Business credit cards with lounge access allow cardholders to visit various airport lounges. The best business credit cards with lounge access offer unlimited complimentary access and are designed for business owners who travel often. Some cards charge annual fees up to $595, but this can be offset by complimentary airport lounge memberships.
Top 6 Business Credit Cards With Lounge Access July 2019
| Card | Best For |
|---|---|
| American Express Business Platinum Card® | (Best Overall) Access to the most airport lounges. |
| Chase Sapphire Reserve® | Unlimited Priority Pass lounge visits. |
| Hilton Honors American Express Business Card | Hilton customers who don’t need unlimited lounge access. |
| American Express Delta Reserve® for Business Credit Card | Unlimited Delta Sky Club access. |
| United MileagePlus® Club Business Card | Free access to all United Club locations. |
| Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite™ Mastercard® | Free Admirals Club membership. |
How We Evaluated Business Credit Cards With Lounge Access
To find the best business credit cards with lounge access, we focused on business credit cards that offer free entry to airport lounges. Additionally, we included two personal credit cards that can be beneficial to business owners who are having trouble qualifying for a small business credit card. In some cases, the best card for you may be dictated by which airline you fly most frequently.
The criteria we used to evaluate the best business credit cards with lounge access include:
- Lounge access: Whether a credit card offers airport lounge access. The best business credit cards with lounge access offer unlimited complimentary access to airport lounges.
- Annual fee: How much it costs to own the card each year. Business credit cards with lounge access carry annual fees up to $595.
- Introductory rewards: Any sign-up bonuses a card offers when you meet a minimum spending requirement. The best airport lounge access credit cards offer introductory rewards up to 100,000 points, which is worth up to $1000.
- Ongoing rewards: The points or cash-back rewards you can earn for your everyday purchases. The best airport lounge access credit cards pay up to 5x points per dollar spent on travel-related purchases.
- Introductory APR: Whether or not a card offers an introductory 0% APR period on purchases or balance transfers. Airport lounge access credit cards typically don’t have an introductory APR, although one card on our list offers a no-interest financing period.
- Ongoing APR: How much it costs to finance purchases and balance transfers once the promotional no-interest period ends. The best airport lounge access credit cards have ongoing APRs as low as 17.24%.
Most small business credit card providers require you to have a personal credit score of at least 670. If you want to qualify for the best rates and largest credit lines, we recommend a minimum personal credit score of 700. If your credit score is below 670, consider a business credit card for fair credit.
The American Express Business Platinum Card® is our pick for the best business credit card with lounge access. You’ll receive unlimited complimentary access to 1,200 airport lounges under the American Express Global Lounge CollectionSM. Plus, this card offers several unbeatable additional travel perks, like baggage insurance and rental car insurance. We also rank it as one of the best business travel credit cards.
American Express Business Platinum Card®: Overall Best Business Credit Card With Lounge Access
The Business Platinum® Card from American Express
- Welcome Offer: Earn up to 75,000 Membership Rewards® points.
- Earn 50,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $10,000 and an extra 25,000 points after you spend an additional $10,000 all on qualifying purchases made on your Business Platinum Card® within your first 3 months of Card Membership.†
- Get 5X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels on amextravel.com.
- Get 50% more Membership Rewards® points. That's an extra half point per dollar, on each eligible purchase of $5,000 or more. You can get up to 1 million additional points per year.
- 35% Airline Bonus: Use Membership Rewards® Pay with Points for all or part of a flight with your selected qualifying airline, and you can get 35% of the points back, up to 500,000 bonus points per calendar year when flight is booked on amextravel.com.
- Enroll to get up to $200 in statement credits annually by getting up to $100 semi-annually for U.S. purchases with Dell. Terms apply.
- Terms Apply
| INTRO APR | REGULAR APR | ANNUAL FEE | CREDIT NEEDED |
|---|---|---|---|
| N/A | N/A | $595 | Good, Excellent |
on The Business Platinum® Card from American Express's secure website.
The American Express Business Platinum Card® is the overall best business credit card with lounge access. You’ll have unlimited complimentary access to the American Express Global Lounge CollectionSM, which consists of 1,200 airport lounges in 130 countries. This card is a charge card, which means you’re required to pay off the balance in full each month, and you won’t be charged interest.
If you can’t afford to meet these repayment terms, consider a traditional credit card. Chase Sapphire Reserve®, which offers unlimited access to Priority Pass lounges, is a good option.
American Express Business Platinum Card® Lounge Access
The American Express Business Platinum Card® provides the best airport lounge access among all small business credit cards. You’ll have unlimited complimentary access to 1,200 airport lounges around the world through the American Express Global Lounge CollectionSM.
The American Express Business Platinum Card® offers access to the following lounges:
- The Centurion® Lounge: Available at Houston George Bush Intercontinental, Las Vegas McCarran, Dallas/Fort Worth International, San Francisco International, Miami International, Seattle-Tacoma, New York LaGuardia Airport, Philadelphia International Airport, and Hong Kong International airport.
- The International American Express Lounges: Ten exclusive airport lounges for cardholders who are traveling internationally. Lounges are located in Argentina, Australia, India, and Mexico. Cardholders will receive unlimited complimentary access.
- Priority Pass lounges: Cardholders will receive unlimited complimentary access to over 1,000 Priority Pass lounges across 130 countries. Access is also complimentary for one guest. Each additional guest can enter for a fee of $27.
- Airspace Lounge: This lounge is only located in the Cleveland Hopkins International Airport. American Express Business Platinum Card® members will receive unlimited complimentary access for themselves and two guests.
- Escape Lounge: Cardholders and two additional guests will receive unlimited complimentary access to all Escape Lounges
- Delta Sky Club: You need to have a Delta Air Lines boarding pass to have complimentary access to Delta Sky Club. There are over 45 lounges located throughout international airports, with the majority being in the U.S.
The American Express Global Lounge CollectionSM is one of the best airport lounge collections available to business owners. The American Express Business Platinum Card® ranks highest in this category when compared to other airport lounge access credit cards for small businesses. If you travel often, we recommend this card because of its unbeatable travel perks.
American Express Business Platinum Card® Costs
This no foreign transaction fee card charges the highest annual fee among the cards on our business credit cards with lounge access list. However, you will receive unrivaled additional features, maximum introductory and ongoing rewards, and the best airport lounge access.
Financing costs and fees on this American Express business credit card include:
- Introductory APR: None
- Ongoing APR: No APR because it’s a charge card and needs to be paid in full monthly
- Annual fee: $595
- Balance transfer fee: Transfers are not allowed
- Foreign transaction fee: None
In comparison, Chase Sapphire Reserve® has an annual fee of $450 and only offers unlimited access to Priority Pass lounges. That card acts as a traditional credit card, which means you’re able to carry a balance from one billing cycle to another.
American Express Business Platinum Card® Rewards
The American Express Business Platinum Card® offers up to 75,000 bonus points after you spend $20,000 within the first three months. This card also pays up to 5x points on travel-related purchases made through American Express Travel.
Introductory Rewards
You will earn the following introductory rewards when using your card:
- 50,000 bonus points after spending $10,000 within three months
- 25,000 extra bonus points after spending an additional $10,000 within the first three months
The 75,000 bonus points can be worth up to $750 in flights, Uber rides, and gift cards, and up to $525 in prepaid hotels. In comparison, the Hilton Honors American Express Business Card has an introductory reward that is worth $625.
Ongoing Rewards
You will earn the following ongoing rewards when using your card:
- 5x points on flights and prepaid hotels through American Express
- 1.5x bonus points per dollar for eligible purchases of at least $5,000
- 1x points on all other purchases
This American Express business credit card’s ongoing rewards of 5x points are considered some of the best available. On average, when redeemed for travel, American Express points are worth 1 cent per point. This redemption value is double the half a cent per point provided on the Hilton Honors American Express Business Card.
How to Redeem Rewards
There are seven ways to redeem your points with American Express:
- Statement credit: If you have at least 1,000 points in your account, you can apply them to past transactions.
- Travel: Redeem a minimum of 5,000 points to book travel on American Express Travel. You can also transfer points to another frequent flyer program, including Aeromexico, Air Canada, British Airways, Delta Air Lines, Hawaiian Airlines, Iberia, JetBlue, Singapore Airlines, and Virgin Atlantic.
- Gift cards: Redeem your points for gift cards.
- Amazon.com purchases: You can use your points on Amazon purchases after you add your card to your Amazon account and use it at least once.
- Ticketmaster: Purchase event tickets through Ticketmaster. Minimum redemption is 2,000 points.
- AXS: Purchase event tickets through AXS. Minimum redemption is 2,000 points.
- Taxi fares: Redeem your points for select taxi fares and tips in New York City.
With this airport lounge access credit card, you can redeem 50,000 points for up to $500 worth of gift cards, flights, and Uber rides and up to $350 worth in prepaid hotels. Plus, American Express business credit cards offer the most reward redemption options.
American Express Business Platinum Card® Additional Features
The American Express Business Platinum Card® offers the most robust additional card features on our list, such as annual travel credits, reimbursements for membership in expedited airport security screening programs, and elite car rental status.
The American Express Business Platinum Card® includes:
- Airport security screening: Receive either a $100 statement credit for Global Entry or $85 statement credit for TSA Pre✓® once every four years.
- Annual travel credit: Get a $200 annual statement credit toward air travel expenses like baggage fees and inflight food and drink.
- Elite car rental status: Earn elite status at a number of car rental agencies, which includes free upgrades.
- Free in-flight Wi-Fi: Receive 10 annual free Gogo inflight Wi-Fi passes.
- Points rebate: Earn a 35% points rebate if you book a business or first-class flight, up to 500,000 bonus points per calendar year.
- Dell statement credit: Earn up to $200 in statement credits annually for Dell purchases.
The ongoing rewards on this card most likely aren’t enough to offset its $595 annual fee. However, its additional features are more than enough to make up for the annual fee if you travel often.
What the American Express Business Platinum Card® Is Missing
The American Express Business Platinum Card® is a charge card, so you’ll have to pay off the balance in full every month. This means you won’t be able to carry a balance or finance a large business-related purchase. If you need to carry a balance, consider a 0% APR business credit card.
American Express Business Platinum Card® Reviews
We considered both user reviews and our own editorial review when evaluating this card. American Express Business Platinum Card® reviews are mostly positive. This card offers the best access to airport lounges and extremely beneficial travel perks. However, some users complain about the annual fee.
User Reviews
Online user reviews are mostly positive. Cardholders say they enjoy the number of airport lounges they can access, and that the additional card features are beneficial. However, some users complain that if you don’t travel often, the annual fee is too high.
Editorial Reviews
We rate small business credit cards based on their costs, rewards, and benefits. It offers top rewards and unrivaled additional card features, including Centurion Lounge access. Plus, it has no preset spending limit, which makes it one of the best high limit business credit cards. However, its annual fee is expensive for owners who don’t travel enough to get their money’s worth.
Chase Sapphire Reserve®: Best for Unlimited Priority Pass Lounge Visits
Chase Sapphire Reserve®
- 50,000 Bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
- Automatically receive up to $300 in statement credits as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year
- 3x Points on Travel and Dining
| INTRO APR | REGULAR APR | ANNUAL FEE | CREDIT NEEDED |
|---|---|---|---|
| N/A | 18.49% to 25.49% Variable | $450 | Good - Excellent |
On Chase's Secure Website
Note: The information related to Chase Sapphire Reserve® has been collected by Fit Small Business and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of this card.
Chase Sapphire Reserve® is a personal credit card that is best for individuals who want to receive unlimited complimentary access to over 1,000 lounges through a Priority Pass Select membership. Additionally, this card offers reimbursement for Global Entry or TSA Pre✓® memberships as a statement credit. You can earn 3x points on both travel- and dining-related purchases. The card costs $450 to own, and its ongoing APR starts at 18.74%.
Chase Sapphire Reserve® Lounge Access
You can enjoy a free Priority Pass Select membership, which gives you unlimited complimentary access to over 1,000 airport lounges around the world. If you pay $145 more for the American Express Business Platinum Card®, you could have access to the American Express Global Lounge CollectionSM. This collection of airport lounges includes Priority Pass and five other lounge groups.
Chase Sapphire Reserve® Costs
Chase Sapphire Reserve® is not a charge card, so you don’t need to pay off the balance in full every month. However, it’s important to note that any unpaid balances will accrue interest between 18.74% and 25.74% until they are fully repaid.
Financing costs and fees on Chase Sapphire Reserve® include:
- Introductory APR: None
- Ongoing APR: 18.74% and 25.74% variable, which adjusts with the prime rate
- Annual fee: $450
- Balance transfer fee: $5 or 5%, whichever is greater
- Foreign transaction fee: None
Chase Sapphire Reserve® is more affordable than the $595 annual fee on the American Express Business Platinum Card®. However, it only offers access to one airport lounge program compared to the six lounge programs you can access with the American Express Business Platinum Card®.
Chase Sapphire Reserve® Rewards
Chase Sapphire Reserve® offers 50,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 in the first three months. Plus, you will earn up to a $300 annual travel credit as a reimbursement for travel purchases made on your card. After you receive your credit, you will start earning three points on travel worldwide.
Introductory Rewards
You will earn 50,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 in purchases within the first three months. This introductory offer is worth $750 toward airfare, hotels, car rentals, and cruises when you redeem through Chase’s rewards portal. This introductory rewards redemption value is identical to the bonus points offered on the American Express Business Platinum Card®.
Ongoing Rewards
You will earn the following ongoing rewards when using your card:
- 3 points on travel worldwide
- 3 points on dining at restaurants worldwide
- 1 point on all other purchases
Initially with Chase Sapphire Reserve®, you’ll automatically receive up to $300 in statement credits as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year. After earning your annual travel credit, you will be able to earn three points on travel worldwide. Conversely, with the American Express Business Platinum Card®, you can earn five points on travel-related purchases upon receiving your card.
How to Redeem Rewards
You can redeem your points for cash, gift cards, travel, and products or services made available through the rewards program. When you use points to redeem for cash, each point is worth one cent. When you redeem points for travel booked through Chase’s online travel portal, each point is worth 1.5 cents. For example, 50,000 points are worth $750 towards travel, or $500 when redeemed for cash.
You can also transfer your points to select airline and hotel partners, which include Aer Lingus AerClub, British Airways Executive Club, Air France and KLM Flying Blue, Iberia Plus, JetBlue TrueBlue, Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer, Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards®, United MileagePlus®, Virgin Atlantic Flying Club, IHG® Rewards Club. Marriott BonvoyTM, and World of Hyatt®.
Chase Sapphire Reserve® Additional Features
Chase Sapphire Reserve® offers some similar features to other business travel credit cards, such as annual travel credits, bonus points, and airport security screening credit.
Chase Sapphire Reserve® additional benefits include:
- Annual travel credit: Earn a $300 annual travel credit for travel purchases charged to your card each year.
- Bonus points value: Get 50% more value when you redeem for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
- Airport security screening credit: Receive a $100 statement credit for Global Entry or TSA Pre✓® once every four years.
- Purchase protection: Covers your new purchases for 120 days against damage or theft up to $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per year.
- Extended warranty protection: Extends the time period of the U.S. manufacturer’s warranty by an additional year on eligible warranties of three years or less.
In addition, Chase Sapphire Reserve® also offers car rental insurance, lost luggage reimbursement, return protection, and trip cancellation insurance. These additional features fall short of the American Express Business Platinum Card®. That card offers roadside assistance, free in-flight Wi-Fi, and access to the most airport lounges.
What the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Is Missing
Chase Sapphire Reserve® is not a business credit card, which means you won’t be able to use it to help build your business credit. This is a good option if you can’t qualify for a business credit card. If you want to have airport lounge access and build business credit, consider the American Express Business Platinum Card®.
Chase Sapphire Reserve® Reviews
We considered both user reviews and editorial reviews when rating this card. The free Priority Pass Select membership is valuable, but the card might not be best if you need to build business credit because it’s a personal credit card. We rank this card as one of the best personal credit cards for business use.
User Reviews
Online Chase Sapphire Reserve® user reviews are typically positive. Cardholders say they enjoy the substantial introductory rewards and the card’s premium travel benefits. However, some users complain about the lack of an introductory APR period.
Editorial Reviews
We rate credit cards based on their costs, rewards, and benefits. Chase Sapphire Reserve® is a strong personal credit card with lounge access that business owners can use if they can’t qualify for a business credit card. Remember, though, that you won’t be able to build your business credit with this card. Chase also offers three Chase Ink business credit cards, but those cards don’t offer lounge access
Hilton Honors American Express Business Card: Best for Hilton Customers Who Don’t Need Unlimited Lounge Access
on The Hilton Honors American Express Business Card's secure website.The Hilton Honors American Express Business Card
See Full Editorial Review Here INTRO APR REGULAR APR ANNUAL FEE CREDIT NEEDED N/A 17.24% - 26.24% Variable $95 Good, Excellent
The Hilton Honors American Express Business Card is best for business owners who are Hilton customers and want 10 Priority Pass lounge visits per year. Priority Pass consists of airport lounges, restaurants, and mini-suites that are located throughout 35 major U.S. airports. Additionally, it offers a substantial introductory offer and top ongoing Hilton Honors rewards. Its ongoing variable APR is between 17.24% and 26.24%.
Hilton Honors American Express Business Card Lounge Access
You’ll receive 10 Priority Pass lounge visits every year. Without these complimentary passes, it costs $299 per year for 10 Priority Pass lounge visits. After you use your 10 visits, it will cost $32 for each visit. This lounge access quickly offsets the $95 annual fee. If you want to receive unlimited Priority Pass lounge visits, the Chase Sapphire Reserve® personal credit card is a solid pick. However, its annual fee is $450.
Hilton Honors American Express Business Card Costs
Unlike the American Express Business Platinum Card®, the Hilton Honors American Express Business Card is a credit card you are not required to pay in full every month. Additionally, its annual fee of $95 is far below the $595 annual fee on the American Express Business Platinum Card®.
The costs and fees on the Hilton Honors American Express Business Card are:
- Introductory APR: None
- Ongoing APR: 17.24% to 26.24% variable, which adjusts with the prime rate
- Annual fee: $95
- Balance transfer fee: Transfers are not allowed
- Foreign transaction fee: None
Typically, credit cards with lounge access charge high annual fees because of the complimentary travel benefits. If you want to avoid these annual fees, consider a no annual fee credit card. However, those cards don’t offer airport lounge access.
Hilton Honors American Express Business Card Rewards
The Hilton Honors American Express Business Card offers 125,000 bonus points if you spend $3,000 within the first three months. Plus, you can earn bonus category rewards on Hilton hotels and resorts, travel, business purchases, gas stations, wireless phone services, shipping, flights, and car rentals.
Introductory Rewards
You will earn 125,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after spending $3,000 within the first three months. The introductory reward is worth approximately $625 because each Hilton Honors Bonus point is worth 0.5 cents. In comparison, the American Express Business Platinum Card® has an introductory reward worth up to $1000 and points are worth one cent when redeemed for travel.
Ongoing Rewards
You will earn the following ongoing rewards when using your card:
- 12x points per dollar for purchases made directly with hotels and resorts in the Hilton portfolio
- 6x points per dollar on select business purchases (gas stations, wireless telephone services, and U.S. purchases for shipping)
- 6x points per dollar on select travel purchases (U.S. restaurants, on flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel, and select car rentals)
- 3x points per dollar on other purchases
The rewards offered on this card may look rather strong at first glance. However, Hilton Honors points are only worth a half a cent each. For example, 12x points would be equal to six cents. However, these are still considered some of the best points available among other travel rewards business credit cards.
How to Redeem Rewards
You can redeem your rewards for hotel room nights, unique travel experiences, shopping on Amazon, or transfer them to a number of airline partners. You can transfer your points to Aeromexico, American Airlines, Frontier Airlines, LAN, Air Canada, Amtrak, Hawaiian Airlines, Alaska Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United. Hilton Honors points are typically worth 0.5 cents per point. However, the points exchange rate is different for each airline partner.
Hilton Honors American Express Business Card Additional Features
The Hilton Honors American Express Business Card offers car rental insurance, baggage insurance, return protection, travel accident insurance, and roadside assistance.
The Hilton Honors American Express Business Card includes the following benefits:
- Complimentary Gold Status: You will receive complimentary Hilton Honors Gold Status, which gets you additional benefits like complimentary breakfast and rollover nights.
- Free weekend night reward: Earn a free weekend night reward after you spend $15,000 in one year; earn a second weekend night reward after you spend $60,000 in one year.
- Purchase protection: Covers your purchases for 120 days from purchase date if they’re damaged or stolen; coverage is limited to $1,000 per item and $50,000 per year.
- Extended warranty protection: Offers up to an additional two years of coverage on manufacturer’s warranties of five years or less.
You can usually earn Gold Status after 40 nights of stay or by earning 75,000 base points in a year, which is equivalent to $7,500 in spending. If you want to receive more benefits, you can upgrade to Hilton Honors Diamond Status when you spend $40,000 or more.
What the Hilton Honors American Express Business Card Is Missing
The Hilton Honors American Express Business Card isn’t meant for carrying a balance because it lacks an introductory APR. Plus, it has a high ongoing APR between 17.24% and 26.24%. If you need to carry a balance, a 0% APR business credit card would be a better option for you.
Hilton Honors American Express Business Card Reviews
We considered both user reviews and our own editorial review when rating this card. Hilton Honors American Express Business Card reviews are mixed. The airport lounge access and introductory rewards are what cardholders enjoy most. However, this card doesn’t offer the best point redemption value.
User Reviews
Online Hilton Honors American Express Business Card reviews suggest users have mixed opinions regarding this card. Cardholders enjoy the 10 Priority Pass lounge visits and the substantial introductory reward. However, some users complain about the redemption value of Hilton Honors points.
Editorial Reviews
We rate credit cards based on their costs, rewards, and benefits. The Hilton Honors American Express Business Card is a strong business credit card for business owners who are loyal Hilton Hotel customers. It offers a substantial introductory reward and airport lounge access that is worth $299. However, compared to other business credit cards, it comes with a high ongoing APR.
American Express Delta Reserve® for Business Credit Card: Best for Unlimited Delta Sky Club Access
Delta Reserve for Business Credit Card
- Earn 40,000 bonus miles and 10,000 Medallion® Qualification Miles (MQMs) after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 3 months.
- With Miles Boost®, you can earn 15,000 bonus miles and 15,000 Medallion® Qualification Miles (MQMs) after you spend $30,000 or more in eligible purchases on your Card in a calendar year.
- Earn an additional 15,000 bonus miles and 15,000 MQMs after you spend $60,000 in eligible purchases on your Card in a calendar year for a total of 30,000 bonus miles and 30,000 MQMs. Starting January 30, 2020, you will no longer earn bonus miles with this benefit.
- Earn 2 miles per dollar spent on eligible purchases made directly with Delta. Earn 1 mile on every eligible dollar spent on purchases.
- Find room for your carry-on and settle into your seat sooner with Main Cabin 1 Priority Boarding.
- Pay no foreign transaction fees when you spend overseas.
- Enter Delta Sky Club® at no cost and bring up to two guests for an exclusive rate of $29 per person per visit.
- Terms and limitations apply
| INTRO APR | REGULAR APR | ANNUAL FEE | CREDIT NEEDED |
|---|---|---|---|
| N/A | 17.24% - 26.24% Variable | $450 ($550 if application is received on or after 1/30/2020) | Good, Excellent |
on Delta Reserve for Business Credit Card's secure website.
The American Express Delta Reserve® for Business Credit Card is best for Delta Air Lines flyers. It offers unlimited complimentary access to all Delta Sky Clubs for cardholders and a reduced per-visit rate ($29 per person) for up to two guests. Its ongoing variable APR starts at 17.24%.
American Express Delta Reserve® for Business Credit Card Lounge Access
You’ll receive unlimited complimentary Delta Sky Club access and a reduced per-visit rate of $29 per person for up to two additional guests. To enter, you must present a same-day boarding pass for a Delta Air Lines flight. This card is only a good option if you fly with Delta Air Lines. There are 50 Delta Sky Club locations located throughout the United States and internationally.
American Express Delta Reserve® for Business Credit Card Costs
The American Express Delta Reserve® for Business Credit Card charges an annual fee of $450 ($550 if the application is received on or after 1/30/2020), which is identical to Chase Sapphire Reserve®. It does not offer interest-free financing, and its ongoing variable APR is about one percentage point above the average seen on business credit cards.
Financing costs and fees on this American Express business credit card include:
- Introductory APR: None
- Ongoing APR: 17.24% to 26.24% variable, which adjusts with the prime rate
- Annual fee: $450 ($550 if application is received on or after 1/30/2020)
- Balance transfer fee: Transfers are not allowed
- Foreign transaction fee: 2.7% of each transaction after conversion to U.S. dollars
This is the only card on our list that charges a foreign transaction fee, which can be a deciding factor for business owners traveling outside the United States. The American Express Business Platinum Card® is a good alternative that charges no foreign transaction fees.
American Express Delta Reserve® for Business Credit Card Rewards
The American Express Delta Reserve® for Business Credit Card offers up to 40,000 bonus miles and 10,000 Medallion Qualification Miles (MQMs) when you spend $3,000 within the first three months. You’ll also earn 2x miles on Delta-related purchases and 1x miles on all other purchases.
Introductory Rewards
You will earn the following introductory rewards when using your card:
- 10,000 MQMs after spending $3,000 within the first three months
- 40,000 bonus miles after spending $3,000 within the first three months
The introductory rewards on this airport lounge access credit card fall short of other cards on our list. This sign-up bonus is worth up to $400 in travel. Conversely, the American Express Business Platinum Card® offers up to 75,000 bonus points, which is worth up to $750.
Delta Air Lines MQMs are meant to track your Delta membership status and they don’t hold any monetary value. You can earn Silver, Gold, Platinum, or Diamond Delta Medallion Status with your MQMs. With Medallion Status, you can move to the front of the line, have fees waived, and get other elite Delta perks. You need 25,000 MQMs to qualify for Silver status.
Ongoing Rewards
You will earn the following ongoing rewards when using your card:
- 2 miles on every eligible dollar spent on purchases made directly with Delta
- 1 mile on every eligible dollar spent on other purchases
- Annual miles boost: Earn 15,000 MQMs and 15,000 bonus miles after spending $30,000 each year. Earn an additional 15,000 bonus miles and 15,000 MQMs after you spend $60,000 in eligible purchases on your Card in a calendar year for a total of 30,000 bonus miles and 30,000 MQMs. Starting January 30, 2020, you will no longer earn bonus miles with this benefit.
The bonus category point rewards offered on this business credit card with lounge access match up with the average of most rewards cards. When compared to the five points offered on the American Express Business Platinum Card®, they fall short.
How to Redeem Rewards
You can redeem your rewards by booking travel for Delta-operated and ticketed flights through the Delta SkyMiles online portal. You must redeem at least 5,000 miles at a time and in increments of 5,000 miles. For every 5,000 miles, your points will be worth $50. If you don’t have enough points to cover the entire price of a flight, you can opt to pay the remaining balance with your card.
American Express Delta Reserve® for Business Credit Card Additional Features
With this lounge access credit card, you’ll also receive travel accident insurance, premium roadside assistance, car rental insurance, extended warranty protection, and purchase protection.
The American Express Delta Reserve® for Business Credit Card includes the following benefits:
- Annual miles boost: Earn 15,000 MQMs and 15,000 bonus miles after spending $30,000 each year.
- Companion certificate: Receive a companion certificate valid for one round-trip First Class, Delta Comfort+®, or Main Cabin Companion ticket each year upon renewal of your card.
- Free checked baggage: Receive free checked baggage for you and eight guests.
- Priority boarding: You can board your flight when Main Cabin 1 priority boarding is called.
- In-flight savings: Enjoy 20% savings in the form of a statement credit on select in-flight purchases.
- Baggage insurance: Covers up to $1,250 for carry-on baggage and $500 for checked baggage.
This is the only airport lounge access credit card on our list that offers a companion certificate. The Delta Air Lines companion certificate provides one round-trip First Class, Delta Comfort+®, or Main Cabin Companion ticket every year. However, you’ll be responsible for any government-imposed taxes or fees of up to $75 for round-trip domestic flights.
What the American Express Delta Reserve® for Business Credit Card Is Missing
The American Express Delta Reserve® for Business Credit Card only offers airport lounge access for Delta Air Lines flyers. This means if you don’t have a Delta boarding pass, you can’t receive its complimentary lounge access. If you want a card that offers access to a broader group of lounges, consider Chase Sapphire Reserve®. That card offers unlimited complimentary access to over 1,000 airport lounges.
American Express Delta Reserve® for Business Credit Card Reviews
We considered both user reviews and our own editorial review when evaluating this card. American Express Delta Reserve® for Business Credit Card reviews are mostly positive. The unlimited complimentary Delta Sky Club access is valuable to loyal Delta customers. However, some users complain that the ongoing APR and annual fees are too high.
User Reviews
Online user reviews are generally positive. Cardholders enjoy the Delta Sky Club access and the unrivaled additional card features. However, some users complain the $450 annual fee is too expensive for those who don’t travel often.
Editorial Reviews
We rate credit cards based on their costs, rewards, and benefits. This is a solid American Express business credit card for Delta flyers. Its complimentary Delta Sky Club access outranks both the American Express Platinum Delta SkyMiles® Business Credit Card and American Express Gold Delta SkyMiles® Business Credit Card. However, expect to pay a high annual fee.
United MileagePlus® Club Business Card: Best for Free Access to All United Club Locations
On Chase's Secure WebsiteUnited MileagePlus® Club Business Card
See Full Editorial Review Here INTRO APR REGULAR APR ANNUAL FEE CREDIT NEEDED N/A 17.99% - 24.99% Variable $450 Good - Excellent
The United MileagePlus® Club Business Card is best for business owners who fly United and use United Club lounges. You can receive unlimited complimentary access to all United Club lounges and participating Star Alliance-affiliated lounges. Plus, you can receive your first and second checked bag free. This card carries an annual fee of $450, and its ongoing APR starts at 17.99%.
United MileagePlus® Club Business Card Lounge Access
You’ll receive unlimited complimentary access to all United Club locations and participating Star Alliance-affiliated lounges. These airport lounges offer beverages, snacks, and free Wi-Fi while you wait for your flight. United Club memberships usually cost between $450 and $550 per year. United Club has 50 airport lounges located in both U.S. and international airports.
Note: According to the United Club website, effective August 13, 2019, United will no longer require a $50 United Club initiation fee. The new United Club annual membership price will be $650 or 85,000 miles.
United MileagePlus® Club Business Card Costs
The co-branded Chase business credit card charges an annual fee of $450 and an ongoing variable APR starting at 18.24%. Additionally, this card does not offer an introductory APR period.
Financing costs and fees on the United MileagePlus® Club Business Card include:
- Introductory APR: None
- Ongoing APR: 17.99% to 24.99 variable, which adjusts with the prime rate
- Annual fee: $450
- Balance transfer fee: $5 or 5%, whichever is greater
- Foreign transaction fee: None
The annual fee of $450 is identical to what the American Express Delta Reserve® for Business Credit Card charges. Plus, both of these business credit cards with lounge access have no introductory APR. However, they both offer complimentary access to airport lounges, but for two different airline companies (United and Delta).
United MileagePlus® Club Business Card Rewards
The United MileagePlus® Club Business Card recently increased its introductory reward offers to 50,000 bonus points when you spend $3,000 within the first three months. You can also earn bonus category rewards for United Airlines flight purchases. These ongoing rewards are similar to what’s offered on the American Express Delta Reserve® for Business Credit Card.
Introductory Rewards
You’ll earn 50,000 bonus points when you spend $3,000 within the first three months, which can be worth more than $500 in travel. This introductory rewards compares well to other airline-affiliated credit cards. For example, the American Express Delta Reserve® for Business Credit Card offers 40,000 bonus miles and 10,000 MQMs after spending $3,000 within the first three months.
Ongoing Rewards
You will earn the following ongoing rewards when using this business credit card:
- 2 miles for every dollar spent on tickets purchased from United Airlines
- 1.5 miles on all other purchases
The United MileagePlus® Club Business Card offers similar ongoing rewards compared to the American Express Delta Reserve® for Business Credit Card. However, the United MileagePlus® Club Business Card offers half a point more for other purchases not related to the specific airline.
How to Redeem Rewards
You can redeem your miles by booking travel on United flights or United partner airlines. You’re responsible for paying all taxes and fees levied by the government on plane tickets. United says pricing varies from flight to flight. However, one-way Saver Award travel starts as low as 12,500 miles for flights within the United States and Canada.
United MileagePlus® Club Business Card Additional Features
The United MileagePlus® Club Business Card offers additional features that are beneficial to business owners who fly with United often. You’ll receive several perks, which include two free checked bags, exclusive check-in lines, premier access security lane, and priority boarding.
The United MileagePlus® Club Business Card includes the following benefits:
- Free checked baggage: Receive your first and second checked bag for free.
- Exclusive check-in lines: Use designated airline check-in lines separate from what other United passengers must use.
- Premier access security lane: Access a shorter line than standard security screening lines.
- Priority boarding: You and companions on the same reservation will be able to board United-operated flights prior to general boarding.
- Booking fees waived: United airlines won’t charge you the $75 fee when you book award tickets within 21 days of departure.
- Rental car status: Join the Hertz Gold Plus Rewards President’s Circle and earn a 25% bonus on Hertz Gold Plus Rewards points and a free, one-car class upgrade every time you rent from Hertz.
This card also offers similar travel insurance compared to other cards on our list. For example, you’ll receive trip cancellation insurance, trip delay reimbursements, baggage delay insurance, lost luggage reimbursement, and car rental insurance.
What the United MileagePlus® Club Business Card Is Missing
This card offers lower rewards on airfare compared to other airport lounge access credit cards, such as the American Express Business Platinum Card®. That card offers 5x points on flights and prepaid hotels through American Express, which includes United Airlines.
United MileagePlus® Club Business Card Reviews
We considered both user reviews and our own editorial review when evaluating this card. United MileagePlus® Club Business Card reviews are mixed. Most business owners who use United Club lounges enjoy the free access they receive through the card. However, it has a high ongoing APR.
User Reviews
Online user reviews are mostly mixed. Cardholders who travel often enough say the free lounge visits pay for the card membership over time. However, some negative reviews suggest the Chase Sapphire Reserve®, which is a personal credit card, offers better rewards for the same annual fee.
Editorial Reviews
We rate credit cards based on their costs, rewards, and benefits. The United MileagePlus® Club Business Card is not the strongest airport lounge access credit card, but is a good option if you visit United Clubs frequently. Its ongoing rewards are not competitive compared to most other business credit cards for travel.
Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite™ Mastercard®: Best for a Free Admirals Club Membership
On Citi's Secure WebsiteCiti® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite™ Mastercard®
INTRO APR REGULAR APR ANNUAL FEE CREDIT NEEDED 17.74% to 25.74% Variable $450 Good - Excellent
The Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite™ Mastercard® is a personal credit card that is best for individuals who are loyal American Airlines flyers. You will receive an Admirals Club membership, which has a value of $650 annually. Plus, you can receive priority boarding, a Global Entry or TSA Pre✓® application fee credit, and your first checked bag for free. This card costs $450, and its ongoing APR starts at 17.74%.
Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite™ Mastercard® Lounge Access
You will receive a free Admirals Club membership, which gives you access to 50 American Airlines airport lounges worldwide. This membership is worth $650, and without it the entrance fee is $59 per visit. Approximately eight visits to the airport lounge will offset the $450 annual fee. In comparison, Chase Sapphire Reserve® has the same annual fee, but its lounge access offer is only worth $429.
Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite™ Mastercard® Costs
The Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite™ Mastercard® charges the same annual fee as the United MileagePlus® Club Business Card. However, the low-end of this Citi credit card’s APR is about a quarter percentage point lower than the United card.
Financing costs and fees on this credit card with airport lounge access are:
- Introductory APR: None
- Ongoing APR: 17.74% to 25.74% variable, which adjusts with the prime rate
- Annual fee: $450
- Balance transfer fee: $5 or 3%, whichever is greater
- Foreign transaction fee: None
The Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite™ Mastercard® has an annual fee that is similar to most credit cards on our list, besides the Hilton Honors American Express Business Card ($95). Typically, cards that carry higher annual fees offer more substantial rewards and better airport lounge access. For example, the Hilton Honors American Express Business Card only offers 10 Priority Pass lounge visits per year compared to unlimited access.
Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite™ Mastercard® Rewards
The Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite™ Mastercard® offers 50,000 bonus miles when you spend $5,000 within the first three months. Plus, you can earn two miles for every dollar spent on American Airlines purchases and one mile on all other purchases.
Introductory Rewards
You will earn 50,000 bonus miles after spending $5,000 within the first three months, which can be worth more than $500 in travel. In comparison, Chase Sapphire Reserve® offers 50,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 in purchases within the first three months. That card’s welcome offer has a lower minimum spending requirement and is worth $750.
Ongoing Rewards
You will earn the following ongoing rewards when using this credit card:
- 2 miles for every $1 spent on eligible American Airlines purchases
- 1 mile for every $1 spent on other purchases
- 10,000 Elite Qualifying Miles (EQMs) after you spend $40,000 in purchases within the year
The Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite™ Mastercard® offers ongoing rewards that are average at best. There are other cards on our list that offer higher rewards for travel-related purchases. For example, Chase Sapphire Reserve® offers 3x points and the American Express Business Platinum Card® offers 5x points for travel-related purchases.
American Airlines EQMs represent a percentage of the actual miles flown and can’t be redeemed as cash. Instead, EQMs qualify you for American Airlines Executive Platinum, Platinum Pro, Platinum, or Gold status. The base status, Gold, requires 25,000 EQMs to qualify. Each status thereafter requires an additional 25,000 EQMs. American Airlines statuses can get you extra benefits, including up to three free checked bags and flight upgrades.
How to Redeem Rewards
You can redeem your rewards for travel on American Airlines, American Eagle®, oneworld® airlines, and partner airlines on flights to nearly 1,000 destinations worldwide. You can also use points for in-flight upgrades, gift cards, rental cars, or at more than 150,000 hotel properties in over 500 destinations worldwide.
Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite™ Mastercard® Additional Features
The Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite™ Mastercard® comes with several travel-related perks, which include a security screen credit, free checked baggage, and priority boarding and check-in.
The Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite™ Mastercard® includes the following benefits:
- Security screening credit: Receive a $100 credit for TSA Pre✓® every five years.
- Free checked baggage: Check your first bag for free on domestic American Airlines itineraries for you and up to eight travel companions.
- Priority boarding: Receive priority boarding on American Airlines flights.
- Priority check-in: Receive priority check-in for you and up to eight travel companions on the same reservation.
- Priority airport screening: Receive priority airport screening for you and up to eight travel companions on the same reservation.
- In-flight savings: Save 25% on inflight food and beverage purchases on American Airlines flights when you use your card.
You will also receive mileage benefits and pay no foreign transaction fees. Additionally, you can add up to 10 authorized users at no additional charge. This a good card if you want to enhance your airport experience. However, it doesn’t offer as many insurance coverages as other cards on our list, including the American Express Delta Reserve® for Business Credit Card.
What the Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite™ Mastercard® Is Missing
The Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite™ Mastercard® is a personal credit card, which means it won’t help you build business credit. However, this is a good option if you can’t qualify for a business credit card. If you want a business credit card that offers lounge access, consider the American Express Business Platinum Card®.
Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite™ Mastercard® Reviews
We considered both user reviews and editorial reviews when evaluating this card. This card offers valuable airport lounge access to American Airlines flyers and those who already visit the Admirals Club. However, its ongoing APR is high and doesn’t offer the best rewards.
User Reviews
We searched the web for Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite™ Mastercard® user reviews and found them to be mixed. Most cardholders enjoy the valuable introductory reward offer, alongside the airport lounge membership. However, some users complain about the high ongoing APR.
Editorial Reviews
We rate credit cards based on their costs, rewards, and benefits. The Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite™ Mastercard® is a personal credit card that is specifically designed for people who fly with American Airlines. If you do not fly with American Airlines, this card won’t be valuable to you. Plus, it’s a personal credit card, which means it won’t help build your business credit.
Bottom Line
Airport lounge access credit cards are best for business owners who travel often and want to receive airport perks as they wait for their flights. The best business credit cards with lounge access offer unlimited complimentary access to airport lounges. You can also compare business credit cards here.
For rates and fees on the American Express Business Platinum Card®, please click here.
For rates and fees on the American Express Delta Reserve® for Business Credit Card, please click here.
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Disclaimer: Reviews on FitSmallBusiness.com are the product of independent research by our writers, researchers, and editorial team. User reviews and comments are contributions from independent users not affiliated with FitSmallBusiness.com's editorial team. Banks, issuers, credit card companies, and other product & service providers are not responsible for any content posted on FitSmallBusiness.com. As such, they do not endorse or guarantee any posted comments or reviews.
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