Do you need a business to qualify for a business card?

You need some type of side income, no matter how small. It doesn’t need to be a licensed and registered business with an EIN. (However you can get a free EIN here).

If you make any money doing photography, tutoring, selling used clothes/toys/books on facebook marketplace, dog sitting, airbnb rental, etc., you would likely qualify for a business card.

Here’s what you need to know:

1. Apply with your social security number as a Sole Proprietor. (unless you want to go the free EIN route-then use that).
2. Use your own name when it asks for business name. Do not name it something random unless you have documentation to prove the name.
3. When it asks for gross household income-put your entire household income if you have a partner with an income as well.
4. If you do mix business and personal expenses (I always do), just have a spreadsheet or way to keep track of your separate expenses for your own accounting reasons.

Several people have told me their various businesses and income that have qualified them. From Zumba instructor making $40 a month to selling home-baked bread at $10 a loaf, to seasonal flower sales earning $200 the entire year.

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Business cards are the best way to earns tons and tons of points as there are so many options. Here’s some of my favorite business cards.