How to apply for a business credit card

1) Determine eligibility

Most business owners, either sole proprietors or those with less than 2 years of business financial history, will be eligible to apply for the following cards:

• CIBC Aventura® Visa* Card for Business
• CIBC Aeroplan® Visa* Business Card
• CIBC bizline® Visa* Card

However, if you have employees and more than 2 years of business financial history, you may qualify for these business credit cards.

• CIBC Aventura® Visa* Card for Business Plus
• CIBC Aeroplan® Visa* Business Plus Card
• CIBC Corporate Classic Plus Visa* Card

2) Gather your documents

We’ll need more information about you and your business to process your application. Some examples of the documents we’ll need include:

Personal identification like your driver’s license or passport

Your Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) Business Number (BN)

Your business registration documents like your business license or articles of incorporation

For a full list of the document’s you’ll need to apply, review our document checklist (PDF, 285 KB) Opens a new window..

3) Complete the application

Applying for a CIBC business credit card is like applying for any credit card. You can apply quickly and conveniently online.

Applying for a CIBC Business Plus credit card is like applying for a business loan or line of credit. You can apply with the help of a CIBC business advisor.

1) Maintain a good credit score

Make sure your personal and business credit scores are strong. Paying off existing debts and avoiding late payments are just some of the ways you can keep your credit score strong. For more information, check out this article about how your credit can impact your business.

2) Limit credit applications

Avoid applying for multiple credit cards or loans in a short period, as this can negatively impact your credit score.

3) Demonstrate financial stability

Applying for a business credit card can sometimes mean that you need to provide proof of your financial stability through statements that show your business’s stability.

4) Build a relationship with your bank

It can be beneficial to have or establish a relationship with your bank. The right advisor can often help you take your company to the next level with expert guidance on accounts, cash flow, borrowing and more.