Best Credit Cards for Small Businesses
01/22/2025|
Starting and running a small business can be challenging, especially when it comes to managing cash flow and making the right financial decisions. One of the most powerful tools available to small business owners is a small business credit card. Not only do business credit cards help you build credit and give you access to credit when you need it, but they also come with various perks and rewards that can help you save money and streamline your financial operations. However, choosing the best business credit cards can be overwhelming, given the vast array of options available.
In this detailed review, we will explore some of the best business cards for small businesses, including those from Amex Business, Chase, and other major issuers. We'll dive into the rewards programs, fees, credit limits, and unique benefits of each card. Whether you are a new business owner, a startup, a sole proprietor, or an established enterprise looking to optimize your business spending without a business loan, this guide will help you make an informed decision.
1. Ink Business Unlimited Credit Card
The Ink Business Unlimited Credit Card from Chase is a simple and straightforward business card designed for businesses that want to earn unlimited cash back on their purchases. It's an excellent option for businesses that prefer to earn a flat-rate reward without having to worry about spending categories.
Rewards Program:Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase, with no category restrictions or limits.
Sign-up Bonus: $750 bonus cash after spending $7,500 in the first 3 months from account opening.
Annual Fee:$0
APR:18.24% – 24.24% variable APR
Foreign Transaction Fees:None
Credit Limit:Flexible, based on creditworthiness.
Terms Apply: Be sure to read the terms regarding bonus cash and how it is earned.
This card is ideal for businesses that make frequent, varied purchases and want to earn consistent cash back. The credit score needed for approval typically starts at around 690, which is standard for many small business cards. Plus, the credit limit is based on your creditworthiness, which makes it easier for both startups and established businesses to apply.
2. Ink Business Cash Credit Card
The Ink Business Cash Credit Card from Chase is another top choice for small business owners, offering excellent rewards on specific business categories. If your business spends a lot in particular categories like office supplies or internet services, this card is an excellent option.
Rewards Program:Earn 5% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at office supply stores and on internet, cable, and phone services each account anniversary year. Earn 2% on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at gas stations and restaurants each account anniversary year. Earn 1% on all other purchases.
Sign-up Bonus: $750 bonus cash after spending $7,500 in the first 3 months from account opening.
Annual Fee:$0
APR:18.24% – 24.24% variable APR
Foreign Transaction Fees:None
Credit Limit:Based on creditworthiness.
Terms Apply: Be sure to check the terms related to the 5% and 2% bonus categories and how they apply.
This card is ideal for businesses that make frequent, varied purchases and want to earn consistent cash back. The credit score needed for approval typically starts at around 690, which is standard for many small business cards. Plus, the credit limit is based on your creditworthiness, which makes it easier for both startups and established businesses to apply.
3. American Express Business Gold Card
For businesses that need flexibility in their rewards program, the American Express Business Gold Card provides exceptional benefits. With a unique rewards structure that targets business categories, this card offers an excellent way to earn rewards based on your business's specific needs.
Rewards Program:Earn 5% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at office supply stores and on internet, cable, and phone services each account anniversary year. Earn 2% on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at gas stations and restaurants each account anniversary year. Earn 1% on all other purchases.
Sign-up Bonus: $750 bonus cash after spending $7,500 in the first 3 months from account opening.
Annual Fee:$0
APR:18.24% – 24.24% variable APR
Foreign Transaction Fees:None
Credit Limit:Based on creditworthiness.
Terms Apply: Be sure to check the terms related to the 5% and 2% bonus categories and how they apply.
This card is particularly beneficial for businesses that have diverse spending patterns. If your business spends significantly on different categories such as advertising, travel, and shipping, the American Express business card allows you to customize your rewards structure each month. Cardholders can expect the highest rewards in the categories most relevant to their business.
4. The Blue Business Plus Credit Card from American Express
The Blue Business Plus Credit Card from American Express is perfect for small businesses looking for a simple, no-annual-fee option that offers a solid rewards program. This card is great for business owners who want to earn rewards without worrying about specific categories or caps on their earnings.
Rewards ProgramEarn 2 Membership Rewards points on the first $50,000 in purchases each calendar year (1 point per dollar thereafter).
Sign-up Bonus: 15,000 Membership Rewards points after spending $3,000 in the first 3 months from account opening.
Annual Fee$0
APR:19.99% – 27.99% variable APR
Foreign Transaction Fees:None
Credit Limit:Based on your credit score and credit report.
Terms Apply: Read the full terms for earning rewards on the first $50,000.
This card is ideal for small businesses that spend a variety of amounts across different categories. The credit limit is flexible and based on your financial profile, and it’s easy to track your rewards through American Express's robust online platform.
5. Capital One Spark Cash for Business
The Capital One Spark Cash for Business credit card offers a simple and valuable cash-back structure, making it one of the top best business credit cards for those who want to earn straightforward cash back without worrying about rotating categories or restrictions.
Rewards Program:Earn 2% cash back on every purchase, with no limits or categories to track.
Sign-up Bonus: $500 bonus cash after spending $4,500 in the first 3 months from account
Annual Fee:$0$0 for the first year, then $95 after.
APR:23.99% variable APR
Foreign Transaction Fees:None
Credit Limit:Based on your business’s creditworthiness and financial history.
Terms Apply:Check the terms for how rewards are earned and redeemed.
This card is perfect for businesses that want to earn high rewards on all purchases without being tied to specific spending categories. It also offers flexibility with a credit limit based on your financial standing, and there are no foreign transaction fees, making it ideal for businesses that deal with international clients
6. Wells Fargo Business Platinum Credit Card
The Wells Fargo Business Platinum Credit Card is a great option for businesses that need a card with 0% APR for purchases and balance transfers, especially for those with personal credit cards already in use. This feature makes it especially beneficial for managing cash flow during periods of high spending.
Rewards Program:Earn 1.5% cash back on all purchases.
Sign-up Bonus: None.
Annual Fee:$0
APR:0% for the first 9 months, then 19.99% – 29.99% variable APR
Foreign Transaction Fees:3% of each transaction in U.S. dollars.
Credit Limit:Based on creditworthiness.
Terms Apply: Be sure to review the terms for the 0% APR offer.
This card is ideal for businesses that need to manage large purchases or balance transfers over time. The 0% intro APR for the first 9 months can provide significant savings for businesses that are working to pay down existing debt or manage business and personal expenses.
7. Ink Business Preferred Credit Card
The Ink Business Preferred Credit Card from Chase is one of the best business cards for businesses that want to earn valuable points on large purchases and business-related expenses. It’s a perfect card for businesses that want to take their rewards further.
Rewards Program:Earn 3 points per $1 on the first $150,000 spent in combined purchases in categories such as travel, shipping, advertising, and internet services. Earn 1 point on all other purchases.
Sign-up Bonus: 100,000 points after spending $15,000 in the first 3 months.
Annual Fee:$95
APR:20.99% – 25.99% variable APR
Foreign Transaction Fees:None
Credit Limit:Flexible, based on creditworthiness.
This card is ideal for businesses with significant business spending in categories like travel and advertising. The large sign-up bonus and high reward points for business-related purchases make it an attractive option for companies looking to maximize rewards.
8. American Express Blue Business Cash Card
The American Express Blue Business Cash Card is a great option for small businesses that want to earn cash back without worrying about categories or restrictions. With a simple and straightforward rewards structure, this card is a great addition for businesses looking to simplify their spending and get reliable cashback rewards.
Rewards Program:Earn 2% cash back on the first $50,000 spent each year (1% on purchases after that).
Sign-up Bonus: $250 statement credit after spending $3,000 in the first 3 months from account opening.
Annual Fee:$0
APR:19.24% – 27.24% variable APR
Foreign Transaction Fees:None
Credit Limit:Flexible, based on your credit score and credit report
Terms Apply: Ensure you understand the cap on the 2% cash back and how the rewards are earned.
This card is ideal for businesses that have a variety of spending needs and want to earn solid cashback across a wide range of purchases. The credit limit is based on your credit profile, and with no foreign transaction fees, it’s also great for businesses that work internationally.
9. Chase Sapphire Preferred Card
While typically considered a travel rewards card, the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card can be a great option for small business owners who frequently travel for business and want to earn valuable points on their expenses. The generous points earning structure and travel benefits make this card one of the best options for business owners who want to earn more rewards while managing their business-related expenses.
Rewards Program:Earn 2 points per $1 on travel and dining, and 1 point on all other purchases.
Sign-up Bonus: 60,000 points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months from account opening.
Annual Fee:$95
APR:22.24% – 29.24% variable APR
Foreign Transaction Fees:None
Credit Limit:Based on creditworthiness.
Terms Apply: Be sure to review the bonus points offer and how it applies to the spending categories.
This card is perfect for small business owners who want to earn travel rewards while spending on dining, travel, and other business expenses. With spending limits tied to your credit profile, cardholders can easily maximize their points for business trips, flight bookings, and hotel stays.
10. U.S. Bank Business Cash Rewards World Elite Mastercard
The U.S. Bank Business Cash Rewards World Elite Mastercard is another top choice for small businesses that prefer to earn cash back. With a strong rewards program, valuable bonus offers, and extra perks, this card offers a lot of value for business spending in various categories.
Rewards Program:Earn 3% cash back on the first $2,500 spent in combined purchases at gas stations, office supply stores, and cell phone service providers. Earn 1% on all other purchases.
Sign-up Bonus: $500 cash back after spending $4,500 in the first 3 months from account opening.
Annual Fee:$0
APR:16.99% – 25.99% variable APR
Foreign Transaction Fees:None
Credit Limit:Based on credit score and financial history.
Terms Apply: Check the terms for earning bonus cash in the top spending categories.
This card is great for small business owners who want to earn cash back on everyday purchases like office supplies, gas, and phone bills. The credit limit is determined by your creditworthiness, and with no foreign transaction fees, this card is ideal for businesses with international operations.
11. Capital One Spark Cash for Business
The Capital One Spark Cash for Business card is an excellent choice for business owners who want a straightforward and highly rewarding cash back program. It's an ideal option for companies that want to simplify their rewards while benefiting from a high cashback rate across all purchases.
Rewards Program:Earn unlimited 2% cash back on every purchase, every day.
Sign-up Bonus: $500 bonus cash after spending $4,500 in the first 3 months from account opening.
Annual Fee:$95 (waived for the first year)
APR:21.99% variable APR
Foreign Transaction Fees:None
Credit Limit:Based on your credit score and financial profile.
Terms Apply: Be sure to check the spending requirements for the bonus cash and any additional benefits offered by the card issuer.
This card is perfect for business owners looking for a simple way to earn 2% cash back on all purchases. Whether you are a startup or a growing business, this card helps you keep track of your business spending and build your company's credit history. With no foreign transaction fees, it’s also a great option for businesses that travel abroad. The credit limit offered will depend on your credit report, making it an ideal option for those with strong credit.
12. Bank of America Business Advantage Customized Cash Rewards Mastercard
The Bank of America Business Advantage Customized Cash Rewards Mastercard offers great flexibility for business owners who want to earn cash back in the categories that matter most. This card provides cash back on select categories, allowing you to tailor your rewards to your business needs.
Rewards Program:Earn 3% cash back on the category of your choice (gas stations, office supply stores, travel, etc.), 2% on dining, and 1% on all other purchases. The 3% and 2% rates apply to the first $50,000 spent in combined purchases each year, then 1% on all purchases.
Sign-up Bonus: $300 online cash rewards bonus after making at least $3,000 in net purchases in the first 90 days from account opening.
Annual Fee:$0
APR:13.99% – 23.99% variable APR
Foreign Transaction Fees: 3%
Credit Limit:Based on credit score and business financials.
Terms Apply: Make sure to review the details for earning rewards and categories for the cash back offer.
This card is a great fit for businesses with varied spending habits who want to customize their rewards to match their most common business expenses. If your business uses a lot of office supplies or pays for travel, this card can maximize your business spending. However, note the foreign transaction fees, which could impact businesses with global operations.
13. Wells Fargo Business Platinum Credit Card
The Wells Fargo Business Platinum Credit Card is an excellent choice for businesses that need a flexible, low-interest credit card to manage cash flow. This card is ideal for companies that prioritize low APR and need to make large purchases or cover short-term expenses without worrying about high interest rates.
Rewards Program:Earn 1.5% cash back on every purchase or 1 point per $1 spent (depending on the card version you choose).
Sign-up Bonus: $500 cash back after spending $3,000 in the first 3 months from account opening.
Annual Fee:$0
APR:13.99% – 23.99% variable APR (on purchases and balance transfers)
Foreign Transaction Fees: 3%
Credit Limit:Based on credit score and business income.
Terms Apply: Be sure to understand the details of your cardholder agreement regarding your line of credit and billing cycles.
This card offers a combination of low APR for those who might carry a balance and a sign-up bonus for new cardholders. The flexibility of earning either cash back or rewards points makes it a versatile option for many businesses, from startups to established companies. However, be mindful of the foreign transaction fees if your business involves international travel.
14. American Express Business Gold Card
The American Express Business Gold Card is an excellent option for business owners who want to maximize rewards on their business spending in specific categories. It offers flexibility and a high rewards rate on select spending categories that change based on where your business spends the most.
Rewards Program:Earn 4 points per $1 spent on the two categories where your business spends the most each billing cycle (from a list of categories such as advertising, shipping, gas, and computer hardware). Earn 1 point per $1 on other purchases.
Sign-up Bonus: : 70,000 Membership Rewards points after you spend $10,000 in the first 3 months from account opening (terms apply).
Annual Fee:$295
APR: 20.99% – 28.99% variable APR
Foreign Transaction Fees:None
Credit Limit:Based on credit report and credit score.
Terms Apply: Review the specific categories eligible for 4x points to ensure your spending aligns with these categories for maximum rewards.
This card is a great choice for businesses with fluctuating expenses, as it allows you to earn 4 points per dollar on the categories where you spend the most. The sign-up bonus of 70,000 Membership Rewards points is one of the best in the business, making it ideal for businesses that can meet the spending threshold. Plus, with no foreign transaction fees, it’s also great for businesses that travel internationally. However, the annual fee is on the higher side, so it may not be suitable for very small businesses or startups with tight budgets.
15. Chase Ink Business Preferred Credit Card
The Chase Ink Business Preferred Credit Card is one of the best business credit cards for those who want to earn top-tier rewards on a wide variety of business expenses. With its large sign-up bonus and the opportunity to earn 3 points per $1 on the most common business categories, it’s an excellent choice for companies of all sizes.
Rewards Program: Earn 3 points per $1 on the first $150,000 spent in combined eligible purchases at select categories such as travel, shipping, internet, cable, and phone services, and advertising on social media and search engines. Earn 1 point per $1 on all other purchases.
Sign-up Bonus: 100,000 bonus points after you spend $15,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening (terms apply).
Annual Fee:$95
APR:20.24% – 25.24% variable APR
Foreign Transaction Fees:None
Credit Limit:Based on credit score and financial profile.
Terms Apply: Review the spending categories for the 3-point bonus to ensure your business spending aligns with those categories.
The ChaseInk Business Preferred Credit Card stands out for its sign-up bonus, which can be worth up to $1,250 in travel rewards when redeemed through the Chase Ultimate Rewards program. With no foreign transaction fees and a strong rewards rate on common business purchases, it’s ideal for new businesses, startups, and growing companies that have significant expenses in travel, advertising, and business services. However, the annual fee is important to factor into your decision, especially if your business doesn’t spend much in the bonus categories.
16. CitiBusiness / AAdvantage Platinum Select Mastercard
The CitiBusiness / AAdvantage Platinum Select Mastercard from Citi is an excellent option for businesses that frequently travel or have travel-related expenses. It offers a solid rewards program for purchases made within the American Airlines ecosystem, making it ideal for small businesses that need to frequently travel for business purposes.
Rewards Program:Earn 2 miles per $1 on purchases made at gas stations, restaurants, and American Airlines purchases. Earn 1 mile per $1 on all other purchases.
Sign-up Bonus: 70,000 bonus miles after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening (terms apply).
Annual Fee: $99 (waived for the first 12 months)
APR:19.24% – 27.24% variable APR
Foreign Transaction Fees:None
Credit Limit:Based on credit score and creditworthiness.
Terms Apply: Terms apply to the bonus miles, so be sure to check for the specific conditions to ensure eligibility.
One of the key benefits of the CitiBusiness / AAdvantage Platinum Select Mastercard is the ability to earn miles on business spending related to travel, such as flights and dining. With no foreign transaction fees, it’s an ideal card for businesses that travel abroad. The sign-up bonus of 70,000 miles is generous, and the annual fee of $99 is waived for the first year, which makes it especially appealing for startups and new business owners looking to maximize their rewards in the early stages of their business.
17. U.S. Bank Business Leverage Visa Signature Card
The U.S. Bank Business Leverage Visa Signature Card is a powerful choice for small businesses looking to earn high rewards on both everyday and large business purchases. This card offers a flexible points structure, providing cardholders with valuable rewards that can be redeemed for a variety of business-related expenses.
Rewards Program:Earn 2 points per $1 on eligible purchases in the top two spending categories each month (such as gas stations, office supply stores, or travel), and 1 point per $1 on all other purchases.
Sign-up Bonus: 75,000 bonus points after you spend $7,500 on qualifying purchases within the first 3 months of account opening (terms apply).
Annual Fee:$95
APR:18.24% – 27.24% variable APR
Foreign Transaction Fees:2% of each transaction in U.S. dollars
Credit Limit:Based on credit score and financial profile
Terms Apply: Terms apply to the bonus points and rewards redemption process.
The U.S. Bank Business Leverage Visa Signature Card stands out with its flexible spending limits on categories that are most important for businesses. It provides an excellent rewards rate on purchases that tend to make up a significant portion of most companies' expenses, such as office supplies, travel, and gas. The sign-up bonus of 75,000 points is a great incentive to consider this card for your business spending needs.
At the end of the day, selecting the best business credit cards for your small business depends on your unique needs, such as your business spending, rewards preferences, and credit score. It's important to carefully review the terms apply for each card, especially when considering factors like foreign transaction fees and credit limits. If you're unsure about which card is right for you, reviewing FAQs and consulting with a lender or financial advisor can provide valuable insights. By choosing the right card, you can maximize rewards, streamline your financial management, and support the growth of your business.