If you’re a new business owner, freelancer, or gig worker in the U.S., one of the smartest financial steps you can take is applying for a business credit card. Not only does it help you manage expenses and earn rewards, but it also helps build your business credit profile—a key foundation for securing future funding or scaling your operations.
But before applying, it’s important to understand the minimum requirements for a business credit card. Fortunately, you don’t need to run a massive company to qualify. In fact, many card issuers have designed their products with startups, sole proprietors, and side hustlers in mind.
This beginner’s guide breaks down what you actually need to apply for a business credit card in the U.S.—and how you can meet those requirements, even with little revenue or no employees.
Why Apply for a Business Credit Card?
First, a quick refresher on why a business credit card matters, especially early in your entrepreneurial journey:
- Keeps personal and business expenses separate
- Helps build a credit profile for your business
- Earns rewards on business spending (travel, ads, software, etc.)
- Offers higher limits and better financial control
- Allows employee cards with spend limits
Now let’s dive into the minimum requirements you’ll need to meet.
1. You Must Operate a Business—Any Business
You don’t need to own a large company. In fact, you may already qualify if you:
- Sell products online (eBay, Etsy, Amazon, etc.)
- Work as a freelancer or consultant
- Drive for Uber, Lyft, or DoorDash
- Do design, writing, or marketing gigs
- Own a side hustle (photography, tutoring, etc.)
If you make money from any business activity, you’re eligible to apply—even if it’s part-time or seasonal.
2. Legal Business Name and Structure
Card issuers ask for your business name and legal structure during the application. You can apply as:
- Sole Proprietor (your own name)
- LLC
- Corporation
- Partnership
- Nonprofit
For sole proprietors or freelancers, you don’t need a formal business registration. Just use your full name as your business name.
3. Employer Identification Number (EIN) or Social Security Number (SSN)
Most issuers allow you to apply using either:
- Your SSN (for sole proprietors and side hustlers)
- Your EIN (for LLCs, Corps, or businesses with employees)
If you’ve registered your business or want to separate your personal and business credit, applying for an EIN is free via the IRS website.
4. Estimated Business Revenue
You’ll be asked to report your annual business revenue and monthly business expenses. Many first-time applicants worry that $0 revenue will get them rejected—but that’s not necessarily the case.
Issuers understand that many applicants are pre-revenue or just starting out. You can enter $0 or a conservative estimate, as long as the rest of your application is solid.
5. Good Personal Credit Score
Because most startups lack established business credit, issuers rely heavily on your personal credit to determine approval.
A FICO score of 670 or higher is generally recommended. Some cards accept lower scores (around 640), but you may be limited to lower credit lines or secured cards.
6. Time in Business (Even if It’s Just Getting Started)
Issuers often ask how long your business has been active. If you just started this month, that’s okay—just be transparent.
Some cards cater specifically to early-stage startups, and will still approve you even if your business is brand new.
7. Industry Type and Business Description
You’ll need to specify what your business does. Most applications have a dropdown menu or search bar to select your industry.
Then, briefly describe your services or products. This helps issuers assess the risk associated with your business type.
8. Personal Guarantee
Most business credit cards for small businesses require a personal guarantee. This means you agree to be personally liable for the balance if your business cannot pay it.
This clause is common—even if you apply with an EIN. Very few cards (like Brex or Ramp) skip this requirement, and only if you meet strict qualifications.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to the minimum requirements for a business credit card, the bar is lower than most people think. You don’t need a six-figure income or an incorporated business to qualify.
As long as you’re engaged in legitimate business activity, have decent personal credit, and provide truthful information, you’re already well on your way.
Start with a card that matches your needs—whether that’s low fees, cashback, or flexible approval—and use it wisely. Pay on time, keep your balance low, and your business credit will begin to grow right alongside your company.
