Business Credit Cards With No Personal Guarantee: 8 Top Options


business credit cards with no personal guarantee

For any small business owner looking to separate personal liability from their company’s finances, obtaining a business credit card without a personal guarantee can be valuable. In this article, we’ll look at eight options that offer the convenience and flexibility of credit while protecting the business owner’s personal assets from potential financial setbacks. Let’s begin!

What Is a Personal Guarantee for a Business Credit Card?

When business credit card issuers require a personal guarantee, it means that the business owner is personally responsible for paying back any debts incurred by the card.

This guarantee is typically necessary when a business has not yet built its own credit profile, as the issuer seeks assurance of repayment. If you are in the process of establishing your credit, learn about what business credit cards are and how small businesses can utilize them here.

The personal guarantee ties the business owner’s personal credit reports to the card, so if the business fails to make payments, it can negatively impact their personal credit scores.

Best Business Credit Cards Without a Personal Guarantee

Finding the right business credit card can be tough, especially when a credit card issuer requires a personal guarantee. Here are some of the best small business credit cards without a personal guarantee.

1. Sam’s Club Business Mastercard

Businesses incorporated for at least two years and earning a minimum of $5 million in yearly revenue can apply for this card without a personal guarantee. The card comes with a $0 annual fee and rewards on gas, dining, and other Sam’s club purchases. New accounts can receive a $30 statement credit. The rewards are earned as Sam’s Cash but can only be redeemed at Sam’s Club.

2. Stripe Corporate Card

The Stripe Corporate Card is an invite-only card for businesses in the US, requiring only a Stripe account to apply. There are no fees, and the credit limit grows with your business. The card offers no rewards but instead provides partner benefits from over three dozen partners. The Stripe Corporate Card simplifies expense management, allows custom spend controls, and integrates with finance tracking software.

3. Shell Small Business Card

Shell Fleet Cards offer control, convenience, savings, and security. Users can set limits and get detailed fueling reports with ClearView, access their accounts with online and mobile tools, earn rebates and discounts, and cancel lost or stolen cards in real time. Shell Small Business Card allows carrying a balance with ongoing savings based on the number of gallons purchased, revolving credit, and no card fees.

4. Emburse Spend Card

Emburse Spend is a prepaid business card that offers unlimited 1% cash back on purchases, without personal guarantees, fees, or credit checks. The card can be loaded up to $100,000 and features an expense management system and accounting integration. Emburse Spend is suitable for businesses of all sizes, with the option to issue unlimited cards, and set card limits and expense restrictions. It can be set up in minutes and offers real-time expense reporting, eliminating manual reports.

There are several amazing options for business credit cards with no personal guarantees. See the top options here.

5. Office Depot OfficeMax Business Credit Card

The Office Depot Business Credit Account is a closed-loop card that does not offer rewards, has a $0 annual fee, and features a variable APR of 23.99%. Upon spending $150 within the first 60 days of account opening, users receive a $50 welcome bonus. To qualify for this card without a personal guarantee, organizations must fulfill certain criteria. Additionally, users can link their Office Depot OfficeMax Rewards account, but there are no other notable benefits.

6. Brex Card

Brex Card offers a generous rewards program and welcome bonus with no personal guarantee. The corporate card comes in two varieties, paid daily or paid monthly. The Brex 30 Card sets credit limits based on cash flow, with no business or personal credit check requirement. The card offer rewards and perks, with the Brex Card being preferred by 1 in 4 startups in the US.

7. Charity Charge Nonprofit Business Card

Charity Charge provides a charge card with no personal guarantee, specifically designed for tax-exempt nonprofits that have been operating for at least two to five years and have an annual revenue of $100,000 or more. This card features automatic rebates on a variety of services and products through Mastercard Easy Savings. Additionally, it comes with no annual fee, Mastercard Zero Liability, ID Theft Protection, and dedicated customer support. Charity Charge is a social enterprise focused on equipping nonprofits with financial tools and resources to enhance their fundraising efforts and ensure their success.

8. Ramp

The Ramp Business Card is a charge card for businesses with excellent credit and at least $75,000 in a business bank account. It offers 1.5% cashback on all purchases, spending controls, and a five-in-one platform for expense management, corporate cards, accounting integrations, bill payments, and real-time reporting. The card features Ramp savings, free employee cards, free bill pay, free accounting automation, and no annual, interest, or foreign transaction fees. Sole proprietors are not eligible, and there are no rewards, welcome bonuses, or travel perks.

What Is Required to Get a Business Credit Card Without Personal Guarantees?

Business credit cards don't have to include a personal guarantee. This post features several options that fall into this category.

Most business credit cards require several documents to be able to qualify, such as a business license, articles of incorporation, and two years of financial records.

If a personal guarantee is not required, then most businesses should have an acceptable credit history, a current business license, and their most recent income tax returns to qualify for these business credit cards.

However, it’s important to check with the card issuer for specifics on what documentation is needed as requirements may vary.

What Are the Restrictions and Limitations of Cards Without a Personal Guarantee?

Don't feel comfortable with a personal guarantee for your business credit card? Here are several great options.
Business credit cards without a personal guarantee typically require a strong business credit score and may have lower credit limits than cards that do require a personal guarantee.

Rewards programs and other benefits may also not be as robust as those offered by cards with a personal guarantee. This is often considered one of the top reasons to use a business credit card. So go over the specifics offered by your card before signing up.

Some issuers may also have industry-specific eligibility requirements or require a certain minimum revenue level. There are many different types of credit cards for small businesses in this category. So check the details carefully.

Are You Personally Liable for a Business Credit Card?

Are you personally liable for business credit cards? Not if you go with one of the options on this list.

To elaborate on the personal liability related to business credit cards with no personal guarantee, it’s important for business owners to grasp the implications and potential risks tied to these cards. Here are several key points to keep in mind:

  • Personal Liability: In most cases, business credit cards require a personal guarantee from the business owner. This means that the owner is personally responsible for any outstanding debts on the card, even if the business itself is unable to repay them.
  • Protection with Business Structure: The legal structure of the business, such as a limited liability company (LLC) or corporation, can offer some degree of protection. While the business owner is still personally liable for the credit card, their personal assets may be shielded to some extent by the business entity.
  • Business Credit Cards without Personal Guarantee: Some credit card issuers offer business credit cards without a personal guarantee. With these cards, the business owner’s personal liability is limited, and their personal assets may be protected if the business cannot repay the debts.
  • Building Business Credit: Using a business credit card responsibly can help build the business’s credit profile, separate from the owner’s personal credit. This can be beneficial for obtaining financing and other business opportunities in the future.
  • Responsible Credit Card Use: It’s crucial for business owners to use the credit card responsibly and avoid accumulating excessive debt. Maintaining a good payment history and managing credit utilization can positively impact the business’s credit standing.
  • Impact on Personal Credit: Even with a business credit card, the owner’s personal credit may still be affected if the card issuer reports activity to personal credit bureaus or if they default on the card.
  • Consultation with Financial Advisor: Prior to acquiring a business credit card, it is advisable for business owners to seek guidance from a financial advisor or legal expert. This will help them understand their personal liability and investigate ways to safeguard their personal assets.
TopicBusiness Credit Card Liability
Personal LiabilityThe business owner is personally liable for card debts.
- Card issuer can pursue personal assets if the business defaults.
Business Structure ProtectionBusiness structure (e.g., LLC, corporation) may offer some protection.
- Personal assets may have limited liability in certain cases.
Business Cards without GuaranteeSome cards offer limited personal liability without a guarantee.
- Personal assets may be shielded if business cannot repay debts.
Building Business CreditResponsible card use helps build the business's credit profile.
- Separates business credit from owner's personal credit.
Responsible Credit Card UseMaintaining good payment history and credit utilization is crucial.
- Positive impact on business credit standing.
Impact on Personal CreditPersonal credit may be affected if activity is reported to bureaus.
- Defaults on the card can impact personal credit.
Consultation with Financial AdvisorSeek advice to understand personal liability and asset protection.
- Get expert insights before obtaining a business credit card.

In conclusion, business owners need to be aware of their personal liability when using a business credit card and take appropriate measures to protect their personal assets. While a personal guarantee is common for most business credit cards, exploring options for cards without this guarantee can offer added protection. Responsible use of the card and understanding the impact on personal credit are vital for maintaining a healthy financial standing both personally and for the business.

What Is the Best Business Credit Card With No Personal Guarantee?

The best business card with no personal guarantee is often determined by the individual business and its requirements. A great choice for many businesses is a low-interest card, such as a rewards card with no annual fee.

Some business cards provide extra benefits like cashback, discounts at select merchants, or even free travel insurance. Compare offers carefully to find the best fit for your business needs.

Business Credit Card Alternatives

While business credit cards offer numerous advantages, they may not be the ideal financial tool for every business. In this section, we’ll explore alternative options that entrepreneurs and small business owners can consider to meet their financial needs.

1. Business Line of Credit

A business line of credit provides a flexible borrowing option for businesses. It works similarly to a credit card but typically offers a higher credit limit. Business owners can access funds as needed and only pay interest on the amount borrowed. Lines of credit are suitable for managing working capital, covering unexpected expenses, or seizing opportunities for growth.

2. Small Business Loans

Small business loans, including term loans, SBA loans, and microloans, provide businesses with a lump sum of capital that is repaid over a set term. These loans are ideal for financing significant investments, such as equipment purchases, real estate acquisitions, or business expansions. While loans may require collateral or a personal guarantee, they offer structured repayment plans and fixed interest rates.

3. Business Grants

Business grants are funds that do not require repayment and are awarded to businesses for particular purposes, such as research and development, innovation, or community development. Although obtaining grants can be highly competitive and often requires businesses to meet certain criteria, they provide a valuable source of funding that does not need to be repaid.

4. Crowdfunding

Crowdfunding platforms allow businesses to raise capital by soliciting contributions from a large number of individuals, often through online campaigns. Businesses can offer rewards, equity, or debt in exchange for financial support. Crowdfunding is an innovative way to access capital and engage with a community of supporters.

5. Invoice Financing

Invoice financing, also known as accounts receivable financing, enables businesses to access funds by selling their unpaid invoices to a third-party lender. This option is suitable for businesses with outstanding invoices that need immediate cash flow. Invoice financing can help bridge gaps in revenue and maintain business operations.

6. Angel Investors and Venture Capital

For startups and high-growth businesses, seeking investment from angel investors or venture capitalists is a viable option. These investors provide capital in exchange for equity or ownership stakes in the company. While this path can lead to significant funding, it also involves giving up a portion of business ownership and adhering to investor expectations.

7. Personal Savings and Bootstrapping

Some entrepreneurs choose to finance their businesses using personal savings or by bootstrapping, which involves self-funding the company. While this approach may limit initial growth, it allows business owners to retain full control and ownership of their ventures without incurring debt or giving up equity.

8. Peer-to-Peer Lending

Peer-to-peer lending platforms serve as a bridge between businesses and individual investors who are interested in lending money. These loans typically offer competitive interest rates and flexible terms. For businesses looking for alternative financing solutions, peer-to-peer lending can be an ideal choice.

9. Equipment Financing

If your business needs specialized equipment or machinery, think about equipment financing. This option enables you to either lease or buy the equipment while spreading the payments over time. Equipment loans are secured by the equipment itself, which minimizes the requirement for extra collateral.

10. Strategic Partnerships and Joint Ventures

Exploring strategic partnerships or joint ventures with other businesses can provide access to shared resources, expertise, and funding. Collaborative arrangements can help businesses pursue new opportunities and expand their reach.

Choosing the right financing option depends on your business’s specific needs, goals, and financial situation. It’s essential to carefully evaluate the pros and cons of each alternative and select the one that aligns with your long-term business strategy.

Ultimately, the best financing solution may involve a combination of various options to address different aspects of your business’s financial requirements. By exploring these alternatives, you can make informed decisions that support your business’s growth and success.

11. Angel Investors and Venture Capital

These options cater to startups and high-growth businesses by offering capital in return for equity or ownership stakes.

12. Personal Savings and Bootstrapping

Using personal savings or self-funding the business, this method allows for full control and ownership retention, albeit with possible limitations on growth.

13. Peer-to-Peer Lending

This process entails securing loans through platforms that link businesses with individual lenders, providing competitive rates and flexible terms.

14. Equipment Financing

Useful for businesses needing specific equipment, this option allows for leasing or purchasing while spreading the cost over time, with the equipment itself serving as collateral.

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Kevin Ocasio Kevin Ocasio is a staff writer for Small Business Trends and has been with the team for 2 years. He holds certifications in SEO, digital marketing, and content marketing. Kevin is also certified in Information Technology Technical Support Fundamentals.