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The best small-business credit cards are designed to help companies like yours benefit from everyday spending. Generous rewards programs, expense tracking and money-saving perks can benefit nearly every type of small-business owner, from the occasional freelancer to those with brick and mortar storefronts. Our experts have reviewed hundreds of options to identify the best small business credit cards of 2021 available from our partners.
Bankrate's Picks for the Best Business Credit Cards (November 2021):
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Rewards rate
1.5%
Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase made for your business
Intro bonus
$750
Earn $750 bonus cash back after you spend $7,500 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
Annual fee
$0
Regular APR
13.24% - 19.24% Variable
Recommended credit
Good to Excellent (670 - 850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
With a great rewards rate and a variety of valuable redemption options, this card is a well-rounded, solid choice for nearly any business owner, especially those looking to avoid an annual fee.
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Rewards rate
2%
Earn unlimited 2% cash back on every purchase, everywhere—with no limits or category restrictions
Intro bonus
Up to $1,000 cash bonus
Earn up to a $1,000 cash bonus; $500 once you spend $5,000 in the first 3 months, and $500 once you spend $50,000 in the first 6 months of account opening
Annual fee
$150
Regular APR
N/A
Recommended credit
Good to Excellent (670 - 850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
If your spending varies or you simply don’t want to put a lot of time and thought into maximizing business rewards, this flat-rate cash back card has plenty of appeal. Namely, you’ll earn 2% cash back on all purchases. Keep in mind, it’s a charge card; you’ll need to pay your balance off in full each month.
The rewards program is straightforward and the flat-rate return on spending is generous.
You’ll skip foreign transaction fees with this business card.
Cons
There’s a steep(ish) $150 annual fee.
Given its a charge card, there are no flexible financing options.
Earn up to a $1,000 cash bonus; $500 once you spend $5,000 in the first 3 months, and $500 once you spend $50,000 in the first 6 months of account opening
Earn unlimited 2% cash back on every purchase, everywhere—with no limits or category restrictions
Earn an annual $200 cash bonus every year you spend $200,000 or more
Comes with no preset spending limit, so it can adapt to your needs based on your spending behavior, payment history and credit profile
Rewards won't expire for the life of the account, and you can redeem your cash back for any amount
Add employee cards for free, and earn unlimited 2% cash back from their purchases
$150 annual fee
Spark Cash Plus has no APR because your balance is due in full every month
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Rewards rate
5%
Earn 5% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at office supply stores and on internet, cable and phone services each account anniversary year
2%
Earn 2% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at gas stations and restaurants each account anniversary year
1%
Earn 1% cash back on all other card purchases with no limit to the amount you can earn
Intro bonus
$750
Earn $750 bonus cash back after you spend $7,500 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
Annual fee
$0
Regular APR
13.24% - 19.24% Variable
Recommended credit
Good to Excellent (670 - 850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
This business card beats out flat-rate cards on select categories. If entertaining clients or fueling up is a regular part of your business world, you're likely to enjoy earning 2% cash back at restaurants and gas stations (on your first $25,000 in combined purchases per account anniversary year, then 1%).
Rewards are generous, particularly for a no annual fee credit card.
Cons
Your bonus cash back is subject to cap.
There’s no intro APR on balance transfers.
Earn $750 bonus cash back after you spend $7,500 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
Earn 5% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at office supply stores and on internet, cable and phone services each account anniversary year
Earn 2% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at gas stations and restaurants each account anniversary year. Earn 1% cash back on all other purchases
With Fraud Protection your card transactions will be monitored for possible signs of fraudulent activity using real-time fraud monitoring
With Zero Liability you won't be held responsible for unauthorized charges made with your card or account information
No Annual Fee
Redeem rewards for cash back, gift cards, travel and more through Chase Ultimate Rewards®
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Rewards rate
5X
Get 5X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels on amextravel.com.
1.5X
Earn 1.5X Membership Rewards® points on eligible purchases in key business categories, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more everywhere else. Cap applies.
Intro bonus
120,000 points
Welcome Offer: Earn 120,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases with your Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
Annual fee
$595 (10/14-1/12/22)
Regular APR
14.24% - 22.24% Variable
Recommended credit
Good to Excellent (670 - 850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
Travel in style with this premium business card from American Express, which offers a number of annual travel credits, a lucrative rewards return, particularly on flights and prepaid hotels booked with AmexTravel.com, and arguably the best airport lounge access on the market. Just be sure you can recoup the card’s hefty $595 annual fee ($695 if application is received on or after 1/13/2022).
New benefits include bonus rewards on key business categories and an annual business-centric statement credit (terms apply).
Cons
The annual credits come with a number of caveats and can be tricky to maximize.
The annual fee is one of the priciest on the market.
Welcome Offer: Earn 120,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases with your Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
Plus, 0% Intro APR for 12 months from the date of the account opening on purchases eligible for Pay Over Time. After that, your APR will be 14.24% to 22.24% based on your credit worthiness and other factors as determined at the time of account opening.
Get 5X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels on amextravel.com.
Earn 1.5X Membership Rewards® points on eligible purchases in key business categories, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more everywhere else. Cap applies.
Unlock over $1,000 in value per year for statement credits on select purchases with your Card, including up to $400 with Dell Technologies, up to $360 with Indeed, up to $150 with Adobe and up to $120 on wireless telephone purchases. Enrollment required.
$200 Airline Fee Credit: Get up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year toward baggage fees and more at one qualifying airline.
$179 CLEAR® Credit: Use your Card and get up to $179 back per year on your CLEAR® membership.
Access to more than 1,300 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting with The American Express Global Lounge Collection®. More lounge options than any other credit card on the market as of 8/2020.
$595 Annual Fee ($695 if application is received on or after 01/13/2022).
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Rewards rate
2%
Earn 2% cash back on all eligible purchases on up to $50,000 per calendar year, then 1%.
1%
1% cash back on all eligible purchases after spending $50,000 per calendar year.
Intro bonus
$250
Earn a $250 statement credit after you make $3,000 in purchases on your Card in your first 3 months.
Annual fee
No annual fee
Regular APR
13.24% - 19.24% Variable
Recommended credit
Good to Excellent (670 - 850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
Offering a welcome bonus, flexible financing options and decent rewards (albeit subject to an annual cap), the American Express Blue Business Cash™ Card is decidedly well-rounded for a no annual fee business card. All in all, it’s one of the better cards for new businesses on the market.
The welcome offer has a relatively low spending requirement.
You can access Expanded Buying Power, a flexible financing option for Amex business cardholders.
Cons
The 2% cash back is capped to your first $50,000 in purchases per year (1% thereafter).
There’s no intro APR on balance transfers.
Earn a $250 statement credit after you make $3,000 in purchases on your Card in your first 3 months.
Earn 2% cash back on all eligible purchases on up to $50,000 per calendar year, then 1%. Cash back earned is automatically credited to your statement.
From workflow to inventory to floor plans, your business is constantly changing. That’s why you’ve got the power to spend beyond your credit limit with Expanded Buying Power.
Just remember, the amount you can spend above your credit limit is not unlimited. It adjusts with your use of the Card, your payment history, credit record, financial resources known to American Express and other factors.
0.0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months from the date of account opening, then a variable rate, 13.24% - 19.24%, based on your creditworthiness and other factors as determined at the time of account opening.
No Annual Fee
Terms Apply
additional features
Purchase intro APR
0% on purchases for 12 months from date of account opening
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Rewards rate
2X
Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points on everyday business purchases such as office supplies or client dinners.
1X
2X applies to the first $50,000 in purchases per year, 1 point per dollar thereafter.
Intro bonus
15,000 points
Earn 15,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $3,000 in eligible purchases on the Card within your first 3 months of Card Membership.
Annual fee
No annual fee
Regular APR
13.24% - 19.24% Variable
Recommended credit
Good to Excellent (670 - 850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
When you own a business, there's a long list of things to keep track of. If adding "card rewards categories" to that list is unappealing to you, The Blue Business Plus is a great, hassle-free choice. Because of its promotional APR on purchases, this card is also a great choice for business owners looking to temporarily avoid interest charges on a big purchase.
The rewards are generous for a no annual fee card.
You’ll have access to Expanded Buying Power, a flexible financing option for business cardholders.
Cons
There’s no intro APR offer on balance transfers.
Your bonus rewards are subject to a cap.
Earn 15,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $3,000 in eligible purchases on the Card within your first 3 months of Card Membership.
Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points on everyday business purchases such as office supplies or client dinners. 2X applies to the first $50,000 in purchases per year, 1 point per dollar thereafter.
You've got the power to use your Card beyond its credit limit* with Expanded Buying Power.
*The amount you can spend above your credit limit is not unlimited. It adjusts with your use of the Card, your payment history, credit record, financial resources known to American Express, and other factors.
0.0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months from the date of account opening, then a variable rate, 13.24% - 19.24%, based on your creditworthiness and other factors at account opening.
No Annual Fee
Terms Apply
additional features
Purchase intro APR
0% on purchases for 12 months from date of account opening
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Rewards rate
2X
Earn unlimited 2X miles per dollar on every purchase, everywhere, no limits or category restrictions, and miles won't expire for the life of the account.
Intro bonus
50,000 miles
Earn a one-time bonus of 50,000 miles – equal to $500 in travel – once you spend $4,500 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening
Annual fee
$0 intro for first year; $95 after that
Regular APR
20.99% (Variable)
Recommended credit
Good to Excellent (670 - 850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
If you make a lot of business trips, the Capital One Spark Miles for Business can help your rewards earnings take off. The unlimited 2X miles on every purchase is great, but it’s even better coupled with the fact that there is minimum redemption and no expiration dates.
The rewards program is straightforward; it’s also generous relative to its annual fee ($95, $0 intro for first year).
Cons
There’s no intro APR on purchases or balance transfers.
Relative to some competitors, this card is slim on ancillary business-centric benefits.
Earn a one-time bonus of 50,000 miles – equal to $500 in travel – once you spend $4,500 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening
Earn unlimited 2X miles per dollar on every purchase, everywhere, no limits or category restrictions, and miles won't expire for the life of the account
Transfer your miles to 15+ travel loyalty programs
Redeem your miles instantly for any travel-related purchases, from flights and hotels to ride-sharing services
Fly through security with one statement credit for either the $85 TSA Pre✓® application fee or the $100 Global Entry application fee
$0 intro annual fee for the first year; $95 after that
Free employee cards which also earn unlimited 2X miles from their purchases
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Rewards rate
4X
Get 4X Membership Rewards® points on the 2 select categories where your business spent the most each month.
1X
1X is earned for other purchases. **
25%
Airline Bonus: Get 25% points back after you use points for all or part of an eligible flight booked with Amex Travel, up to 250,000 points back per calendar year.*
Intro bonus
70,000 points
Welcome Offer: Earn 70,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $10,000 on eligible purchases with the Business Gold Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.*
Annual fee
$295
Regular APR
14.24% - 22.24% Variable
Recommended credit
Good to Excellent (670 - 850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
For small business owners, this card offers a lot of value despite the hefty annual fee. Many of the rewards categories tend to be heavy-spend for small businesses, which means cash back rewards will stack up fast. And with American Express's impressive list of airline transfer partners, it's an especially great card if you'd like to redeem your rewards for travel.
You get a generous return on some prime business-centric bonus categories.
Cardholders get access to business expense management tools.
Cons
Your bonus cash back is subject to a cap.
There’s a steep $295 annual fee.
Welcome Offer: Earn 70,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $10,000 on eligible purchases with the Business Gold Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.*
More Rewards: Get 4X Membership Rewards® points on the 2 select categories where your business spent the most each month. 1X is earned for other purchases. **
**4X points apply to the first $150,000 in combined purchases from these 2 categories each calendar year.*
Airline Bonus: Get 25% points back after you use points for all or part of an eligible flight booked with Amex Travel, up to 250,000 points back per calendar year.*
Pay Over Time Option: A flexible payment option with interest to help manage cash flow on purchases of $100 or more.*
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Rewards rate
3X
Earn 3 points per $1 on the first $150,000 spent on travel and select business categories each account anniversary year
1X
Earn 1 point per $1 on all other purchases – with no limit to the amount you can earn
Intro bonus
100,000 points
Earn 100k bonus points after you spend $15,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,000 cash back or $1,250 toward travel when redeemed through Chase Ultimate Rewards®
Annual fee
$95
Regular APR
15.99%-20.99% Variable
Recommended credit
Good to Excellent (670 - 850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
Nearly every type of business — from e-commerce to brick and mortar — could benefit from the rewards that this card brings to the table, from advertising purchases with social media sites and search engines to airfare. Businesses already shouldering high monthly expenditures should consider capitalizing on this card’s top-notch sign-up bonus.
The sign-up bonus is one of the largest you'll find.
Frequent business travelers will love the ability to boost point value by 25% when booking travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards.
Cons
There’s a relatively high spend associated with the card’s welcome offer.
There’s no intro APR on purchases or balance transfers.
Earn 100k bonus points after you spend $15,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,000 cash back or $1,250 toward travel when redeemed through Chase Ultimate Rewards®
Earn 3 points per $1 on the first $150,000 spent on travel and select business categories each account anniversary year. Earn 1 point per $1 on all other purchases
With Fraud Protection your card transactions will be monitored for possible signs of fraudulent activity using real-time fraud monitoring
With Zero Liability you won't be held responsible for unauthorized charges made with your card or account information
Redeem points for cash back, gift cards, travel and more - your points don't expire as long as your account is open
Points are worth 25% more when you redeem for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards®
Purchase Protection covers your new purchases for 120 days against damage or theft up to $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per account.
additional features
Purchase intro APR
N/A
Balance transfer intro APR
N/A
The information about the Bank of America® Business Advantage Cash Rewards Mastercard® credit card, Brex Corporate Card for Startups and the U.S. Bank Cards has been collected independently by Bankrate.com. The card details have not been reviewed or approved by the card issuer. Some of the offers on this page may be expired.
5X Membership Rewards points on flights and prepaid hotels booked with AmexTravel.com, 1.5X points on eligible purchases in key business categories, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more everywhere else (Cap applies) and 1X points on all other purchases.
4X points on up to $150,000 per year in two select categories your business spends the most in each billing cycle and 2X points on rental cars booked through AmexTravel.com
This card is a good fit for: Small-business owners just starting out with rewards.
This card is not a great choice for: Those looking to earn rewards in specific categories. The Ink Business Cash rewards at a higher rate on office supply stores, internet, cable and phone services (5 percent cash back in combined purchases of the first $25,000 spent each account anniversary year), as well as gas stations and restaurants (2 percent cash back in combined purchases of the first $25,000 spent each account anniversary year).
What makes this card unique? It’s not uncommon for business credit cards to charge fees for additional employee cards, but the Ink Business Unlimited provides them for free. You can also set individual spending limits for employee cards.
Is the Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card card worth it? With no annual fee, a reliable rewards structure and money-saving perks, this card definitely carries its weight. Plus, new cardholders have the opportunity to pocket the $750 bonus after spending $7,500 on purchases in the first 3 months.
This card is a good fit for: Small-business owners who want a no-hassle way to earn cash back rewards on business purchases.
This card is not a great choice for: Those who want to cash in on higher rewards returns in specific spending categories.
What makes this card unique? The 2 percent flat-rate cash back on this card is significant. Your rewards also won’t expire for the life of the account and you can redeem your cash back for any amount. You can also earn an annual cash bonus of $200 every year you spend $200,000 or more.
Is the Capital One Spark Cash Plus worth it? The cash back earning potential with this card is significant, with a high 2 percent flat cash back rate on all purchases and plenty of opportunities to earn cash bonuses with certain terms and conditions. These cash back earnings could offset the $150 annual fee. Keep in mind that the Spark Cash Plus is a charge card and the balance has to be paid in full each month. If you’re looking for specific perks like higher reward rates for high spending in certain categories, other cards could give you more of a bang for your buck.
This card is a good fit for: Businesses with traditional office setups.
This card is not a great choice for: Businesses that operate mostly digitally.
What makes this card unique? The bonus categories, which include office supply stores and utilities such as cable, internet and phone services are uniquely valuable to many types of businesses.
Is the Ink Business Cash® Credit Card card worth it? The 5 percent bonus categories are extremely valuable if the bulk of your business expenses fall within them. If you were to max out the $25,000 annual spending cap within that category, you would earn $1,250 in cash back before dropping to the 1 percent rate, which is pretty incredible (25,000 x .05 = 1,250).
This card is a good fit for: Big spenders who travel often and want to cash in on the most premium travel benefits.
This card is not a great choice for: People who don’t travel too often and want to earn cash back rewards in other spending categories.
What makes this card unique? People who travel often and want the cream of the crop when it comes to travel benefits get access to over 40 Centurion lounges with this card, along with an up to $200 a year in airline fee statement credits with a select airline and a fee credit for Global Entry or TSA Precheck along with other notable perks
Is The Business Platinum Card® from American Express worth it? If you spend handsomely on travel and you’re looking to cash in on some of the best travel benefits, The Business Platinum Card® from American Express has a lot to offer. If you don’t spend so much on travel for your business or you’re looking for a more budget-friendly business card, there are plenty more affordable options available.
This card is a good fit for: Newer businesses seeking flat-rate cash back
This card is not a great choice for: Business owners planning to use their card for much more than $50,000 per calendar year. Once you reach this spending cap, your rate drops to 1 percent cash back.
What makes this card unique? This card offers Expanded Buying Power, a potential game-changer for a new business. This benefit gives you the option of exceeding your credit limit without having to pay an over-limit fee. If you need to make a large purchase that would put you over your credit limit, the flexibility of extended purchasing power could help you get over the hump. Just remember that the amount you can spend over your normal limit isn’t unlimited and that it changes according to payment history, credit record and other factors.
Is the American Express Blue Business Cash™ Card card worth it? For smaller businesses, the Blue Business Cash may be the sweet spot — a high, flat rate of cash back plus no annual fee is a pretty appealing deal. However, your earning potential slows down when you spend much more than the $50,000 annual spending cap.
The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express
Best for everyday business expenses
This card is a good fit for: Small-business owners who want to redeem rewards for travel.
This card is not a great choice for: Those who want to redeem rewards or cash back.
What makes this card unique? For travelers, the perks aren’t limited to redemption options. The Blue Business Plus comes with rental car insurance as well as access to the Global Assist® Hotline, which can help with emergencies such as a lost passport or missing luggage.
Is The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express card worth it? If your business requires you to fly or book hotel stays often, the 2X points earned on every purchase (on up to $50,000 per calendar year) will certainly be of value. If you max out the annual spending cap, you would earn 100,000 Membership Rewards points before dropping to the 1X rate. American Express Membership Rewards points are generally valued at two cents apiece, so that puts your annual rewards value at an eye-popping $2,000 (100,000 x .02 = 2,000).
This card is a good fit for: Budget-conscious business travelers.
This card is not a great choice for: Business travelers seeking luxury benefits, like airport lounge access. If that’s what you’re after, consider The Business Platinum Card® from American Express.
What makes this card unique? While some travel credit cards have complicated rewards structures, the Capital One Spark Miles for Business keeps it simple, offering unlimited 2X miles on every purchase. Redeeming your miles is simplified, too. You can book travel through Capital One or use your miles to cover travel-related purchases made on your card within the last 90 days, including airfare, hotel bookings, transit and more.
Is the Capital One Spark Miles for Business card worth it? The $95 annual fee is waived the first year, but there’s still the question of how much you’ll need to spend within each subsequent year to make the card worth it. Capital One miles are generally worth 1 cent apiece, so it would take 9,500 miles to make up the cost of the $95 annual fee in rewards value. That translates to $4,750 spent on the card (4,750 x 2 = 9,500).
This card is a good fit for: Small-business owners with ever-changing spending habits.
This card is not a great choice for: Business owners seeking a card with a low or no annual fee.
What makes this card unique? American Express offers six valuable, business-oriented rewards categories. Each billing cycle, you’ll be rewarded at a rate of four points per dollar in whichever two categories you spent the most within (up to $150,000 in combined purchases per year).
Is the American Express Business Gold Card worth it? You’ll get the most value from your rewards by redeeming them for travel, in which case they’re typically worth two cents apiece*. If you’re hoping to redeem for gift cards or statement credits, it may be tougher to recoup the value of the $295 annual fee.
This card is a good fit for: Small-business owners seeking travel rewards and an impressive sign-up bonus.
This card is not a great choice for: Those who refuse to pay an annual fee.
What makes this card unique? The rewards rates alone make this card valuable for business travelers, but the real icing on the cake is the wealth of redemption options. You can redeem your points for 25 percent more value for travel through the Chase Ultimate Rewards® portal, but you also have the option to transfer your points 1:1 to big-name airline and hotel partners like United, Southwest, British Airways, Marriott and Hyatt.
Is the Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card card worth it? In addition to the long-term value, this card offers a massive sign-up bonus: a whopping 100,000 points to those who spend $15,000 within the first three months of opening an account. According to Chase, the welcome offer is valued at $1,250 in travel purchases when redeemed through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, which is enough to pay for the annual fee 13 times over.
Business credit cards are similar to personal credit cards, only tailored to business needs. They can provide businesses with rewards on their everyday spending, help cover expenses during seasonal periods and assist in building business credit, making it easier to borrow in the future and qualify for a lower credit card APR.
Bankrate insight
You don’t need to own a formal business structure, like a corporation or LLC, to get a business credit card. You also don’t need an employer identification number (EIN); you can apply as a sole proprietor using a Social Security number. In fact, usually, as long as you sell a good or service, you’re considered an eligible small business owner.
How do they work?
In practice, business credit cards work the same as consumer credit cards: You get approved for a specific credit limit, which serves as your spending maximum. Your available credit decreases as you make purchases, and it increases as you pay off those purchases. Business credit cards often come with rich rewards programs, sign-up bonuses and money-saving perks.
While plenty of cards offer rewards, business credit card rewards are often customized to fit the categories in which businesses spend most, allowing you to effectively save money on common expenditures. Your business credit card can earn rewards for any eligible expenses your business incurs, from copier ink to hotel stays. The rewards typically come in the form of cash back or travel miles.
Depending on which type of card you choose, business credit cards often come with additional perks and upgrades, including:
Airport lounge access
TSA PreCheck® or Global Entry application rebate
Cellphone and rental car insurance
Purchase protection
Travel and emergency assistance
Free additional employee cards
Merchant discounts
Types of business credit cards
Invest some time in determining the ideal business credit card for your business so that you can reap the benefits with the most value to you. Here’s a breakdown of different types of cards and how they might appeal to you based on your business objectives:
Cash back cards
Good for: Netting a return on your business spending
Just like personal cards, cash back business cards are a popular choice for business owners looking for simple ways to put money back in their pockets. Some cash back cards offer a straightforward flat rate on all your business expenditures while others have tiered rewards in different categories that may be more useful if they align with your spending.
Travel rewards cards
Good for: Owners who want to offset costs of business trips
If your business requires frequent travel, a business travel credit card is a great way to not only save but also take advantage of perks like lounge access and travel insurance. You can often increase the value of the points you earn on these cards even more by redeeming them through issuer membership programs, like redeeming American Express® Business Gold Card points through American Express Membership Rewards.
Balance transfer cards
Good for: Businesses that need to manage and consolidate debt
If your business has taken on high-interest debts in the past, transferring the balance to a business credit card with a lower APR can help you clear debts more quickly and save money on incurred interest.
Bankrate insight
Before completing a balance transfer, make sure you understand the terms and figure out whether the interest savings are worth any fees you’ll incur. You can run a simulated balance transfer with Bankrate’s Credit Card Balance Transfer Calculator.
Zero interest cards
Good for: Owners that need extra time to finance large purchases
Financing a business can require owners to spend a lot of money on materials and other expenses to help get the business on its feet. A zero interest card usually has a 0 percent intro APR offer on purchases, balance transfers or both. These offers generally last between 12 and 18 months. They can give business owners the breathing room they need to recoup some of their investment. Aim to pay your balances off in full before the promotional interest period expires.
Charge cards
Good for: Owners who want to maintain financial discipline
Though they work in largely the same ways as credit cards, charge cards differ from credit cards in that they have no pre-set spending limit. Instead, purchases are approved based on a number of factors in your financial history and you must pay the balance in full each month. Charge cards may be a good option if you’re wary of accruing business-related credit card debt, but make sure your business has the cash flow to cover any charges you make month-to-month.You generally will incur fees and other penalties for missed or partial payments.
Pros and cons of small-business credit cards
More than half (53 percent) of small employers use credit cards on a regular basis, according to the Federal Reserve’s 2020 Small Business Credit Survey. Business credit cards can be a great tool for managing your business’s cash flow, earning rewards and staying organized, but they aren’t for every situation. Like any form of credit, there are benefits and drawbacks.
Pros
It can be easier to qualify for a business credit card than a line of credit or a bank loan.
Using a business credit card responsibly can increase your business credit score, which looks better to vendors and can get you the best interest rates on business loans.
They usually provide higher credit limits than consumer credit cards.
A business credit card can help address cash flow concerns.
Keeping business expenses separate from personal expenses makes tax records simpler to unravel.
Some card issuers have deferred payment policies tailored to the demands of operating a business.
Cons
You may be personally liable for any unpaid debt on the cards, which can affect your personal credit score.
Business cards generally have higher fees and interest rates than personal credit cards.
Business credit cards are not required to offer the same consumer protections as personal cards under the Credit CARD Act of 2009, though many issuers do voluntarily extend these protections to their business products.
Why small-business owners should get a business credit card
Business credit cards are, of course, designed for small-business owners. While that might bring to mind an image of someone operating a physical storefront, small-business owners take many shapes. Freelancers, contract workers, eBay merchants, and all kinds of gig workers can qualify for business credit cards.
Business credit cards are useful for small-business owners who want to:
Earn some extra cash — Even if you’re just using the card for occasional purchases — a client lunch here, supplies there — cash back will rack up over time. Why not earn cash rewards that can help boost your bottom line?
Use points or miles to cover business travel — Whether you’re a current or aspiring business traveler, a travel rewards card can put you one step closer to a free flight or hotel stay with every eligible purchase.
Separate business expenses from personal expenses — One of the most basic reasons to have a card dedicated solely to business is to track and manage your business expenses. Not only does this help with budgeting, but it makes doing your business’s taxes much simpler.
Finance a large purchase — If you’re dreaming of taking your business to the next level but don’t quite have the funds to comfortably cut a check, a business credit card can help. Not only can you split up the payments over several months, but you can also avoid interest entirely by making use of a 0% introductory APR period.
Take advantage of unique perks — Business cards often come with benefits designed to appeal to small-business owners. Common perks include free employee cards, expense tracking tools, quarterly summaries, merchant discounts, purchase protection and travel benefits.
Track and earn rewards for employee spending — Many business credit cards let you add employees as authorized users to the account. The best business credit cards let you do this for free. Adding employee cards allows you to track or even manage employee spending. (In some cases, you can pre-set spending limits.) You could also earn rewards off of these purchases.
Common small-business funding sources include crowdfunding platforms, bank loans, SBA loans, investors and credit cards. According to the Federal Reserve’s 2020 Small Business Credit Survey, credit cards are the second most common form of financing for small businesses, used on a regular basis by 53 percent of small-business owners.
How to choose the best credit card for your business
How do you spend your money each month?
Be aware of the categories you spend in most frequently in order to choose a card with rewards that will maximize those expenses.
Do you know the sum of your expenses?
Look at your spending history and what you expect to spend annually to determine whether a card’s annual fee is worth its rewards. An easy way to get a rough estimate is to multiply one credit card statement by 12.
Do you expect to carry a balance?
If you know there may be times when you risk carrying a balance, whether you’re anticipating periods of slow growth or you’re planning a large purchase to grow your business, you should prioritize a low standard APR card to help mitigate interest payments.
What are the additional card perks?
Look further than cash back percentages and points rewards to see what else a card has to offer, from airport lounge access to free additional employee cards and other tools that can help your business grow.
How to apply
The business credit card application process is similar to applying for a personal credit card, but not entirely. Here are a few things you might want to prepare for:
Submit your information
When you apply for a business credit card, the information an issuer asks for may differ depending on the type of business. Regardless of how your business is structured, issuers will be looking for signs of good financial health and at least good credit, though there are a few business credit cards for bad credit.
Sole proprietors and freelancers only need to provide the same personal information required for personal credit card applications. As an LLC or corporation, be ready to provide more business-specific information like the name of the business, tax identification number, address, business income and a personal guarantee.
Always be sure to provide all documentation the issuer requests, or you’ll risk your application being discarded.
Be aware of effects on your personal credit score
Regardless of your business type, the issuer will also pull a hard credit check on your personal report, even though the business line of credit will be separate from your personal accounts and won’t affect your personal credit utilization rate.
Take note of your business credit score
A business credit score measures your company’s creditworthiness.
While personal credit uses a scale between 300-850 to determine your score, business credit scores typically use a scale between 0-100. Business credit is also public, meaning that you or anyone else can look up your score through the business credit reporting agencies. There are three main business credit reporting agencies: Dun & Bradstreet, Experian and FICO.
Similar to applying for personal credit cards, you should evaluate your financial health before submitting any applications.
Tips on how to use small-business credit cards
Establish spending guidelines to ensure you don’t take on high-interest debt using your business credit card.
Outline what constitutes a business expense, set your own spending limits outside of the designated credit limit and have a system in place for tracking purchases to ensure adherence to the rules.
If your business is made up of multiple employees, have a clear policy in place to decide who will receive an employee card. Most importantly, communicate all policies and guidelines across the business.
Use your card responsibly, but don’t forget to actually use it. Especially if your card charges an annual fee, you’ll want to ensure you’re maximizing your rewards and getting the most value out of your spending.
Stay diligent in keeping your personal expenses separate from your business expenses to simplify bookkeeping.
Don’t let your cash back or rewards points expire. Redeeming your rewards regularly can ensure that cash back or points value is invested back into your business rather than going to waste.
What is the highest-paying business cash back card?
That question doesn’t have a truly definitive answer, mainly because of the way cash back credit cards work. Some cards offer the same (relatively low) rate of cash back on all purchases. These are called flat-rate cards. Others, often called tiered category cards, feature higher rewards rates in particular spending categories limited by spending caps.
Because there are different earning structures, the highest-paying card for you depends on your spending habits. That said, we can offer a detailed analysis of several business cash back cards available from our partners to help you make your own decision.
Flat-rate with spending caps
The American Express Blue Business Cash™ Card earns 2 percent cash back on all eligible purchases, but only on up to $50,000 per calendar year, after which the rate slides to 1 percent. Cash back earned is automatically credited to your statement.
If you made $50,000 in purchases with this card in a calendar year, you’d earn $1,000 in cash back at that 2 percent rate. You would continue to earn after reaching the $50,000 limit, but at the reduced rate of 1 percent.
Even with the spending cap, the potential to earn at least $1,000 in cash back per calendar year should hold some appeal for just about any small business owner.
Bankrate insight
This card offers a welcome bonus currently, which is pretty competitive for an American Express card. It’s also one of the few American Express cards that doesn’t charge an annual fee.
Tiered categories with spending caps
Things get a little more complex with the Bank of America® Business Advantage Cash Rewards Mastercard® credit card. It has two bonus cash back categories, but your combined earnings in those categories have a $50,000-per-calendar-year limit. The card also earns 1 percent cash back on all other non-category purchases.
Category
Earnings Limit
3% choice, which you can select from a list of six options including office supply stores and travel
Combined $50,000/per calendar year with dining category
2% on dining purchases
Combined $50,000/per calendar year with choice category
1% on all other purchases
Unlimited
The most cash back you could earn in the combined choice/dining categories in a calendar year would be $1,500 ($50,000 at 3 percent). You would also earn an unlimited 1 percent cash back on eligible purchases outside the bonus categories.
If your business spends a lot of money on purchases in the choice and dining categories, you could earn cash back at a significantly faster rate with this card than with most others — at least until you hit the $50,000 threshold. Overall, this Bank of America card (which has no annual fee) could generate a tidy sum of cash back for a particular kind of business owner.
How we choose our top business card selections
While we consider all aspects of a credit card when calculating the 5-star Bankrate score, the criteria for business cards emphasize features most valued by business owners. Scoring on this page places a weighted emphasis on factors including:
APR (Annual Percentage Rate)
Some cards offer lower variable APRs, while others allow business owners to manage debt from large purchases or other credit accounts with 0% intro APR offers.
Rewards rates
When evaluating each card, we consider both the earning structure rate and corresponding redemption values that a small/medium business owner can expect with every eligible purchase.
Bonuses, discounts and perks
For each sign-up bonus or welcome offer, we compare the spending requirements with the redemption value that each card brings to the table. On top of the bonus, we layer in additional perks like free employee cards and rental car insurance to calculate the total expected value.
Have more questions for our credit cards editors? Feel free to send us an email, find us on Facebook, or Tweet us @Bankrate.
Frequently asked questions about business credit cards
Whether your business is large or small, having a separate account for business expenses almost always makes sense. Simplified tax reporting, more targeted rewards and expense tracking tools are bound to make doing business easier.
If you're concerned about value, there's a good selection of business credit cards with no annual fee. As long as you're able to pay your bill in full each month, there's nothing to lose. It's also worthwhile identifying whether you're better off with a small-business loan or a business credit card as well. Each has it's own perks and drawbacks.
In practice, business credit cards work nearly the same as consumer cards. But there are a few differences, most of which work to your benefit.
Higher credit limits. Since you're able to include both personal income and business revenue on a business credit card application, you're more likely to be approved for a higher credit limit than a consumer card.
Rewards categories. It's common to see enhanced reward rates on unique, business-oriented categories like office supplies, travel and wholesalers.
Extra perks. Business credit cards come with a variety of benefits designed to help the business owner save time and money. One common benefit is quarterly or annual expense summaries — not only a good budgeting tool but also a way to simplify your business tax return.
Credit reporting. Have you ever wondered whether your business spending habits affect your personal credit? Your credit card issuer may report to both business and personal credit bureaus or business credit bureaus alone. It varies based on the issuer, the credit card, your spending habits and the state that you live in. If this matters to you, do some research to understand the full connection between business and personal credit.
Legal protections. Many of the laws that protect consumers from unfair and predatory lending tactics do not apply to business credit cards. Unlike consumer credit cards, it technically is not illegal for issuers of business credit cards to increase interest rates with no advance notice or charge extremely high late fees.
Your personal credit score and financial health are taken into account when you apply for a business credit card. Most issuers will require at least good credit (670 and above), while some may even require excellent credit (740 and above). It’s important to keep in mind that when applying, the issuer will pull a hard inquiry on your credit file even though your business line of credit is separate from your personal accounts. Similar to applying for a personal credit card, it’s important to evaluate your credit health and history to determine if a business card is a good fit for you.
In order to get approved for a business credit card you need to be earning money independently, but don’t necessarily need to have a traditional “business” to get approved. The requirements for applying for a business credit card are more simple than they appear. Any income-producing hobby or activity may be considered a business when applying for the card, as long as it’s profitable.
Though uncommon, business credit cards that do not require a personal guarantee do exist. However, there is usually a tradeoff. Instead of providing a personal guarantee, you'll usually need to link a corporate bank account with a large balance, provide proof of significant business profits, or offer business assets as collateral.
One popular option is the Brex 30 Card. To be approved for the card, you need $50,000 in your bank account if professionally invested, if not $100,000.
Yes, you can apply for specific business credit cards with your EIN. However, application requirements for business credit cards differ depending on business type.
For example, as a sole proprietor or freelancer, you may be asked to provide similar personal information that is required when you apply for a personal credit card, like your Social Security number (in certain cases you can provide your EIN), address and income. As an LLC or corporation, be ready to provide your personal and business information, and any other details related to your business for verification after an initial approval.
Regardless of your business type, it’s important to provide everything the issuer requires to avoid the risk of having your application declined.
The needs of a brand new startup are often different than the needs of a well-established company. In general, the best credit cards for startups will offer money-saving benefits and payment flexibility. That's why we think the American Express Blue Business Cash™ Card is an excellent choice for startups. In addition to 2 percent cash back on all purchases (on up to $50,000 per calendar year, then 1 percent), cardholders have access to Expanded Buying Power, which allows you to spend a certain amount above your credit limit without having to pay an over-limit fee — just remember this amount is limited and may change.
The Brex Corporate Card for Startups is a great option for larger startups, as you'll need to link your bank account containing at least $100,000 in order to qualify. If you meet that steep requirement, the rest of the application may be easy. You won't be required to provide a personal guarantee or even a credit check, which is why the application process is so quick. Once approved, you'll earn rewards on business-friendly categories like travel, restaurants and software subscriptions. Lastly, you'll have access to offers worth over $25,000 in total, according to Brex. Some of the offers include discounts on top startup services like Amazon Web Services, Zoom, Dropbox and Google Ads.
Small-business credit cards and corporate credit cards can both achieve the same goal of financing a business. However, they’re designed for different types of businesses.
Corporate credit cards are usually only accessible to larger businesses with millions in annual revenue. Small-business credit cards are designed for all types of small-business owners.
Corporate credit cards are much tougher to get. These cards typically require the business to have good credit and a certain number of authorized cardholders.
Small-business cards have much fewer barriers to entry. With good personal credit, some basic information about your business and the willingness to provide a personal guarantee, you’re eligible for many of the best business credit cards.
The debt burden with small-business cards always lies with the primary cardholder.. This person provides the personal guarantee. With corporate credit cards, liability may fall solely on the business or be shared between all authorized cardholders.
Mariah Ackary is a personal finance writer who specializes in credit card rewards and small business credit. Mariah is a lifelong writer, but she began writing about finance in 2018. She joined the Bankrate team in 2019, excited by the opportunity to directly help people make good financial decisions. Send your questions to mackary@bankrate.com
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Former Senior Editor Barry Bridges has been writing about credit cards, personal loans, mortgages and other personal finance products since 2017. Before joining Bankrate, he was an award-winning newspaper journalist in his native North Carolina.
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