Should I use my SSN or EIN when applying for a small biz credit card?

Question

I just got my EIN today, and went to apply for a small biz credit card at my desired bank.

Their disclosure stated specifically that they will be reviewing my PERSONAL credit history and they asked for my SSN, not my "SSN or EIN"?

Thoughts?

Answer 1

Unfortunately, that's the reality.

If your business is new or small, when you open a business credit card account they will want your SSN, not your EIN. Your EIN has no credit history yet, so they will need your SSN to get information about your credit worthiness.

Just because you have EIN doesn't mean the credit card companies will want it. Business credit is not easy to establish, and it will take some time (years actually) before you can apply for a business credit card using your EIN and not your SSN

Answer 2

If you are sole proprietor, they go by your SSN. The EIN is only for a partnership or Corporation.