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    The 8 Best Credit Cards for Young Adults & Professionals [October 2024]

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    Top Picks (Quick Summary)

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    Card

    Welcome Offer & Annual Fee

    Benefits

    American Express® Gold Card
    American Express® Gold Card
    • NEW OFFER60,000 points + up to $100 back

      American Express® Gold Card

      Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Plus, receive 20% back in statement credits on eligible purchases made at restaurants worldwide within the first 6 months of Card Membership, up to $100 back. Limited time offer. Offer ends 11/6/24.
    • 4x Membership Rewards points at restaurants (up to $50,000 per year; 1x thereafter)
    • 4x Membership Rewards points at U.S. supermarkets (up to $25,000 per year, 1x thereafter)
    • Up to $120 Uber Cash ($10 per month in Uber Cash for rides or Eats orders in the U.S.; enrollment required)
    • Up to $120 dining credit upon enrollment at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, and Five Guys
    Chase Sapphire Preferred®
    Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
    • LIMITED-TIME OFFER$300 Chase Travel℠ Credit + 60,000 bonus points

      Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

      Get up to $1,050 in Chase TravelSM value. Earn 60,000 bonus points after $4,000 in purchases in your first 3 months from account opening. That’s worth $750 when redeemed through Chase Travel. Plus, get up to $300 in statement credits on Chase Travel purchases within your first year.
    • Annual fee of $95
    • 5x points on travel booked via Chase Travel
    • 3x points on dining, online grocery purchases, and select streaming purchases. 2x points on travel.
    • 10% annual bonus points
    • Rental car and travel insurance
    The Platinum Card® from American Express
    The Platinum Card® from American Express
    • 80,000 points

      The Platinum Card® from American Express

      Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on the Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
    • Annual fee of $695 (rates & fees)
    • The best airport lounge access from any card, including Centurion Lounges
    • Annual and monthly statement credits (airline credit, Uber Cash credit, Saks Fifth Avenue credit, streaming credit, prepaid hotel credit on eligible stays, Walmart+ credit, CLEAR credit, and Equinox credit)

    The Best Personal Credit Cards for Young Adults & Professionals

    NEW OFFER
    American Express® Gold CardTerms Apply / Rates & Fees
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    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.

    This is the best card for food lovers who dine out at restaurants (worldwide), order take-out and want big rewards at U.S. supermarkets!

    Learn More(at Amex's secure site)

    Apply With Confidence

    Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

    If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

    This is the best card for food lovers who dine out at restaurants (worldwide), order take-out and want big rewards at U.S. supermarkets!
    Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Plus, receive 20% back in statement credits on eligible purchases made at restaurants worldwide within the first 6 months of Card Membership, up to $100 back. Limited time offer. Offer ends 11/6/24.
    60,000 points + up to $100 back
    $1,420
    $325
    See Pay Over Time APR
    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 cardapplication.
    Good to Excellent (670-850)

    The American Express® Gold Card is a game-changer.

    With this card, you can earn 4x Membership Rewards points at restaurants, up to $50,000 per calendar year, and you’ll also earn 4x Membership Rewards points at U.S. supermarkets on up to $25,000 per calendar year, then 1x.

    There isn’t another card on the market that offers a 1-2 punch like this. Of course, there are several other benefits of the Gold Card as well, including extra monthly dining rewards and more.

    Pros
    • 4x points per dollar at restaurants worldwide, up to $50,000 per calendar year; then 1x thereafter
    • 4x points per dollar at U.S. supermarkets, up to $25,000 per calendar year; then 1x thereafter
    • 3x points per dollar on flights purchased directly from airlines or at AmexTravel.com
    Cons
    • Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Plus, receive 20% back in statement credits on eligible purchases made at restaurants worldwide within the first 6 months of Card Membership, up to $100 back. Limited time offer. Offer ends 11/6/24.
    • Get the American Express® Gold Card in either the Gold, Rose Gold or Limited-Edition White Gold metal design. White Gold design is only available while supplies last.
    • Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
    • Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
    • Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com.
    • Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com.
    • Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
    • $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and each month automatically get $10 in Uber Cash for Uber Eats orders or Uber rides in the U.S., totaling up to $120 per year.
    • $84 Dunkin' Credit: With the $84 Dunkin' Credit, you can earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you enroll and pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Dunkin' locations.
    • $100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year after you pay with the American Express® Gold Card to dine at U.S. Resy restaurants or make other eligible Resy purchases. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
    • $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings, sweet or savory, with the $120 Dining Credit. Earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, and Five Guys. Enrollment required.
    • Explore over 1,000 upscale hotels worldwide with The Hotel Collection and receive a $100 credit towards eligible charges with every booking of two nights or more through AmexTravel.com. Eligible charges vary by property.
    • No Foreign Transaction Fees.
    • Annual Fee is $325.
    • Terms Apply.
    Financial Snapshot
    • APR: See Pay Over Time APR
    • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
    Rewards Center

    American Express Membership Rewards

    The Amex Gold card has been solidified as one of our favorite cards out there, and it’s certainly our top pick for young adults and professionals.

    In addition to a phenomenal welcome bonus, the Amex Gold card boasts some incredible bonus categories:

    • 4x Membership Rewards points per $1 spent at restaurants, plus takeout and delivery in the U.S., up to $50,000 per year; 1x thereafter
    • 4x Membership Rewards points per $1 at U.S. supermarkets, up to $25,000 in purchases per per year; 1x thereafter
    • 3x Membership Rewards points per $1 on flights purchased directly with the airline or at Amex Travel
    • 1x Membership Rewards points per $1 on all other purchases

    Young professionals and adults spent a large chunk of their money on restaurants, groceries, and travel, which makes this card an awesome choice. And by earning 4x points per $1 spent, you’re getting a return on spend of 8.8%, with a valuation of 2.2 cents per point!

    You’ll also get:

    • Up to $120 annually in Uber Cash for Uber Eats orders or Uber rides in the U.S. ($10 per month)
    • Up to $120 dining credit at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, and Five Guys. Enrollment required ($10 per month)
    • Up to $100 Resy credit redeemable at any U.S. Resy restaurant and other eligible Resy purchases ($50 semi-annually)
    • Up to $84 Dunkin’ credit redeemable at Dunkin’ locations ($7 per month)

    As if these perks weren’t enough, you’ll also get access to Amex’s The Hotel Collection, offering you a $100 property credit and a room upgrade (subject to availability) on qualifying stays of at least 2 nights at eligible properties.

    Lastly, the Amex Gold card will give you access to Amex Offers, a complimentary ShopRunner membership, and no foreign transaction fees (rates & fees).

    Note that some benefits mentioned above require enrollment through your American Express account.

    2. Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card (Best Beginner Card, Best Sub-$100 Annual Fee Card)

    LIMITED-TIME OFFER
    Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
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    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.

    A fantastic travel card with a great welcome offer, good benefits, and perks for a moderate annual fee.

    Learn More(at Chase's secure site)
    A fantastic travel card with a great welcome offer, good benefits, and perks for a moderate annual fee.
    Get up to $1,050 in Chase TravelSM value. Earn 60,000 bonus points after $4,000 in purchases in your first 3 months from account opening. That’s worth $750 when redeemed through Chase Travel. Plus, get up to $300 in statement credits on Chase Travel purchases within your first year.
    $300 Chase Travel℠ Credit + 60,000 bonus points
    $1,500
    $95
    21.49%-28.49% Variable
    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 cardapplication.
    Good to Excellent (670-850)

    The Chase Sapphire Preferred® card is one of the best travel rewards cards on the market. Its bonus categories include travel, dining, online grocery purchases, and streaming services, which gives you the opportunity to earn lots of bonus points on these purchases.

    Additionally, it offers flexible point redemption options, no foreign transaction fees, and excellent travel insurance coverage including primary car rental insurance. With benefits like these, it’s easy to see why this card is an excellent choice for any traveler.

    Pros
    • 5x points on all travel booked via the Chase Travel portal
    • 5x points on select Peloton purchases over $150 (through March 31, 2025)
    • 5x points on Lyft purchases (through March 31, 2025)
    Cons
    • $95 annual fee
    • No elite benefits like airport lounge access or hotel elite status
    • Get up to $1,050 in Chase Travel℠ value. Earn 60,000 bonus points after $4,000 in purchases in your first 3 months from account opening. That's worth $750 when redeemed through Chase Travel. Plus, get up to $300 in statement credits on Chase Travel purchases within your first year.
    • Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases, $50 Annual Chase Travel Hotel Credit, plus more.
    • Get 25% more value when you redeem for airfare, hotels, car rentals and cruises through Chase Travel℠. For example, 60,000 points are worth $750 toward travel.
    • Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
    • Get complimentary access to DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees and lower service fees for a minimum of one year when you activate by December 31, 2027.
    • Member FDIC
    Financial Snapshot
    • APR: 21.49%-28.49% Variable
    • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
    Rewards Center

    Chase Ultimate Rewards

    The Chase Sapphire Preferred card is our runner-up credit card, and this excellent credit card happens to be the best beginner rewards credit card.

    It generally offers a superb welcome bonus, and to make things better, you will earn some of the most solid rewards out there:

    • 5x Ultimate Rewards points per $1 spent on all travel booked through the Chase Travel portal
    • 5x Ultimate Rewards points per $1 on Lyft purchases (including bikes and scooters) through March 2022
    • 3x Ultimate Rewards points per $1 on dining, select streaming services, and online groceries
    • 2x Ultimate Rewards points per $1 on travel
    • 1x Ultimate Rewards points per $1 on all other purchases

    With this card, you’ll receive a $50 annual credit towards hotel stays booked via the Chase travel portal.

    One of the most valuable characteristics of the Chase Sapphire Preferred card is its impeccable travel insurance — primary car rental coverage, trip cancellation and interruption coverage, trip delay insurance, baggage delay coverage, lost luggage coverage, travel accident insurance, and so much more are included with your card!

    Lastly, the card has purchase protection, extended warranty, zero fraud liability, and no foreign transaction fees.

    3. The Platinum Card® from American Express (Best For Airport Lounge Access)

    BEST LOUNGE ACCESS
    The Platinum Card® from American ExpressTerms Apply / Rates & Fees
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    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 Amex Platinum reigns supreme for luxury travel, offering the best airport lounge access plus generous statement credits, and complimentary elite status.

    Learn More(at Amex's secure site)

    Apply With Confidence

    Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

    If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

    The Amex Platinum reigns supreme for luxury travel, offering the best airport lounge access plus generous statement credits, and complimentary elite status.
    Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on the Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
    80,000 points
    $1,760
    $695
    See Pay Over Time APR
    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 cardapplication.
    Good to Excellent (670-850)

    When it comes to cards that offer top-notch benefits, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better card out there than The Platinum Card® from American Express.

    Make no mistake — the Amex Platinum card is a premium card with a premium price tag. With amazing benefits like best-in-class airport lounge access, hotel elite status, and tremendous value in annual statement credits, it can easily prove to be one of the most lucrative cards in your wallet year after year.

    Pros
    • The best airport lounge access out of any card (by far) — enjoy access to over 1,400 worldwide lounges, including the luxurious Amex Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass lounges, Plaza Premium Lounges, and many more!
    • 5x points per dollar spent on flights purchased directly with the airline or with AmexTravel.com (up to $500,000 per year)
    • 5x points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels booked with AmexTravel.com
    Cons
    • $695 annual fee (rates and fees)
    • Airline credit does not cover airfare (only incidentals like checked bags)
    • Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Apply and select your preferred metal Card design: classic Platinum, Platinum x Kehinde Wiley, or Platinum x Julie Mehretu.
    • Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
    • $200 Hotel Credit: Get up to $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection bookings through American Express Travel using your Platinum Card®. The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
    • $240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 back in statement credits each month on eligible purchases made with your Platinum Card® on one or more of the following: Disney+, a Disney Bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, The New York Times, Peacock, and The Wall Street Journal. Enrollment required.
    • The American Express Global Lounge Collection® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market. As of 03/2023.
    • $155 Walmart+ Credit: Save on eligible delivery fees, shipping, and more with a Walmart+ membership. Use your Platinum Card® to pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership and get up to $12.95 plus applicable taxes back on one membership (excluding Plus Ups) each month.
    • $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to your Platinum Card®.
    • $200 Uber Cash: Enjoy Uber VIP status and up to $200 in Uber savings on rides or eats orders in the US annually. Uber Cash and Uber VIP status is available to Basic Card Member only. Terms Apply.
    • $199 CLEAR® Plus Credit: CLEAR® Plus helps to get you to your gate faster at 50+ airports nationwide and get up to $199 back per calendar year on your Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use your Card. CLEARLanes are available at 100+ airports, stadiums, and entertainment venues.
    • Receive either a $100 statement credit every 4 years for a Global Entry application fee or a statement credit up to $85 every 4.5 years for a TSA PreCheck® (through a TSA official enrollment provider) application fee, when charged to your Platinum Card®. Card Members approved for Global Entry will also receive access to TSA PreCheck at no additional cost.
    • Shop Saks with Platinum: Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases in Saks Fifth Avenue stores or at saks.com on your Platinum Card®. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
    • Unlock access to exclusive reservations and special dining experiences with Global Dining Access by Resy when you add your Platinum Card® to your Resy profile.
    • $695 annual fee.¤
    • Terms Apply.
    Financial Snapshot
    • APR: See Pay Over Time APR
    • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
    Rewards Center

    American Express Membership Rewards

    The Amex Platinum card is the top card in the world for luxury travel perks, but it’s also perhaps the most well-known card in the world, too.

    And for many young adults, it’s the perfect card option for optimizing lifestyle and travel benefits.

    To start, you’ll earn a great welcome bonus upon meeting the spending criteria. Plus, you’ll earn 5x points per $1 spent on flights purchases directly with the airline or via Amex Travel (up to $500,000 per calendar year), plus 5x points per $1 spent on prepaid hotels booked via Amex Travel. You’ll earn 1x points on all other purchases. So depending on whether you’re earning 5x or 1x points per $1, you could be getting a return on spend of 11% or 2.2%!

    The Amex Platinum card is laden with other travel benefits, such as:

    • Access to Fine Hotels & Resorts and The Hotel Collection
    • Access to the American Express Global Lounge Collection, including Airspace Lounges, Centurion Lounges, Delta Sky Clubs (when flying on a same-day Delta ticket), Escape Lounges — The Centurion® Lounge Partner, International American Express Centurion Lounges, Plaza Premium Lounges, Select Virgin Clubhouses, Select Lufthansa Lounges, and Priority Pass lounges (upon enrollment)
    • Complimentary Gold status with Hilton Honors and Marriott Bonvoy (upon enrollment)
    • Complimentary rental car status with Avis, Hertz, and National
    • Access to the Amex International Airline Program for airfare deals
    • Up to $200 airline fee credit
    • Up to $200 prepaid hotel credit
    • $199 CLEAR credit
    • Up to $120 Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit, as of October 1, 2024

    Not only that, but the lifestyle perks you get are pretty awesome, too, like up to $100 in Saks Fifth Avenue statement credits (2 $50 credits semi-annually), up to $240 digital entertainment credit (upon enrollment), up to a $12.95 monthly Walmart + credit (upon enrollment), and up to $300 Equinox credit (upon enrollment).

    4. Chase Sapphire Reserve®

    Chase Sapphire Reserve®
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    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.

    A top player in the high-end premium travel credit card space that earns 3x points on travel and dining while offering top luxury perks.

    Learn More(at Chase's secure site)
    A top player in the high-end premium travel credit card space that earns 3x points on travel and dining while offering top luxury perks.
    Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
    60,000 points
    $1,200
    $550
    22.49%–29.49% Variable
    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 cardapplication.
    Excellent (740-850)

    If you’re looking for an all-around excellent travel rewards card, the Chase Sapphire Reserve® is one of the best options out there.

    The card combines elite travel benefits and perks like airport lounge access, with excellent point earning and redemption options.  Plus it offers top-notch travel insurance protections to keep you covered whether you’re at home or on the road.

    Don’t forget the $300 annual travel credit which really helps to reduce the annual fee!

    Pros
    • 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase TravelSM immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually
    • 10x points on Lyft purchases through March 31, 2025
    • 10x points on Peloton equipment and accessory purchases over $250 through March 31, 2025
    Cons
    • $550 annual fee
    • Does not offer any sort of hotel elite status
    • Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
    • $300 Annual Travel Credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
    • Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases
    • Get 50% more value when you redeem your points for travel through Chase Travel℠. For example, 60,000 points are worth $900 toward travel.
    • Get complimentary access to DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees and lower service fees for a minimum of one year when you activate by December 31, 2027.
    • 1:1 point transfer to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs
    • Access to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide after an easy, one-time enrollment in Priority Pass™ Select and up to $100 application fee credit every four years for Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck®
    • Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
    • Member FDIC
    Financial Snapshot
    • APR: 22.49%–29.49% Variable
    • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
    Rewards Center

    Chase Ultimate Rewards

    The Chase Sapphire Reserve card has a lot going for it. It’s essentially the ultra-premium version of the Chase Sapphire Preferred card above.

    The Reserve allows you to earn up to 10x points per $1 spent:

    • 10x Ultimate Rewards points per $1 spent on car rentals, hotels, and dining booked via the Chase travel portal
    • 10x Ultimate Rewards points per $1 on Lyft purchases (through March 2022)
    • 5x Ultimate Rewards points per $1 spent on airfare booked via the Chase travel portal
    • 3x Ultimate Rewards points per $1 on all dining and travel purchases
    • 1x Ultimate Rewards point per $1 on all other purchases

    You’ll also get a $300 travel credit every cardmember anniversary year.

    Here are a few of its other perks:

    • $120 Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit, as of October 1, 2024
    • The ability to redeem points for 50% more value on travel booked through Chase Travel (1.5 cents per point)
    • Complimentary Priority Pass Select membership (activation required)
    • Complimentary Lyft Pink membership (includes Grubhub+ and Seamless+)
    • Complimentary DoorDash DashPass subscription (activate by December 31, 2027)
    • Access to Chase Luxury Hotel & Resort Collection
    • The best travel insurance available on a credit card, including primary car rental insurance, trip interruption and cancellation insurance, trip delay, lost luggage, baggage delay, roadside assistance, emergency evacuation and transportation, emergency medical and dental, travel accident, and travel and emergency assistance coverage

    The 4 Best Business Credit Cards for Young Adults & Professionals

    If you’re a young adult or professional running your own business or have a side hustle, you’ll want to make sure you’re using the best business credit cards.

    Here are our favorites!

    1. Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card (Best Overall Business Card)

    Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card
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    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 Ink Business Preferred card is hard to beat, with a huge welcome bonus offer and 3x points per $1 on the first $150,000 in so many business categories.

    Learn More(at Chase's secure site)
    The Ink Business Preferred card is hard to beat, with a huge welcome bonus offer and 3x points per $1 on the first $150,000 in so many business categories.
    Earn 90k bonus points after you spend $8,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 cash back or $1,125 toward travel when redeemed through Chase Travel℠.
    90,000 points
    $1,800
    $95
    21.24%-26.24% Variable
    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 cardapplication.
    Good to Excellent (670-850)

    The Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card is a powerhouse for earning lots of points from your business purchases, especially for business owners that spend regularly on ads.

    Plus the card offers flexible redemption options, including access to Chase airline and hotel transfer partners where you can achieve outsized value.

    Business owners will also love the protections the card provides like excellent cell phone insurance, rental car insurance, purchase protection, and more.

    Pros
    • 3x Ultimate Rewards points per $1 on up to $150,000 in combined purchases on internet, cable and phone services, shipping expenses, travel, and ads purchased with search engines or social media sites
    • Cell phone protection
    • Purchase protection
    Cons
      • No elite travel benefits like airport lounge access
    • Earn 90k bonus points after you spend $8,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 cash back or $1,125 toward travel when redeemed through Chase Travel℠
    • 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
    • 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.
    • 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 Travel℠
    • Purchase Protection covers your new purchases for 120 days against damage or theft up to $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per account.
    • Member FDIC
    Financial Snapshot
    • APR: 21.24%-26.24% Variable
    • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
    Rewards Center

    Chase Ultimate Rewards

    Our runner-up credit card is the famous Ink Business Preferred card, offering a solid welcome bonus and some of the best bonus categories for earning Ultimate Rewards points.

    Also, you will earn 3x Ultimate Rewards points per $1 spent on the following business categories, up to $150,000 in combined purchases per anniversary year:

    • Ads purchased with search engines or social media sites
    • Internet, cable, and phone services
    • Shipping expenses
    • Travel

    You’ll earn 1x Ultimate Rewards points on all other purchases, making your return on spending equal to 6% or 2% if earning 3x and 1x points, respectively.

    Plus, you’ll get some top-notch cell phone insurance benefits, as well as purchase protection, extended warranty, and zero liability fraud protection.

    Don’t forget about the card’s noteworthy travel coverages, including primary rental car coverage when renting for business and trip cancellation and interruption insurance. You also won’t pay any foreign transaction fees or any employee card fees.

    2. American Express® Business Gold Card (Best for Earning Lots of Points)

    ELEVATED OFFER
    American Express® Business Gold CardTerms Apply / Rates & Fees
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    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.

    Get 4x points in 2 select categories where your business spends the most each month (on your first $150,000 spent each year).

    Learn More(at Amex's secure site)
    Get 4x points in 2 select categories where your business spends the most each month (on your first $150,000 spent each year).
    Earn 100,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases with the Business Gold Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.*
    100,000 points
    $2,200
    $375
    18.99% - 27.99% Variable,0% on purchases for 6 months from date of account opening
    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 cardapplication.
    Good to Excellent (670-850)

    The American Express® Business Gold Card is excellent at racking up rewards for your business spend.

    The card earns a whopping 4x points per $1 in the 2 categories (from a list of 6) that your business spends the most money on each month. With no need to opt-in or preselect your categories, so you can focus on what matters most — running your business.

    Pros
    • 4x points per dollar spent on your 2 highest purchase categories each month up to $150,000 each calendar year in purchases; categories include:
      • Transit purchases including trains, taxicabs, rideshare services, ferries, tolls, parking, buses, and subways
      • U.S. purchases made from electronic goods retailers and software & cloud system providers
      • Monthly wireless telephone service charges made directly from a wireless telephone service provider in the U.S.
      • U.S. purchases at gas stations
      • U.S. purchases at restaurants, including takeout and delivery
      • Purchases at U.S. media providers for advertising in select media (online such as Google Ads, Facebook Ads, plus TV and radio)
    • 3x points per dollar on flights and prepaid hotels booked on amextravel.com using your Business Gold Card
    • Access to Amex’s The Hotel Collection
    Cons
    • $375 annual fee (rates and fees)
    • No elite travel benefits like airport lounge access or elite status
    • Welcome Offer: Earn 100,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases with the Business Gold Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.*
    • 0% Intro APR ¤ for 6 months from the date of account opening on purchases eligible for Pay Over Time, then a 18.99% to 27.99% variable APR.*
    • Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points on the top two eligible categories where your business spends the most each month from 6 eligible categories. While your top 2 categories may change, you will earn 4X points on the first $150,000 in combined purchases from these categories each calendar year (then 1X thereafter). Only the top 2 categories each billing cycle will count towards the $150,000 cap.*
    • Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels booked on amextravel.com using your Business Gold Card.*
    • Earn up to $20 in statement credits monthly after you use the Business Gold Card for eligible U.S. purchases at FedEx, Grubhub, and Office Supply Stores. This can be an annual savings of up to $240. Enrollment required.
    • Get up to a $12.95** statement credit back each month after you pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership (subject to auto-renewal) with your Business Gold Card. **Up to $12.95 plus applicable taxes on one membership fee.*
    • The Business Gold Card now comes in three metal designs: Gold, Rose Gold and Limited Edition White Gold. White Gold design is only available while supplies last. Make your selection when you apply on Americanexpress.com.
    • *Terms Apply
    Financial Snapshot
    • APR: 18.99% - 27.99% Variable,0% on purchases for 6 months from date of account opening
    • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
    Rewards Center

    American Express Membership Rewards

    The Amex Business Gold card is similar to the Amex Gold card in the sense that you enjoy some incredible rewards categories without diving deep into those luxury travel perks that the ultra-premium cards offer.

    The welcome bonus is a great way to give yourself a head start on your point stash.

    This card earns 4x Membership Rewards points on the top 2 categories in which your business spends the most every month (up to $150,000 in combined purchases every calendar year):

    • Transit purchases including trains, taxicabs, rideshare services, ferries, tolls, parking, buses, and subways
    •  U.S. purchases made from electronic goods retailers and software & cloud system providers
    • Monthly wireless telephone service charges made directly from a wireless telephone service provider in the U.S.
    • U.S. purchases at gas stations
    • U.S. purchases at restaurants, including takeout and delivery
    • Purchases at U.S. media providers for advertising in select media (online, TV, radio)

    That means you can earn up to 600,000 Membership Rewards points every calendar year from the 4x points structure before dropping down to the normal 1x points structure.

    Earning 4x points is equal to a return on spending of 8.8%, which is incredible. Best of all, you won’t need to select any bonus categories, as Amex does it automatically for you.

    This card offers no preset spending limit and no foreign transaction fees. Plus, the annual fee for employee cards is $95 for the first five cards and then $95 for each card thereafter, up to 99 cards (see rates & fees). No preset spending limit means your spending limit is flexible. Unlike a traditional card with a set limit, the amount you can spend adapts based on factors such as your purchase, payment, and credit history.

    3. Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card (Low Intro APR, No Annual Fee)

    LIMITED TIME OFFER
    Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card
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    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 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.

    Learn More(at Chase's secure site)
    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.
    Earn $900 bonus cash back after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
    $900
    $900
    $0
    0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months; variable 18.49% - 24.49% thereafter
    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 cardapplication.
    Good to Excellent (670-850)

    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 18.49% - 24.49% thereafter

    Pros
    • 1.5% cash-back on all purchases
    • No annual fee
    • 0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months; variable 18.49% - 24.49% thereafter
    Cons
      • 3% foreign transaction fee
    • Earn $900 bonus cash back after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 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
    • Member FDIC
    Financial Snapshot
    • APR: 0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months; variable 18.49% - 24.49% thereafter
    • Foreign Transaction Fees: 3% of each transaction in U.S. dollars
    Rewards Center

    The Ink Business Unlimited card is yet another amazing business credit card from Chase.

    It has a great welcome bonus and a straightforward rewards structure. You’ll get a flat 1.5% cash-back on all of your business purchases without any caps or limits to earning.

    As with the Ink Business Cash card, if you also have a Chase Sapphire Preferred card, Ink Business Preferred card, or Chase Sapphire Reserve card, you can convert your cash-back to Ultimate Rewards points to get a return on spending of 3% on your purchases!

    Plus, this card offers a 0% introductory APR perk (after the introductory period, the regular APR shown in the table above applies), primary rental car insurance when renting for business, purchase protection, extended warranty, zero liability, and no-fee employee cards.

    4. The Business Platinum Card® from American Express (Best Business Card for Airport Lounge Access)

    ELEVATED OFFER
    The Business Platinum Card® from American ExpressTerms Apply / Rates & Fees
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    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.

    This card is ideal for business travelers who enjoy luxury travel and are looking for a card loaded with benefits!

    Learn More(at Amex's secure site)
    This card is ideal for business travelers who enjoy luxury travel and are looking for a card loaded with benefits!
    Earn 150,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $20,000 in eligible purchases on the Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
    150,000 points
    $3,300
    $695
    18.99% - 27.99% Variable
    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 cardapplication.
    Good to Excellent (670-850)

    The Business Platinum Card® from American Express is a premium travel rewards card tailored toward business owners who are frequent travelers with a high number of annual expenses.

    When you factor in the large number of perks that the card offers like the best airport lounge access at over 1,400 lounges, along with tons of annual credits, it’s easy to see why this card can is a top option for frequent traveling business owners.

    Pros
    • 5x Membership Rewards points per $1 on flights and prepaid hotels at Amex Travel
    • Access to over 1,400 worldwide airport lounges as part of the American Express Global Lounge Collection
    • Get 50% more Membership Rewards points (1.5 points per $1) on eligible purchases in key business categories, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more (cap applies)
    Cons
    • High annual fee of $695 (rates & fees)
    • Airline fee credit does not cover airfare, only incidentals like checked bags
    • Welcome Offer: Earn 150,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $20,000 in eligible purchases on the Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
    • 5X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels on AmexTravel.com, and 1X points for each dollar you spend on eligible purchases.
    • Earn 1.5X points (that’s an extra half point per dollar) on each eligible purchase at US construction material, hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers, and software & cloud system providers, and shipping providers, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more, on up to $2 million per Card Account per calendar year. Purchases eligible for multiple additional point bonuses will only receive the highest eligible bonus.
    • Unlock over $1,000 in statement credits on select purchases, including tech, recruiting and wireless in the first year of membership with the Business Platinum Card®. Enrollment required. See how you can unlock over $1,000 annually in credits on select purchases with the Business Platinum Card®, here.
    • $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to the Card.
    • $199 CLEAR® Plus Credit: Use your card and get up to $199 in statement credits per calendar year on your CLEAR® Plus Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use the Business Platinum Card®.
    • The American Express Global Lounge Collection® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market as of 03/2023.
    • $695 Annual Fee.
    • Terms Apply.
    Financial Snapshot
    • APR: 18.99% - 27.99% Variable
    • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
    Rewards Center

    American Express Membership Rewards

    The Amex Business Platinum card rounds out our best business cards for young adults and professionals. Simply put, if you want a card that’s loaded to the max with perks, the Amex Business Platinum card needs to be in your wallet.

    To kick off your points accrual, enjoy a huge welcome bonus. After that, earn 5x Membership Rewards points on flights and prepaid hotels booked at Amex Travel.

    Importantly, if you’ll also earn 1.5x on eligible purchases in key business categories, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more everywhere else (up to $2 million in purchases per calendar year).

    But the real kicker is the luxury perks, including access to the American Express Global Lounge Collection, which is the best lounge access of any card in the world.

    Plus, you’ll get all kinds of other travel perks, like complimentary hotel and rental car elite status, access to Fine Hotels & Resorts, a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit, up to $200 airline fee credit, a 35% rebate on select flights using Pay With Points (~1.52 cents per point in redemption value), and more.

    You’ll also get a $199 CLEAR credit, up to $400 in statement credits for U.S. purchases with Dell.

    For rates and fees of the American Express® Gold Card, click here.
    For rates and fees of The Platinum Card® from American Express, click here.
    For rates and fees of the American Express® Business Gold Card, click here.
    For rates and fees of The Business Platinum Card® from American Express, click here.

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