When running a business, having the right credit card can make a significant difference in how you manage cash flow, earn rewards, and protect your company’s finances. The best business credit cards not only offer competitive interest rates but also come with a variety of features tailored to the unique needs of business owners, such as expense tracking, reward programs, and robust fraud protection. Here’s a look at some of the best credit card offers available for business owners.
1. Chase Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card
The Chase Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card is one of the top choices for businesses that want to maximize their rewards. With an impressive 3 points per $1 spent on the first $150,000 spent on travel, advertising, internet, cable, and phone services, this card helps businesses earn rewards in categories that matter most. Additionally, it offers a generous sign-up bonus of 100,000 points if you spend $15,000 in the first 3 months, making it an excellent choice for businesses that can meet the spending requirements.
Key Benefits:
- 3 points per $1 on key business expenses
- 100,000-point sign-up bonus
- Points can be transferred to travel partners (airlines, hotels)
- No foreign transaction fees
- $95 annual fee
2. American Express Blue Business Cash™ Card
For businesses looking to earn cash back, the American Express Blue Business Cash™ Card offers a straightforward and valuable rewards structure. This card earns 2% cash back on the first $50,000 in combined purchases at U.S. restaurants and U.S. select advertising. Beyond that, you’ll earn 1% cash back. This no-annual-fee card also offers 0% introductory APR on purchases for the first 12 months, making it an attractive option for businesses needing some breathing room on larger purchases.
Key Benefits:
- 2% cash back on U.S. restaurant and U.S. advertising purchases (on the first $50,000 per year)
- 0% introductory APR for the first 12 months on purchases
- No annual fee
- Access to Amex offers for discounts on business services
3. Capital One Spark Cash for Business
The Capital One Spark Cash for Business credit card offers an unlimited 2% cash back on every purchase, making it a great choice for businesses that want simplicity without worrying about category restrictions. With no annual fee for the first year (then $95 per year), this card is a reliable option for business owners who want to earn solid cash back while enjoying a range of benefits.
Key Benefits:
- 2% cash back on every purchase
- No annual fee for the first year
- Generous sign-up bonus of $500 once you spend $4,500 in the first 3 months
- No foreign transaction fees
4. The Business Platinum Card® from American Express
The Business Platinum Card® from American Express is ideal for high-spending businesses that want luxury benefits along with their rewards. This card offers 5 points per $1 on the first $50,000 spent on travel purchases (through Amex Travel), making it the best option for businesses that travel frequently. Additionally, it provides access to airport lounge access, comprehensive travel protections, and a generous welcome offer of 120,000 Membership Rewards points after spending $15,000 in the first 3 months.
Key Benefits:
- 5 points per $1 on travel purchases (on the first $50,000)
- 120,000-point welcome offer
- Extensive travel perks, including access to Amex Centurion Lounges
- 1.5 points per $1 on other eligible purchases
- $695 annual fee
5. Bank of America Business Advantage Cash Rewards Mastercard®
If your business spends heavily in specific categories like gas, office supplies, or travel, the Bank of America Business Advantage Cash Rewards Mastercard® could be a great option. This card offers 3% cash back in the category of your choice (from options like gas, office supplies, travel, etc.) and 2% cash back on dining. It also provides a $300 statement credit if you spend $3,000 in the first 90 days, along with no annual fee.
Key Benefits:
- 3% cash back on the category of your choice
- 2% cash back on dining
- $300 statement credit after spending $3,000 in the first 90 days
- No annual fee
6. U.S. Bank Business Leverage® Card
The U.S. Bank Business Leverage® Card is a solid choice for businesses looking for a balance of rewards and flexibility. The card earns 2 points per $1 on eligible purchases in the top two spending categories of your choice (from a list of six) and 1 point per $1 on all other purchases. There’s also a welcome offer of 75,000 points if you spend $7,500 in the first 3 months, which can be redeemed for travel, gift cards, or merchandise.
Key Benefits:
- 2 points per $1 on your top two spending categories
- 75,000-point sign-up bonus after spending $7,500 in the first 3 months
- No annual fee for the first year (then $95 per year)
- Travel and purchase protections
Conclusion
Selecting the best business credit card depends on your company’s specific needs, whether it’s maximizing rewards in certain categories, earning cash back, or enjoying premium travel benefits. Make sure to consider factors like annual fees, rewards structure, introductory offers, and extra features like expense management tools and fraud protection. With the right card, you can boost your business’s financial flexibility and reward yourself for making purchases that keep your operations running smoothly.
FAQs
What is the best business credit card for travel rewards?
The Chase Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card and The Business Platinum Card® from American Express are both excellent choices for business owners who travel frequently, offering generous rewards for travel purchases.
Can I get a business credit card with no annual fee?
Yes, several business credit cards come with no annual fee, such as the American Express Blue Business Cash™ Card and the Bank of America Business Advantage Cash Rewards Mastercard®.
How do business credit cards differ from personal credit cards?
Business credit cards typically offer higher credit limits, rewards tailored to business spending, and tools to help manage business expenses. They also often provide benefits and protections that are more focused on business needs.
Is it easier to qualify for a business credit card than a personal one?
Qualifying for a business credit card depends on your personal credit score, the size of your business, and your revenue. While personal credit cards focus on your personal creditworthiness, business cards also consider your company’s financial health.
What are the benefits of having a business credit card?
Business credit cards offer better rewards for business-related purchases, easier expense tracking, higher credit limits, and separate personal and business finances. They also provide additional protections such as fraud protection and purchase coverage.