What really suits you?

Do you want to collect miles, finance your business, or simply gain access to the US financial system – but are unsure whether you should start with a business or personal credit card?

Then you've come to the right place.

Because: In the US, there are two fundamentally different types of credit cards. And depending on what you're planning to do (e.g., collecting miles, business funding, splitting expenses), the choice can make a huge difference.

In this article you will learn:

• the difference between business and personal credit cards in the USA
• which card is best suited for which purpose
• how to get access as a non-US citizen
• and which combination strategy professionals such as digital nomads and LLC owners use

1. The most important differences at a glance

criterion Business Credit Card Personal Credit Card Purpose of use Business expenses (e.g. LLC, self-employment) Private expenses Bonus system & categories Points on ads, software, travel Points on dining, supermarket, travel Credit limit Significantly higher (up to 30x more) Depends on personal income Reporting No impact on your private credit score Flows directly into your personal FICO score Consumer protection (CARD Act) Restricted Full consumer protection rights Additional cards Often free & taxable (employee cards) Rarely available or with additional costs Liability Personal guarantee usually required Personal Liability Standard

2. Which card suits which goal?

Business Credit Card – ideal if...

• you have or plan to have a US business (e.g. LLC)
• to get loans and financing that do not affect your private score
• you need higher limits for ads, tools or larger purchases
• you want to clearly separate your business from private expenses
  
  

Personal Credit Card – ideal if...

• you want to start collecting miles quickly
• you do not (yet) have an LLC or do not use business accounts
• you value 0% APR offers and consumer rights

• you want a card with easy approval (e.g. Amex, Deserve)
  

3. Access for non-US citizens – how it works

We often hear the question: "Is this even possible if I'm not a US citizen?" – and the short answer is: Yes, it is possible.

Even as a non-US citizen, you can get both personal and business credit cards in the US. The process is slightly different than for Americans, but it's doable with the right structure. In a business context, you typically need a US LLC and an EIN—a corporate tax identification number. This allows you to open a business account with certain banks and gain access to attractive business credit cards.

Personal credit cards are also possible, for example, by building a US credit score with an ITIN – an individual tax identification number for foreign nationals. Some providers, such as Amex or Deserve, allow you to enter the system early on.

In short, US credit cards are not an exclusive privilege for Americans.

With the right setup, you too can use them for your global business or for smart mileage strategies.

4. The professional strategy: Combine both card types

Many international entrepreneurs use a so-called “dual setup”:

• 💼 Business Cards: For financing, cost control, corporate structure
• 🌍 Personal Cards: For miles, lifestyle spending, flexible travel

Advantage: You maximize rewards, retain control over your score, and keep track of your taxes.

5. Beware of these pitfalls

Business credit cards offer many advantages – but also some pitfalls that you should be aware of:

• They are not subject to the full consumer protections you're used to with private cards. This applies, for example, to interest rate increases or fee changes.
• Despite the “business” label, many providers require a personal guarantee – this means that if you fall behind on payment, you are liable with your personal assets.
• If you charge personal expenses to your business card, you risk legal and tax problems—keyword: "piercing the corporate veil ." This could result in you losing the protection of your LLC.
• And last but not least: Credit cards can quickly land you in a debt trap if you don't keep track of your spending. Especially with multiple cards, high limits, and bonus offers, things can quickly become confusing.

💡 Tip: Get advice before setting up – so that you start strategically and don’t slip into chaos.

6. Conclusion: Which card suits you?

If you

• Want to collect miles: Both cards are suitable
• want to finance your business: Business Card is mandatory
• want to protect your credit score: Business Card
• maximum consumer protection: Personal Card

Best solution: a setup with both types of cards – adapted to your goals.

Book a free strategy consultation now and find out which credit card strategy is right for you. Whether it's business funding, miles optimization, or a US setup—we'll support you from A to Z.

👉 Start now without obligation