Applying for a Chase Business Credit Card: A Step-by-Step Guide

Chase offers some of the most rewarding business credit cards in the market, catering to freelancers, small-business owners, and side hustlers. These cards come with valuable rewards, travel benefits, and useful tools tailored for business needs. However, the application process for a Chase business credit card differs from that of a personal card, and understanding the key guidelines and requirements is essential before you begin.

One of the most important considerations is Chase’s 5/24 rule. If you’ve opened five or more credit cards from any issuer in the past 24 months, you may not qualify for a new Chase card, including business cards. The silver lining is that most business cards, including those from Chase, typically do not appear on your personal credit report, meaning they won’t count against your 5/24 limit.

Whether you’re a full-time entrepreneur or someone who earns a little extra through freelance work, a Chase business card could be within your reach. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the application process.

The Application Process

While the Chase business card application resembles the consumer card application, there are key differences. Most notably, you must have a business that generates revenue. Fortunately, you don’t need to run a full-time business or have a six-figure income to qualify for a small-business card. Part-time freelance work, consulting, or even gig economy jobs—like driving for Uber or delivering food—can qualify as eligible businesses.

Having a business credit card is not just a way to earn rewards; it also helps you keep your business and personal expenses separate. This separation is crucial for effective financial management.

Before diving into the application, here’s what you need to know to avoid confusion.

Application Overview

All Chase business credit card applications share a similar format. If you’re applying for a co-branded business card, such as the Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card or the United℠ Business Card, you’ll have the option to include your loyalty program number. If you don’t provide one, a new loyalty account will be created for you, which could complicate matters if you already have an existing account.

If you’re already a Chase customer, logging into your account can expedite the application process, as some of your information will be pre-filled.

Essential Information Required

When filling out the application, you’ll need to provide several key pieces of information:

1. Authorizing Information: Specify your role in the business, such as owner, partner, or president. If you’re a sole proprietor, simply select “owner.”

2. Tax Identification: Choose whether you’ll be applying with your Social Security number or a Tax ID number. If you opt for your Social Security number, be prepared to read and accept a disclosure.

3. Personal Information: Most of this section is straightforward. Just ensure that the details you provide are accurate.

4. Total Gross Annual Income: This figure should include any eligible income, which Chase defines broadly. You can include regular deposits from others if you’re 21 or older, meaning you can factor in your spouse’s or partner’s income if you share bills.

5. Business Details: Enter your business name (or your legal name if you’re a sole proprietor) and the name you want printed on the card. Additionally, indicate the number of employees.

6. Business Financials: Input the date your business was established, your annual revenue (before expenses and taxes), and your estimated monthly spending.

7. Business Classification: Select the appropriate category for your business. You can also add employee cards and choose whether to receive paperless statements.

Before submitting your application, carefully review all the terms. At the bottom of the page, you’ll need to check a box confirming that you’ve read and agreed to the terms.

Final Thoughts on the Application Process

Applying for a Chase business credit card is often simpler than many people expect. As long as you earn income from a qualifying business activity—whether full-time or part-time—you may be eligible. Accuracy is crucial, especially regarding your business name, structure, and revenue, as Chase may require verification.

A business credit card not only helps you earn rewards but also simplifies your bookkeeping and helps you manage your 5/24 count strategically. If you meet the eligibility criteria, taking the time to apply could be a smart move for your financial strategy.

In conclusion, credit cards can significantly enhance your financial flexibility, allowing you to leverage everyday spending for cash back or travel experiences that might otherwise be out of reach. If you decide to apply for a new credit card through our site and are approved, we may receive compensation from our partners, which could influence how these products are presented. However, our editorial team independently analyzes and creates content about these cards, ensuring that our insights remain unbiased. For more information, please refer to our advertising policy and product review methodology.