When applying for a business credit card without owning a formal LLC or registered business, you can still qualify as a “sole proprietor” based on a range of activities where you’re earning income, even if it’s informal or part-time. Here are examples of things you can list as your business:

1. Freelance Work

  • Writing, editing, graphic design, web development
  • Photography or videography services
  • Social media management or consulting

2. Side Gigs

  • Rideshare driving (Uber, Lyft)
  • Food delivery (DoorDash, Uber Eats)
  • Pet sitting or dog walking (Rover, Wag)
  • Task services (TaskRabbit, handyman work)
  • MLM (multi-level marketing company)

3. Online Selling

  • Selling products on platforms like Etsy, eBay & Amazon
  • Re-selling items on Poshmark or Marketplace
  • Dropshipping or print-on-demand
  • Handmade goods or crafts

4. Independent Consulting

  • Business consulting, coaching, or advisory services
  • Offering virtual assistant services
  • Marketing or advertising consulting

5. Rental or Sharing Economy

  • Renting out a room or property on Airbnb
  • Renting out items like equipment or tools

6. Content Creation

  • Blogging, YouTube channel, podcasting, or other social media content creation
  • Affiliate marketing, influencer partnerships, or sponsorships

7. Tutoring or Teaching

  • Offering tutoring services (either in-person or online via platforms like VIPKid)
  • Teaching music, art, or fitness classes

8. Home-Based Businesses

  • Homemade food or baked goods sales
  • Home improvement or interior design services

Application Tips:

  • Business Name: Use your full name if you’re a sole proprietor, or come up with a simple business name like “John Doe Freelancing” or “Jane Doe Consulting.”
  • Business Type: Select “Sole Proprietor” as the business structure.
  • Income: Estimate any income from your side hustle or freelance work. Even small amounts can count as business revenue.

You don’t need a registered business to qualify, just some form of entrepreneurial or side-income activity. This opens the door to the many benefits of business credit cards, even for individuals without an LLC.

The Chase Ink Business Unlimited is where I’d start. It is 0$ annual fee and welcome offer of spending $6,000 in 3 months and earning 90,000 points. To apply or learn more visit Chase.

The Chase Ink Business Unlimited is where I’d start. It is 0$ annual fee and welcome offer of spending $6,000 in 3 months and earning 90,000 points. To apply or learn more visit Chase.

*If you apply and are approved, we will receive points as well. The bank will not share who applies, approval status, or any information to the referrer. Thank you for supporting the blog!