You need a Social Security number to apply for most business credit cards. Card issuers use it to verify your identity and check your personal credit before approval.
There are ways to get a business card without an SSN. The right path depends on your situation:
- Foreign nationals living in the U.S.: Apply with your individual taxpayer identification number (ITIN).
- Registered businesses with strong financials: Apply for a corporate card using your employer identification number (EIN). Your SSN may be required to verify your identity, but not for a credit check. More on that below.
Here’s what you need to know about each option — and which cards to consider.
Applying with an ITIN
If you’re not a U.S. citizen, you can apply for most business credit cards with your ITIN. You may need to upload additional documents to verify your identity. And some banks require you to apply in person.
Business card issuers that accept an ITIN:
- American Express.
- Capital One.
- Chase.
- Bank of America (cannot apply online).
» MORE: How to get an ITIN
Cards you can apply for with an ITIN
The American Express Blue Business Cash™ Card
This is a great cash-back business card for new businesses and entrepreneurs that spend less than $50,000 per year.
Reward Rate
1%-2% The Ink Business Cash® Credit Card is a great choice for business owners whose spending includes traditional office purchases. You earn up to 5% back on office supplies and telecom services, on up to $25,000 in combined spending each year.
Reward Rate
1%-5% Capital One Venture Business
The Capital One Venture Business earns 2X miles and has no foreign transaction fee. That makes it a great option for business travelers, as well as companies that purchase inventory overseas. (See rates and fees.)
Reward Rate
2x-5x Applying with an EIN only
Corporate cards are ideal for registered companies with significant revenue and at least $25,000 in cash reserves. You apply with your EIN, and issuers base approval on your company’s financials — not your personal credit.
You’ll still need to give your SSN, if you have one. Card issuers must verify your identity. You can use a passport, driver’s license or state ID card instead if you don’t have an SSN.
Note: Corporate cards are charge cards that you need to pay in full. Some require daily or weekly repayment.
Cards you can apply for with an EIN
The Ramp Card does not require a credit check or personal guarantee. You need strong revenue and a fairly large bank balance (at least $25,000) to qualify.
You need a minimum bank balance of $50,000 and funding from professional investors to qualify for a Brex Card. If you don't have investor backing, you'll need a bank balance of $1 million.
Why issuers ask for your SSN
Federal law requires business card issuers to verify each applicant's identity. The easiest way to do that is with your Social Security number.
They also use your SSN to check your personal credit. Most business cards require good to excellent personal credit — a FICO score of 690 or higher — for approval.
Why does your personal credit factor into a business card application? Because if your business fails, you are personally liable the debt. This is called a personal guarantee.
To view rates and fees of The American Express Blue Business Cash™ Card, see this page.
