Why not just register multiple DBAs (Doing Business As) and use that to "separate" different business expenses? Much cheaper.

So if u get a dba, do u get ein? Steps involved for california?

FWIW, I setup an LLC with an EIN, etc. for my primary job and applied for a Chase Ink Plus card using the EIN. I got a TON more scrutiny and questions in order to get it approved than any of the four other Chase Ink cards my wife and I got using Sole Proprietorship with minimum age, employees, income - all of which were approved without more than verifying name, business name, if that.

You can get an EIN for a DBA, a sole prop, LLC, etc. Just go to the IRS website, fill out the info for an EIN and then register a DBA with the state.

You could also file corporate papers in NV, WY or another cheap state. When I've applied for a biz cards in the past using corporations I had registered in other states, the banks couldn't verify the info since they were only looking in my home state. I just had to explain, tell them which state to look in and I think in 1 or 2 cases, send them the paperwork. Better to use your home state if its cheap enough. I agree with Ike about there being more scrutiny than with a sole prop.

And there wouldn't be any IRS paperwork involved in this. You're not actually running a business. Applying for or using a biz card are not taxable events. Just need to comply with whatever annual report filing requirements of the state to keep the biz officially active.

this seems like a penny wise pound foolish idea.

I have never been subjected to any extra scrutiny applying for a business card with my corporate EIN (although, it's a real and long standing corp). Maybe this scrutiny you attribute to an LLC or Corp is because the card you're applying for is for a new business.