Business credit cards can be powerful financial tools for anyone earning independent income. Many people assume these cards are only for large companies, but individuals running small or informal ventures can qualify too. Freelancers, online sellers, consultants, and side-gig earners often meet the requirements without realizing it.

Here is a clear guide to how business cards work, why they can be useful, and how to apply as a sole proprietor.

What Business Credit Cards Actually Are

Business credit cards are designed to help manage business-related spending, earn rewards, and establish a credit profile tied to the business. They function similarly to personal credit cards but typically offer:

• Higher credit limits

• Rewards categories geared toward business expenses

• Special perks and targeted offers

Most business cards report activity to commercial credit bureaus rather than personal ones. Some issuers, including Capital One, may still report certain activity to personal bureaus, but many do not.

Key Benefits of Business Credit Cards

Separation of expenses

Keeping business and personal purchases separate simplifies bookkeeping and tax preparation.

Higher credit limits

Business accounts often provide more spending capacity, which helps when covering larger operational costs.

Useful rewards categories

Business cards frequently offer elevated earnings on gas, internet, phone services, shipping, travel, and advertising.

Introductory benefits

Many cards include incentives such as 0 percent introductory APR periods, substantial welcome bonuses, and other rewards structured around business needs.

Who Can Apply

A business credit card does not require a corporation or LLC. Anyone earning money through activities such as consulting, tutoring, freelancing, content creation, or selling goods can typically apply as a sole proprietor.

Those with established business entities can apply using their business information, but the same general process applies.

How to Apply as a Sole Proprietor

Choose a Card That Matches Your Spending

Think about:

• Which categories you spend the most on

• Whether you prefer simple rewards or flexible points

• Whether a card’s annual fee is justifiable for your needs

Personal Information When You Don’t Have an EIN

A sole proprietor can fill out the application by using:

• Legal name as the business name

• Home address as the business address

• Social Security Number rather than an EIN

Estimate Business Revenue Honestly

Banks expect a reasonable estimate of annual revenue. It is completely acceptable if the number is modest or the business is new.

Provide a Simple Industry Description

Choose an industry category that aligns with your work such as online retail, consulting, marketing, or creative services.

Submit the Application and Build Good Habits

Expect a hard credit inquiry during the approval process. After receiving the card:

• Pay balances on time

• Keep utilization low

• Use the card consistently to develop a positive business credit profile

Strong Business Cards for Travelers

Chase Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

• Earns 3x points on travel, shipping, and digital advertising

• Offers a substantial welcome bonus

American Express® Business Gold Card

• Earns 4x points on the top two categories where the business spends the most each month

• Provides a strong welcome bonus

Chase Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card

• Earns 1.5x points on all purchases with no annual fee

• Officially earns cash back but can become transferable points when paired with certain Chase cards

Final Thoughts

Business credit cards can unlock valuable rewards, strengthen financial organization, and support future growth. For travelers, they add an extra layer of earning potential across categories that personal cards sometimes overlook.

Even individuals running small or informal ventures can qualify. With the right card and a consistent approach, business credit cards become a powerful part of any rewards strategy.

Talk soon,

Your Maestro Concierge

Editors Note: Opinions expressed here are only the author’s and have not been reviewed, approved, or endorsed by any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity.