Ask any successful small business owner what the hardest part of getting off the ground was and they will likely tell you it was getting the initial finances in place, and then surviving that always rocky start until they started to see real money come in. While a good bank loan and an exciting new product or service are major parts of staying in business, having a business credit card you can rely on is important, too. Not only does a business credit card provide you with the flexibility and the cash resources that you need to succeed, but the card also grows with your business over time so that it is always there to meet your needs. Let’s take a look at how a business credit card can be your best friend when starting your own small business.

If you have researched starting your own business, you realize how important it is to have a large sum of money to start with. Not only do you have to physically start your business, making sure you pay all the right fees and dues, but you have to order inventory, meet payroll, promote yourself and a whole host of other expenses, many of which most small business owners don’t plan for. That’s why having a credit card by your side that can and will meet all of those expenses is an invaluable asset. Not only is your card there for the expenses that you think of, it is also there for the ones that you never even imagined.

When you first apply for a business credit card, it is important to keep it separate from your own personal finances, just in case the business should fail. You don’t want to accidentally endanger your own personal finances if the business goes under, so make sure you ask your lawyer or a qualified professional how you can fill out the proper application correctly while also protecting yourself.

The next thing to remember is to not go crazy once you get the card. Most business credit cards offer credit limits significantly higher than most personal credit cards, so it can seem like the amount of money you have to spend is limitless. But don’t forget the specter of unplanned costs and your business. It may seem now like you have more credit than you could possibly ever spend, but that cash reservoir can dry up quickly and before you know it, you could be in serious financial trouble.

Finally, don’t be afraid to ask for additional credit, a lower interest rate or other improvements in your card if your business is doing well. Your business credit card should grow with your business, not stay stagnant with rates and fees that don’t reflect what your business has become. If you have worked hard and earned a better card, ask for one!

A business credit card can be your best friend when it comes to starting your small business. Treat it right and it will always be there for you.