after meeting a spending requirement—that’s enough for flights, hotel stays, or even cash back.
On top of that, business cards don’t show up on your personal credit report (in most cases), so they don’t count toward your 5/24 limit with Chase. This means you can open more cards to earn even more points!
Can I Open Multiple Business Cards for the Same Business?
Yes, you can! Some people open different Chase Ink cards for the same business because each card has its own earning categories and perks. Just make sure you can manage the spending requirements and use them responsibly.
How Do I Apply for a Business Credit Card?
It’s super simple! Here’s what you’ll need:
- Your Name and Business Name: If you don’t have a business name, just use your own name.
- Business Type: If you’re a one-person operation and not incorporated, you’ll choose “Sole Proprietor.” If you do have an LLC, make sure to pick that option.
- Business Revenue: This is your projected income for the whole year, even if you haven’t made any money yet.
- Tax ID Number: For sole proprietors, opt for your Social Security number.
- Estimated Spending: Banks want to know how much you think you’ll spend on the card monthly or yearly.
- Gross annual income: This is all the income within your household, including your parter if you have one.
- Business Type: Pick the one that aligns the best. This can be tricky and I don’t usually find an exact match.
Once you fill out the application, sometimes (less often) you may get an instant decision. More often, you’ll hear back within a few days. If it’s been a week, I’d simply call customer service to get an update. Sometimes it’s held if they need more documents and clarify simple things like an address or name spelling.
Can I Use a Business Card for Personal Spending?
In the fine print, you’ll read that business cards are for business expenses. That said, banks won’t know what is personal spend and what is business spend, so do what you are comfortable with.
Keep in mind, if you do plan on filing taxes for this business, it’s important to keep straight what were business expenses and what were personal expenses. This can be done with a simple spreadsheet.
Is It Worth It?
Absolutely! Even if your “business” is small, a business credit card can help you earn tons of points and miles, get valuable perks, and manage your expenses more easily. It’s a game-changer for anyone looking to travel more (for less).
Now that you know the basics, it’s time to take the plunge! Apply for business cards are easier than you realize and can make all the difference in traveling for (nearly) free.
