How Do I Get a Credit Card Using an EIN?

Using your EIN (Employer Identification Number) to get a credit card for your business is a process almost identical to using your social security number to get a personal credit card. In most areas, your business will have had to be operating for a minimum of two years before a credit card company will issue a card. Even after these two years, many credit card companies will require you to sign as a guarantor, taking personal responsibility for any bills the business leaves unpaid.

Things You'll Need

• EIN
• Internet access

Instructions

1. Research different business credit cards available to you. If you are like most business owners, you receive two or more offers for credit cards in the mail every week. Use the internet to research these offers, looking at interest rate, grace periods, rewards programs and consumer feedback. Also talk to the bank where you have your business accounts, asking what they have to offer.

2. Choose three credit cards to which you will apply based on the card specifics and your priorities.

3. Fill out the card applications, putting in your company's name, address and phone number. Use the company EIN any place the form asks for your social security number.

4. Be prepared for the issuing company to ask for your credit information and for you to guarantee payment on the credit account. This is especially common for the first few credit cards you take out.

Tips & Warnings

• If you have trouble getting approved for a business credit card, start with the bank where you hold your business checking and savings accounts. Most banks offer a business line of credit for existing business customers, which when attached to a debit card operates exactly like a credit card.

• Keep in mind that you are liable for any company debt that has you listed as a personal guarantor.

References

• "Small Business For Dummies;" Eric Tyson; 1998
• Bartt Brick, Merchant Services Manager (ret), US Bank, Portland, OR