7/09/26
How to Apply for a Business Credit Card as a Sole Proprietor (Even If You Don’t Think You Have a Business)
“I don’t own a business.”
That’s one of the most common things I hear from people who are interested in earning more points and miles.
The truth? You might already qualify for a business credit card without realizing it.
If you’ve ever sold items on eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or Poshmark, done freelance work, driven for Uber, tutored students, babysat, consulted, created content online, or earned money outside of your regular job, you may qualify as a sole proprietor.
Business credit cards have been one of the biggest reasons my husband and I have been able to earn enough points to travel the world as a family. While the rules have changed over the years, they’re still an incredibly valuable tool when used responsibly.
Let’s walk through how to complete a typical business credit card application.
Step 1: Choose Your Business Type
Select:
Sole Proprietor
A sole proprietor is simply an individual operating a business without creating a separate legal entity.
You do not need an LLC or corporation to apply.
Step 2: Your Position
Choose:
Owner
Since you’re operating the business yourself, you’re the owner.
Step 3: Business Name
For most sole proprietors, simply enter:
Your First and Last Name
For example:
Sarah Smith
I actually recommend using your legal name unless you already have an established registered business name.
Why?
If the bank ever asks you to verify your business, your driver’s license or other government-issued ID matches your application.
Step 4: Annual Business Revenue
This is the question that scares people the most.
My advice is simple:
Be honest.
If you’ve been selling on Facebook Marketplace and earned $1,200 last year…
Put $1,200.
If you’re just getting started…
Many applications allow you to use your expected revenue.
I’ve seen many data points of people being approved with very small businesses and relatively low annual revenue.
The bank is looking at the overall picture—not just one number.
Step 5: Monthly Business Expenses
Again…
Be honest.
If you only spend $50 each month buying inventory…
Enter $50.
If your expenses are minimal…
That’s perfectly okay.
Many successful small businesses have very low operating costs.
Do I Need an EIN?
No.
Most sole proprietors simply apply using their Social Security Number.
If you already have an Employer Identification Number (EIN), you can use it, but it isn’t required for most sole proprietor applications.
What Counts as a Business?
You might qualify if you:
✔ Sell on eBay
✔ Sell on Facebook Marketplace
✔ Sell on Poshmark
✔ Sell on Etsy
✔ Have a blog
✔ Create YouTube content
✔ Drive for Uber or DoorDash
✔ Babysit
✔ Tutor
✔ Freelance
✔ Do consulting
✔ Offer photography services
✔ Sell crafts
If you’ve earned money from an activity—even part-time—you may qualify as a sole proprietor.
Why Business Cards Are So Valuable
Business credit cards can dramatically expand your ability to earn points.
In fact, they’ve been one of the biggest drivers of our family’s points and miles strategy.
Another advantage is that many business credit cards from major issuers don’t report to your personal credit report after approval, which means they typically don’t increase your Chase 5/24 count. (Keep in mind you’ll generally still need to be under 5/24 to be approved for Chase business cards.)
Business card applications usually do result in a hard inquiry, just like a personal credit card application.
My Favorite Chase Business Cards
Once you decide a business card is right for you, these are my favorite Chase options:
- Ink Business Cash® – Great for maximizing bonus categories.
- Ink Business Unlimited® – Earns a simple 1.5x points on every purchase.
- Ink Business Preferred® – My favorite for earning transferable Chase Ultimate Rewards® points.
👉 See all of my recommended travel credit cards here.
Tracy’s Tip 💡
Don’t inflate your revenue or expenses to improve your chances of approval. Always provide truthful information on your application. Many people with small side businesses are approved every day, so there’s no need to exaggerate your numbers.
Final Thoughts
Don’t let the word “business” stop you from exploring these incredible opportunities.
Many people already qualify without realizing it.
The key is to be honest on your application, accurately represent your business activity, and only apply for cards that fit your overall financial goals.
Business credit cards have played a huge role in helping our family travel more using points and miles, and they may be able to do the same for you.