Is Chase Eliminating the “Sole Proprietorship” Option on Ink Applications?

November 07 2025

Update: Seems like but unconfirmed that chase will announce those rules after the limited offer ends which is on November 13 2025.

My prediction is that if it ends up happening it’ll be effective either right after the offer ends or on December 01 2025

There’s a romur from inside sources that Chase will announce on November 01 that they plan on pausing or eliminating the sole proprietorship option on Ink Business card applications. It will go into effect, in Mid November 2025. As of today (Oct 30, 2025), Chase’s own pages still say sole proprietors can apply for business credit cards and may use an SSN if they don’t have an EIN.

Don’t want to risk it? Do this now

Lock in the big public offers while they’re live on Chase’s site:

Ink Business Cash® — 90,000 points after $6,000 in 3 months (shown as “$900 cash back”).
Ink Business Unlimited® — 90,000 points after $6,000 in 3 months (also shown as “$900”).

If the rumor turns out true

You can still. Apply through an LLC or Corp that you can easily set up online, and you’ll get an EIN. You can apply online or in-branch. But right now, sole proprietorships are still explicitly eligible—and the 90k Ink offers are live.

What do you think—real change coming or just a rumor? Leave us a comment below.

What are my points worth?

90,000 points are valued at $900 at the standard rate of 1 cent per point.

With Chase Sapphire Reserve cards, Business or Personal, those same 90,000 points can reach a value of $1,800 through the Ultimate Rewards program when redeemed with Points Boost on select flights and hotels. That gives you a value of 2 cents per point.

With Chase Sapphire preferred and Ink Business preferred Business or Personal, 90,000 points can reach a value of $1,575 through the Ultimate Rewards program when redeemed with Points Boost on select flights and hotels. That gives you a value of 1.75 cents per point.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What credit score do I need to apply?

A: A score of 720 or higher is recommended, though applicants with 700+ may still be approved.

Q: What should I do if my application is declined?

A: You can call the reconsideration department at 1-800-453-9719. Be polite and simply ask for your application to be reconsidered — many readers have reported that they have been approved this way.

Q: Are there any restrictions before applying?

A: Yes. If you’ve opened 5 or more personal credit cards in the last 24 months (known as the 5/24 rule), approval is unlikely. While rare, some applicants have been approved despite being over 5/24.

Q: Can I apply without a business tax ID?

A: Yes. You can apply as a sole proprietorship using your Social Security Number and your legal name as the business name.

Q: How many business cards can I have?

A: There’s no official limit. Approvals depend on your overall credit profile and history with your existing accounts.

Q: Does this card charge foreign transaction fees?

A: Yes. There’s a 3% fee on purchases made outside the U.S.

Q: Can I apply for more than one business card?

A: Yes. If you apply for two business cards on the same day, it often results in only one hard inquiry on your credit report.

Karl’s mission is simple

To provide the tools, resources, and guidance needed to help consumers make the best financial decisions, whether they’re looking to earn travel rewards, build credit, or find the best cash-back options. His goal is to demystify the credit card process and give users the confidence to navigate the vast array of options available.