The 8 Best Credit Cards for Paying Rent [2026]

Most Americans pay a significant amount each month for either rent or a mortgage. If you pay this major expense with the right credit card, you might be able to get a sizeable return.

However, paying thousands of dollars in rent each year on the wrong credit card can mean you miss out on big rewards. Or, you could end up paying excessive amounts in fees that negate any rewards you might earn.

In this guide, we will look at what you need to consider when paying rent with a credit card, as well as some of the best cards to use for rent payments.

8 Best Credit Cards for Paying Rent: Overview

What To Consider When Paying Rent With a Credit Card

Before paying rent with a credit card, make sure to understand the details.

Rewards vs. Fees

There are usually fees associated with paying rent with your credit card. These fees are often charged as a percentage of the payment amount and can vary significantly, typically ranging from 2.5% to 3.5%.

For example, let’s assume your rent is $1,500 and the apartment complex charges a 3.5% fee for paying by credit card. This means you would pay a $52.50 fee on top of your rent just to use a credit card. Generally, the only time you should ever consider paying rent with a credit card is if the rewards you’d earn outweigh the cost of earning those rewards.

For example, let’s say you use a card that earns 2 points per $1 for the amount in the example above. This means you’d earn at least $30 in points, assuming those points are worth 1 cent per point. Fortunately, most transferable point currencies, such as American Express Membership Rewards or Chase Ultimate Rewards, are worth much more.

If you only had a card that earns 2% cash-back (with points worth 1 cent each), it would be best to avoid paying rent with that card unless your landlord charges a fee of less than 2%.

If you’ve done the math and the rewards you can potentially earn are higher than the fees you need to pay, then using a credit card to pay your rent is an obvious choice.

Using Plastiq for Bill Payments

Plastiq, a popular third-party service, lets you use debit or credit cards to pay bills that typically don’t accept card payments.

Plastiq charges you a processing fee, which can be expensive. As of February 2026, the fee is 2.99% for both credit and debit cards. Although the fee charged for the convenience is quite high, using the right credit card can still put you ahead. Plastiq also has occasional promotions that can reduce your costs, including a referral program in which you can earn fee-free dollars (or FFDs). You can then use these dollars to obtain fee-free payments.

All you need to do is add a credit card to your Plastiq account and charge it for the amount of the rent bill. Plastiq will then cut a check to your landlord on your behalf.

It’s worth noting that some issuers may consider this type of purchase a cash advance, which does not earn rewards and is subject to extremely high interest rates and fees. So do your due diligence before using this service by checking with your credit card issuer how this purchase might be coded.

Meeting a Minimum Spending Requirement

Another great option for paying rent with a credit card, despite additional fees, is when you need to meet a minimum spending requirement for a new welcome bonus.

For example, say you have a minimum spending requirement of $10,000 in 3 months but you typically only spend $2,000 per month. Charging your rent to your card would help you meet the minimum spending requirement, which could result in a huge welcome offer bonus. The added value of these additional points could outweigh the fees you might be charged, which means paying with your credit card could make sense in this scenario.

Best Personal Cards

As mentioned above, paying rent with a credit card can help you earn thousands of extra points each month. Now that we know the concept behind the fees associated with paying your rent with a credit card, let’s look at some of the best credit cards to help maximize your rewards.

A Note on Bilt Cards: How They Work

The Bilt 2.0 card lineup consists of 3 credit cards, the only cards on the market that let you pay your rent or mortgage without transaction fees. However, these cards are complex, so it’s best to understand how the program works before choosing one.

In order to obtain your full up to 1x rewards on rent and mortgage payments, you have to redeem 3 Bilt Cash to unlock 100 points on your housing payments. For example, if your rent were $1,000, you’d have to redeem 30 Bilt Cash to get the full 1,000 points. While each Bilt card offers different perks and benefits, they all can earn 4% Bilt Cash (offer terms) on all purchases outside housing payments. This means you’d have to spend $750 each month on purchases that don’t include housing, so you’d have enough Bilt Cash to obtain the full amount of Bilt Points (offer terms) on your rent or mortgage payment.

Or you can forgo earning Bilt Cash entirely and earn up to 1.25x points on housing payments you make through Bilt without a fee, but you won’t earn Bilt Cash from your card spending. However, this option means you’d have to spend at least 100% of your monthly housing payment to get the 1.25x or 75% to get 1x. If your rent payment were $1,000 monthly, the math would be simple: Spend $1,000 on nonhousing payments to get 1.25x or, similar to the Bilt Cash option, spend $750 to get 1x points.

Hot Tip:

The easiest way to do the math is to remember 75%. Use your Bilt credit card for nonhousing purchases that total at least 75% of your housing payment and you’ll have enough Bilt Cash to obtain the full up to 1x points on your rent or mortgage payments. If you skip the Bilt Cash, you still need to spend 75% on nonhousing payments to get 1x Bilt Points.

1. Bilt Palladium Card: Best Premium Card for No-Transaction-Fee Rent Payments

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Bilt Palladium Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

Apply Now

Bilt Palladium Card

Welcome Offer

Subject to approval: 50,000 Bilt Points + Gold Status after spending $4,000 on everyday purchases in the first 90 days + $300 of Bilt Cash.

Subject to approval: 50,000 points + $300 Bilt Cash

Annual Fee

$495

Why We Like This Card

The Bilt Palladium Card is a premium card option for those who want to earn up to 1.25x Bilt Points on their rent and mortgage payments, but also want premium perks like airport lounge access.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 2x points and the option to earn 4% back in Bilt Cash on everyday purchases
• Up to 1.25x points on rent and mortgage payments
• $400 annual Bilt Travel hotel credit, split into 2 semiannual credits (requires a 2-night stay)

Cons

• Charges a $495 annual fee
• You’ll need to redeem Bilt Cash to unlock rewards for rent and mortgage payments

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn up to 1.25X points on rent and mortgage payments with no transaction fee.
• 2X points on everyday spend
• $400 Bilt Travel Hotel credit. Applied twice a year, as $200 statement credits, for qualifying Bilt Travel Portal hotel bookings.
• $200 Bilt Cash (awarded annually). At the end of each calendar year, any Bilt Cash balance over $100 will expire.
• Welcome bonus (subject to approval): 50,000 Bilt Points + Gold Status after spending $4,000 on everyday purchases in the first 90 days + $300 of Bilt Cash.
• Priority Pass ($469/year value). See Guide to Benefits.
• Bilt Point redemptions include airlines, hotels, future rent and mortgage payments, Lyft rides, statement credits, student loan balances, a down payment on a home, and more.
• Earn additional points through Bilt Neighborhood Benefits™ when you use your card at Bilt’s network of 50,000+ merchant partners.

Financial Snapshot

• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

The most premium of Bilt’s 3 credit cards, the Bilt Palladium Card lets you earn up to 1x Bilt Points on rent (or even up to 1.25x if you forgo Bilt Cash) with transaction-fee-free payments if you spend enough on nonhousing expenses. The card has a generous welcome offer (subject to approval): Subject to approval: Earn 50,000 points after spending $4,000 on non-housing expenses in the first 90 days + Gold elite status. And, $300 Bilt Cash when you apply and get approved (offer terms).. The card also comes with perks such as $400 Bilt Travel hotel credit (coming in 2 semiannual statement credits of $200 each), 200 Bilt Cash (awarded annually), Priority Pass lounge access, and earning rates of 2x Bilt Points and 4% Bilt Cash on all nonhousing purchases.

Use the Palladium Card for rent if you don’t mind paying a higher annual fee and are a frequent traveler who will use the travel-specific perks, such as hotel credits and lounge access. If you’re ready to go all-in with Bilt, this is the right card.

Hot Tip:

Bilt Points are flexible and valuable, as there are many Bilt transfer partners, including Iberia Club, United MileagePlus, and World of Hyatt.

2. Bilt Obsidian Card: Best Midtier Card for No-Transaction-Fee Rent Payments

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Bilt Obsidian Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

Apply Now

Bilt Obsidian Card

Welcome Offer

$200 of Bilt Cash when you apply and get approved. At the end of each calendar year, any Bilt Cash balance over $100 will expire.

$200 Bilt Cash

Annual Fee

$95

Why We Like This Card

The Bilt Obsidian Card is a midtier option for those who want to earn up to 1.25x Bilt Points on rent or mortgage payments, as well as bonus points in key categories such as dining or groceries and travel.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Up to 1.25x points on rent and mortgage payments with no transaction fee
• 3x points on dining or groceries, on up to $25,000 per year (you can choose which category annually), and the option to earn 4% back in Bilt Cash
• 2x points and the option to earn 4% back in Bilt Cash on travel purchases

Cons

• $95 annual fee
• You’ll need to redeem Bilt Cash to unlock rewards for rent and mortgage payments

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn up to 1.25X points on rent and mortgage payments with no transaction fee.
• 3X points on your choice of grocery (up to $25K/year) or dining. Your 3X category choice remains in effect for the entire calendar year.
• 2X points on travel
• 1X points on everyday spend
• Welcome offer: $200 of Bilt Cash when you apply and get approved. At the end of each calendar year, any Bilt Cash balance over $100 will expire.
• $100 Bilt Travel Hotel credit. Applied twice a year, as $50 statement credits, for qualifying Bilt Travel Portal hotel bookings.
• Bilt Point redemptions include airlines, hotels, future rent and mortgage payments, Lyft rides, statement credits, student loan balances, a down payment on a home, and more.
• Earn additional points through Bilt Neighborhood Benefits™ when you use your card at Bilt’s network of 50,000+ merchant partners.

Financial Snapshot

• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

For an reasonable annual fee of $95, you can earn up to 1x points on rent and mortgage payments, 3x points and 4% Bilt Cash on dining or groceries (up to $25,000 per year, then 1x; you can choose which category earns 3x each year), 2x points and 4% Bilt Cash on travel purchases, and 1x points and 4% Bilt Cash on everyday purchases, as well as a $100 Bilt Travel hotel credit (2 $50 semiannual statement credits) on the Bilt Obsidian card.

The Obsidian Card is for consumers who value flexibility, as it comes with the ability to choose where you want to earn extra bonus rewards, making it easier to earn more points and enough Bilt Cash for rent payments without overspending on an annual fee.

3. Bilt Blue Card: Best No-Annual-Fee Card for No-Transaction-Fee Rent Payments

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Bilt Blue Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

Apply Now

Bilt Blue Card

Welcome Offer

Welcome offer: $100 of Bilt Cash when you apply and get approved. At the end of each calendar year, any Bilt Cash balance over $100 will expire.

$100 Bilt Cash

Annual Fee

$0

Why We Like This Card

The Bilt Blue Card allows cardholders to earn valuable Bilt Rewards Points with a $0 annual fee on rent, mortgage, and everyday purchases, with the option to also earn 4% back in Bilt Cash on nonhousing spend.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Up to 1.25x points on rent and mortgage payments
• Earn 1x points and the option to earn 4% back in Bilt Cash on everyday purchases
• No foreign transaction fees
• No authorized user annual fee

Cons

• The math can be confusing to redeem Bilt Cash

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn up to 1.25X points on rent and mortgage payments with no transaction fee.
• 1X points on everyday spend.
• Welcome offer: $100 of Bilt Cash when you apply and get approved. At the end of each calendar year, any Bilt Cash balance over $100 will expire.
• Bilt Point redemptions include airlines, hotels, future rent and mortgage payments, Lyft rides, statement credits, student loan balances, a down payment on a home, and more.
• Earn additional points through Bilt Neighborhood Benefits™ when you use your card at Bilt’s network of 50,000+ merchant partners.
• Other benefits: No foreign transaction fees, Cellular Wireless Telephone Protection, Purchase Assurance, MasterRental Coverage (See Guide to Benefits).

Financial Snapshot

• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Bilt Rewards

Ideal for those who want transaction-fee-free housing payments on a card without an annual fee, the Blue Card is a top choice. It comes with a generous welcome offer of $100 of Bilt Cash when you apply and get approved. At the end of each calendar year, any Bilt Cash balance over $100 will expire. (offer terms). (pretty impressive for a card sans annual fee), and earns 1x points and 4% back in Bilt Cash on everyday purchases.

Remember that Bilt Cash does more than just unlock rent payments (though the welcome offer bonus alone can unlock more than $3,000 worth of transaction-fee-free housing payments, and you’d get 1x Bilt Points on it all). You can also use it for things like restaurant credits, Lyft or Blacklane credits, parking, fitness classes, Walgreens purchases, and more.

Hot Tip:

We value Bilt Rewards points at 2 cents per point. If your rent were $1,000 each month and you charged it to your Bilt Obsidian Card, you’d earn between 12,000 (with the Bilt Cash option) and 15,000 (with the housing-only rewards option) points annually just on rent. We value this at a minimum of $240 to $300 each year, which is a significant return for a no-annual-fee card. Plus, you’d also earn points on nonhousing purchases, which increases the value.

4. Capital One Venture Card: Best Beginner Card for Earning Capital One Miles on Every Purchase

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

Get 2x miles plus some of the most flexible redemptions offered by a travel credit card!

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Get 2x miles plus some of the most flexible redemptions offered by a travel credit card!

Welcome Offer

Earn a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.

75,000 miles

UP's Offer Valuation*:

$1,350

Annual Fee

$95

APR

Purchases: 19.49% - 28.49% (Variable)

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.

Good to Excellent Credit

Why We Like This Card

The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is one of the most popular rewards cards on the market. It’s perfect for anyone in search of a great welcome offer, high rewards rates, and flexible redemption options.

Frequent travelers with excellent credit may benefit from this credit card that offers a lot of bells and whistles. And it offers easy-to-understand rewards earning and redemption.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 5x miles per $1 on hotels, vacation rentals, and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
• 2x miles per $1 on all other purchases
• Up to a $120 Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit

Cons

• $95 annual fee
• Limited elite benefits

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
• Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day
• Earn 5X miles on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
• Miles won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how many you can earn
• Receive up to a $120 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck^®
• Use your miles to get reimbursed for any travel purchase—or redeem by booking a trip through Capital One Travel
• Enjoy a $50 experience credit and other premium benefits with every hotel and vacation rental booked from the Lifestyle Collection
• Transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
• Top rated mobile app

Financial Snapshot

• APR: Purchases: 19.49% - 28.49% (Variable)
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Capital One Miles

The Capital One Venture card is an excellent all-around travel rewards card with a low $95 annual fee. It has a solid welcome offer and good miles-earning rates on everyday purchases. It also earns valuable Capital One miles and offers several different redemptions.

Cardholders earn an unlimited 2x miles on every purchase, making the card excellent for everyday spending. It also serves as a great card for nonbonus spending categories, such as rent, that other cards may not have. The Capital One Venture card also earns 5x miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel.

The Capital One Venture card’s benefits include purchase security, travel insurance, and car rental insurance. As a travel rewards card, you also get perks like a credit of up to $120 toward a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application.

When you spend on this card, you earn Capital One miles. According to our valuations, Capital One miles are worth 1.8 cents per point. This means that any everyday spending, including rent, on the Capital One Venture card is equivalent to getting a 3.6% return on spending. As long as the fees associated with paying rent with a credit card are less than 3.6%, paying rent with the Capital One Venture card is a solid option.

5. Capital One Venture X Card: Best for Earning Capital One Miles and Premium Benefits

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

The Capital One Venture X card is an excellent option for travelers looking for an all-in-one premium credit card.

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

The Capital One Venture X card is an excellent option for travelers looking for an all-in-one premium credit card.

Welcome Offer

Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.

75,000 miles

UP's Offer Valuation*:

$1,350

Annual Fee

$395

APR

Purchases: 19.49% - 28.49% (Variable)

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.

Excellent

Why We Like This Card

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card is the premium Capital One travel rewards card on the block.

Points and miles fans will be surprised to see that the Capital One Venture X card packs quite the punch when it comes to bookings made through Capital One, all while offering the lowest annual fee among premium credit cards.

Depending on your travel goals and preferences, the Capital One Venture X card could very well end up being your go-to card in your wallet.

 

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 10x miles per $1 on hotels and rental cars purchased through Capital One Travel
• 5x miles per $1 on flights and vacation rentals purchased through Capital One Travel
• 2x miles per $1 on all other purchases

Cons

• $395 annual fee
• Does not offer bonus categories for flights or hotel purchases made directly with the airline or hotel group, the preferred booking method for those looking to earn elite status

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
• Receive a $300 annual credit for bookings through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
• Get 10,000 bonus miles (equal to $100 towards travel) every year, starting on your first anniversary
• Earn unlimited 10X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and 5X miles on flights and vacation rentals booked through Capital One Travel
• Earn unlimited 2X miles on all other purchases
• Enjoy access to 1,300+ lounges worldwide, including Capital One Lounge and Landing locations and participating Priority Pass™ lounges, after enrollment
• Use your Venture X miles to easily cover travel expenses, including flights, hotels, rental cars and more—you can even transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
• Enjoy a $100 experience credit and other premium benefits with every hotel and vacation rental booked from the Premier Collection
• Receive up to a $120 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck^®
• Top rated mobile app

Financial Snapshot

• APR: Purchases: 19.49% - 28.49% (Variable)
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Capital One Miles

 

The Capital One Venture X card is easily one of the best credit cards available today. The ultrapremium travel rewards card offers a fantastic welcome offer, solid rewards-earning potential, and numerous travel benefits. Bonus categories include an unlimited 10x miles on hotels and rental cars purchased through Capital One Travel, 5x miles on flights purchased through Capital One Travel, and 2x miles on all other purchases.

As a luxury travel card, the Capital One Venture X card also offers lounge access to participating Priority Pass lounges after enrollment and Capital One Lounges and Landings. The card also includes a credit of up to $120 toward Global Entry or TSA PreCheck. However, the card also comes with an annual travel credit of $300 for bookings made through Capital One Travel, which helps mitigate the annual fee. Additionally, you receive 10,000 bonus miles, equal to $100 toward travel, every year, starting on your first anniversary.

The 2x miles on all nonbonus purchases make the Capital One Venture X card a solid option for paying rent. Like the Capital One Venture card, the Capital One Venture X card also earns Capital One miles, worth 1.8 cents per point, according to our valuations. As long as the fees for paying rent with a credit card are less than 3.6%, the Capital One Venture X card is excellent for this use.

6. Freedom Unlimited Card: Best for Cash-Back (or Chase Ultimate Rewards Points) on Every Purchase

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Chase Freedom Unlimited^®

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

This all-purpose cash-back card offers great bonus categories, including bonus points for every purchase you make!

Apply Now(at Chase's secure site)

Chase Freedom Unlimited^®

This all-purpose cash-back card offers great bonus categories, including bonus points for every purchase you make!

Welcome Offer

Earn a $200 Bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening

$200

Annual Fee

$0

APR

0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 18.24% - 27.74%.

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.

Good to Excellent

Why We Like This Card

The Chase Freedom Unlimited^® is easily one of the best cash-back credit cards on the market. There aren’t many no-annual-fee credit cards that offer multiple great bonus categories like 5% back on travel purchased through Chase, 3% back on dining and drugstore purchases, and 1.5% back on all other purchases.

When paired with other Chase cards in the Ultimate Rewards family, you can transfer that cash back into points if you wish – making it one of the most lucrative cards in your wallet.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 5% back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠
• 3% back on dining and drugstore purchases
• 1.5% back on all other purchases

Cons

• 3% foreign transaction fee

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn a $200 Bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening
• Enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more; 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 1.5% on all other purchases.
• No minimum to redeem for cash back. You can use points to redeem for cash through an account statement credit or an electronic deposit into an eligible Chase account located in the United States!
• Enjoy 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 18.24% - 27.74%.
• No annual fee – You won't have to pay an annual fee for all the great features that come with your Freedom Unlimited^® card
• Keep tabs on your credit health, Chase Credit Journey helps you monitor your credit with free access to your latest score, alerts, and more.
• Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 18.24% - 27.74%.
• Foreign Transaction Fees: 3% of each transaction in U.S. dollars

Rewards Center

Chase Ultimate Rewards

Thanks to its simple yet high earning potential, the Freedom Unlimited card is a card ideal for paying rent.

With the Freedom Unlimited card, you can earn 5% cash-back on travel purchased through the Chase Travel portal and 2% cash-back on all Lyft rides through September 30, 2027. You can also earn 3% cash-back on dining and drugstore purchases. All other nonbonus-category spending earns an unlimited 1.5% cash back.

Although the Freedom Unlimited card earns highly valuable Chase Ultimate Rewards points, the points can’t be transferred to Chase’s hotel and airline transfer partners unless the card is paired with one of Chase’s premium travel cards, like the Chase Sapphire Reserve^® or the Chase Sapphire Preferred^® Card. You can significantly increase the value of your rewards when you redeem Chase Ultimate Rewards points versus cash-back.

The Freedom Unlimited card’s 1.5% cash-back on all nonbonus category spending is excellent, especially when it comes to paying rent. There’s no limit to how many Ultimate Rewards points you can earn, and your rewards don’t expire for as long as you have the card.

According to our valuations, Chase Ultimate Rewards points are worth 2 cents per point, meaning that the Freedom Unlimited card’s 1.5% cash-back can be worth 3%. However, this is only true when transferring Ultimate Rewards points to Chase’s transfer partners.

If the Freedom Unlimited card is the only Chase Ultimate Rewards-earning card you have, it may not be worth using it to pay rent, as the value of the points is significantly less. However, if the fee for paying rent with a credit card is less than 3% and you hold a more premium Chase travel rewards credit card, the Freedom Unlimited card is a solid option.

Best Business Cards

If you’re a small-business owner and have to pay rent on an office, shop, or something else work-related, consider paying rent with one of these business credit cards.

7. Amex Blue Business Plus Card: Best for No Annual Fee and Introductory APR Offer

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

The Blue Business^® Plus Credit Card from American Express

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

Earn Membership Rewards for your business spending the easy way: get 2x points for the first $50,000 in purchases per year.

Apply Now(at Amex's secure site)

The Blue Business^® Plus Credit Card from American Express

Earn Membership Rewards for your business spending the easy way: get 2x points for the first $50,000 in purchases per year.

Welcome Offer

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.

15,000 points

UP's Offer Valuation*:

Up to $330

Annual Fee

No annual fee

APR

16.74% - 28.49% Variable,0% on purchases for 12 months from date of account opening

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.

Good to Excellent

Why We Like This Card

As a business owner, getting a credit card that maximizes each dollar you spend does not have to be complicated or expensive. Especially when you opt for The Blue Business^® Plus Credit Card from American Express.

With the Amex Blue Business Plus card, you’ll earn 2x Membership Rewards points on everyday business purchases throughout the year (up to $50,000; 1x thereafter) and receive purchase protections and no-additional-charge employee cards all for no annual fee (see rates and fees).

The simple and straightforward earning structure makes it a great fit for those looking to earn flexible rewards, without having to fixate on which purchases earn the most points.

Let’s take look at all that the Amex Blue Business Plus card has to offer.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 2x Membership Rewards points per $1 on everyday business purchases (up to $50,000; 1x thereafter)
• Purchase protection and extended warranty protection
• No annual fee and employee cards at no additional cost

Cons

• No unique bonus categories and 2x earnings are capped at $50,000 in annual spend
• No elite travel benefits like lounge access or elite status

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• 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.
• 0.0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months from the date of account opening, then a variable rate, 16.74% - 28.49%, based on your creditworthiness and other factors at account opening. APR will not exceed 29.99%
• Earn 2X 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. Terms and limitations apply.
• You’ve got the power to spend above your credit limit* with Expanded Buying Power. *The amount you can spend above your credit limit is flexible, so it adapts with your use of the Card, your payment history, credit record, financial resources known to us, and other factors. Just remember, the amount you can spend with Expanded Buying Power is not unlimited.
• No Annual Fee
• Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 16.74% - 28.49% Variable,0% on purchases for 12 months from date of account opening
• Foreign Transaction Fees: 2.7% of each transaction after conversion to US dollars.

Rewards Center

American Express Membership Rewards

The Amex Blue Business Plus card is one of the best overall small-business credit cards available.

It has a simple earning structure of 2x Membership Rewards points on everyday business purchases up to $50,000 per year. After reaching that threshold, the card earns 1x points. Best of all, the Amex Blue Business Plus card has no annual fee (rates & fees).

According to our valuations, American Express Membership Rewards points are the most valuable from any credit card loyalty program at 2.2 cents per point.

This means that all spending (up to $50,000 per year) will earn you a 4.4% return on spend. If the fee for paying your business’s rent with a credit card is less than 4.4%, using the Amex Blue Business Plus card is a good idea. Plus, if you’re just starting out and have a lot of expenses, the card has 0.0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months from the date of account opening, then a variable rate, 16.74% - 28.49%. (rates & fees).

Hot Tip:

American Express Membership Rewards can be extremely valuable for award travel. Check out our guide on the best ways to redeem Amex Membership Rewards points for maximum value.

8. Ink Business Unlimited Card: Best for Unlimited Cash-Back on Every Purchase

LIMITED TIME OFFER

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Ink Business Unlimited^® Credit Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

The Ink Business Unlimited card is a stellar option for business owners looking for a no-fuss uncapped 1.5% cash-back card without an annual fee.

Apply Now(at Chase's secure site)

Ink Business Unlimited^® Credit Card

The Ink Business Unlimited card is a stellar option for business owners looking for a no-fuss uncapped 1.5% cash-back card without an annual fee.

Welcome Offer

Earn $750 $1,000 bonus cash back after you spend $8,000 on purchases in the first 4 months from account opening.

$750 $1,000

UP's Offer Valuation*:

$1,000

Annual Fee

$0

APR

0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months; variable 16.74% - 24.74% thereafter.

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.

Good to Excellent

Why We Like This Card

As a business owner, you likely keep pretty busy and probably prefer a credit card that just keeps things simple.

If so, the Ink Business Unlimited^® Credit Card might be just the card for you. From zero annual fee to a flat cash-back rate, the card is a no-frills option that you don’t have to think twice about.

Don’t forget too, 0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months; variable 16.74% - 24.74% thereafter.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 1.5% cash-back on all purchases
• No annual fee
• 0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months; variable 16.74% - 24.74% thereafter.

Cons

• 3% foreign transaction fee

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn $750 $1,000 bonus cash back after you spend $8,000 on purchases in the first 4 months from account opening
• Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase made for your business
• No Annual Fee
• Redeem rewards for cash back, gift cards, travel and more through Chase Ultimate Rewards^®.
• Earn rewards faster with employee cards at no additional cost. Set individual spending limits for greater control.
• Round-the-clock monitoring for unusual credit card purchases
• With Zero Liability you won’t be held responsible for unauthorized charges made with your card or account information.
• 0% introductory APR for 12 months on purchases
• Earn 5% total cash back on Lyft rides through 9/30/27.
• Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months; variable 16.74% - 24.74% thereafter.
• Foreign Transaction Fees: 3% of each transaction in U.S. dollars

Rewards Center

• Chase Ultimate Rewards

The Ink Business Unlimited card is another excellent small-business credit card that offers a simple rewards-earning structure with no annual fee.

Every purchase earns an unlimited 1.5% cash-back, and since the card doesn’t offer bonus categories, it is a solid choice for those who want simplicity in earnings.

The Ink Business Unlimited card also earns Chase Ultimate Rewards points. However, like the Freedom Unlimited card, the points earned cannot be transferred to Chase’s travel partners without the help of a more premium Ultimate Rewards credit card, such as the Ink Business Preferred^® Credit Card.

Final Thoughts

Just because you can pay rent with a credit card doesn’t mean you should.

When it comes to paying rent with a credit card, doing a little math can go a long way. You should only pay your rent with a credit card if the rewards you’d earn are worth more than the cost of earning the rewards.

Since fees vary from one apartment complex or landlord to the next, it’s important to know how much your complex charges for using a credit card. Knowing how much you’d pay in fees will make it much easier to decide whether to pay rent with a credit card.