Top startup business credit cards with no credit check: 8 options & how they work
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Choosing the right business credit card can be a real challenge for entrepreneurs and startup founders, especially if you have little or no documented credit history. A credit check or personal guarantee is generally required when applying for a traditional business credit card. This can stand in the way of new business owners seeking to keep their personal and company finances separate.
Even if you’re not able to obtain a standard business credit card, there are plenty of alternatives made explicitly for startups and small businesses. These options provide access to credit and practical financial tools, often without requiring a strong credit history or a hard pull (hard inquiry) on your personal credit.
Some of these new types of cards look at a business’s cash flow and revenue. This can help entrepreneurs and startups access working capital, manage expenses, and start building business credit right away. A number of these cards come with the same familiar perks you’ve seen with traditional cards, including rewards, low or no annual fees, and expense management software. Other card options are secured, meaning you place a cash security deposit on the card, usually equal to your credit limit, and use it like a regular card. The issuer is protected if you don’t pay.
In this article, we’ll explore the best startup business credit cards with little or no credit history required. You’ll learn how to qualify for one, compare top picks and their features, and find the right card for your business.
How does a business credit card with no credit check work?
When you apply for a business credit card without a credit check, the issuer skips pulling your credit report and relies on other safeguards to protect against non-payment. Some lenders look at your business’s revenue or cash flow, while others ask you to make a deposit up front. Either way, the goal is to limit the issuer’s risk while still giving you access to a usable line of business credit.
Secured vs. unsecured business credit cards
A secured business credit card works almost like a prepaid card: you put down a security deposit that becomes your credit limit, and use the card as you would any other. If you don’t pay, the issuer keeps the deposit. Unsecured and corporate cards with no credit check are harder to find, but they do exist. Instead of a deposit, card issuers might base your approval on how much cash you have in the business bank account or your ongoing revenue, often skipping the personal guarantee traditional issuers require.
Typical credit limits & usage restrictions
Credit limits on these types of cards can be lower or more restrictive than traditional business credit cards. With secured cards, your deposit amount acts as a cap on your line of credit, so unless you provide a significant sum, you won’t see a high credit limit. Corporate or charge cards might give you more flexibility, but even in those cases, issuers typically link your spending cap to your cash reserves. Restrictions also show up in how you’re able to use the card; many limit cash advances, balance transfers, or international transactions to reduce exposure.
Impact on building business credit in America
Even without a credit check, many of these cards report to the major credit bureaus. Paying on time and carrying a low balance can help you build business credit, which opens the door to an unsecured card or business loan later on. For sole proprietors, some cards may also impact your personal credit history, so it’s worth confirming how activity gets reported before applying.
Fees & costs associated with no-credit-check business cards
The convenience of skipping a credit check can come with unexpected costs. You may encounter higher annual fees, variable APRs that climb quickly if you carry a balance, and foreign transaction fees if you make an international purchase. Some secured cards also add a one-time setup or maintenance fee, which can make them more expensive than a standard small business credit card. When weighing your options, take time to run the numbers to make sure the benefit of access to credit outweighs the cost of maintaining the account.
Key considerations for choosing the right startup business credit card with no credit check
Not every no-credit-check business card is a good fit for a startup. The right choice depends on what you need most. Affordable costs? Credit-building opportunities? Or just access to a line of credit that helps get your business up and running? Take a close look at the fine print to find a card that supports your financial goals (and avoid surprises when the bill arrives).
Annual fee affordability
Some secured and corporate-style cards come with higher annual fees than traditional business credit cards. For a startup keeping a close eye on funds, it’s important to do the math to make sure the fee makes sense given your expected usage. If you plan to run most expenses through the card, the expense might be justifiable. If you only need a safety net, however, a card with a lower annual fee might be a better fit.
Credit-building potential
The chance to build a business credit history is one of the main reasons to consider a secured credit card. Over time, positive payment history can improve your approval odds for an unsecured card or a business loan with favorable terms. The catch? Your card issuer needs to report to the major credit bureaus. Without that step, your responsible usage won’t show up in your business credit score.
Rewards or cashback incentives
A few no-credit-check options provide rewards like cashback on purchases or points that you can apply as a statement credit. The perks typically aren’t as extensive as those on premium business credit cards, but they can still help offset costs if you use the card regularly to cover expenses. Even modest rewards can make a big difference for an early-stage startup!
Approval odds for those with no prior credit history
Startups and sole proprietors with little to no business credit might worry about getting approved for a traditional card. No-credit-check cards can improve your odds by introducing factors like a security deposit, business revenue, or bank account balance into the issuer’s risk assessment. Before you apply, check what criteria the issuer uses to avoid tying up cash or paying application fees with no clear path to approval.
Flexible repayment terms
Repayment structures can vary widely, and it’s important to know what you’re signing up for. Some cards let you carry a balance from month to month but charge a variable APR on anything unpaid. Others expect full repayment every billing cycle, which keeps you out of debt but might create financial pressure if your cash flow goes up and down. Choosing a card that matches how your money moves will help you avoid unnecessary costs.
4 best startup business credit cards with no credit check
Securing a business credit card without an established credit history can be challenging. Fortunately, several card providers in the US offer solutions specifically designed for new businesses with limited or no credit background. In many cases, eligibility is determined by business performance or cash flow. Some cards require a refundable security deposit instead of a traditional credit check, while others look at your personal credit history. Here are the top options to consider:
1. Capital One Spark Classic for Business
The Capital One Spark Classic for Business is designed for entrepreneurs with fair or limited credit. While there is a personal credit check, it is accessible to those with no established business credit history or business credit score, making it a practical option for new businesses seeking to establish credit.
Benefits:
Unlimited 1% cashback on all purchases
No annual fee
Employee cards at no additional cost
Access to travel and account management tools
Eligibility requirements:
Fair credit profile (personal credit check required, but no established business credit score needed)
US-based business with EIN
Age 18+ with valid SSN or International Tax Identification Number
2. Ink Business Unlimited Credit Card
Chase’s Ink Business Unlimited is a suitable option for startups and founders with excellent personal credit. It offers rewards, cashback, and no annual fee. However, it does require a personal guarantee.
Benefits:
Unlimited 1.5% cashback on all purchases
No annual fee
$750 welcome bonus after spending $6,000 in the first 3 months
0% intro APR for 12 months
Eligibility requirements:
Personal guarantee required
US-based business with EIN required
Ability to make minimum monthly payments required
3. Emburse Cards
Emburse offers flexible prepaid and business credit card solutions with real-time expense management, making it ideal for startups that want to control spending and automate expense reports. It’s notable for cashback and software integration options.
Benefits:
No personal credit check for prepaid cards
Unlimited cashback on all purchases
Real-time visibility and control over employee spending
Seamless integration with accounting software
Eligibility requirements:
US, UK, or EU-based business
Verified business and active bank account
Active Emburse Spend subscription
4. OpenSky Secured Visa Credit Card
OpenSky’s Secured Visa doesn’t require a credit check at all. Instead, a refundable security deposit sets your credit limit. It’s a popular choice for founders and entrepreneurs building business credit (or rebuilding it). Cardholders may be eligible for an unsecured card in as little as six months.
Benefits:
No credit check for approval
Credit reporting to all three major bureaus
Flexible credit limit ($200–$3,000) based on security deposit
Up to 10% cashback
Eligibility requirements:
US-based business or individual
Refundable security deposit
Tax ID or Social Security number
Alternative funding options for startups with no credit history
There are other options for securing funding without an established credit history. While they can be a challenge, they can help you access the capital you need to launch and grow your business, often without a hard credit check or a personal guarantee.
Corporate cards
Corporate cards are designed to help businesses manage their spending. Many of these cards offer valuable features, including the ability to issue cards to employees, enforce spending controls, and automate expense reconciliation. Unlike personal credit cards, most corporate cards focus on your business's financial standing. This makes them accessible to a broader range of organizations.
For example, Rippling’s Corporate Card is integrated with Rippling’s HR and expense management software, making it a standout for startups looking to streamline payroll, benefits, and expense reporting. The Rippling Corporate Card doesn't require a personal credit score check or a personal guarantee, and your credit score won’t be affected. Plus, its high cash-back rate and robust international support are ideal for startups and companies with global operations.
Small business loans and equipment financing
Traditional small business loans usually require a credit check, but there are exceptions. Some lenders, especially fintech companies and nonprofit organizations, offer microloans and equipment financing with minimal or no credit requirements. For equipment financing, some providers focus more on your business’s revenue and the value of the equipment rather than your credit score, allowing you to acquire essential tools and machinery without traditional barriers.
Online crowdfunding platforms
Crowdfunding platforms, such as Kickstarter, Fundable, and Indiegogo, enable startups to raise funds from the public, eliminating the need for traditional banking and credit checks. With reward-based crowdfunding, you offer potential backers early access, discounts, or exclusive incentives in exchange for their financial support. Equity crowdfunding lets you raise funds by giving investors a stake in your company. Crowdfunding not only provides access to capital but also serves as an effective promotional tool, helping you verify the potential of your idea while building a community of advocates.
Merchant cash advances
A merchant cash advance (MCA) is a way to get upfront capital in exchange for a percentage of your future sales. Approval is typically based on your business’s revenue and sales history rather than your credit score. The lender advances you a lump sum, which you repay automatically through a fixed percentage of your daily or weekly credit card sales. MCAs can be funded quickly and require minimal paperwork, making them attractive for startups with steady sales but limited credit history. They can be more costly compared to traditional funding sources in the long run.
Small business lines of credit
Some lenders offer business lines of credit with no credit check, focusing instead on your startup’s cash flow, sales, and time in business. These revolving credit lines let you access funds as needed, and you only pay interest on the amount used. While this is a flexible funding option, be wary of variable interest rates and hidden fees.
Microloans
Microloans are small, short-term loans designed specifically for startups and businesses that may not qualify for traditional financing. Several organizations, such as Kiva, offer microloans with flexible requirements, often focusing on your business plan, community impact, or personal story rather than your credit score. Microloans support startup growth, providing both funding and, in some cases, mentorship and other support to help you achieve success.
6 benefits of startup business credit cards with no credit
One of the best and smartest moves you can make when starting a new venture is to keep your personal and business expenses separate. A business credit card not only helps you keep your finances organized, but it also offers many benefits that can impact your long-term success.
Establishing and building business credit
Using a business credit card is a fast and effective way for startups to establish and grow business credit. If you make payments on time and stay on top of your balance, you can build a positive credit history for your startup. This can be instrumental down the road when you need to qualify for business loans, negotiate better deals with suppliers, or gain access to more favorable interest rates as your venture grows.
Separating personal and business finances
We mentioned it earlier, but it bears repeating. Keeping your personal and business expenses separate is not only essential for transparency but also for accuracy and professionalism. A dedicated business credit card makes tracking company expenses a breeze, simplifies your bookkeeping, and helps smooth out tax prep. It protects your personal assets from business liabilities and demonstrates to clients and partners that your business is legitimate and well-managed.
Managing cash flow and covering unexpected expenses
When you launch a new business, you’ll soon discover the frustrations of managing unpredictable cash flow. A business credit card makes things easier by providing a financial cushion. With a business credit card, it’s easy to handle short-term expenses, balance receivables and payables, and deal with unexpected situations without tapping into your personal funds. This flexibility becomes particularly important when traditional financing options aren't available.
Leveraging expense tracking and financial tools
Many business credit cards come with invaluable expense management and financial tools. These features include real-time purchase tracking, automated expense categorization, detailed reporting, and integration with popular accounting and financial software. These capabilities help you work faster, avoid costly mistakes, and make informed financial decisions as your business scales.
Unlocking rewards and cashback opportunities
Rewards and cashback aren’t exclusive to personal credit cards. Modern business credit cards often include rewards programs tailored to business-related purchases, including cashback on expenses such as office supplies, travel, and advertising. Depending on your spending, these rewards can add up fast, helping to offset your company spending. Many cards offer generous welcome bonuses, retailer discounts, and points that you can use for business-related purchases.
Gaining fraud protection and purchase coverage
Business credit cards generally provide robust security features, including fraud monitoring, zero-liability protection, and purchase insurance. These protections safeguard your business against unauthorized charges, damaged goods, and billing disputes. If you use cash or a personal credit card for business purchases, these issues can be much harder to resolve.
Corporate charge cards vs. business credit cards
Corporate charge cards and business credit cards both help businesses manage expenses, but they work differently.
Business credit cards let you carry a balance and incur interest if you don’t pay in full each month. They’re a good option for small business owners looking to separate business and personal expenses, but a credit check is usually required.
Corporate charge cards don’t allow balances to carry over. Businesses must make full payments by the due date every billing cycle. However, many corporate charge cards don’t require a credit check or existing credit history. Instead, they often look at your business’s cash flow, making them a solid choice for startups that want flexible spending without worrying about a lack of credit history.
What to know before applying for a small business credit card
You might think that all business credit cards are created equal, but there are significant differences. Some cards are best suited for startups and entrepreneurs with limited or no credit history, while others are a better fit for larger organizations with a substantial workforce.
Before you pick one, there are several factors you should consider. Take the time to understand how you’ll use your card, read the fine print, and be aware of how your choice can affect your business finances. The right card can help you build your business credit, manage expenses, avoid foreign transaction fees, and more. Here are six things to consider:
Low or no annual fees
Startups need to keep spending down and operate on a tight budget, and business credit cards that offer low or no annual fees can help. But at the same time, are you paying extra somewhere else? No fees are great, but if you run a balance, you might be paying a significantly higher interest rate. Or maybe the annual fee is low, but you’re missing out on other rewards that might negate the yearly fee. Crunch the numbers to see which benefits have the biggest impact on your budget.
Credit-building potential
If you’re looking to build your credit, opt for a card that reports your payment history to the major credit bureaus. This is important for building your business credit profile. An improving credit profile can enable you to access larger lines of credit and negotiate more favorable financing terms. Look for a card that helps you establish a good credit history without requiring a personal guarantee or credit check, and as a result, protects your personal assets.
Rewards or cashback incentives
Some of the best business credit cards, including those that don’t require a credit check, offer valuable rewards and cashback programs. Depending on the reward rate, these benefits can really add up, especially if your business has significant spending. Many cards boost rewards during an introductory period, which can be especially helpful when you're making large purchases early on. If a card includes a welcome offer, be sure to check how long it lasts and whether any exceptions apply.
Approval odds for those with no credit history
If you’re starting a business and have little or no established credit, look for cards that cater specifically to new companies and don’t require a personal credit check. Several options listed below are designed for startups and base approval on factors like business revenue, cash flow, time in business, and your business bank account activity. Some issuers may also consider your business plan or projected earnings.
Flexible repayment terms
Be sure to consider whether the card you’re considering is a traditional business credit card or a charge card. Many no-credit-check business credit cards are charge cards, which require you to pay the balance in full each month. While this can help you avoid interest charges, it also means you can’t carry a balance if you hit a cash flow problem.
Additional business management features
Look for features that can help simplify your operations and save you some money. Some business credit cards offer built-in expense management tools, free employee cards with customizable credit limits, and integrations with popular accounting software. Other options include account alerts, real-time reporting, and virtual cards for online spending. These extras can make it easier to track spending, manage budgets, and stay organized as your business grows.
Rippling corporate card: the best card with no credit for startups
Unlike traditional business credit cards, Rippling’s corporate cards do not require personal credit checks or guarantees, making them accessible to a wider range of companies, from small businesses and startups to enterprise companies.
Rippling corporate cards unify employee and spend data, allowing you to create hyper-custom card policies and automate control over how, when, and where employees can spend. By connecting corporate card usage directly with employee data, Rippling gives you precise control over spending and policy enforcement, leading to better financial oversight with less administrative work, allowing companies to enforce spend exactly how they want — automatically.
But automated spending controls are only the beginning. Rippling also offers branded physical cards, instant virtual cards, and rewards for every dollar you spend with no cap and no expiration, complete with industry-leading cashback at 1.75%.
Through Rippling’s spend management software, you get comprehensive, automated expense management, removing hours of tedious administrative work from your expense management processes and gaining unprecedented control over spend.
Startup business credit cards with no credit FAQs
Can I use my EIN to get a business credit card?
Yes, you can use your Employer Identification Number to apply for a business credit card. However, most providers will still require your Social Security Number and a personal guarantee. This is especially true for small businesses and startups. Some corporate cards allow you to apply using only your EIN, but these options are generally for established businesses with a strong financial track record. For most small businesses, using an EIN alone is not enough to bypass a personal credit check or personal guarantee. But some issuers may make an exception, so it’s worth checking. New card offerings are introduced frequently, so be sure to check back regularly for one that suits your needs. You can also look into getting a secured card.
Can a new LLC get a business credit card?
In most cases, a new LLC can obtain a business credit card, even if the business is newly launched. Most providers will ask for your LLC’s EIN, company information, and current or projected business income. You may need to undergo a personal credit check and provide a personal guarantee, as new LLCs haven’t established a credit history. A strong personal credit rating can unlock better introductory offers, interest rates, and rewards.
Can a startup get a credit card without a personal guarantee?
It depends on the issuer. Some corporate cards don’t require a personal guarantee, but they often come with strict eligibility requirements. Startups with considerable backing, substantial cash reserves, or significant growth potential may be able to secure business credit cards without a personal guarantee.
What’s the best way for a startup to build business credit with a new business card?
Startups can build business credit by using a business card that reports payments to the major credit bureaus. Responsible use, like paying on time and keeping balances low, helps establish a strong business credit history. A secured credit card or a charge card can be a great starting point for new business owners with limited or no credit score.
How do credit limits and foreign transaction fees impact startup expenses?
A higher credit limit offers more flexibility for purchases and helps grow your credit line over time. Startups handling international transactions should also watch for foreign transaction fees, which can add up fast. Choosing a card without these fees helps cardholders control costs while still earning rewards like cashback and points.
Are there credit cards available for new businesses with no credit history?
Yes, new businesses without a credit history can qualify for secured business credit cards with a refundable deposit to set the credit line. Some corporate card programs also approve applicants by reviewing revenue or cash flow instead of running a credit check. Both options give startups a way to cover expenses and begin building a business credit history that improves access to financing in the future.
This blog is based on information available to Rippling as of September 18, 2025.
Disclaimer
Rippling and its affiliates do not provide tax, accounting, or legal advice. This material has been prepared for informational purposes only, and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for tax, legal, or accounting advice. You should consult your own tax, legal, and accounting advisors before engaging in any related activities or transactions.
The Rippling Corporate Card is issued by Fifth Third Bank, N.A. Member FDIC, and Celtic Bank, Member FDIC, pursuant to a license from Visa® U.S.A. Inc. Visa is a trademark owned by Visa International Service Association and used under license. All trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
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The Rippling Team
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