Navigating the world of credit cards for small businesses can be overwhelming, but choosing the right business credit card is crucial for managing expenses and maximizing rewards. Small business owners often face unique financial needs, from handling everyday purchases at office supply stores to managing travel expenses with minimal foreign transaction fees.
By understanding the various small business credit cards available, including cash back, bonus rewards, and customized cash rewards, you can find the best options to suit your business spending patterns and help you earn rewards efficiently. With an array of offerings from leading credit card companies, it’s essential to consider factors such as annual fees, eligible purchases, and how they align with your overall business strategy.
20 best small business credit cards
Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card
Annual Fee: $0
Rewards Rate: Unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases
Current Offer: $900 cash back after spending $6,000 in the first 3 months
Regular APR: 18.24%–24.24% variable
Our Take
The Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card is an excellent choice for small business owners seeking a simple, no-fuss rewards structure. With unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases and no annual fee, it’s perfect for businesses that want straightforward cash rewards with no category limitations. Unlock the potential of rewards credit cards for small business owners by exploring the benefits of the Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card today.
Welcome Offer
Earn $900 in cash back after spending $6,000 within the first 3 months of account opening. This is a strong offer for a card with no annual fee, providing quick value for small business owners.
Reward Details
This card offers unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases, making it easy to earn rewards on all business expenses without worrying about spending caps or rotating categories. You can redeem your cash back as a statement credit, for travel, or gift cards, or deposit it directly into your business checking account. The flexibility in redemption makes this card a good option for any business looking to maximize its cash flow while keeping things simple.
Signup Bonus
The $900 cash-back bonus is one of the best offers for a no-annual-fee business card, making it an excellent option for new business owners looking to get a return on their early spending.
Foreign Transaction Fee
This card charges a 3% fee on all foreign transactions, so it’s not ideal for international purchases.
Card Details
The Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card is perfect for businesses looking for a flat cash-back rate. It offers:
Unlimited 1.5% cash back on all business purchases, including office supplies and other eligible expenses
No annual fee
Flexible reward redemption options
Free employee cards, allowing you to earn rewards on employee purchases
Pros:
Simple, flat-rate reward structure
No annual fee
Generous signup bonus
Flexible reward redemption options
Free employee cards
Cons:
3% foreign transaction fee
A flat 1.5% rewards rate might not be as lucrative as category-specific cards
Alternatives:
Ink Business Cash® Credit Card: Offers higher cash back on office supply stores and internet services
Capital One Spark Cash Plus: Provides a higher cashback rate of 2%, though with an annual fee
Ink Business Cash® Credit Card
Annual Fee: $0
Rewards Rate: 5% cash back on the first $25,000 spent at office supply stores, internet, cable, and phone services; 2% on gas and restaurants
Current Offer: $750 cash back after spending $7,500 in the first 3 months
Regular APR: 18.24%–24.24% variable
Our Take
This card is ideal for small businesses that regularly spend money in office supply stores or on internet, cable, and phone services. The 5% cash back rate in these categories can help business owners maximize their rewards on necessary expenses, and the $0 annual fee adds to its appeal.
Welcome Offer
New cardholders can earn $750 cash back after spending $7,500 in the first 3 months, making this a competitive offer for a business card with no annual fee.
Reward Details
You’ll earn 5% cash back on up to $25,000 spent annually on office supplies, internet, cable, and phone services. This is one of the highest reward rates in these categories, making it a great choice for businesses that rely on these services. You’ll also earn 2% on gas stations and restaurants, providing additional rewards for common business expenses. All other purchases earn 1% cash back.
Signup Bonus
Earn $750 after spending $7,500 in the first three months, providing solid value for businesses with moderate spending.
Foreign Transaction Fee
This card also has a 3% foreign transaction fee, so it’s not ideal for international use.
Card Details
The Ink Business Cash® Credit Card offers a mix of high cash back in specific business categories and simplicity in reward redemption.
5% cash back on the first $25,000 spent at office supply stores and on internet, cable, and phone services
2% cash back on gas stations and restaurants
No annual fee
Free employee cards
Pros:
High cash back on office supplies and services
No annual fee
Competitive signup bonus
Free employee cards
Cons:
3% foreign transaction fee
5% cash back capped at $25,000 in annual spending
Alternatives:
Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card: For businesses that prefer a flat 1.5% cash back on all purchases
American Express® Blue Business Cash™ Card: For 2% cash back on all purchases, up to $50,000 annually
Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card
Annual Fee: $95
Rewards Rate: 3 points per $1 on the first $150,000 spent in travel and select business categories each year, 1 point on all other purchases
Current Offer: 90,000 points after spending $8,000 in the first 3 months
Regular APR: 18.24%–23.24% variable
Our Take
The Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card is a top choice for businesses that frequently spend on travel or specific business categories. Its 3x points on $150,000 in annual spending can provide substantial rewards, and its comprehensive travel protections make it particularly appealing for business owners who travel regularly.
Welcome Offer
Earn 90,000 bonus points after spending $8,000 in the first 3 months. These points are worth $1,125 when redeemed for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards, making this one of the most valuable signup offers available.
Reward Details
You earn 3x points per $1 spent on the first $150,000 in combined purchases each year in select categories: travel, shipping, internet, cable, phone services, and advertising on social media or search engines. All other purchases earn 1 point per $1. Points are redeemable for cash, travel, gift cards, and more through Chase Ultimate Rewards, with enhanced value when used for travel.
Signup Bonus
The 90,000 bonus points, worth up to $1,125 in travel, provide a huge return for businesses that can meet the $8,000 spending requirement.
Foreign Transaction Fee
This card has no foreign transaction fees, making it ideal for international travel and business.
Card Details
The Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card is built for high-earning potential in key business categories, particularly travel and advertising.
3x points on travel, shipping, and advertising (up to $150,000 annually)
No foreign transaction fees
Travel protections like trip cancellation/interruption insurance
Employee cards are available for free
Pros:
High points earned in travel and advertising categories
No foreign transaction fees
Comprehensive travel protections
Large signup bonus
Cons:
$95 annual fee
3x rewards capped at $150,000 annually
Alternatives:
Capital One Spark Miles for Business: Offers flat-rate miles on all purchases with no spending caps
American Express® Business Gold Card: Offers 4x points in select categories where you spend the most each month
Capital One Spark Cash Plus
Annual Fee: $195
Rewards Rate: Unlimited 2% cash back on all purchases
Current Offer: $1,000 cash back after spending $10,000 in the first 3 months
Regular APR: N/A (charge card with no pre-set spending limit)
Our Take
The Capital One Spark Cash Plus is a top-tier business card for small business owners with higher spending needs. Offering unlimited 2% cash back on all purchases, this card allows businesses to earn significant rewards, and the lack of a preset spending limit makes it a flexible option for growing companies.
Welcome Offer
New cardholders can earn $1,000 in cash back after spending $10,000 within the first 3 months, with the potential to earn an additional $200 if they spend $200,000 in the first six months. This is an excellent offer for businesses that have high upfront costs.
Reward Details
With Capital One Spark Cash Plus, you earn unlimited 2% cash back on all purchases, with no limits on how much you can earn. This makes it a great choice for businesses with consistent, high-volume spending across different categories, such as office supplies, travel, and other eligible purchases. The 2% cash back is automatically applied and can be redeemed as a statement credit, check, or towards other eligible business purchases.
Signup Bonus
Earn $1,000 after spending $10,000 in the first 3 months. If you can meet the additional spending requirement of $200,000 within 6 months, you can earn an extra $200.
Foreign Transaction Fee
This card has no foreign transaction fees, making it a solid option for international business.
Card Details
Capital One Spark Cash Plus is designed for businesses with high spending needs and rewards those purchases generously.
Unlimited 2% cash back on every purchase
No preset spending limit, offering flexibility for larger expenses
No foreign transaction fees
Employee cards available at no additional cost
Pros:
High 2% cash back rate on all purchases
No foreign transaction fees
Flexible spending limit
Excellent signup bonus
Cons:
$195 annual fee
High spending requirements for the bonus
Alternatives:
Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card: Offers 1.5% cash back with no annual fee
American Express® Blue Business Cash™ Card: Offers 2% cash back on up to $50,000 per year with no annual fee
Capital One Spark Cash Select for Excellent Credit
Annual Fee: $0
Rewards Rate: Unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases
Current Offer: No current bonus
Regular APR: 19.99%–29.99% variable
Our Take
The Capital One Spark Cash Select for Excellent Credit is a solid no-annual-fee option for businesses that want simple, flat-rate rewards. Although there’s no signup bonus, it offers unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases, making it a good option for businesses that prefer straightforward cash back.
Welcome Offer
This card currently does not offer a signup bonus, which might be a downside for businesses looking for immediate rewards.
Reward Details
With this card, you’ll earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every business purchase. It’s a straightforward rewards structure, perfect for businesses that don’t want to track categories or deal with rotating offers. The rewards can be redeemed for statement credits, checks, or travel, and there’s no minimum redemption amount.
Foreign Transaction Fee
This card has no foreign transaction fees, making it suitable for businesses that engage in international travel or purchases.
Card Details
The Capital One Spark Cash Select offers simple cash back with no annual fee.
Unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases
No foreign transaction fees
Employee cards available at no additional cost
Pros:
No annual fee
Simple, flat-rate rewards
No foreign transaction fees
Free employee cards
Cons:
No signup bonus
Lower cashback rate compared to other cards
Alternatives:
Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card: Offers the same 1.5% cash back but with a signup bonus
American Express® Blue Business Cash™ Card: Offers 2% cash back on up to $50,000 annually
The Business Platinum Card® from American Express
Annual Fee: $695
Rewards Rate: 5x points on flights and prepaid hotels booked through American Express Travel; 1.5x points on eligible purchases in select categories
Current Offer: Up to 150,000 points after spending $15,000 in the first 3 months
Regular APR: N/A (charge card)
Our Take
The Business Platinum Card® from American Express is the ultimate business travel card. With high rewards on travel purchases, access to airport lounges, and extensive travel protections, it’s perfect for small business owners who travel frequently. While the annual fee is steep, the benefits, including premium airport services and flexible rewards, can outweigh the cost for frequent travelers.
Welcome Offer
Earn up to 150,000 Membership Rewards points after spending $15,000 within the first 3 months. The value of these points is significantly higher when redeemed for travel through the Amex Membership Rewards portal.
Reward Details
You’ll earn 5x points on flights and prepaid hotels booked through Amex Travel and 1.5x points on eligible purchases in key business categories, such as shipping, media, and construction. Points can be redeemed for travel, statement credits, or even gift cards, with enhanced value when used for flights.
Signup Bonus
The 150,000 points bonus is one of the most generous available, especially for high-spending business travelers. These points can be worth up to $3,000 or more when redeemed for travel.
Foreign Transaction Fee
There are no foreign transaction fees, which is great for frequent international travelers.
Card Details
This card offers luxury travel benefits and flexible reward options.
5x points on flights and prepaid hotels through Amex Travel
1.5x points on eligible business purchases
Access to over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide
No preset spending limit
No foreign transaction fees
Pros:
Excellent travel rewards and benefits
Huge signup bonus
Access to airport lounges
No foreign transaction fees
Cons:
High $695 annual fee
Not ideal for businesses that don’t spend much on travel
Alternatives:
Capital One Spark Miles for Business: Offers flat-rate travel rewards with no annual fee
Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card: Offers 3x points on travel and select business categories at a lower fee
American Express® Business Gold Card
Annual Fee: $295
Rewards Rate: 4x points in two categories where you spend the most each month, up to $150,000 annually
Current Offer: 70,000 points after spending $10,000 in the first 3 months
Regular APR: 18.99%–26.99% variable
Our Take
The American Express® Business Gold Card is ideal for small business owners who want to maximize rewards in categories where they spend the most. Its flexible 4x points structure is tailored to suit businesses with fluctuating expenses, allowing cardholders to earn more in the areas that matter most.
Welcome Offer
New cardholders can earn 70,000 Membership Rewards points after spending $10,000 in the first 3 months. These points can be redeemed for travel, statement credits, or purchases.
Reward Details
You’ll earn 4x points in two categories where your business spends the most each billing cycle, including options like advertising, shipping, airfare, gas stations, and dining. The 4x points apply to the first $150,000 in combined purchases annually, with 1x points earned on all other purchases. This card is great for businesses with variable monthly expenses that change across key categories.
Signup Bonus
The 70,000-point bonus provides excellent value, especially for businesses able to meet the $10,000 spending requirement quickly.
Foreign Transaction Fee
There are no foreign transaction fees with this card.
Card Details
The American Express® Business Gold Card is designed for businesses with fluctuating expenses, offering flexibility in earning rewards.
4x points in two categories where your business spends the most
1x points on all other purchases
No preset spending limit
No foreign transaction fees
Pros:
Flexible rewards that adjust to your business’s spending
High earning potential in key business categories
No foreign transaction fees
Decent signup bonus
Cons:
$295 annual fee
4x points capped at $150,000 annually
Alternatives:
The Business Platinum Card® from American Express: Offers more travel perks and a higher bonus
Capital One Spark Cash Plus: For businesses that want a flat-rate rewards structure
American Express Blue Business Cash™ Card
Annual Fee: $0
Rewards Rate: 2% cash back on all eligible purchases up to $50,000 per calendar year; 1% thereafter
Current Offer: $250 statement credit after spending $3,000 in the first 3 months
Regular APR: 18.24% – 26.24% variable
Our Take
The American Express Blue Business Cash™ Card is a solid, no-annual-fee option for small businesses looking for simple, straightforward cash back. Its 2% cash back rate on up to $50,000 of spending annually makes it a good fit for businesses with moderate expenses that still want to maximize cash back.
Welcome Offer
You can earn a $250 statement credit after spending $3,000 in the first three months of card membership, which is a decent offer for businesses with lower upfront spending needs.
Reward Details
You’ll earn 2% cash back on the first $50,000 of eligible purchases each calendar year. After reaching that threshold, you’ll earn 1% cash back on all other purchases. Cashback is automatically credited to your account as a statement credit, so you don’t have to worry about redeeming points or rewards.
Signup Bonus
New cardholders can earn a $250 statement credit after spending $3,000 within the first three months.
Foreign Transaction Fee
A 2.7% foreign transaction fee applies to international purchases, which makes it less ideal for businesses with frequent foreign transactions.
Card Details
This card is designed for small businesses with moderate spending who want a no-annual-fee cash-back option.
2% cash back on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year
1% cash back thereafter
Employee cards at no additional cost
Access to Expanded Buying Power, which allows businesses to spend above their credit limit
Pros:
No annual fee
Straightforward cash-back rewards
Employee cards at no extra cost
Cons:
2.7% foreign transaction fee
Cashback is capped at $50,000 annually
Alternatives:
Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card: Unlimited 1.5% cash back with no cap
Capital One Spark Cash Plus: Unlimited 2% cash back on all purchases
U.S. Bank Business Triple Cash Rewards World Elite Mastercard®
Annual Fee: $0
Rewards Rate: 5% cash back on eligible purchases at office supply stores and on internet, cable, and phone services (up to $25,000 per year); 3% cash back on gas, EV charging, and dining; 1% on all other purchases
Current Offer: $500 cash back after spending $4,500 in the first 150 days
Regular APR: 19.99% – 28.99% variable
Our Take
The U.S. Bank Business Triple Cash Rewards World Elite Mastercard® is a great choice for small businesses looking to earn enhanced rewards on everyday expenses, especially for office supply purchases and telecommunications services. The 5% cash back on those categories makes it a standout for businesses spending heavily on those areas.
Welcome Offer
You’ll earn $500 cash back after spending $4,500 within the first 150 days of account opening, which is a strong offer for a no-annual-fee card.
Reward Details
The card earns 5% cash back on office supplies, internet, cable, and phone services (up to $25,000 annually), 3% on gas stations, EV charging stations, and dining, and 1% cash back on everything else. It’s a versatile card for businesses that need to maximize rewards across several different categories.
Signup Bonus
Earn $500 cash back after spending $4,500 within the first 150 days, which provides a decent return for moderate upfront spending.
Foreign Transaction Fee
This card charges a 3% foreign transaction fee, which could be a drawback for businesses with international transactions.
Card Details
The U.S. Bank Business Triple Cash Rewards Card offers flexible cash back on key business categories with no annual fee.
5% cash back on office supplies and internet/phone services (up to $25,000/year)
3% on gas and dining
1% on other purchases
No annual fee
Pros:
No annual fee
High reward rates in several business spending categories
Free employee cards
Cons:
3% foreign transaction fee
Rewards capped at $25,000 annually for the 5% categories
Alternatives:
Ink Business Cash® Credit Card: 5% cash back at office supply stores with a lower spending cap
American Express® Blue Business Cash™ Card: 2% cash back on all purchases with no annual fee
Wells Fargo Business Platinum Credit Card
Annual Fee: $0
Rewards Rate: Earn 1.5% cash back on every purchase
Current Offer: No bonus offer is currently available
Regular APR: 11.99% – 21.99% variable
Our Take
The Wells Fargo Business Platinum Credit Card is a no-frills cash-back option that offers straightforward rewards without an annual fee. It’s a solid card for small business owners looking for predictable cash back on everyday business purchases with a competitive APR.
Welcome Offer
There is no current bonus offer available with this card, which is a downside compared to other business credit cards that often come with attractive signup bonuses.
Reward Details
This card offers unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases, making it a straightforward option for business owners who want simplicity. Cashback is automatically credited to your account, with no categories to track or rewards caps to manage.
Signup Bonus
No signup bonus is available for this card at the moment.
Foreign Transaction Fee
This card charges a 3% foreign transaction fee, which could make it costly for international business purchases.
Card Details
This card offers simple cash back with a low APR, ideal for small businesses that want minimal complexity.
1.5% cash back on all purchases
No annual fee
Low regular APR
Pros:
No annual fee
Simple, flat-rate cash back
Low APR compared to many other business credit cards
Cons:
No signup bonus
3% foreign transaction fee
Alternatives:
Capital One Spark Cash Select for Excellent Credit: Offers 1.5% cash back with no foreign transaction fees
Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card: 1.5% cash back with a signup bonus
Bank of America® Business Advantage Unlimited Cash Rewards Mastercard®
Annual Fee: $0
Rewards Rate: Unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases
Current Offer: $300 statement credit after spending $3,000 in the first 90 days
Regular APR: 16.24% – 26.24% variable
Our Take
The Bank of America® Business Advantage Unlimited Cash Rewards card is a simple and effective cash-back option for small businesses that value convenience. With unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases and no annual fee, it’s a reliable card for businesses looking to keep things simple.
Welcome Offer
New cardholders can earn a $300 statement credit after spending $3,000 within the first 90 days, which is a solid bonus for a no-annual-fee card.
Reward Details
This card provides unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases, with no spending caps or categories to track. For businesses that qualify for the Bank of America Preferred Rewards program, the cash-back rate can increase up to 2.62%.
Signup Bonus
Earn a $300 statement credit after spending $3,000 in the first 90 days.
Foreign Transaction Fee
This card charges a 3% foreign transaction fee, which could be a drawback for businesses with international spending.
Card Details
The Bank of America® Business Advantage Unlimited Cash Rewards Mastercard® offers flexible rewards with added bonuses for Preferred Rewards clients.
Unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases
No annual fee
Potential to earn up to 2.62% cash back as a Preferred Rewards member
Pros:
No annual fee
Simple, unlimited cash-back rewards
Bonus rewards for Preferred Rewards clients
Cons:
3% foreign transaction fee
Lower base cash back rate compared to some other business cards
Alternatives:
Capital One Spark Cash Select for Excellent Credit: 1.5% cash back with no foreign transaction fees
Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card: Offers a signup bonus and 1.5% cash back on all purchases
United℠ Business Card
Annual Fee: $0 intro for the first year, then $99
Rewards Rate: 2 miles per $1 spent on United Airlines purchases, dining, gas stations, and office supply stores; 1 mile per $1 on other purchases
Current Offer: 50,000 miles after spending $5,000 in the first 3 months
Regular APR: 21.49% – 28.49% variable
Our Take
The United℠ Business Card is a great fit for businesses that frequently use United Airlines. With bonus miles on United flights, dining, gas stations, and office supplies, it offers a well-rounded rewards structure for everyday business expenses. The card also comes with valuable United travel perks like free checked bags and priority boarding.
Welcome Offer
New cardholders can earn 50,000 bonus miles after spending $5,000 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening, which is a substantial offer for frequent travelers.
Reward Details
The card offers 2 miles per $1 spent on United purchases, dining, gas stations, and office supply stores, making it an excellent option for business owners who travel and spend in these categories. Other purchases earn 1 mile per $1. Miles can be redeemed for flights, seat upgrades, and more within the United Airlines ecosystem.
Signup Bonus
Earn 50,000 bonus miles after spending $5,000 within the first 3 months.
Foreign Transaction Fee
This card does not charge foreign transaction fees, making it ideal for businesses that travel internationally.
Card Details
The United℠ Business Card is geared towards businesses that travel often with United Airlines, offering robust travel rewards and valuable perks like free checked bags and priority boarding.
2 miles per $1 on United flights, dining, gas, and office supplies
1 mile per $1 on other purchases
Free checked bag and priority boarding
25% back on United in-flight purchases
Pros:
No foreign transaction fees
Great travel perks with United Airlines
Competitive rewards for frequent flyers
Cons:
Annual fee after the first year
Best suited for United Airlines travelers
Alternatives:
The Business Platinum Card® from American Express: More flexible travel rewards across airlines
Capital One Spark Miles for Business: Flat-rate miles on all purchases with flexible travel redemption options
Brex Card
Annual Fee: $0
Rewards Rate: Earn up to 8 points per $1 spent on Brex travel, 5 points on rideshare, 4 points on restaurants, 3 points on software subscriptions, and 1 point on other purchases
Current Offer: No welcome offer is currently available
Regular APR: N/A (charge card)
Our Take
The Brex Card is ideal for startups and tech companies that want rewards without a personal guarantee. With high rewards rates in categories like travel, rideshare, and software subscriptions, it’s designed for businesses with high tech and travel expenses. Additionally, it integrates easily with accounting software, making it convenient for managing business expenses.
Welcome Offer
There is no current welcome bonus available, but the card’s high rewards structure and unique features make it attractive for growing businesses.
Reward Details
Earn up to 8 points per $1 spent on Brex travel, 5 points on rideshare, 4 points on restaurants, 3 points on software subscriptions, and 1 point on all other purchases. Points can be redeemed for travel, statement credits, and more. The rewards structure is particularly beneficial for tech startups with significant expenses in these categories.
Signup Bonus
No signup bonus is currently available.
Foreign Transaction Fee
The Brex Card charges no foreign transaction fees, making it ideal for businesses with international operations.
Card Details
The Brex Card is best for startups and tech companies looking for high rewards, no personal guarantee, and easy integration with business software.
Up to 8 points per $1 spent on Brex travel
High rewards on rideshare, dining, and software subscriptions
No annual fee or foreign transaction fees
No personal guarantee required
Pros:
No annual fee or personal guarantee
High rewards rates for travel and tech expenses
Easy integration with accounting tools
Cons:
No welcome bonus
Not ideal for businesses with fewer tech or travel expenses
Alternatives:
Capital One Spark Miles for Business: Simple flat-rate miles with travel perks
American Express® Business Gold Card: High rewards in customizable categories
Capital One Spark Miles for Business
Annual Fee: $0 intro for the first year, then $95
Rewards Rate: Unlimited 2 miles per $1 spent on all purchases
Current Offer: 50,000 miles after spending $4,500 in the first 3 months
Regular APR: 21.24% – 29.24% variable
Our Take
The Capital One Spark Miles for Business is perfect for business owners seeking simplicity with travel rewards. With unlimited 2 miles per $1 spent on all purchases, it offers a no-nonsense way to rack up miles quickly. The card comes with travel perks like statement credits for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck and no foreign transaction fees.
Welcome Offer
New cardholders can earn 50,000 miles after spending $4,500 in the first 3 months, providing a strong incentive for businesses that travel.
Reward Details
Earn unlimited 2 miles per $1 on all purchases, with no caps or categories to track. Miles can be redeemed for flights, hotels, vacation packages, and more through Capital One’s travel portal, or transferred to partner loyalty programs.
Signup Bonus
Earn 50,000 bonus miles after spending $4,500 within the first 3 months.
Foreign Transaction Fee
There are no foreign transaction fees, making this card an excellent choice for international business travel.
Card Details
The Capital One Spark Miles for Business offers simple, flat-rate rewards with valuable travel benefits for frequent travelers.
2 miles per $1 on all purchases
Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credit
No foreign transaction fees
Transfer miles to over 15 travel loyalty programs
Pros:
Unlimited 2 miles per $1 on all purchases
No foreign transaction fees
Global Entry/TSA PreCheck credit
Cons:
Annual fee after the first year
Limited value for businesses that don’t travel frequently
Alternatives:
Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card: 3 points per $1 in business categories, with travel perks
Brex Card: No personal guarantee and high rewards on tech spending
Marriott Bonvoy Business® American Express® Card
Annual Fee: $125
Rewards Rate: Earn 6 points per $1 spent at Marriott hotels, 4 points on gas stations, dining, shipping, and wireless services, 2 points on other purchases
Current Offer: 125,000 points after spending $8,000 in the first 3 months
Regular APR: 20.99% – 29.99% variable
Our Take
The Marriott Bonvoy Business® American Express® Card is ideal for business owners who frequently stay at Marriott properties. With high earning potential on Marriott stays and solid rewards on everyday business expenses, this card is great for business travelers who want to maximize hotel rewards.
Welcome Offer
New cardholders can earn 125,000 Marriott Bonvoy points after spending $8,000 in purchases within the first 3 months, which can be redeemed for free nights at Marriott properties.
Reward Details
Earn 6 points per $1 spent at Marriott hotels, 4 points on gas, dining, shipping, and wireless services, and 2 points on all other purchases. Marriott Bonvoy points can be redeemed for hotel stays, room upgrades, and more at Marriott properties.
Signup Bonus
Earn 125,000 points after spending $8,000 within the first 3 months.
Foreign Transaction Fee
No foreign transaction fees apply, making this card suitable for international business travel.
Card Details
The Marriott Bonvoy Business® American Express® Card is designed for frequent travelers who want to earn rewards for Marriott stays and benefit from business expense rewards.
6 points per $1 on Marriott stays
4 points on gas, dining, shipping, and wireless services
Free night award every anniversary
Complimentary Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite status
Pros:
High rewards rate on Marriott purchases
Free night award every year
No foreign transaction fees
Cons:
$125 annual fee
Best suited for Marriott loyalists
Alternatives:
The Business Platinum Card® from American Express: Great for travelers who prefer flexible travel rewards
Capital One Spark Miles for Business: Flat-rate travel rewards with no annual fee in the first year
American Express® Business Green Rewards Card
Annual Fee: $95
Rewards Rate: 2 points per $1 spent on travel booked through AmexTravel.com; 1 point per $1 on all other purchases
Current Offer: 15,000 points after spending $3,000 in the first 3 months
Regular APR: 19.49% – 27.49% variable
Our Take
The American Express® Business Green Rewards Card is a solid option for business owners looking for flexible travel rewards without a high annual fee. With 2x points on travel booked through American Express Travel and 1x on other purchases, it’s a basic but effective card for frequent travelers.
Welcome Offer
New cardholders can earn 15,000 Membership Rewards® points after spending $3,000 in purchases within the first 3 months.
Reward Details
You’ll earn 2 points per $1 spent on travel booked through American Express Travel and 1 point per $1 on all other purchases. Points can be redeemed for flights, hotels, and more through the Amex Membership Rewards® program.
Signup Bonus
Earn 15,000 points after spending $3,000 within the first 3 months.
Foreign Transaction Fee
No foreign transaction fees apply, which is a plus for international business travelers.
Card Details
The American Express® Business Green Rewards Card is ideal for businesses seeking flexible rewards for travel with no high annual fee.
2 points per $1 on AmexTravel.com purchases
1 point per $1 on other purchases
Access to the Membership Rewards® program for travel redemptions
Pros:
No foreign transaction fees
Flexible travel rewards
Moderate annual fee
Cons:
Fewer bonus categories compared to other cards
Smaller welcome bonus
Alternatives:
Chase Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card: Higher rewards in business categories with a larger signup bonus
Capital One Spark Miles for Business: Higher flat-rate rewards with no annual fee in the first year
Ink Business Premier® Credit Card
Annual Fee: $195
Rewards Rate: 2.5% cash back on the first $50,000 spent in combined purchases each year; 1.5% on all other purchases
Current Offer: $1,000 cash back after spending $8,000 in the first 3 months
Regular APR: 20.49% – 25.49% variable
Our Take
The Ink Business Premier® Credit Card offers robust cash-back opportunities for small businesses with significant spending needs. With the ability to earn 2.5% cash back on the first $50,000 spent annually in combined purchases, it caters well to businesses that want to maximize rewards across various expenses.
Welcome Offer
New cardholders can earn a generous $1,000 cash back after spending $8,000 in the first 3 months, which is appealing for businesses with higher upfront spending.
Reward Details
The card provides 2.5% cash back on the first $50,000 spent in combined purchases each year and 1.5% on all other purchases. Cashback is earned automatically and can be redeemed as statement credits, making it straightforward for business owners.
Signup Bonus
Earn $1,000 cash back after spending $8,000 within the first 3 months.
Foreign Transaction Fee
There are no foreign transaction fees, making this card a strong choice for businesses with international transactions.
Card Details
The Ink Business Premier® Credit Card is designed for small businesses looking to earn substantial cash-back rewards with no foreign transaction fees.
2.5% cash back on the first $50,000 in combined purchases each year
1.5% cash back on other purchases
No foreign transaction fees
Easy cash-back redemption options
Pros:
High cashback rate on the first $50,000
No foreign transaction fees
Simple cash-back redemption process
Cons:
Annual fee of $195
Higher spending requirement for the welcome bonus
Alternatives:
Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card: Offers unlimited 1.5% cash back with no annual fee
Capital One Spark Cash Plus: Unlimited 2% cash back on all purchases
U.S. Bank Business Altitude™ Connect World Elite Mastercard®
Annual Fee: $95
Rewards Rate: 4 points per $1 spent on travel purchased through the U.S. Bank Travel Rewards Center; 2 points on gas stations, dining, and eligible streaming services; 1 point on other purchases
Current Offer: 50,000 points after spending $4,500 in the first 3 months
Regular APR: 17.49% – 26.49% variable
Our Take
The U.S. Bank Business Altitude™ Connect World Elite Mastercard® is a strong choice for small businesses that prioritize travel rewards. With a generous points structure and travel benefits, this card is ideal for companies that frequently travel for business.
Welcome Offer
New cardholders can earn 50,000 points after spending $4,500 within the first 3 months, which can be redeemed for a variety of travel rewards.
Reward Details
Earn 4 points per $1 on travel purchased through the U.S. Bank Travel Rewards Center, 2 points on gas, dining, and eligible streaming services, and 1 point on other purchases. Points can be redeemed for travel, cash back, gift cards, and more, giving businesses flexibility in how they use their rewards.
Signup Bonus
You can earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $4,500 in the first 3 months.
Foreign Transaction Fee
There are no foreign transaction fees, making this card excellent for international travel.
Card Details
The U.S. Bank Business Altitude™ Connect World Elite Mastercard® offers strong travel rewards and no foreign transaction fees, making it a great fit for businesses that travel frequently.
4 points per $1 on travel through U.S. Bank
2 points on gas, dining, and eligible streaming services
1 point on all other purchases
Annual fee of $95
Pros:
High rewards rate on travel purchases
No foreign transaction fees
Flexible rewards redemption options
Cons:
$95 annual fee
Best suited for businesses that spend heavily on travel and dining
Alternatives:
Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card: Offers high points in select categories with a larger signup bonus
Capital One Spark Miles for Business: Flat-rate miles on all purchases with travel perks
Delivery notifications and tracking improve customer satisfaction by 27%.
Metrobi automatically notifies your receivers of ETAs, provides delivery tracking, and collects delivery feedback.
How to Select the Ideal Credit Card for Your Business
Choosing the best credit card for your business involves evaluating your specific financial needs and spending habits. Start by considering the types of expenses you typically incur, such as office supplies, dining purchases, and travel costs. Look for credit cards that offer rewards programs aligned with your key business categories, whether it’s cash back, travel rewards, or other bonus rewards.
Pay attention to the annual fee and any foreign transaction fees, especially if your business involves international transactions. Additionally, consider the card’s eligibility requirements, including how your personal credit score may impact your application. Ultimately, the ideal business credit card will help you manage your business expenses efficiently while maximizing rewards.
Business Credit Cards vs. Personal Credit Cards
When deciding between business credit cards and personal credit cards, it’s crucial to understand the key differences. Business credit cards are specifically designed for business owners, offering features such as higher credit limits and the ability to separate personal and business expenses, which can aid in managing cash flow and building business credit. They often come with rewards tailored to common business spending categories, such as office supplies and gas stations.
In contrast, personal credit cards may not offer the same level of rewards for business-related purchases and can affect your personal credit score if used for business expenses. Additionally, many business credit cards provide tools for expense tracking, employee cards, and better insights into your business finances, making them a more suitable option for small business owners.
Requirements for Approval of a Small Business Credit Card
To get approved for a small business credit card, you typically need to provide basic information about your business, including its legal structure and financials. Credit card issuers will often look at your credit history, business credit scores, and personal credit score. Having a solid account opening history and demonstrating a reliable payment history can strengthen your application.
Be prepared to present documentation, such as your business tax ID number, revenue details, and potentially personal guarantees if you’re a new business owner without an established credit history. Additionally, understanding your business expenses and how they align with the credit card’s rewards can improve your chances of approval.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Business Credit Cards
When considering business credit cards, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons.
Pros: Business credit cards offer features tailored for small business owners, such as higher credit limits, the ability to earn rewards on everyday business purchases, and tools for tracking business expenses. Many cards provide bonus rewards for key spending categories like office supplies and dining, while also helping to build business credit separate from personal credit. Additionally, they often come with valuable benefits such as travel insurance and fraud protection.
Cons: On the downside, some business credit cards carry higher annual fees than personal credit cards. Additionally, if your business struggles financially, it could impact your personal credit score if you’ve provided a personal guarantee. Furthermore, not all business credit cards are suitable for every type of business; some may have restrictions on eligible purchases or require a strong credit history for approval.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What should I consider when choosing a business credit card? Consider your spending habits, the types of rewards you want (cash back, travel), annual fees, foreign transaction fees, and any additional benefits or features the card offers.
Can I use a business credit card for personal expenses? While it’s possible, it’s generally recommended to keep business and personal expenses separate to maintain clear financial records and protect your personal credit score.
How do I build business credit using a credit card? You can build business credit by consistently using your business credit card for eligible purchases, making timely payments, and maintaining a low credit utilization ratio.
Are there any fees associated with business credit cards? Yes, many business credit cards have annual fees, and some may charge foreign transaction fees. It’s important to review these fees before applying for a card.
Will my personal credit score affect my business credit card application? Yes, many credit card issuers will consider your personal credit score when evaluating your application for a business credit card, especially if you’re a sole proprietor or new business owner.
Make the Right Choice for Your Business
In conclusion, selecting the best business credit cards can significantly enhance your financial flexibility and provide invaluable rewards for your business purchases. Whether you’re focused on earning cash back, travel rewards, or enjoying perks like statement credits, it’s essential to assess your specific needs and how these credit cards can help manage your cash flow and build business credit.
By keeping an eye on factors such as credit history, personal credit scores, and potential balance transfers, you can choose a card that supports your business goals while minimizing costs. Ultimately, the right small business credit card can make a substantial difference in your operations, helping you streamline expenses and enhance your bottom line.
