Can a New Business Get a Credit Card?
Yes — but most business credit card applications will fall back on your personal credit score if your business has no credit history. This is normal for startups and sole proprietors. Issuers understand that new businesses haven't had time to build their own credit file.
If your personal credit is good (670+), you have a solid shot at many business credit cards, even if your business is brand new. If you would rather keep your SSN out of it, see our guide on how to build business credit with an EIN only — it walks through establishing a separate business credit profile that does not rely on your personal file. Nonprofit founders face a similar situation — see our roundup of the best credit cards for nonprofits for options tailored to 501(c)(3) organizations and small mission-driven teams.
How Business Credit Cards Differ From Personal Cards
Business credit cards are designed for business spending — higher limits, expense tracking, employee card options, and rewards on business categories like office supplies, travel, and advertising.
A few key differences:
- Personal guarantee: Most small business cards require a personal guarantee, meaning you're personally liable if the business can't pay.
- Credit reporting: Some business cards report to business credit bureaus (Dun & Bradstreet, Experian Business) rather than personal bureaus. This helps build business credit.
- Expense management: Business cards offer better tools for tracking and categorizing expenses, which matters come tax time.
What Issuers Look At for New Businesses
With no business credit history, issuers typically evaluate:
- Your personal credit score: Usually 670+ for unsecured cards, sometimes lower for secured options.
- Business structure: Are you a sole proprietor, LLC, or corporation? Sole proprietors are most common for new businesses.
- Time in business: Some cards require 1–2 years. Others accept brand-new businesses or even startups.
- Annual revenue: Projected revenue is acceptable for new businesses that don't have actuals yet.
Best Options for New Businesses
Secured business credit cards Like personal secured cards, these require a deposit but are accessible even with limited business or personal credit history. If your personal credit is thin or rebuilding, a personal secured card like the Self Visa can help you establish the personal score issuers rely on when approving new-business cards.
Entry-level business cards from major issuers Cards from Chase, Capital One, and American Express often have accessible requirements for new businesses. Some specifically target startups.
Your existing bank's business card If you have a strong relationship with a bank, applying for their business card may give you a better chance of approval.
Building Business Credit From Day One
Once you have a business card, use it consistently for business expenses and pay it on time. Also:
- Register your business with Dun & Bradstreet (get a DUNS number)
- Open a dedicated business bank account
- Pay business vendors on terms that report to business credit bureaus
Learn more about building business credit at https://www.firstcard.app/learn/how-to-build-business-credit.
The Bottom Line
A new business without credit history can still get a business credit card — your personal credit carries the weight at first. Use the card for business expenses, pay on time, and within 12–24 months your business will have its own credit profile.
Every business started with no credit history. The key is to start building it today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a business credit card for a brand-new business? Yes. Most business credit cards evaluate your personal credit score when your business has no history. If your personal score is 670 or higher, you can qualify for most entry-level business cards. Some cards even accept sole proprietors with no formal business registration.
Does a business credit card affect my personal credit? It depends on the card. Some business cards report only to business credit bureaus (Dun & Bradstreet, Experian Business), leaving your personal credit report untouched. Others report to both personal and business bureaus. Always check the issuer's reporting policy before applying.
What credit score do I need for a business credit card? Most unsecured business credit cards require a personal credit score of 670 or higher. If your score is lower, look for secured business cards or consider building your personal credit first.
What is a personal guarantee on a business credit card? A personal guarantee means you're personally responsible for the debt if your business can't pay. Most small business cards require one. This means missed payments can affect your personal credit score and potentially your personal assets.
How long until my new business has its own credit history? Business credit typically takes 12–24 months to establish if you're actively using a business card, paying vendors, and have opened accounts that report to business credit bureaus like Dun & Bradstreet and Experian Business.
