How long does it take to get a business credit card?
Summary
- Getting approved for a business credit card can take as little as a few minutes if you’re instantly approved, but it may take longer if the card company needs more information.
- Once approved, your business card will generally arrive in the mail in seven to 10 business days.
- If your business card issuer offers virtual card numbers, you may be able to use your card before the physical card arrives in the mail.
Depending on the issuer, it can take anywhere from a few minutes to a week or more to get approved for a business credit card. Once approved, it generally takes seven to 10 business days to receive your new business card in the mail. But some card issuers—like Capital One Business—allow you to use your card before you receive your physical card by using virtual card numbers.
Read on to learn more about how long it can take to get a business credit card.
How long does it take to get approved for a business credit card?
In general, it can take anywhere from a few minutes to a few weeks to get approved for a business credit card. Some business credit card issuers may be able to provide an immediate decision if your application information meets the qualifying criteria.
It could take up to two weeks or longer if an application comes back as “pending review.” This means the issuer may need to verify that you meet the card’s eligibility requirements. It could also mean that the lender needs additional time because they’re manually reviewing your application. The issuer may request additional information or clarification regarding your application before making a final decision.
How long does it take to receive a business credit card in the mail?
After approval, it typically takes seven to 10 business days to receive your business card in the mail. But with certain business credit card issuers—like Capital One Business—you may be able to use your card before it arrives in the mail by using a virtual business card number.
Steps for getting approved for a business card
Applying for a business card typically involves gathering information, reviewing your credit scores and card options, submitting the application and waiting for a decision:
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Gather necessary information: Start by compiling items like your business bank account information, details about company ownership, and government-issued IDs for you and other owners of the organization.
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Review your personal credit scores: Depending on the card you’re applying for, the issuer may consider your personal credit history as part of the application. Understanding your personal credit scores can give you a better idea of the business cards you may be eligible for.
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Understand various card options: Whether you’re looking for a card with no preset spending limit (NPSL) or one that offers rewards in the form of travel rewards or cash back, there are plenty of options. When choosing a business credit card, the best choice depends on your company’s unique needs and goals.
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Submit an application: Once you’ve found a card that meets your needs, you can submit an application. Most applications take about 15 to 30 minutes to complete.
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Wait for a decision: After submitting an application, the business card issuer will review your profile and make a decision. In some cases, approval can happen within a few minutes. But if the issuer requests additional information, it could take longer.
How can businesses access a business credit card sooner?
You may be able to access your business card sooner by ensuring all information on your application is accurate, using a virtual card number before your physical card arrives and considering pre-approval before applying.
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Make sure you input all information accurately: When you apply for a business credit card, be sure to double-check spelling and financial information to avoid delays in processing your application.
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Explore virtual options: If your credit card issuer offers virtual card numbers, you may be able to use your card before the physical card arrives in the mail by using a virtual card number for eligible purchases.
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Consider pre-approval: Getting pre-approved for a business credit card can give you a better idea of which cards you may qualify for. This can help you avoid unnecessary applications and narrow down your options before applying.
Timeline for getting a business card FAQ
Here’s additional information about how long it can take to get a business credit card.
Can you get approved for a business credit card instantly?
Yes, many business card issuers offer instant approval for online applications. But if the issuer needs more information, it could take longer to receive a decision.
What delays business credit card applications?
Some common reasons for delays in a business card application include:
- Mistakes on the application
- Unverified income or personal information
- Frozen credit reports
- Too many recent credit inquiries
- Processing delays due to an influx of applications
What should businesses do if a credit card application is pending?
If your application is pending, you may need to wait for the issuer to complete its review. While some lenders offer instant approval, it’s not guaranteed. In some cases, it could take more than a week for the business card company to make a decision. Here are some things you can do in the meantime:
- Watch for the mail: Lenders may send application decisions by mail to let you know you’ve been approved or provide information about why the application was denied.
- Monitor your email: Business card issuers may send information about application decisions by email as well as by mail. And you often receive the email before the physical letter arrives. Monitoring your email and checking your spam folder can keep you in the know.
- Check your account: If you have an existing account with the business card issuer, you can log in to see if there’s a status update on your application.
- Call the issuer’s customer service line: If you haven’t heard from the issuer within the expected time frame, you might consider calling their customer service number to make sure you didn’t miss any information.
Key takeaways
It generally doesn’t take long to apply for a business credit card once you’ve found the right option and have all the necessary information. It can take anywhere from a few minutes to a week or more for the lender to review your application and make a decision. Once you’re approved, you can expect to receive your new card in the mail within seven to 10 business days, though it varies by issuer.
If you’re looking for a new business card, you can try getting pre-approved with Capital One Business first to see which cards you may be eligible for—without impacting your personal credit score.
