Side Hustles that Qualify for a Business Credit Card

It seems like everyone's got a side hustle these days, but not everyone realizes they could be eligible for a business credit card because of it. And you don’t need to be making six figures to qualify. 

A business card can help you stay organized, build credit, and even earn serious rewards. Whether you're driving for DoorDash, freelancing on the weekends, or selling on Etsy, a business credit card can help legitimize your hustle and simplify the way you manage money. 

Plus, separating your personal and business expenses early on makes it easier to grow your business with more confidence and less stress.

Side Hustles for Business Credit Cards

To qualify for a business credit card, you just need to be engaged in an income-earning activity that’s run with some continuity and the intent to make a profit. 

Even if it’s a small side gig or one that only brings in a few hundred bucks a month, it can still count.

Here are some of the most common side hustles that are eligible:

Gig economy

• Rideshare driving: If you're driving for Uber or Lyft (or another rideshare service), you're already technically running a small business. And those gas and car maintenance costs are something you can track on a business card.

• Food and package delivery: Whether you're delivering takeout with DoorDash or groceries with Instacart, you’re self-employed, and that qualifies as a business.

• Task-based services: Think apps like TaskRabbit that connect you to one-off gigs like furniture assembly, moving help, or even home cleaning. Even if it’s just a weekend gig, it counts.

Creative and digital services

• Freelance writing or content creation: If you’re writing articles, editing videos, or posting sponsored content on TikTok, you’re earning business income. A credit card can help you track things like software subscriptions, advertising, and tech.

• Photography services: From weddings to portraits, photography requires equipment, editing software, and even travel expenses — all perfect to run through a business card.

• Graphic design and web development: Whether you're freelancing on Fiverr or working with private clients, any income from digital services makes you eligible for a business card.

• Online course creation and digital products: Selling eBooks, PDFs, templates, or classes all count as business activity. 

E-commerce and selling

• Online selling: If you're consistently selling on Etsy, eBay, Amazon, or even Facebook Marketplace, guess what? You’re technically running a business. A business credit card can help with costs like materials, packaging, and shipping.

• Dropshipping and print-on-demand: These models don’t require holding inventory, but they do have real expenses — order fulfillment, marketing, and software fees all count.

• Handmade crafts and products: Making candles, jewelry, or home decor? If you’re earning money from a consistent business, it qualifies. Use a business card to pay for materials and event booth fees.

• Reselling and flipping: Buying goods to resell — from clothing to patio furniture and beyond — means you're running a resale business. A credit card can help you keep these items separate from your personal finances.

Consulting and professional services

• Business or industry consulting: Are you independently providing expertise and advice in HR, finance, tech, or another field? Just because you’re not working for a big firm doesn’t mean you’re not running a business.

• Coaching and tutoring services: Whether it’s test prep, personal fitness, or musical tuition, coaching and tutoring services that generate regular income can qualify for a business credit card.

• Virtual assistant services: Managing email, calendars, or other admin work for business owners? You’re self-employed and eligible to use a business card.

• Social media management and digital marketing: Are you managing client accounts or paid ad campaigns? You’re in business, and your tools, subscriptions, and ad campaigns are all legitimate business expenses.

Home-based and local services

• Home-based food business: If you’re making and selling baked goods, or catering small (or large) private events, that all counts as business. You could use a business card to track spending on ingredients, packaging, and delivery costs.

• Handyman and repair services: Do you fix things or do odd jobs? Even if it’s part-time, you can use a business card to track expenses for tools, supplies, and gas.

• House cleaning and organizing: Whether your gig is seasonal or regular throughout the year, this is a service business with legitimate expenses.

• Pet sitting and dog walking: If you’re getting paid to walk dogs or watch pets regularly, you can qualify for a business card. Apps like Rover or independent clients are all applicable, and supplies and travel costs are legitimate business expenses.

Tips for Managing a Business Credit Card

Before you apply for a business credit card, make sure you know how to manage it responsibly.

Start with one card

You don’t need a complicated setup to get started. Just pick one solid business credit card that matches your spending best. 

For example, the Ink Business Cash® Credit Card is great if you drive a lot or work from home, with generous cashback on gas, internet, and office supplies. 

But if your spending is more varied, the American Express Blue Business Cash™ Card gives you a flat cashback rate on all eligible purchases (up to a cap).

Keep clean records 

Build those good habits early by tracking every expense and storing your receipts or screenshots in an organized folder. 

Many business cards automatically sort purchases into categories, which can save time when you're reconciling statements — this will be especially helpful when preparing for tax season.

Separate business and personal spending 

This one’s key: Don’t mix business and personal purchases on the same card. 

It keeps your records clean, avoids confusion at tax time, and can even protect you in the event of a tax audit. 

Treat your business card like it’s strictly for your hustle, and you’ll thank yourself later. 

Pay balances in full 

Because side hustle income can fluctuate month to month, it’s so important to avoid carrying a balance. 

Paying in full helps you avoid interest charges and protects your personal credit score — since most business cards will still be tied to your personal credit.

Choose rewards that match your actual spending

Think about where your money goes. If you're a rideshare driver, you’ll obviously get more value from gas rewards than restaurant dining.

Likewise, if you’re a content creator or freelancer, cards that reward internet, software, or tech spending will be the way to go. 

If you’ve got a history of relevant spending to look over, start there. 

READ MORE: How To Choose the Best Business Credit Card

Know when to upgrade 

As your business grows, your financial needs are going to evolve, too. 

You might start with a hassle-free, no-fee card, but as expenses scale up, a premium card with travel rewards or advanced business tools, like the Capital One Venture X Business or Sapphire Reserve for Business℠ could make more sense. 

Don’t be afraid to switch gears on your business credit card when needed. 

COMPARE: Best Business Credit Cards

FAQs

TL;DR: Your Side Hustle Probably Qualifies

You don’t need an officially registered business or fancy office setup to qualify for a business credit card. Just a consistent income and a plan to grow is enough to get your foot on the ladder. 

So, whether you’re selling, driving, freelancing, or tutoring, there’s a good chance you’re already eligible for a business credit card.

Of course, it’s still a big step forward for you and your side hustle. Landing one early helps you build credit, stay organized, and ideally earn more cashback or travel rewards on your business expenses. 

Just be sure to pick a card that matches your hustle.

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Disclosure: Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.