9 Best Cash Back Business Credit Cards 2019

Cash back business credit cards offer rewards on purchases you make for your business. The best cash back business credit cards offer up to 5% back and benefits like 0% introductory annual percentage rates (APRs). We reviewed dozens of cards to find nine offering owners the best cash back rewards, top benefits, and lowest fees.

9 Top Cash Back Business Credit Cards March 2019

Card	Best For
Chase Ink Business Cash℠ Card	(Best Overall) Firms seeking 5% cash back on office supplies
Capital One® Spark® Cash for Business	Businesses that want to earn 2% cash back on all spending
Chase Ink Business Unlimited℠	Owners who want fixed-rate cash back with no annual fee
Capital One® Spark® Cash Select for Business	Companies that have few business expenses
American Express SimplyCash® Plus	Businesses that want to choose category rewards
Bank of America® Business Advantage Cash Rewards Mastercard®	An easy-to-earn cash-back bonus
Capital One® Spark® Classic for Business	Owners with fair credit who want to earn cash back
Wells Fargo Business Secured Card	Owners with poor credit who want to earn cash back
Chase Ink Business Preferred℠	Businesses that want cash back from a card that earns points

What’s Changed Since Our Last Review of the Best Cash Back Business Credit Cards

This article was originally published in July 2018. We update the content regularly because the banks, credit unions, and other providers we cover change their product offerings frequently. We also monitor interest rate changes from the Federal Reserve. The central bank held rates steady at its most recent meeting in March. The most recent changes to the best cash back business credit cards include changes to one card’s introductory bonus.

Recent changes with the largest impact on our update to the best cash back business credit card rankings are related to the Federal Reserve and Capital One.

Federal Reserve Maintained Short-term Interest Rates

The Federal Reserve in March 2019 held steady its benchmark interest rate. We monitor Fed rate changes because they impact the annual percentage rates (APRs) banks charge on small business credit cards. Credit card APRs are based on a set percentage rate over the prime rate. When the prime rate changes, so do APRs.

Following the March meeting of the Federal Open Market Committee, Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell said the central bank expects no interest rate hikes in 2019. The Fed had earlier predicted it could raise rates twice in 2019. Increasing the benchmark rate two times would drive credit card APRs up by half a percentage point; this is something we plan to continue monitoring.

Capital One Reduced Its Introductory Bonus

Capital One discontinued its limited time introductory bonus offer in late January on the Capital One® Spark® Cash for Business card. The offer was worth up to $2,000 in cash, the highest introductory offer on our list. The issuer now offers a sign-up bonus worth $500 in cash. As a result of the intro rewards change, we moved the Capital One® Spark® Cash for Business card down one position on our list.

How Cash Back Business Credit Card Rewards Work

Cash back business credit cards allow owners to redeem rewards primarily for statement credits or deposits into eligible bank accounts. Many cards also allow users to redeem cash back rewards for gift cards, merchandise, or airfare or hotel stays. You can typically redeem between 1% and 5% cash back per dollar spent, depending on the rewards program and the type of good or service you purchased.

In general, owners will find that receiving cash back either as a statement credit or bank deposit will yield a higher redemption value than choosing other redemption options. Cash back is typically worth 1 cent per point, while redeeming for a gift card or merchandise may be worth less than 1 cent per point.

How We Evaluated the Best Cash Back Business Credit Cards

Most cash back reward credit cards pay 1% to 2% cash back on all purchases. The best small business cash back credit cards pay up to 5% cash back on some purchases and may offer additional benefits like 0% introductory APR on purchases and balance transfers. Compare the best offers in the Fit Small Business Marketplace.

In our evaluation of the best business cash back credit cards, we considered:

Introductory rewards: What you’ll earn for reaching minimum spending requirements within several months of card ownership; cards on this list offer rewards worth up to $800 on required spending of $0 to $4,500 within the first three months
Ongoing rewards: The cash back you’ll earn by using your business card; cards on our list offer either a flat rate on all spending up to 2% or tiered rewards worth up to 5% on certain bonus categories
Additional benefits: Free perks that may increase the value of the card like rental car insurance and cell phone protection
Annual fee: How much it costs to own a card; we found ranges of $0 to $95
Introductory APR: Whether a card offers 0% APR for initial purchases and balance transfers; some cards on this list offer no introductory APR up to 12 months
Ongoing APR: How much financing cash back credit cards costs; ongoing APRs range from 13.24% to 23.24%

While many of the best small business credit cards consider your business credit, most require a personal credit check and a credit score of 670 or higher to qualify. We’ve included two picks for owners with lower credit scores. Some cards offer instant approval, but you can get a decision from any of them within three to five business days and new cards within seven to 10 business days.

After researching more than one dozen credit cards, we’ve chosen the Chase Ink Business Cash℠ card as the best cash back business credit card. It offers 5% cash back on spending at office supply stores and on telecommunications services. You’ll also have the opportunity to earn one of the best introductory bonuses on our list — $500 after spending $3,000 within three months.

Chase Ink Business Cash℠: Overall Best Cash Back Business Credit Card

The Chase Ink Business Cash℠ card is best for businesses with big office-related expenses. It pays 5% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at office supply stores and on telecommunications services. Owners receive 0% introductory APR on purchases for 12 months, the longest intro period among cards in our list. The ongoing APR is 15.49% to 21.49%.

Chase Ink Business Cash℠ Costs

Financing costs and fees on the Chase Ink Business Cash℠ include:

Introductory APR: 0% APR for 12 months on purchases
Ongoing APR: A variable rate of 15.49% to 21.49%, which adjusts with the prime rate
Annual fee: None
Balance transfer fee: Either $5 or 5% of the balance transferred, whichever is greater

Chase Ink Business Cash℠ isn’t a card you should get specifically because you want a long period of interest-free financing on balance transfers. It’s a nice perk to have, but the balance transfer fee is the highest among the cards on our list. Bank of America® Business Advantage Cash Rewards Mastercard® charges 4% on transfers. Check out our ranking of the best credit cards for startups for some more suggestions.

Chase Ink Business Cash℠ Rewards

This card offers the highest rewards on office supply spending. It also pays bonus cash back on gas station and restaurant purchases. Introductory rewards are excellent for a card that charges no annual fee.

Introductory Rewards

You’ll earn $500 cash back after you spend $3,000 within your first three months. This is the highest introductory bonus on our list, tied with Chase Ink Business Unlimited℠.

Ongoing Rewards

You’ll earn the following cash back rewards when using your card:

5% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at office supply stores and on Internet, cable, cellular phone, and landline services each account anniversary year, then 1% afterward
2% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at gas stations and restaurants each account anniversary year, then 1% afterward
1% cash back on all other purchases

The cash back on office supply purchases is the best on our list, tied with American Express SimplyCash® Plus, which offers 5% cash back at office supply stores on up to $50,000 in annual spending.

How to Redeem Your Chase Ink Business Cash℠ Rewards

You can redeem your rewards for cash back, gift cards and travel through the Chase online travel portal. Redemption value for all three options is 1 cent per point. When redeeming for cash, you can receive a statement credit or a deposit into an eligible checking or savings account from a United States-based bank or credit union.

You can increase the redemption value when you transfer rewards to another Chase card you own that’s part of the issuer’s Ultimate Rewards program. If, for example, you transfer Chase Ink Cash rewards to your Chase Sapphire Preferred personal card, each point is worth 1.25 cents when redeemed for travel. Cards that belong to the Ultimate Rewards program include the Chase Sapphire Reserve, Chase Sapphire Preferred, and the Chase Ink Business Preferred℠.

Here’s an example of how the math on the points transfer works:

5% earned on office supply store spending x $0.0125 = 6.25% return

You may be able to boost the redemption value further by combining your Chase Ink Business Unlimited℠ rewards with another Chase card and then transferring those points to one of the issuer’s airline partners. When transferred, point values vary, but your redemption value could exceed 2 cents per point or more when booking flights. The Chase business cards are the only cards on our list that allow you to increase redemption rates by transferring rewards.

Chase Ink Business Cash℠ Additional Features

If you rent cars frequently for business, you should appreciate the protection this card offers, along with other purchase insurance:

Auto rental collision damage waiver: Coverage is primary — meaning it replaces any coverage your personal insurance might offer — when renting for business purposes; it provides reimbursement up to the actual cash value of the vehicle for theft and collision damage for most cars in the United States and abroad
Purchase protection: Covers your new purchases for 120 days against damage or theft up to $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per account 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

This is a similar package of benefits as several other cards on this list offer, although the purchase protection lasts longer than the 90 days offered by the Capital One® Spark® Cash for Business.

What Chase Ink Business Cash℠ Is Missing

Chase offers a solid return on office spending with this card, but businesses that have travel expenses won’t benefit with Chase Ink Business Cash℠. Choose the Chase Ink Business Preferred℠ or another similar card if you want to be rewarded for travel spending.

Chase Ink Business Cash℠ Reviews

We considered both user reviews and our own editorial review when rating this card. Chase Ink Business Cash℠ reviews generally are very positive. The card gets high marks for its introductory and ongoing rewards. Some reviews suggest the card could add more bonus categories, especially covering travel purchases.

Chase Ink Business Cash℠ User Reviews

We searched the internet to find users’ opinions on this card. Users say they value the business-oriented rewards structure and the lack of an annual fee. Some say the ongoing APR is too high. On the low end of the range, this card’s APR is a bit better than average. The high end of the range is also about three percentage points lower than some cards charge.

Chase Ink Business Cash℠ Editorial Reviews

We rate small business credit cards based on their costs, rewards, and benefits. Chase Ink Business Cash℠ is one of the top small business credit cards. It’s set apart from its peers by three features that are among the best available: introductory rewards, ongoing rewards, and a lengthy 0% introductory APR offer. This card could improve by adding travel rewards.

Where to Apply for Chase Ink Business Cash℠

Apply for the Chase Ink Business Cash℠ online by filling out a basic application. Be prepared to provide both business and personal information. You may be approved instantly. If you are, expect to receive your card in the mail within seven to 10 days.

Apply Now

Capital One® Spark® Cash for Business: Best Cash Back Business Credit Card for Fixed-rate Rewards

The Capital One® Spark® Cash for Business card is best for firms that want to earn 2% cash back on all spending. This type of ongoing rewards is suited for businesses that have a variety of spending needs and don’t want to track category bonuses. The ongoing APR is 19.24%, which is among the highest APRs on our list.

Capital One® Spark® Cash for Business Costs

Financing costs and fees on the Capital One® Spark® Cash for Business include:

Introductory APR: None
Ongoing APR: A variable 19.24%, which adjusts with the prime rate
Annual fee: $95, waived for the first year
Balance transfer fee: None

Capital One® Spark® Cash for Business is one of just three cards on our list to charge an annual fee. Spark Cash charges a $95 annual fee, which is waived the first year, tied with Chase Ink Business Preferred℠ for highest on our list. The ongoing APR is above average, so consider another card like the Bank of America® Business Advantage Cash Rewards Mastercard® if you carry a balance.

Capital One® Spark® Cash for Business Rewards

This card pays 2% cash back on all spending, the highest flat-rate cash back return among the cards on this list. Other cards offer higher returns in bonus category spending like the 5% cash back the Chase Ink Business Cash℠ card pays on office supplies and Internet services. Ink Business Cash fares worse in everyday spending at 1% cash back.

Introductory Rewards

You’ll earn a $500 cash bonus when you spend $4,500 in the first three months of account opening. The Chase Ink Business Cash℠ card offers the same intro bonus, but you’ll only have to spend $3,000 to earn this introductory reward.

Ongoing Rewards

You’ll earn an unlimited 2% cash back on all purchases. That’s the highest fixed-rate return among the small business credit cards on our list.

How to Redeem Your Capital One® Spark® Cash for Business Rewards

You can redeem your rewards for cash back, as a credit for previous purchases and gift cards. When redeeming for cash, you can receive a statement credit or a check. Rewards are worth 2 cents per dollar spent when redeemed for cash. You can redeem at any time or set up automatic redemption at a set date each year or when you reach a specific dollar figure earned, like $100, for example.

This redemption rate is higher than other cards on this list offer on everyday spending. The Capital One® Spark® Cash Select for Business, for example, offers a redemption value of 1.5 cents per dollar spent.

Capital One® Spark® Cash for Business Additional Features

Capital One offers several perks through its Visa Signature benefits, including:

Auto rental collision damage waiver: Coverage is primary — meaning it replaces any coverage your personal insurance might offer — when renting for business purposes; it provides reimbursement up to the actual cash value of the vehicle for theft and collision damage for most cars in the U.S. and abroad
Purchase protection: Covers your new purchases for up to 90 days against damage or theft up to $10,000 per claim
Lost luggage reimbursement: Checked or carry-on luggage is covered up to $3,000 if lost or stolen when you charge your ticket to the card

These benefits are fairly standard, although the length of coverage on purchase protection is less than the 120 days the American Express SimplyCash® Plus offers. The Chase Ink Business Preferred℠ offers other perks like cellphone insurance that this card doesn’t offer.

What Capital One® Spark® Cash for Business Is Missing

Other cards offer better rewards in specific bonus categories, like the Chase Ink Business Preferred℠, which pays three points per dollar on travel, shipping, and advertising on search engines and social networks. You’ll earn just 2% cash back on these types of purchases with Capital One® Spark® Cash for Business.

Capital One® Spark® Cash for Business Reviews

We considered both user reviews and our own editorial review when rating this card. The fixed-rate rewards program is highly rated, but the card might not be right for all business owners because it carries a $95 annual fee, waived the first year.

Capital One® Spark® Cash for Business User Reviews

We scoured the internet to find user reviews of the Capital One® Spark® Cash for Business card. Overall, customers love the strong cash back rewards program. Some users indicate they are disappointed that Capital One reports card activity to both personal and business credit bureaus. Some, but not all, issuers only report business card activity to the business credit bureaus.

Capital One® Spark® Cash for Business Editorial Reviews

We rate small business credit cards based on their costs, rewards, and benefits. Capital One® Spark® Cash for Business is one of the best small business credit cards available. It’s a simple rewards program — earn 2% cash back on everything — should appeal to businesses with diverse spending needs. It’s annual fee, however, might not be worth paying for owners who put $19,000 or less a year in charges on their card.

How to Apply for Capital One® Spark® Cash for Business

You can apply online for a Capital One® Spark® Cash for Business card, and you’ll typically get an immediate decision. Once approved, you’ll get your card in seven to 10 business days.

Apply Now

Chase Ink Business Unlimited℠: Best for Fixed-rate Rewards and No Annual Fee

Chase Ink Business Unlimited℠ is ideal for business owners who want to earn fixed-rate rewards and a solid sign-up bonus — without paying an annual fee. It pays 1.5% cash back on all spending $500 cash back after you spend $3,000 in the first three months. That’s $300 more than you’d earn with the Capital One® Spark® Cash Select for Business, which also pays 1.5% back. Ongoing APR is 15.49% to 21.49%.

Chase Ink Business Unlimited℠ Costs

Financing costs and fees on the Chase Ink Business Unlimited℠ include:

Introductory APR: 0% for 12 months on purchases
Ongoing APR: A variable rate of 15.49% to 21.49%, which will adjust with the prime rate
Annual fee: None
Balance transfer fee: Either $5 or 5% of the balance transferred, whichever is greater

The balance transfer fee is higher than the 3% charged by the American Express SimplyCash® Plus card and will reduce the savings you receive when you transfer a balance from a high-interest card. The length of the introductory APR is longer than the nine months offered by the Capital One® Spark® Cash Select for Business, which only offers 0% APR on purchases.

Chase Ink Business Unlimited℠ Rewards

Along with 1.5% fixed-rate ongoing rewards, this card also comes with a great introductory bonus of $500 cash back.

Introductory Rewards

You’ll earn $500 cash back when you spend $3,000 in the first three months. That’s the highest return among cards on our list that charge no annual fee and equal to what the Chase Ink Business Cash℠ offers.

Ongoing Rewards

You’ll earn an unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases, regardless of spending category. That’s the best fixed-rate return from a credit card that charges no annual fee on our list, tied with the Capital One® Spark® Cash Select for Business.

How to Redeem Chase Ink Business Unlimited℠ Rewards

You can redeem your rewards for cash back, gift cards and travel through the Chase online travel portal. Redemption value for all three options is 1 cent per point, which is fairly typical. When redeeming for cash, you can receive a statement credit or a deposit into an eligible checking or savings account from a U.S.-based bank or credit union.

You also can increase your redemption value when you transfer rewards to another Chase card you own that’s part of the Ultimate Rewards program. If, for example, you transfer Chase Ink Business Unlimited℠ rewards to your Chase Sapphire Preferred personal card, each point is worth 1.25 cents when redeemed for travel.

Here’s how the math on the points transfer works:

1.5% earned on every dollar spent x $0.0125 = 1.875% return

Chase Ink Business Unlimited℠ Additional Features

Chase Ink Business Unlimited℠ offers identical protections that also come with Chase Ink Business Cash:

Auto rental collision damage waiver: Coverage is primary — meaning it replaces any coverage your personal insurance might offer — when renting for business purposes; it provides reimbursement up to the actual cash value of the vehicle for theft and collision damage for most cars in the U.S. and abroad
Purchase protection: Covers your new purchases for 120 days against damage or theft up to $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per account 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

Note that the purchase protection benefit lasts longer than the 90 days offered by the Capital One® Spark® Cash for Business. The rental insurance and extended warranty protection are similar to what other Chase business cards on our list offer, including the Chase Ink Business Cash℠.

What Chase Ink Business Unlimited℠ Is Missing

Chase Ink Business Unlimited℠ offers great fixed-rate cash back rewards on all spending, but the reward rate is lower than some other cards — especially in certain spending categories — like the Chase Ink Business Cash℠ card, which pays 5% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at office supply stores and on telecommunications services.

Chase Ink Business Unlimited℠ Reviews

We considered both user reviews and our own editorial review when rating this card. Chase Ink Business Unlimited℠ reviews are very good, although not as positive as reviews for the other Chase cards on this list. Because it offers 1.5% cash back on all purchases, this isn’t seen as a top-of-wallet card for business owners serious about maximizing rewards.

Chase Ink Business Unlimited℠ User Reviews

We scoured the internet for user reviews of this card. Customers like the 12-month introductory APR on purchases as well as the strong introductory rewards, but say the ongoing rewards aren’t competitive with other cards that offer fixed-rate rewards. Indeed, the American Express Blue Business Plus earns 2x points on all spending up to $50,000 annually.

Chase Ink Business Unlimited℠ Editorial Reviews

We rate small business credit cards based on their costs, rewards, and benefits. Chase Ink Business Unlimited℠ fills in the rewards gaps the Chase Ink Business Cash℠ and the Chase Ink Business Preferred℠ have, making it a perfect second or third card. When your purchases don’t fall into one of the bonus categories offered by those other cards, use Chase Ink Business Unlimited℠.

How to Apply for Chase Ink Business Unlimited℠

You can apply for the Chase Ink Business Unlimited℠ business card directly through Chase’s website. Once you apply, you can get an approval decision in just a few minutes. You should receive your card within seven to 10 days.

Apply Now

Capital One® Spark® Cash Select for Business: Best Cash Back Business Credit Card for Low Spenders

Capital One® Spark® Cash Select for Business is a no annual fee credit card that pays 1.5% cash back on all spending. It’s best for businesses that spend no more than $19,000 a year on their small business cash back credit cards. That’s the threshold at which you’ll benefit more with the Capital One® Spark® Cash for Business, which pays 2% but charges a $95 annual fee, waived the first year. The ongoing APR is 15.24% to 23.24%.

Capital One® Spark® Cash Select for Business Costs

Financing costs and fees on the Capital One® Spark® Cash Select for Business include:

Introductory APR: 0% for nine months on purchases
Ongoing APR: 15.24% to 23.24%, which will adjust based on the prime rate
Annual fee: None
Balance transfer fee: None

The introductory 0% APR period is shorter on this card than on others on our list, like the Chase Ink Business Cash℠ at 12 months. It also doesn’t offer an intro APR on balance transfers, although you’ll pay no transfer fee, which is something other cards don’t offer.

Capital One® Spark® Cash Select for Business Rewards

The real appeal of the Capital One® Spark® Cash Select for Business is for business owners who want a fixed-rate return and don’t want to pay an annual fee. However, that fee aversion is only worth it if you spend $19,000 or less a year.

Here’s a look at the math:

Capital One® Spark® Cash Select for Business: $19,000 in annual spend x 1.5% cash back = $285 in rewards
Capital One® Spark® Cash for Business: $19,000 in annual spend x 2% cash back – $95 annual fee = $285 in rewards

Introductory rewards

You’ll earn a $200 cash bonus when you spend $3,000 within the first three months from account opening. That’s a smaller return than the $500 the Chase Ink Business Unlimited℠ pays on the same amount of spending.

Ongoing rewards

You’ll earn 1.5% cash back on all spending with no limits. The introductory rewards on this card are lower than several other cards on our list that charge no annual fee, including the Ink Business Cash card, which pays $500 cash back after you spend $3,000 within your first three months. However, there are few better no-muss, no-fuss no interest credit cards on the market than the Capital One® Spark® Cash Select for Business.

How to Redeem Capital One® Spark® Cash Select for Business Rewards

You can redeem your rewards for cash back, as a credit for previous purchases and gift cards. When you redeem for cash back, your rewards are worth 1.5 cents per dollar spent. Rates for other redemption options may vary. This redemption rate is lower than other cards on this list offer on everyday spending. The Capital One® Spark® Cash for Business, for example, offers a redemption value of 2 cents per dollar spent.

When redeeming for cash, you can receive a statement credit or a check. You can redeem at any time or set up automatic redemption at a set date each year or when you reach a specific dollar figure earned, like $50 or $100, for example.

Capital One® Spark® Cash Select for Business Additional Features

Capital One® Spark® Cash Select for Business offers the following protections:

Purchase protection: Covers your new purchases for 90 days against damage or theft up to $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per account per year
Extended warranty protection: Extends the time period of the U.S. manufacturer’s warranty by up to one year on eligible warranties of three years or less

Notice that the length of purchase protection coverage is shorter at 90 days with Capital One than it is with other cards like the Chase Ink Business Cash℠, which offers purchase protection for up to 120 days. The extended warranty benefit is also less than the two years additional protection the American Express SimplyCash® Plus card offers.

What the Capital One® Spark® Cash Select for Business Is Missing

The biggest drawback for the Capital One® Spark® Cash Select for Business card is that there are no interest-free balance transfers. If you have a balance on another card that’s accruing interest, you’ll be better off choosing a card like the American Express SimplyCash® Plus, which offers 0% APR for 15 months on balance transfers.

Capital One® Spark® Cash Select for Business Reviews

We considered both user reviews and our own editorial review when rating this card. Capital One® Spark® Cash Select for Business is a great business credit card for owners with few expenses. It offers a straightforward rewards program that pays the same for all purchases, but its return is lower than similar credit cards.

Capital One® Spark® Cash Select for Business User Reviews

We scoured the internet to find user reviews of the Capital One® Spark® Cash Select for Business card. Users love the introductory interest-free period, as well as the simple rewards program structure. Cardholders unhappy with the card are disappointed that Capital One reports account activity to consumer credit bureaus, which not all business card issuers do.

Capital One® Spark® Cash Select for Business Editorial Reviews

We rate small business credit cards based on their costs, rewards, and benefits. Capital One® Spark® Cash Select for Business is great for a business with less than $19,000 of annual credit card expenses. If you spend more each year consider the Capital One® Spark® Cash for Business, which charges a $95 annual fee, which is waived the first year but also pays 2% cash back on all spending.

How to Apply for the Capital One® Spark® Cash Select for Business

You can apply for the Capital One® Spark® Cash Select for Business card directly through the Capital One website. This cash back card is one of the easier to apply and qualify for. Visit Capital One for more information on how to apply.

Apply Now

American Express SimplyCash Plus: Best Cash Back Business Credit Card for Category Rewards

The American Express SimplyCash® Plus is best for small businesses that want the flexibility to choose a bonus rewards category. The card pays 3% on up to $50,000 in annual spending, then 1% thereafter from one of eight categories you pick from. No other card on our list allows cardholders to choose their bonus category. The ongoing APR is 14.49% to 21.49%.

American Express SimplyCash® Plus Costs

Financing costs and fees on the American Express SimplyCash® Plus include:

Introductory APR: 0% for nine months on purchases
Ongoing APR: A variable rate of 14.49% to 21.49%
Annual fee: None
Balance transfer fee: Balance transfers are not allowed

Although you will have a credit limit, American Express will allow you to spend past your limit without penalty on this card, which could be helpful for business owners who need some spending flexibility. No other card on our list offers this benefit.

American Express SimplyCash® Plus Rewards

American Express SimplyCash® Plus offers 5% cash back on office supply spending up to $50,000 a year. That’s the best return and the highest spending cap on our list.

Introductory Rewards

This card currently offers no sign-up bonus, which is rare for a small business rewards credit card. If earning introductory rewards is important to you, consider the Chase Ink Business Cash℠ card, which offers $500 cash back after you spend $3,000 within the first three months.

Ongoing Rewards

Earn the following cash-back rewards when using your card:

5% cash back at United States-based office supply stores and on wireless telephone services purchased directly from U.S. service providers on up to $50,000 in purchases during a calendar year, then 1% thereafter.
3% cash back on up to $50,000 in annual spending, then 1%, from one of eight categories from which you pick
1% cash back on all other spending

The eight spending categories from which you get to choose are: Airfare purchased directly from airlines, hotel rooms purchased directly from hotels, car rentals purchased from select car rental companies, U.S. gas stations, U.S. restaurants, U.S. purchases for advertising in select media, U.S. purchases for shipping, and U.S. computer hardware, software, and cloud computing purchases made directly from select providers.

How to Redeem American Express SimplyCash® Plus Rewards

You have to do nothing to redeem your cash back rewards. Redemption values are 5 cents per dollar spent at office supply stores and on wireless telephone services, 3 cents per dollar spent from one of eight categories and 1 cent per dollar on all other spending.

American Express will automatically credit rewards to your account as a statement credit. The credit will appear on the second billing statement you receive after the billing statement that includes the purchase for which you earned rewards. This is one of two cards on the list that provides automatic redemption — the other is the Wells Fargo Business Secured card.

American Express SimplyCash® Plus Additional Features

The American Express SimplyCash® Plus includes both familiar purchase protection and extended warranty protection policies and some rare benefits not seen on the other best cash back business credit cards.

You’ll enjoy the following additional benefits:

Extended warranty: American Express will match the length of the original manufacturer’s warranty if it’s less than two years; American Express provides an additional two years if the original manufacturer’s warranty is between two and five years; coverage is limited to $10,000 per occurrence and $50,000 per account each year
Purchase protection: The issuer will repair, replace or reimburse you for an item purchased with the card that was damaged or stolen within 120 days of purchase; coverage is limited to $1,000 per occurrence and $50,000 per account each year
Above-limit purchasing: The card allows you to buy above your credit limit and get cash back on those purchases too — with no overlimit fees; you must pay the amount above your credit limit in full each month on top of your minimum payment due
Baggage insurance: If your luggage is damaged or lost when you travel on a common carrier like a plane, trip, ship, or bus, American Express will reimburse you for losses not covered by your own personal insurance

No other card on our list offers either above-limit purchasing or baggage insurance, the latter of which is typically available on the best business cards for travel rewards.

What American Express SimplyCash® Plus Is Missing

American Express SimplyCash® Plus does not have an introductory interest-free offer on balance transfers like the Ink Business Cash℠ Card at 12 months, meaning this isn’t a good choice for businesses looking to consolidate debt from other credit cards. It also comes with no introductory rewards, like the Ink Business Unlimited℠ offers.

American Express SimplyCash® Plus Reviews

We considered both user reviews and our own editorial review when rating this card. For businesses with more than $25,000 in office supply expenses annually, the American Express SimplyCash® Plus is the go-to card because it has a higher spending cap at $50,000 than the Chase Ink Business Cash℠ card. It doesn’t offer a signup bonus, which is a real turnoff for some.

American Express SimplyCash® Plus User Reviews

We searched numerous websites for users reviews of this card. Users love the flexibility to pick their spending category for 3% cash back rewards. You can choose from eight different spending categories like advertising expenses and car rentals. In online reviews, we found a number of users who wish this card offers introductory rewards.

American Express SimplyCash® Plus Editorial Reviews

We rate small business credit cards based on their costs, rewards, and benefits. American Express SimplyCash® Plus offers excellent ongoing rewards tailored for office-based small businesses. For businesses that travel frequently, our review found there are better choices, including the American Express Business Platinum Card®.

Where to Apply for American Express SimplyCash® Plus

You can apply for the SimplyCash® Plus Business Credit Card online. If you are approved, it may be instantly. Cards are shipped to your address within seven to 10 days.

Apply Now

Bank of America® Business Advantage Cash Rewards Mastercard®: Best for Earning a Bonus With Low Spending Requirements

The Bank of America® Business Advantage Cash Rewards Mastercard® is best for owners who want to want to earn a cash back bonus with without spending much money. You’ll earn $300 when you spend $3000 within 90 days. Compare that the Chase Ink Business Cash℠, which pays $500 cash back after you spend $3,000. The ongoing APR is 14.49% to 24.49%.

Bank of America® Business Advantage Cash Rewards Mastercard® Costs

Financing costs and fees on the Bank of America® Business Advantage Cash Rewards Mastercard® include:

Introductory APR: 0% for nine billing cycles on purchases
Ongoing APR: A variable rate of 14.49% to 24.49%, which adjusts with the prime rate
Annual fee: None
Balance transfer fee: Either $10 or 4% of the amount of each transaction, whichever is greater

Bank of America offers no introductory 0% APR offer on balance transfers, and the length of the intro APR on purchases is shorter than the 12 months of 0% APR offered by Chase Ink Business Unlimited℠ on purchases. Choose a different card if no-interest financing is important to you.

Bank of America® Business Advantage Cash Rewards Mastercard® Rewards

The already good cash-back rewards on this card can get even better if you also have a banking relationship with Bank of America. Enroll in the Business Advantage Relationship Rewards program to receive an additional 25% to 75% rewards bonus on every purchase. These tiered-relationship bonuses begin when you have at least $20,000 in assets with the bank.

Introductory Rewards

You will earn a $300 statement credit when you make at least $3000 in net purchases within 90 days of your account opening. That’s among the lowest signup bonuses among that cards that offer introductory rewards on our list.

Ongoing Rewards

You will earn the following rewards when using your card:

3% cash back on your choice of one of the following six categories: gas stations (default), office supply stores, travel, TV/telecom & wireless, computer services or business consulting services (for the first $50,000 in combined choice category/dining purchases each calendar year, 1% thereafter)
2% cash back on purchases at restaurants
1% cash back on all other purchases

If you’re enrolled in Business Advantage Relationship Rewards, you could earn up to 5.25% at gas stations and office supply stores, 3.5% at restaurants, and 1.75% on all other purchases. To earn the maximum rewards bonus, you have to have more than $100,000 on deposit with the bank. The introductory rewards aren’t huge, but this card has the lowest spending requirement of any on our list to earn a welcome bonus.

How to Redeem Bank of America® Business Advantage Cash Rewards Mastercard® Rewards

You may redeem your cash back in the form of a statement credit or have cash deposited into a Bank of America small business checking or savings account. You must redeem a minimum of $25. Chase Ink Business Unlimited℠ also will deposit rewards into a bank account, but it will allow deposits in any U.S.-based bank or credit union, not just Chase.

The redemption value is 3 cents per dollar spent on gas station and office supply store purchases, 2 cents per dollar at restaurants and 1 cent per dollar on all other purchases.

Bank of America® Business Advantage Cash Rewards Mastercard® Additional Features

This card doesn’t come with the same level of benefits you’ll find on other cards on our list, like car rental insurance and extended warranty protection for purchases you make with your card. You will receive up to $100,000 in travel accident insurance, which covers you in case of loss of life or dismemberment. It is the only card on our list to offer this protection. This is a benefit most frequently seen on travel rewards credit cards.

What Bank of America® Business Advantage Cash Rewards Mastercard® Is Missing

You’ll find a better rewards rate on office supply spending with other business cards like the American Express SimplyCash® Plus (5%), and the introductory bonus is the lowest among the cards on our list that offer a welcome bonus. Although the relationship bonus is a nice touch, new business owners with large cash reserves may favor a premium rewards credit card that offers more benefits, like the Ink Business Cash℠ card.

Bank of America® Business Advantage Cash Rewards Mastercard® Reviews

We considered both user reviews and our own editorial review when rating this card. Bank of America® Business Advantage Cash Rewards Mastercard® reviews are positive, but not fawning. It’s a solid, if unspectacular, pick because of its cash rewards and the rewards boost existing Bank of America customers can earn.

Bank of America® Business Advantage Cash Rewards Mastercard® User Reviews

We searched the internet for user reviews for the Bank of America® Business Advantage Cash Rewards Mastercard®. Many customers like the introductory 0% APR on purhcases, the lack of an annual fee, and the ability to earn up to 3% ongoing cash rewards. However, some complain that the introductory rewards aren’t as high as other cards offer.

Bank of America® Business Advantage Cash Rewards Mastercard® Editorial Reviews

We rate small business credit cards based on their costs, rewards, and benefits. Our review of the Bank of America® Business Advantage Cash Rewards Mastercard® is generally favorable, both for its rewards structure and its lack of an annual fee. This isn’t a card that’s going to shower you with ongoing rewards, but it’s a perfect first small business card. The introductory rewards are a bit meager compared with other cash-back small business credit cards.

Where to Apply for Bank of America® Business Advantage Cash Rewards Mastercard®

You can apply for the Bank of America® Business Advantage Cash Rewards Mastercard® online, and you may receive instant approval. Cards are shipped to your address within seven to 10 days.

Apply Now

Capital One® Spark® Classic for Business: Best Cash Back Business Credit Card for Fair Credit

The Capital One® Spark® Classic for Business is best for small business owners with fair credit — a personal credit score between 580 and 659 — who still want an unsecured cash back credit card. You’ll earn 1% cash back on all purchases — the lowest ongoing rewards rate on our list, and pay 25.24% APR on balances, the highest rate among cards on our list.

Capital One® Spark® Classic for Business Costs

Financing costs and fees on the Capital One® Spark® Classic for Business include:

Introductory APR: None
Ongoing APR: A variable 25.24%, which will adjust with the prime rate
Annual fee: None
Balance transfer fee: None

While this card charges no balance transfer fee, you’ll pay a 25.24% APR on the transferred balance. That’s the highest APR on balance transfers and ongoing APR among the cards on our list. These types of credit cards tend to have higher APRs, reflecting the increased risk of offering credit users with fair credit.

Capital One® Spark® Classic for Business Rewards

This is one of three cards on our list that offers no introductory rewards, including the American Express SimplyCash® Plus and the Wells Fargo Business Secured card, and it also offers the lowest return on everyday spending at 1%.

Introductory Rewards

Capital One® Spark® Classic for Business does not offer introductory rewards, which is not unusual for a small business credit card that is tailored for owners with fair credit. If your credit is good enough to qualify for another credit card, choose one like the Chase Ink Business Unlimited℠, which offers $500 cash back.

Ongoing Rewards

You will earn 1% cash back on all purchases with no cap. This is the lowest return for ongoing rewards among all of the cards on our list. It is not unusual for cards designed for owners with fair credit to offer limited ongoing rewards.

How to Redeem Capital One® Spark® Classic for Business Rewards

You can redeem your rewards for cash back, as a credit for previous purchases and gift cards. When you redeem for cash back, your rewards are worth 1 cent per dollar spent. Rates for other redemption options may vary. This redemption rate is lower than other cards on this list offer on everyday spending. The Capital One® Spark® Cash Select for Business, for example, offers a redemption value of 1.5 cents per dollar spent.

Capital One® Spark® Classic for Business Additional Features

Capital One® Spark® Classic for Business offers a number of protections against lost or damaged items you purchase with the card, including:

Purchase protection: Capital One will replace, repair or reimburse you for eligible items in the event of theft or damage within the first 90 days of purchase
Extended protection: You’ll get additional warranty protection on eligible items that are purchased with your business card, up to one year past the manufacturer’s warranty
Auto rental collision damage waiver: You’re covered for damage due to collision or theft when you rent an eligible car with your Capital One® Spark® Classic for Business card

As with other Capital One business cards, the purchase protection is shorter than the 120 days offered on other cards like the Chase Ink Business Cash℠. The extended warranty protection and auto rental collision insurance are similar to what other cards on our list offer.

What Capital One® Spark® Classic for Business Is Missing

Capital One® Spark® Classic for Business is designed for cardholders with fair credit, so the ongoing APR is understandably high compared with other cards on our list. There’s also no introductory interest-free offer on purchases or balance transfers, and the fixed-rate rewards are fairly low. If your credit is good enough to qualify for other small business credit cards, choose the Capital One® Spark® Cash Select for Business over Capital One® Spark® Classic for Business.

Capital One® Spark® Classic for Business Reviews

We considered both user reviews and our own editorial review when rating this card. Capital One® Spark® Classic for Business reviews are largely favorable, but both user and editorial reviews recognize this card’s main purpose is to give business owners with fair credit access to financing. That means it lacks some of the features that other credit cards have.

Capital One® Spark® Classic for Business User Reviews

We scoured the internet for user reviews of this card. Most users in online reviews indicated that they are largely satisfied with their Capital One® Spark® Classic for Business card, with cardholders noting the best feature is the cash-back rewards. Some users complain about the lack of perks and low credit limits.

Capital One® Spark® Classic for Business Editorial Reviews

We rate small business credit cards based on their costs, rewards, and benefits. Our review recognizes that the Capital One® Spark® Classic for Business isn’t a card most small business owners should want to rely on forever. Used responsibly, this card should become obsolete as owners’ credit scores improve. But, for what it is, it’s a decent card that offers ongoing rewards, albeit at a reduced rate.

Where to Apply for Capital One® Spark® Classic for Business

You can apply for the Capital One® Spark® Classic for Business online. The application takes minutes, and you can get approved instantly. Once approved, the card typically takes seven to 10 business days to arrive.

Apply Now

Wells Fargo Business Secured Card: Alternative to the Best Cash Back Business Credit Cards

The Wells Fargo Business Secured Card is best for small business owners with a credit score of 580 or below who want to earn cash back. You’ll earn 1.5% cash back on all purchases, which is the same return as the Capital One® Spark® Cash Select for Business. You’ll pay a $25 annual fee with the Business Secured Card, and your card limit will be determined by a cash deposit you make. The ongoing APR is 17.40%.

Wells Fargo Business Secured Card Costs

Financing costs and fees on the Wells Fargo Business Secured Card include:

Credit line: Deposit $500 to $25,000 in a collateral account, which equals the amount of your credit line
Introductory APR: None
Ongoing APR: A variable 17.40%, which will adjust with the prime rate
Annual fee: $25 per card on up to 10 cards maximum.
Balance transfer fee: Transfers are not allowed

Unlike other cards on this list, your credit line on the Wells Fargo Business Secured Card is determined by a deposit you make into a collateral account. Use this card to improve your credit score, so you can qualify for the best cash back business credit cards, which are all unsecured.

Wells Fargo Business Secured Card Rewards

The Wells Fargo Business Secured Card makes our list because it’s the rare secured credit card that offers ongoing rewards. It’s optional 1.5% cash back on all spending is equaled by the Chase Ink Business Unlimited℠ and the Capital One® Spark® Cash Select for Business.

Introductory Rewards

The Wells Fargo Business Secured Card offers no sign-up bonus or other introductory rewards. It’s one of three cards on our list that offers no introductory rewards, including the Capital One® Spark® Classic for Business, and the American Express SimplyCash® Plus card.

Ongoing Rewards

You can choose to receive rewards from The Wells Fargo Business Secured Card in one of two ways:

Cash back: Earn 1.5% cash back for every $1 spent on purchases
Points: Earn 1 point for every $1 spent on net purchases and 1,000 bonus points when your company spends $1,000 in any monthly billing period

No other card on our list allows you to choose between receiving cash back or points. If you choose points, the redemption rate is likely to be lower than cash back. Even so, earning rewards on a secured business credit card is exceptionally rare.

How to Redeem Wells Fargo Business Secured Card Rewards

Redemption is automatic when you receive cash back. You’ll receive a statement credit or Wells Fargo will deposit cash rewards in your eligible checking or savings account once per quarter. This is one of two credit cards on our list that offer automatic redemption — the other is the American Express SimplyCash® Plus. Redemption value for cash back rewards 1.5 cents per dollar spent, which is identical to what the Chase Ink Business Unlimited℠ offers.

When you choose points rewards, you can redeem your rewards for gift cards, merchandise, or airline tickets. Redemption values will vary. When you choose points rewards, you’ll receive a 10% point credit when you redeem points online. You will pay a $24 redemption fee when you redeem your points for airline tickets.

Wells Fargo Business Secured Card Additional Features

Under Wells Fargo’s purchase protection program, the issuer will replace, repair, or reimburse you for eligible items in the event of theft or damage within the first 90 days of purchase. Every other card on our list offers more benefits, including the American Express SimplyCash® Plus, which offers extended warranty protection that matches the length of the original manufacturer’s warranty if it’s less than two years.

What the Wells Fargo Business Secured Card Is Missing

Your credit line is established by the amount of collateral you put down, up to $25,000. The other cards on our list are unsecured credit cards, which means your credit line is determined by your credit score, level of debt and other factors. You don’t need to put any money down — outside an annual fee — to get an unsecured card like the Capital One® Spark® Cash for Business.

Wells Fargo Business Secured Card Reviews

We considered both user reviews and our own editorial review when rating this card. This is the best reviews secured business credit card, but it’s not without flaws. Although its annual fee is relatively low for a secured credit card, there are other cards that are cheaper to own.

Wells Fargo Business Secured Card User Reviews

We scoured the internet for user reviews of this card. Business owners say their responsible use of this card has allowed them to improve their personal credit score, sometimes by more than 100 points. Others complain that even when they improved their credit score, the issuer failed to offer them a chance to graduate to an unsecured business credit card.

Wells Fargo Business Secured Card Editorial Reviews

We rate small business credit cards based on their costs, rewards, and benefits. We name the Wells Fargo Business Secured Card the best business secured credit card on the market. There are some personal secured credit cards that offer similar features — and charge no annual fee — including the Capital One Secured Mastercard and Discover it Secured.

Where to Apply for the Wells Fargo Business Secured Card

Online applications are taken for the Wells Fargo Business Secured Card only for business owners with an existing relationship with the bank. Others need to apply in person at a branch. When considering your application, Wells Fargo will examine your credit experience and payment history, cash flow and existing credit obligations and your current bank relationship.

Apply Now

Chase Ink Business Preferred℠: Best Cash Back Business Credit Card for Earning Points

The Chase Ink Business Preferred℠ card is best for small business owners who travel frequently but still want to earn cash back. Although the card earns 3x points per dollar on travel, that can be converted to cash back. That’s the highest travel return among cards on our list. You’ll also pay a $95 annual fee, which is tops on our list as well. The ongoing APR is 18.24% to 23.24%.

Ink Business Preferred Costs

Financing costs and fees on the Chase Ink Business Preferred℠ include:

Introductory APR: None
Ongoing APR: A variable rate of 18.24% to 23.24%, which adjusts with the prime rate
Annual fee: $95
Balance transfer fee: Either $5 or 5% of the balance transferred, whichever is greater

The ongoing APR is among the highest on our list, so it’s best to avoid the Chase Ink Business Preferred℠ if you have to carry a balance. Instead, choose the Bank of America® Business Advantage Cash Rewards Mastercard®, which charges a variable rate of 14.49% to 24.49%.

Chase Ink Business Preferred℠ Rewards

No other card on our list of best cash back business credit cards offers better rewards for travel. Chase has a fairly broad definition of travel, too — including car rentals, taxis, and parking garages — which makes this card a particularly useful tool for both local and regional traveling.

Introductory Rewards

You will earn 80,000 Ultimate Rewards points when you spend $5,000 within the first three months of account opening. Rewards points can be redeemed for airfare or other paid travel through Chase, gift cards, or statement credits against eligible charges. Cardholders also can transfer points to airline and hotel partners.

Ongoing Rewards

You will earn the following rewards when using your card:

3 points per dollar on the first $150,000 spent in combined purchases each account anniversary year spent in these categories: Travel, shipping, advertising on search engines and social media sites and on the internet, cable, and phone services
1 point per dollar spent on everything else

No other card on our list offers a return on travel spending as high as this Chase small business credit card. Other points-based cards, like the American Express Business Platinum Card®, offer higher returns on airfare spending.

How to Redeem Chase Ink Business Preferred℠ Rewards

You can redeem your rewards for travel, cash back or gift cards. When redeeming for cash back or gift cards, your redemption value 1 cent per point. When redeeming for travel through Chase’s Ultimate Rewards website, travel is worth 1.25 cents per point. You also can increase your redemption value when you transfer rewards to the Chase Sapphire Reserve personal credit card. Each point is worth 1.5 cents per point when redeemed for travel.

You may be able to boost the redemption value further by transferring your Chase Ultimate Rewards points to one of the issuer’s airline partners. When transferred, point values vary, but your redemption value could exceed 2 cents per point or more when booking flights.

Chase Ink Business Preferred℠ Additional Features

As you should expect with a card that charges an annual fee, Chase Ink Business Preferred℠ includes some premium benefits, including:

Cell phone protection: You and your employees named on the phone bill you pay for with your card are covered for up to $600 in theft or damages per claim; you are limited to three claims per 12-month period, with a $100 deductible per claim
Trip cancellation/delay insurance: If your trip is canceled, you can be compensated up to $5,000 for prepaid expenses such as airfare or hotels; if your trip is delayed for 12 hours or more, you can be reimbursed up to $500 for your hotel room, meals, and transportation

No other card on our list offers either cell phone protection or trip cancellation insurance.

What Chase Ink Business Preferred℠ Is Missing

This card is not a good choice for businesses looking for an interest-free period on purchases transfers since there is no 0% APR like the Chase Ink Business Unlimited℠ offers. The card also lacks bonus rewards for spending on office supplies like you’ll find on the Chase Ink Business Cash℠ card.

Chase Ink Business Preferred℠ Reviews

We considered both user reviews and our own editorial review when rating this card. Highly regarded as one of the best business cards for both rewards and perks, Chase Ink Business Preferred℠ reviews are typically glowing. This is a top choice for users who travel frequently, but who don’t want to pay the hundreds of dollars in annual fees that many premium travel cards charge. Reviewers want to see additional bonus categories added.

Chase Ink Business Preferred℠ User Reviews

We searched the internet for user reviews and found a number of cardholders who say the card is tremendously useful when it comes to their travel spending. Some, however, say its bonus points don’t cover enough categories.

Chase Ink Business Preferred℠ Editorial Reviews

We rate small business credit cards based on their costs, rewards, and benefits. Chase Ink Business Preferred℠ receives high marks for several reasons: Its huge introductory rewards offer, its travel rewards — 3x points — relative to its annual fee — $95 — and its cell phone protection plan, which isn’t offered by other small business credit cards. The card could be improved by offering bonus rewards on dining.

Where to Apply for Chase Ink Business Preferred℠

You can apply for Chase Ink Business Preferred℠ online, and you may receive instant approval. Cards are shipped to your address within seven to 10 days.

Apply Now

List of Best Cash Back Business Credit Cards

Card	Rewards
Chase Ink Business Cash℠	$500 introductory statement credit 1%-5% ongoing cash back
Capital One® Spark® Cash for Business	Earn a one-time $500 cash bonus once you spend $4,500 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening Unlimited 2% cash back on all purchases
Chase Ink Business Unlimited℠	$500 introductory statement credit 1.5% cash back on all purchases
Capital One® Spark® Cash Select for Business	Earn a one-time $200 cash bonus once you spend $3,000 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening 1.5% cash back on all purchases
American Express SimplyCash® Plus	No introductory statement credit 1%-5% ongoing cash back
Bank of America® Business Advantage Cash Rewards Mastercard®	$300 introductory statement credit 1%-3% ongoing cash back rewards
Capital One® Spark® Classic for Business	No introductory statement credit 1% cash back on all spending Best for business owners with fair credit
Wells Fargo Business Secured Card	No introductory statement credit 1.5% cash back on all spending Best for business owners with poor credit
Chase Ink Business Preferred℠	80,000 introductory bonus points worth $800

Bottom Line

There are many cash back credit cards out there, but the best cash back business credit cards offer 2% cash back or better on business spending. Many of these cards have low or no annual fees, long 0% introductory APRs and other rewards that generate significant value for small businesses.

After reviewing dozens of cards, we recommend the Chase Ink Business Cash℠ card as the best small business cash back credit card. You’ll earn an introductory bonus of $500 and up to 5% cash back on bonus category spending. You’ll pay no annual fee.

Apply Now