Things You'll Need:
- Business documentation from Secretary of State proving legal business name
- Federal EIN paperwork from the IRS
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Step 1
Make sure you have documents or copies that prove the legitimacy of your business, such as papers from the Secretary of State that prove your legal business name. You also want to have the federal EIN paperwork from the IRS that provides your federal tax ID number.
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Step 2
Go to your local bank with documentation from your Secretary of State proving you have a legal business name and open a business checking account. While you are opening the business checking account, also apply for a credit card in the business name. Some banks will have you choose a pin even before you receive the card. That strictly depends on your bank.
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Step 3
Apply for a credit card in the name of the business at Staples or Office Depot. They will allow you to use only a tax ID. If you are a sole proprietor you can use a Social Security number, but you do not have to. These stores do not usually require a personal guarantee. Carry a small balance on these cards for a couple of months always paying on time. You can pay an amount just above the minimum payment. It is generally easier to start with an office supply store.
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Step 4
If your personal credit is bad and you have a tax ID number, you can apply for a prepaid Mastercard through Accountnow.com. It accepts a tax ID number and does not have credit checks or overdraft fees, nor does it require a security deposit. This particular card also reports to one of the credit bureaus, which will help you in starting to build up your credit rating. There is no activation fee with this card when you load it by direct deposit.
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Step 5
You can apply online for a Shell credit card, which requires a tax ID number. Review all the information the form is asking for. If you are a sole proprietor you can use your Social Security number, but it does not say you have to. Go to the Citibank website (see Resources) to get to the application.
