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Even if you don’t need a business card, you may want to help separate your work expenses from a personal card. It can prevent your chargeable balance from being reported on your personal credit report. This can keep your credit utilization low on your personal credit report and thus help you maintain a high credit score.

Or, maybe you want to get some nice welcome bonuses without affecting your eligibility for future personal credit card applications and avoiding restrictions like Chase’s 5/24 rule.

Related: Credit utilization ratio: What it is and how it affects your credit score

What name should you apply for a business credit card?

The exact answer to this question depends on the structure of your business. Banks allow you to specify whether you are applying as a partnership, corporation type or sole proprietorship, among other options. Some card issuers, such as Citi, will give you numerous choices. Large companies or those registered as corporations, LLCs or partnerships will have an easier time deciding which name to use – they will simply apply with the business name.

Things get a little more complicated if you are a sole proprietor.

If you’re not 100% sure about the business structure you should choose, talk to a lawyer or tax professional. Many points enthusiasts will apply as a sole proprietor or self-employed such as:

• DoorDash or Uber driver
• Rover Petsitter
• Freelance writer
• parents

Applying as a sole proprietor can be a great option because you don’t need to file any paperwork with your state or federal government to create one; You establish a sole proprietorship simply by doing business. If you go this hassle-free route, you’ll apply for a business credit card using your own name.

Some banks (especially Chase) prefer to ask for supporting documentation, including proof of physical address, before approving a business card application. Using your name as the business name, you can submit rent or utility bills consistent with the information provided on your application.

How to get a credit card in your business name

Branding is half the battle in attracting clients, however, and you probably don’t want to call your new consulting firm just your own name. If your business operates under a name other than your legal name, you must file a DBA (doing as business) form.

The exact rules about this (who, where, when, and what you need to file) vary by state. Again, you should consult a legal professional before proceeding. This is an essential step before you open a bank account or line of credit under your business name.

In many ways, this is a warning about what not to do: Never, under any circumstances, make up a business name for your application without first filling out the necessary paperwork.

Not only will you have no recourse if the card issuer asks you to endorse business documents, but you could also commit fraud by passing yourself off as a non-existent business. The simple and short answer for most business owners looking to apply for a business card is to use your own name and keep things simple and legal.

The bottom line

Business credit cards can be a great way to enjoy more welcome bonuses, bonus spending categories and other valuable benefits. If you qualify for a business credit card, remember that these applications often face slightly more intense scrutiny than personal credit card applications.

Always be ready to present your business registration certificate or other relevant documents if required. When in doubt, consult a legal professional, and if you’re applying as a sole proprietorship, consider using only your own name as your business name.