The Best Small Business Credit Cards to Maximize Your Rewards [October 2019]

- UPDATED: October 2, 2019

Credit Cards

Full Disclosure: We may be financially compensated when you click on links to credit card products from our advertising partners, such as American Express, Chase, Citi & Capital One. Opinions and product recommendations on this site are ours alone, and have not been influenced, reviewed or approved by the issuer. See our Advertiser Disclosure for more details. Thanks!

Credit cards are a popular financing choice for small businesses. In fact, the National Small Business Association reports 31% of businesses surveyed for their NSBA annual economic report used credit cards to finance their business in 2017.

Credit cards that can help your business grow and prosper are critical. You should select the best credit cards to manage your business finances, earn rewards you can utilize, and provide perks and benefits to make business travel more comfortable and productive.

No matter the size or nature of your business, selecting the right credit card is essential. But where do you start?

Table of Contents

The 3 Best Small Business Credit Cards in 2019
How to Select a Business Credit Card
- Business Card Basics
- Narrow Your Business Card Options by Answering These Questions
The Best Business Credit Cards For Startups
Best Cash-Back Business Credit Cards
The Best Small Business Credit Cards
Best Business Credit Cards For Travel Rewards
Best Business Credit Cards for Lounge Access
Best Business Airline and Hotel Credit Cards
Best Business Credit Cards for Balance Transfers
Best Business Credit Cards With No Annual Fee
Best Business Credit Cards With 0% APR on Purchases for up to 15 Months
Which Types of Businesses Qualify for a Business Credit Card?
How to Apply for a Business Credit Card
Business Credit Cards vs. Personal Credit Cards
Deciding Between a Business Charge Card or a Business Credit Card
Best Small Business Credit Cards In 2019 [Quick Summary]
Final Thoughts
Full List of Business Credit Cards

The 3 Best Small Business Credit Cards in 2019

1. The Ink Business Preferred℠ Credit Card (Our Favorite)

This rewards card is the most appealing for businesses that travel frequently. Plus, its broad range of bonus earning categories is likely to pair nicely with your business spending patterns.

The current 80,000 points sign up bonus is the best there is, in our opinion. That’s worth $1,000 when used for booking travel via Chase’s travel portal.

You earn 3x points per $1 spent (up to $150,000 per year) in the following bonus categories:

Advertising on social media and search engines
Travel
Shipping
Internet
Cable
Phone

For example, if you spent $50,000 per year in those bonus categories you’d earn 150,000 Chase Ultimate Rewards points. That’s worth $1,875 when used in Chase’s travel portal to book flights, hotels etc.

But, those points are worth significantly more if you transfer those points to airline and hotel partners!

Hot Tip: If you’re interested in learning more about rewards for advertising (Facebook, Google Ads, radio, etc.) check out this piece – The Best Business Credit Cards for Advertising Purchases.

2. The Business Platinum Card® from American Express

This rewards card is a clear leader if your business requires a lot of travel.

Although the annual fee is steep, you’ll find plenty of benefits that more than offset the fee, including worldwide lounge access, airline and hotel credits, Uber credits, and right now there’s a huge welcome bonus of up to 100,000 points. (terms apply.)

3. Ink Business Cash℠ Credit Card

An excellent choice if you’re looking for a no annual fee business card.

A small business will fare well earning 5% cash-back on several bonus categories including office supply stores, and taking advantage of the 0% APR period can help your business finance a large purchase without costly interest charges.

Bottom Line: Whether you’re looking for premium travel rewards, a broad range of bonus-earning business spending categories, or a no annual fee business credit card that earns rewards, one of these top business credit cards may be the perfect fit for your business.

Best Small Business Credit Cards 2018	Benefits & Info
Ink Business Preferred℠ Credit Card We Get $2,500+ of Value Using This Card >>	Earn 80,000 bonus points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months That's $1,000 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards® Points are worth 25% more when you redeem for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards® Earn 3 points per $1 on the first $150,000 spent in combined purchases in the following categories each account anniversary year: Travel, Shipping purchases, Internet, cable and phone services, Advertising purchases with social media sites and search engines. Annual Fee: $95
The Business Platinum Card® from American Express	Welcome Offer: Earn up to 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points. Earn 50,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $10,000 & an extra 50,000 points after you spend an additional $15,000 all on qualifying purchases within your first 3 months of Card Membership. Get 5X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels on amextravel.com. Access more than 1,200 airport lounges across 130 countries and counting, including the amazing Centurion® lounges. $200 Airline Fee Credit. Annual Fee: $595 For rates and fees of The Business Platinum, click here.
Ink Business Cash℠ Credit Card	Earn $500 bonus cash-back Earn 5% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at office supply stores and on internet, cable and phone services Earn 2% cash back on the first $25,000 (combined) spent at gas stations and restaurants each year 0% introductory APR for 12 months on purchases, then a variable APR of 14.99% - 20.99% $0 Annual Fee

How to Select a Business Credit Card

There are so many variables when it comes to credit cards, and business credit cards are no different. You’ll need to do a bit of research before selecting a business credit card.

Business Card Basics

You will be personally responsible for paying the card unless your contract states otherwise. Your personal credit may play a significant role in whether you’re approved for a business credit card.
The Federal Credit Card Accountability Responsibility and Disclosure (CARD) Act of 2009 set new provisions to protect consumers from some of the negative practices of credit card companies, but the CARD Act does not apply to business cards. Your business credit card may have higher fees and be less consumer-friendly, although many banks are now including CARD protections voluntarily on business cards.
Credit limits are generally higher for business credit cards than for personal credit cards.
Unfortunately, APRs can also be higher on business credit cards, a good reason not to carry high balances.

Narrow Your Business Card Options by Answering These Questions

Which are my most significant business expenses? You’ll want to select a card that rewards your most significant spending categories, ideally one that rewards all of your spending in those categories, not just a portion.
What are my business travel requirements? Are you a road warrior who values rewards on gas purchases, an in-home business requiring no travel, or a frequent flyer who values premium travel benefits?
Do you want to earn cash-back to reinvest in your business, or is earning travel rewards more of a priority?
Do the redemption options for rewards add value to the business? With cash-back credit cards, the answer may be easy, but can your business benefit from free airline tickets if your business doesn’t require travel? However, it’s perfectly acceptable to use the rewards earned on business expenses for a personal vacation.
Do I prefer a business card with no annual fee? While some high annual fee cards provide exceptional benefits, you might have a preference to stay clear of cards with high annual fees.

Bottom Line: While it’s essential to select a business credit card that aligns with your expenses and priorities, it’s not a permanent decision. Try the card for a year and determine if it meets your needs. If the card doesn’t have an annual fee, you can hold on to it to build a longer credit history, or cancel your card if it has an annual fee, but doesn’t offer the value you want. You can then select a new, more fitting business credit card, but keep the Chase 5/24 Rule in mind.

Flower shop business — Startup businesses might have heavy spending in certain business categories, so you’ll want to select a business credit card that rewards these expenses. Image courtesy of Shutterstock

The Best Business Credit Cards For Startups

Please note that the information for the American Express Blue Business Cash Card, formerly the SimplyCash Plus Business card, expired on July 18, 2019.

Best Business Credit Cards For Startups	Benefits for Startups	Drawbacks
Ink Business Cash℠ Credit Card	Earn $500 bonus cash back Earn 5% cash back in select business categories Earn 2% cash back on the first $25,000 (combined) spent at gas stations and restaurants each year 0% introductory APR for 12 months on purchases, then a variable APR of 14.99% - 20.99% $0 Annual Fee	5% cash back and 2% cash back categories each have a $25,000 limit spent annually
American Express® Blue Business Cash Card	Earn 2% cash back on all eligible purchases on up to $50,000 per calendar year Cash back automatically applied as a monthly statement - good for re-investing back into the business 0.0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 12 months, then a variable rate, 14.74%, 17.74%, or 20.74% Annual Fee: $0 For rates and fees of the American Express® Blue Business Cash Card, please click here.	No bonus category earnings

Many new businesses spend a lot on phone expenses, internet service and office supplies, so having a business credit card such as the Ink Business Cash Card that gives 5% cash-back in these categories could make it a good choice for a startup business.

While earning rewards for business expenses is a perk, many new businesses have a priority of investing back into their business rather than taking a vacation using points or miles. A cash-back credit card such as the American Express® Blue Business Cash Card can put cash-back earned directly into your business.

You’ll also want to consider the American Express Business Gold Card that earns up to 4 Membership Rewards Points per $1 on select business spending categories that are your highest spending categories each statement period. The card does charge a $295 annual fee (see Rates & Fees).

Bottom Line: Startup businesses might have higher initial expenses in specific spending categories. The Blue Business Cash Card and Ink Business Cash Card ensure accelerated earnings in specific categories. The Business Gold Card has business bonus earning categories but also offers the additional benefit of free recruiting, video conference, storage and file sharing.

Best Cash-Back Business Credit Cards

Best Cash Back Business Credit Cards	Cash Back Rewards	Drawbacks
Ink Business Cash℠ Credit Card	Earn $500 bonus cash back Earn 5% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at office supply stores and on internet, cable and phone services Earn 2% cash back on the first $25,000 (combined) spent at gas stations and restaurants each year. 0% introductory APR for 12 months on purchases, then a variable APR of 14.99% - 20.99%. Free employee cards $0 Annual Fee.	5% cash back and 2% cash back categories each have a $25,000 limit spent annually
American Express® Blue Business Cash Card	Earn 2% cash back on all eligible purchases on up to $50,000 per calendar year Earn 1% on all purchases after that 0.0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 12 months, then a variable rate, 14.74%, 17.74%, or 20.74% Cash back automatically applied as a monthly statement - good for re-investing back into the business Free employee cards Annual Fee: $0 For rates and fees of the American Express® Blue Business Cash Card, please click here.	No bonus categories
Bank of America Cash Rewards for Business Mastercard®	Earn 3% cash back at gas stations and office supply stores (up to $250,000 each calendar year) 2% cash back at restaurants No annual fee	Not a travel rewards-earning credit card Limited bonus categories

If your business requires frequent travel and you’re looking for a cash-back card, you’ll do well with the Amex Blue Business Cash Card, which offers travel as one of its 3% business spending bonus categories.

The Ink Business Unlimited℠ Credit Card provides solid cashback benefits without having to keep track of special categories or quarterly bonuses. Every purchase you make earns 1.5% cashback that be invested directly back into your business operation.

For businesses requiring a lot of road travel, the Bank of America Cash Rewards for Business Mastercard will earn 3% cash-back on all those purchases.

You can’t beat 5% cash-back in several business expense categories such as office supplies, internet, cable, and phone services with the Ink Business Cash℠ Credit Card.

Bottom Line: Cash-back is the most flexible reward you can earn as it can be invested right back into your business each statement period to help offset expenses and make your business revenue go further.

The Best Small Business Credit Cards

Best Small Business Credit Cards	Benefits & Info	Drawbacks
Ink Business Preferred℠ Credit Card	Earn 80,000 bonus points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months That's $1,000 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards® Points are worth 25% more when you redeem for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards® Earn 3 points per $1 on the first $150,000 spent in combined purchases in the following categories each account anniversary year: Travel, Shipping purchases, Internet, cable and phone services, Advertising purchases with social media sites and search engines. Annual Fee: $95	$95 Annual fee not waived first year $100,000 annual limit on bonus categories
Ink Business Cash℠ Credit Card	Earn $500 bonus cash back Earn 5% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at office supply stores and on internet, cable and phone services Earn 2% cash back on the first $25,000 (combined) spent at gas stations and restaurants each year. 0% introductory APR for 12 months on purchases, then a variable APR of 14.99% - 20.99% Free employee cards $0 Annual Fee.	5% cash back and 2% cash back categories each have a $25,000 limit spent annually

Rewards currencies differ in value, so we’ve selected these business credit cards each earning a different rewards currency that you can use in a variety of ways that suit your business finances.

Chase Ultimate Rewards earned on the Ink Business Preferred can be transferred to airline and hotel partners, redeemed for 25% more on travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards, or even redeemed for cash.

The Business Gold Card earns Membership Rewards Points which you can redeem in several ways, but they bring the most value when transferred to one of the 20 hotel and airline partners.

Last, but certainly not least, is the cash-back you’ll earn on the Ink Business Cash Card.

Bottom Line: Rewards currencies vary in value, so you’ll want to make sure the rewards you’re earning on your business credit cards offer the best redemption value for your business.

Delta Business Class A330 — If your business requires travel, your business credit card can deliver perks that make it more comfortable. Image courtesy of Delta Air Lines

Best Business Credit Cards For Travel Rewards

Best Business Credit Cards for Travel Rewards	Travel Rewards/Benefits	Drawbacks
Ink Business Preferred℠ Credit Card	Earn 80,000 bonus points That's $1,000 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards® Earn 3 points per $1 in select categories Redeem points for travel on the Ultimate Rewards® travel site for 25% more value Transfer points to airline/hotel partners Annual Fee: $95	$150,000 annual limit on bonus categories
The Business Platinum Card® from American Express	Welcome Offer: Earn up to 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points. Earn 50,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $10,000 & an extra 50,000 points after you spend an additional $15,000 all on qualifying purchases within your first 3 months of Card Membership. Get 5X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels on amextravel.com. Access more than 1,200 airport lounges across 130 countries and counting, including the amazing Centurion® lounges. $200 Airline Fee Credit.	Limited business spending bonus categories $595 Annual Fee For rates and fees of The Business Platinum Card® from American Express, please click here.

Bottom Line: Earning travel rewards on your business expenses is a fast way to accumulate points and miles that can be redeemed for free travel whether for a business trip or personal vacation.

Best Business Credit Cards for Lounge Access

Best Business Credit Cards for Lounge Access	Provides Access to:	Annual Fee
The Business Platinum Card® from American Express	Centurion Lounges Priority Pass Select Lounges Delta SkyClub	$595 See Rates & Fees
The Hilton Honors American Express Business Card	Priority Pass Select Lounges - 10 free one-time pass each calendar year	$95 See Rates & Fees
Delta Reserve® for Business Credit Card from American Express	Delta SkyClub	$450 ($550 if application is received on or after 1/30/2020) See Rates & Fees
United℠ Explorer Business Card	United Club - 2 one-time passes at each card anniversary	$95

There aren’t many business credit cards that provide complimentary airport lounge access. Premium personal cards may make excellent alternatives if this benefit is valuable to you. The Citi®/AAdvantage® Executive® World Elite MasterCard® offers access to the American Airlines Admiral’s Clubs, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® gives access to Priority Pass Select lounges.

Bottom Line: If you have frequent business travel and lounge access is important to you, The Business Platinum Card is an excellent choice. Again, you’ll find a steep annual fee — about enough for an annual lounge membership — but this card gives you access to several lounges for the effective price of just one.

Best Business Airline and Hotel Credit Cards

Best Business Airline/Hotel Credit Cards	Benefits	Good For
The Hilton Honors American Express Business Card	Welcome Offer: Earn 125,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your Card in the first 3 months of Card Membership. Earn 12x Hilton Honors Points at Hilton Properties 6x on business travel including flights, car rentals, US restaurants, US gas stations, wireless and shipping. 3x on all other eligible purchases Priority Pass Select lounge access - 10 passes Hilton Gold Status $95 Annual Fee For rates and fees of The Hilton Honors American Express Business Card, please click here.	Perks at Hilton properties Earnings on more than spending at Hilton Lounge access
Delta Reserve for Business Credit Card from American Express	Earn 40,000 bonus miles and 10,000 MQMs after you spend $3,000 in purchases with your new Card in the first 3 months. Earn 15,000 MQMs and 15,000 bonus miles after you reach $30,000 in eligible purchases on your Card in the calendar year. Earn 2 Miles/$ per dollar spent on eligible purchases with Delta. Annual Fee: $450 ($550 if application is received on or after 1/30/2020) For rates and fees of the Delta Reserve for Business Credit Card from American Express, please click here.	Lounge Access at Delta Clubs Ability to earn elite status miles (MQMs) with credit card spending
United^SM Explorer Business Card	Earn up to 100,000 after qualifying purchases 50,000 bonus miles after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months. 50,000 additional bonus miles after you spend $25,000 on purchases in the first 6 months Free first checked bag 2 United Club one-time passes each anniversary Annual Fee:$95	Perks when flying United Earning on more than airline purchases
Marriott Bonvoy Business™ American Express® Card	Earn 75,000 bonus Marriott Bonvoy points after you use your new Card to make $3,000 in purchases within the first 3 months. 6 pts/$1 for all purchases at Marriott/SPG One free night per year worldwide $125 Annual Fee For rates and fees of the Marriott Bonvoy Business™ American Express® Card, click here.	Perks at Marriott/SPG Earning rewards on more than hotel property categories

Bottom Line: If your business involves travel and you frequent a particular brand of airline or hotel, you’ll find value in a co-branded airline or hotel business credit card. Not only will you be earning rewards that can subsidize your business travel budget, but you’ll also enjoy perks and benefits that make travel more comfortable and productive.

Man working on laptop — Business cards with 0% APR periods can help spread out the repayment of a large purchase or allow you to transfer balances from high-interest credit cards and pay off that debt without interest.

Best Business Credit Cards for Balance Transfers

Best Business Credit Cards for Balance Transfers	0% APR Balance Transfer Period	Balance Transfer Fee	Annual Fee
The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express	12 Months, then a variable APR of 14.74%, 17.74% or 20.74%.	Either $5 or 3% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater.	$0 (See Rates & Fees)

Bottom Line: There are very few business credit cards that offer a 0% APR balance transfer period, and those that do typically charge a transfer fee. However, even with the fee, you may realize significant savings by transferring high-interest credit card balances and paying off debt within the 0% APR promotional period without interest charges.

Best Business Credit Cards With No Annual Fee

Best Business Credit Cards with No Annual Fee	Earning Rewards
Ink Business Cash℠ Credit Card	Earn $500 bonus cash back Earn 5% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at office supply stores and on internet, cable and phone services Earn 2% cash back on the first $25,000 (combined) spent at gas stations and restaurants each year 0% introductory APR for 12 months on purchases, then a variable APR of 14.99% - 20.99%. $0 Annual Fee
The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express	Earn 2X points on everyday business purchases such as office supplies or client dinners. 0.0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 12 months, then a variable rate, currently 14.74%, 17.74% or 20.74%. Annual Fee: $0 For rates and fees of The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express, please click here.

Bottom Line: You don’t need to pay an annual fee to find a credit card that earns rewards for your business spending.

Best Business Credit Cards With 0% APR on Purchases for up to 15 Months

Best Business Credit Cards with 0% APR on Purchases	0% APR Period for Purchases
Blue Business Cash^TM Card from American Express	12 Months, then 14.74% - 20.74% variable (See Rates & Fees)
The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express	12 Months, then 14.74% - 20.74% variable (See Rates & Fees)
Ink Business Cash℠ Credit Card	12 Months, then 14.99% - 20.99% variable
Capital One® Spark® Miles Select for Business	9 Months, then 14.74% - 22.74% variable

None of these 0% APR business cards charge an annual fee.

Keep in mind there is an expiration date on the 0% APR. You should pay off your balance before the expiration so you won’t be subject to interest charges on any remaining balance when the 0% APR period ends.

Bottom Line: A business credit card with a 0% APR period for purchases can help your business with cash flow as you spread out the repayment of a large purchase over time.

If you need more information on these types of cards, read our post on the best 0% APR credit cards.

Which Types of Businesses Qualify for a Business Credit Card?

The IRS gives us the bottom line on what constitutes a business in its statement: “Generally, an activity qualifies as a business if it is carried on with the reasonable expectation of earning a profit.”

Under that definition, a business can range from opening a restaurant to selling homemade jam or refereeing soccer on the weekends, as long as it has a reasonable expectation of earning a profit. Even if your side gig is small, it may still qualify for a business credit card because your personal credit will play a significant role in whether you get approved for a business credit card.

How to Apply for a Business Credit Card

Before applying for a business credit card, you’ll want to make sure you have the following information handy:

The legal name of your business (this can be your own name)
Your business entity (sole proprietor, partnership, S corporation, limited liability company)
Tax ID number, which can be either an Employer Identification Number or Social Security number
Years you’ve been in business
Business revenue (yes, it can be zero) and total personal income
Business address (can be the same as your personal address) and phone number
Type of business and subtype of business (for example, services, subtype cleaning services)
Number of employees
Possible additional personal information

5 tips for completing the business credit card application:

Don’t lie. Provide information that is as accurate as possible.
Relationships matter. Having other credit cards (with a positive history) or a bank account with the financial institution issuing the credit card will increase your chances of approval. If you have a banking relationship, for example, you may want to apply for the business credit card in person.
Keep a copy of the application. If for any reason you are not approved, or if the issuing bank needs more information, you can refer to your application during any follow-up conversations.
Make notes. On the copy of your application, make notes as to why you answered a question a certain way. Did you estimate your earnings? What was the process you used for the estimate?
Take a screenshot of the offer. Before you hit submit, make sure you’ve documented the credit card offer. Applying for an offer that gives you 50,000 miles after your first purchase? Be sure you have a screenshot to refer to if those 50,000 miles don’t show up.

Bottom Line: You can apply for a business credit card even if your business doesn’t yet have income. A strong personal credit history increases your chances of being approved. Consider applying in person at a local bank branch where you’ve done business.

Business Credit Cards vs. Personal Credit Cards

Some business owners question whether it’s necessary to have a business credit card for your startup or small business. It’s especially questionable if you’re not making a lot of money yet and you’ve been able to utilize your personal credit card for the expenses you’ve incurred so far.

It’s prudent to separate business expenses from personal expenses, and it can become critical when it comes time to pay taxes or produce supporting information for an audit. An easy way to separate expenses is to open a bank account for your business and apply for a business credit card to use for your business-related purchases.

Additionally, business credit cards frequently offer perks for businesses, have higher credit limits, and reward business category purchases more than personal cards.

Hot Tip: Don’t miss our piece on How to Maximize Rewards from Your Business Purchases.

Deciding Between a Business Charge Card or a Business Credit Card

Knowing the difference between a charge card and a credit card can help you make an informed decision on which card fits your business spending patterns best.

A credit card allows you to carry a balance from one statement period to another. You will be charged interest on any carryover balance. A charge card requires the balance to be paid off in full each statement period.

Charge cards may have offers that allow you to carry over a balance, but it is not guaranteed. The credit card issuer has to explicitly grant you this privilege.

One advantage of a charge card is no specified spending limit, as the credit card issuer will determine this based on how you’re managing the card.

If a charge card is what you’re looking for, consider the Brex corporate card. Brex is a company that has turned business credit cards on its head. See here for more details.

Best Small Business Credit Cards In 2019 [Quick Summary]

Best card for travel perks: The Business Platinum Card
Best card for cash-back: Ink Business Cash Card
Best card for travelers: The Ink Business Preferred Card
Best card for startups: Blue Business Cash Card
Best small business credit card: Ink Business Cash Card
Best card for lounge access: The Business Platinum Card
Best business hotel card: Marriott Bonvoy Business™ Credit Card from American Express
Best card for balance transfers: Blue Business Plus Card
Best card for 0% intro APR: Blue Business Plus Card
Best no annual fee card: Ink Business Cash Card

Final Thoughts

Opening a business credit card is a positive step that supports the future growth of your business, and you do not need to have a large business to qualify.

While this list of the best business credit cards is exhaustive, there are many more options available.

Find the best business credit card for your business by researching the best available cards, their rewards and benefits, as well as drawbacks. A business credit card can make a big difference for your business and it’s critical to make an informed decision.

Like this post? Pin it on Pinterest!

Full List of Business Credit Cards

Credit Card	Welcome Offer	Info
Southwest Rapid Rewards® Performance Business	Earn 70,000 points	Apply Now Full review U.P. Rating ? The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's 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.
Marriott Bonvoy Business™ American Express® Card Terms Apply	Earn 75,000 bonus Marriott Bonvoy points after you use your new Card to make $3,000 in purchases within the first 3 months.	Apply Now Full review Rates & Fees U.P. Rating ? The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's 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.
Ink Business Cash℠ Credit Card	Earn $500 bonus cash back	Apply Now Full review U.P. Rating ? The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's 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.
Ink Business Preferred℠ Credit Card	Earn 80,000 bonus points	Apply Now Full review U.P. Rating ? The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's 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.
American Express® Business Gold Card Terms Apply	Earn 35,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $5,000 on eligible purchases	Apply Now Full review Rates & Fees U.P. Rating ? The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's 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 Business Platinum® Card from American Express Terms Apply	Earn up to 100,000 Membership Rewards® points.	Apply Now Full review Rates & Fees U.P. Rating ? The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's 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.
Ink Business Unlimited℠ Credit Card	Earn $500 bonus cash-back	Full review U.P. Rating ? The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's 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.
Delta Reserve for Business Credit Card Terms Apply	Earn 40,000 bonus miles and 10,000 MQMs after you spend $3,000 in your first 3 months.	Apply Now Full review Rates & Fees U.P. Rating ? The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's 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 JetBlue Business Card The information for the JetBlue Business Card has been collected independently by Upgraded Points. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.	30,000 points	Full review U.P. Rating ? The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's 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.
CitiBusiness® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Mastercard®	Earn 70,000 American Airlines AAdvantage® bonus miles after spending $4,000 in purchases within the first 4 months of account opening	Apply Now Full review U.P. Rating ? The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's 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.
United℠ Explorer Business Card	Earn up to 100,000 miles	Apply Now Full review U.P. Rating ? The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's 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.
American Express® Blue Business Cash Card Terms Apply	N/A	Apply Now Full review Rates & Fees U.P. Rating ? The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's 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 Plum Card® from American Express Terms Apply	None	Apply Now Full review Rates & Fees U.P. Rating ? The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's 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.
Business Green Rewards Card from American Express Terms Apply	Earn 15,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $3,000 in eligible purchases with the Business Green Rewards Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.	Apply Now Full review Rates & Fees U.P. Rating ? The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's 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 Hilton Honors American Express Business Card Terms Apply	Earn 125,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points.	Apply Now Full review Rates & Fees U.P. Rating ? The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's 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.
Platinum Delta SkyMiles® Business Credit Card from American Express Terms Apply	Earn 35,000 bonus miles and 5,000 MQMS after you spend $1,000 in purchases in your first 3 months.	Apply Now Full review Rates & Fees U.P. Rating ? The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's 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.
Gold Delta SkyMiles® Business Credit Card from American Express Terms Apply	Earn 30,000 bonus miles	Apply Now Full review Rates & Fees U.P. Rating ? The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's 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 Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express Terms Apply	N/A	Apply Now Full review Rates & Fees U.P. Rating ? The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's 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.

Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock.com

FAQ

Why do I need a business credit card?

One of the primary reasons for having a business credit card is to separate your business expenses from your personal expenses making it easier at tax time or to provide documentation in the case of an audit. Some business credit cards provide record keeping tools, syncing with Quickbooks and other financial management tools.

Additionally, business credit cards may offer higher credit limits, free employee credit cards and earn bonuses in business spending categories that you won’t find on personal cards.

How do business credit cards work?

You apply for a business credit card in your business name and all spending that relates to your business activity goes on the business credit card. Although you apply for a business credit card, your personal credit history can make a difference in whether you’re approved as you’ll normally be personally responsible for debt incurred on the card.

Does opening a business credit card affect my personal credit score?

Your personal credit history is normally taken into consideration and a hard pull inquiry is done on your personal credit report when you apply for a business credit card. While this might affect your personal credit by a few points initially, opening a business credit card may not affect your personal credit in the long term.

If you default on your payments to the business credit card, however, the information will be reported to your personal credit report. Most business credit card issuers do not report activity to your personal credit report unless there is negative activity.

What is the best business credit card?

There is no one best credit card for every business because benefits, rewards, and the value the business card adds to your business will vary.

Reviewing the benefits of each card you’re considering and asking yourself if a benefit adds value to your business can help you select the perfect card.

If you’re trying to keep costs to a minimum, for example, you might select a rewards-earning business card with no annual fee such as Ink Business Cash℠ Credit Card.

The spending habits of your business should match up with the bonus spending categories on the credit card for maximum rewards earning. If you’re a road warrior, for example, you might select a card that rewards purchases at gas stations and hotels

Selecting a card with a 0% APR period for purchases and/or balance transfers may also be an option to help with your small business cash flow.

Can I use a business credit card for personal expenses?

The short answer is yes, but it is not prudent to do so because one of the primary benefits of opening a business credit card is to keep business and personal expenses separate.

When personal expenses are put on a business credit card, you could run into problems at tax time trying to sort it all out and even have difficulty in case of an audit.

Are business credit cards personally guaranteed?

Yes, in most cases business credit cards are personally guaranteed and you will need to provide your personal information when applying for a business credit card so an inquiry can be done on your personal credit report.

Are business credit cards hard to get?

Generally, no. Even if you’re just starting out, with good or better personal credit, you can qualify for a business credit card as long as your business activity has the reasonable expectation of a profit.

With that said, every credit card issuer has their own requirements for issuing business cards.

Why would I want to use a business credit card?

The primary reason to use a business credit card is to keep personal and business expenses separate. Combined with a business checking account, a business credit card can help establish your business as a formal entity.

Can I get a business credit card even if my business doesn't make a profit?

You can be approved for a business credit card even if your business does not yet have profits. You will need a strong personal credit history to be approved but it is possible to secure a business credit card without a profit.

Sending feedback...

Your feedback has been sent. Thank you!

We take your comments very seriously as they really help us to improve the site.

If you'd like to add a comment to this article and share your valuable feedback and opinions, please click here to leave your comment.

We really appreciate it!
- Alex & Erin

An error occurred please try again later

About Christine Krzyszton

Christine, who lives in Northern Michigan, travels about 300,000 miles a year despite her remote location. Her expertise is traveling the world on a weekend with no pre-determined destination in mind, letting the cost of the airfare determine where she will go. She has over four million flown miles and elite status on all three major domestic carriers.

2 comments

Mike · June 1, 2018 · Reply
Thanks for all the info.
Just have to mention 2 business cards we are involved with and seem to get little / no mention on the web, but we think they are great (yes everyone’s needs are different).
Capital One Spark – $60? Annual fee. A flat 2% back as cash, with no caps I think, awarded as soon as end of the month if you want. We take it as a credit back onto the account. Forget having to deal with this sector this quarter gets more, etc. Yes, we use citi Costco for 3% back on travel and restaurants and 4% on gas. 2 cards, pretty simple and nice $$ back.
And the cutest perk – you can send in a picture as often as every 30 days and they print new credit cards with that picture : ). For our family business, we use family pictures on the cards (funny, it’s a business card perk but we use family / personal pics).
And a Bank of America card my wife has from another business she is involved with. 1% back on all purchases. Not the best, but….each card holder gets those points rather than the account holder. The boss lets each card holder use the points they earned and keep the rewards. My experience w business card is that rewards are usually pooled to the account holder.
Also side note:, with these business cards, each user card is unique number. For our family business account, we have 1 card/‘employee’ whose card is used only for recurring expenses / card is locked up. That way, likelihood of that number being lost / getting into wild and need to be cancelled is slim so you don’t have to go to each of those recurring charge vendors to update to a replaced card number ; )
- Christine Krzyszton · June 1, 2018 · Reply
  Thanks for the feedback on the business credit cards you’re using as it sounds like you’ve found a combination of cards you’re happy with and that fit your situation. It also sounds like you’re having fun keeping those family photos updated on the cards.