Thanks Lain,
I will look in to this. I actually hav a fairly nice stable and have, at this time, one boarder. I would probably qualify with that. Do I need to register the business and get a tax ID number?
No, you can apply as a sole proprietor with your personal SSN! An EIN might make your business seem more "legit" if you're applying in branch or anticipate having to talk to Chase about your application. However, a lot of people here and elsewhere have applied and been approved for the CIP by just using their SSN and having a convincing enough story ready about the nature of their business, how long they've been in business, how much income the business makes, etc. if it ever comes up.
Have a boarder who pays you money? That's a business. Do you have rental income? That's a business. Do you sell dairy products? That's a business. Do you sell anything online, like on eBay,
Amazon, or Etsy? That's a business. Do you babysit, pet sit, or something similar? You get the point.
I have never thought about applying for a business card but the Chase Ink pull is strong. We recently bought a new house but kept the old one as a rental and now have rental income. I think I saw on this thread someone used a rental as a business?
Yes! Ownership and management of rental property is definitely a business! Go for it!
ETA: I believe it was
@CyndiLouWho who has the rental business.
If you're under 5/24, go for the CIP -- it's got a big UR signup bonus! You can also add Amex business cards to the mix since data points say Amex doesn't report business cards to your personal credit report so they shouldn't add to your 5/24. Amex is supposed to be among the most lenient about who they approve for a business card. However, keep in mind that Amex usually has once in a lifetime language attached to their signup bonuses, so you'll want to not waste an opportunity and be sure you are getting the highest or close to the highest offer when applying.
Anyway, a number of us have applied and been approved for the CIP, so if you have any questions feel free to ask!