How to Get a Small Business Credit Card

Business credit makes buying supplies easy.

A business credit card is different from a consumer credit card because you use it to purchase needed equipment, materials and supplies. Often, a business credit card will also provide incentives for purchasing business-related materials.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

1. Establish credit with a local lending agency. Many business credit cards are issued through local banks and savings and loan organizations. Even if you don't have widespread business credit, a local lender will look at your history with his financial institution and may support your cause.

2. Show the bank that your business idea is a profitable one and they will be more likely to offer you a business credit card. Banks are in business to make money and if your business idea looks good, they will be happy to help you out.

3. Stay in contact with your banker. This is one step that most small business owners ignore but stopping by to say "hi" on your way to lunch or "shooting the bull" at the gym will make it harder for your banker to turn you down for a small business credit card. Make yourself available and be personable.

4. Pay your loans on time and keep cash in your accounts. Banks keep records of your payments and they know if your account bounces or dips into a Ready Reserve account. Showing the bank that you are op top of your finances helps you develop good business credit.