It’s possible to get a business credit card without an employer identification number (EIN), especially if you are a sole proprietor. It may be a challenge, however. While many business credit card applications require an EIN, there are credit card issuers that may offer options for sole proprietors to apply using their Social Security number (SSN) instead.

Let’s explore how to get a business credit card without an EIN, why an EIN matters for a small business, alternatives to using an EIN, and what a no-EIN business credit card looks like.

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What Is an EIN and Why Do You Need It?

An employer identification number is a unique nine-digit tax identification number issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) in the United States. It’s also referred to as a Federal Tax Identification Number.

Here are some key points about EINs and why they might be necessary:

1. Business identification: An EIN is primarily used by the IRS to identify businesses for tax purposes. It distinguishes your business as a separate legal entity and allows the IRS to track its financial activities.
2. Tax obligations: If you operate a business, including LLCs, partnerships, or corporations, you’re generally required to have an EIN. It’s necessary for fulfilling tax obligations such as filing tax returns, paying employment taxes, and reporting financial information to the IRS.
3. Hiring employees: If your business hires employees, an EIN is usually required for various employment-related purposes like reporting wages, withholding payroll taxes, and issuing W-2 forms.
4. Business banking: Financial institutions often require an EIN when opening a business bank account. It helps them verify the legitimacy of the business and ensures proper reporting of financial transactions.
5. Building credit: You can use an EIN to establish business credit separate from personal credit. It allows businesses to build a credit history and apply for business loans, lines of credit, and business credit cards.
6. Legal compliance: Many legal and regulatory requirements, such as obtaining licenses, permits, and certain registrations, require an EIN as part of the application process.

An EIN is a unique identifier used by the IRS to track and identify businesses for tax purposes. It’s necessary for fulfilling various tax obligations, hiring employees, opening business bank accounts, building business credit, and ensuring legal compliance.

Can You Get a Business Credit Card Without an EIN?

In most cases, getting a business credit card without an EIN is possible — but it can be a challenge. Business credit cards are usually designed to be used by businesses rather than individuals. So credit card issuers typically require an EIN to verify the legitimacy of the business and assess its creditworthiness.

However, some financial institutions may offer alternatives for small businesses or sole proprietors without an EIN. They might let you apply for a business credit card using your Social Security number (SSN) as the identification number. This would effectively link the credit card to your personal credit and not to a separate business entity. 

Alternatives to EIN

Let’s look at the process of applying for a business credit card without an EIN and the other options you have. 

1. Social Security number (SSN)

If you’re a sole proprietor without an EIN, you may still be able to get a business credit card by using your SSN as the identification number. You’ll want to look for credit card issuers that offer business credit cards specifically for sole proprietors. Some financial institutions have programs tailored to individuals operating as sole proprietors without an EIN.

Utilizing personal credit history 

As a sole proprietor, you’re personally liable for the debts and obligations of your business. Most credit card issuers will require a personal guarantee, which means you’ll be responsible for repaying the credit card debt if your business can’t.

Pros and cons

Using an SSN instead of an EIN to get a business credit card has both pros and cons. Here’s an overview:

It’s important to consider these pros and cons in light of your specific business needs and circumstances. If you need more information on how to establish business credit, read this guide from Nav.

3. ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number)

An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number is used for individuals who don’t qualify for an SSN. An ITIN facilitates tax-related processes and allows these individuals to comply with tax laws. It enables individuals to fulfill their tax obligations, file tax returns, and engage in certain financial transactions.

Eligibility criteria

ITINs are typically issued to non-resident aliens, foreign nationals, their spouses, and dependents who need to report income or file U.S. tax returns but aren’t eligible for an SSN. For example, individuals on certain types of visas, non-resident students, or individuals with foreign-based businesses may require an ITIN.

It’s important to note that not all credit card issuers accept ITINs on applications, and approval may depend on factors such as your credit history, income, and the specific policies of the financial institution. It’s recommended to research and compare the options available to find the credit card issuer that best suits your needs as an individual with an ITIN.

Pros and cons

Using an ITIN to apply for a business credit card has both advantages and disadvantages. Here’s an overview of the pros and cons:

It’s important to research credit card issuers that accept ITINs, compare their terms and conditions, and consider the specific requirements and limitations associated with using an ITIN for business credit card applications.

Step-by-Step Guide to Obtaining a Business Credit Card Without an EIN

Here’s a breakdown of the steps to get a business credit card without an EIN.

1. Research business credit card options

It’s important to research credit card issuers that specifically cater to sole proprietors or allow the use of an SSN for business credit card applications. Review their terms, credit limits, rewards programs, and any additional benefits that align with your business needs. Comparing options and understanding the specific requirements of each credit card issuer can help you make an informed decision. The best way to compare business credit cards is to use Nav.

2. Build your business’s creditworthiness

Building your business’s credit involves establishing a positive credit history and demonstrating your ability to responsibly manage credit. Establishing tradelines with vendors that report to business credit bureaus is one of the best ways to start building business credit (Hint: Nav is one of them). You’ll need to make on-time payments to help build positive credit. And keep in mind that maintaining good personal credit impacts your small business loan opportunities as a small business owner as well.

3. Select the right credit card issuer

Make sure the credit card you pursue has the right rewards structure for expenses you’re already making (e.g. if you already spend a lot on business travel, a travel credit card might make the most sense). Use Nav to compare the best business credit cards for you. 

4. Prep the required documentation

You’ll need to gather personal and business information before you send in a credit card application. Have business information like your business name, address, and phone number, as well as personal information like your full name and Social Security number. You also may need to submit financial details like your annual revenue and time in business, along with other financial statements.

5. Submit the application

Most credit card applications are fully digital these days, so you should be able to complete it online without having to go into a branch. Be sure to review and double check your information since any mistakes can slow down the process. If you prefer to submit your application in person, that may be possible if there’s a physical branch. 

6. Manage your business credit card responsibly

It’s essential that you understand the credit card’s terms and conditions — like that you’re only supposed to use the card for business purposes. Also, make sure you’re utilizing your credit responsibly by not overspending and keeping under your credit limit. Making on-time payments is one of the best ways to build and maintain a good credit score.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• How can I build my business creditworthiness?

  Building business credit takes time and requires responsible financial management. It’s essential to establish a positive credit history, maintain good payment practices, and manage your business’s finances effectively. Check out this guide from Nav for a step-by-step process.

• How long does it take to get approved for a business credit card?

  The time it takes to get approved for a business credit card can vary depending on several factors, including the credit card issuer, your creditworthiness, and the completeness and accuracy of your application. You can have an instant approval or it can take up to a couple of weeks, or any amount of time in between.

• What factors should I consider when choosing a credit card issuer?

  You’ll want to consider a few factors, like annual fee, type of card, whether or not it offers rewards and whether those rewards line up with your current business spending. You’ll also want to know the interest rate to see how much it would cost to borrow on the card, as well as the kind of credit limits you could get to make sure it matches your needs. It’s a good idea to look at customer reviews of its service and online or mobile banking options.

• How can I manage my business credit card effectively?

  Some tips to help you manage your business credit card well are to set clear usage guidelines for yourself and your employees, monitor your spending, set budgets, and pay on time. Paying in full each month is useful because it allows you to avoid interest fees, but as long as you make at least your minimum payment each month, you can avoid any credit dings.

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