10 Best Business Credit Cards for Startups in 2022
Tricia has nearly two decades of experience in commercial and federal government lending. Her expertise is highlighted throughout small business loan content on Fit Small Business.
Andrée Kirk is a Staff Writer at Fit Small Business, specializing in Small Business Banking and Credit Cards.
This article is part of a larger series on Best Small Business Credit Cards.
Editor’s note: This is a recurring post with regularly updated card details.
Startup costs can be high due to one-time or recurring purchases. One-time large purchases can help you earn an introductory bonus faster, while recurring expenses can help you earn ongoing rewards. We evaluated cash back rewards with statement credits and points accumulation toward merchandise and travel to select the best business credit cards for startups.
- Chase Ink Business Cash®: Best overall business credit card for startups
- American Express® Business Gold Card: Best card for consultants
- Chase Ink Business Unlimited®: Best card for sole proprietorships
- American Express Blue Business CashTM: Best card for limited liability companies (LLCs)
- U.S. Bank Triple Cash Rewards World Elite Mastercard®: Best card for self-employed
- Brex Card for Startups: Best card for tech and ecommerce startups
- Wells Fargo Business Secured Card: Best card for business owners with little to no credit history
- Capital One® Spark® Classic: Best card for business owners with fair credit
- U.S. Bank Business Platinum: Best card for 0% APR for 20 billing cycles
- American Express Blue Business® Plus: Best card for no annual fee
Do you want to compare the features of one card to another? We’ve made it easy for you to do that—check off up to three cards on this page to add them to your cart. This will allow you to view the details in a side-by-side comparison.
Chase Ink Business Cash®: Best Overall Credit Card for Startups
Ink Business Cash® Credit Card
Fit Small Business's ratings are calculated by industry experts of our editorial team. Our grading rubric considers the type of credit card (such as cash back or travel), and the card's rates, fees, rewards, and additional features like insurance.
BEST FOR:
Office-based businesses that want top cash back rewards
Intro APR
0% Intro APR on Purchases
Regular APR
13.99% - 19.99% Variable
Annual Fee
$0
Credit Needed
- Earn $750 bonus cash back after you spend $7,500 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
- Earn 5% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at office supply stores and on internet, cable and phone services each account anniversary year
- Earn 2% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at gas stations and restaurants each account anniversary year. Earn 1% cash back on all other purchases
- With Fraud Protection your card transactions will be monitored for possible signs of fraudulent activity using real-time fraud monitoring.
- With Zero Liability you won't be held responsible for unauthorized charges made with your card or account information.
- No Annual Fee
- Redeem rewards for cash back, gift cards, travel and more through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
- 0% introductory APR for 12 months on purchases
Pros
- Top rewards for office supply spending
- Introductory APR on purchases
- Cash sign-up bonus
Cons
- 0% APR doesn’t apply to balance transfers
- High balance transfer fee of 5%
- Designed mainly for office-oriented companies
- 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 US manufacturer’s warranty by an additional year on eligible warranties of 3 years or less.
Intro APR
0% Intro APR on Purchases
Regular APR
13.99% - 19.99% Variable
Annual Fee
$0
Credit Needed
Good, Excellent
- Earn $750 bonus cash back after you spend $7,500 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
- Earn 5% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at office supply stores and on internet, cable and phone services each account anniversary year
- Earn 2% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at gas stations and restaurants each account anniversary year. Earn 1% cash back on all other purchases
- With Fraud Protection your card transactions will be monitored for possible signs of fraudulent activity using real-time fraud monitoring.
- With Zero Liability you won't be held responsible for unauthorized charges made with your card or account information.
- No Annual Fee
- Redeem rewards for cash back, gift cards, travel and more through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
- 0% introductory APR for 12 months on purchases
Pros
- Top rewards for office supply spending
- Introductory APR on purchases
- Cash sign-up bonus
Cons
- 0% APR doesn’t apply to balance transfers
- High balance transfer fee of 5%
- Designed mainly for office-oriented companies
- 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 US manufacturer’s warranty by an additional year on eligible warranties of 3 years or less.
Why we like it: We’ve selected the Chase Ink Business CashSM card as the best overall credit card for startups, thanks to its strong rewards. When you’re a new business owner setting up an office (or a home office), this card offers 5% cash back on office supplies, internet, cable, and phone up to $25,000 each account anniversary year. If you’re often on the move, you also get 2% back on the first $25,000 at restaurants and gas stations, and 1% on all other business purchases, with no cap on rewards earned. Save with a 0% annual percentage rate (APR) for the first 12 months, no annual fee, and employee cards at no additional cost. You can redeem your rewards for cash back, gift cards, travel, or at the Apple® Ultimate Rewards Store. And, as a welcome offer, get $750 cash back when you spend $7,500 in the first three months. It’s also one of our choices for the best high-limit business credit cards.
American Express® Business Gold Card: Best Card for Consultants
American Express® Business Gold Card
Fit Small Business's ratings are calculated by industry experts of our editorial team. Our grading rubric considers the type of credit card (such as cash back or travel), and the card's rates, fees, rewards, and additional features like insurance.
BEST FOR:
Maximizing rewards in the two categories where you spend the most
Intro APR
N/A
Regular APR
15.74% - 23.74% Variable
Annual Fee
$295
Credit Needed
Good, Excellent
- Welcome Offer: Earn 70,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $10,000 on eligible purchases with the Business Gold Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.*
- MORE REWARDS: Get 4X Membership Rewards® points on the 2 select categories where your business spent the most each month. 1X is earned for other purchases. **
- **4X points apply to the first $150,000 in combined purchases from these 2 categories each calendar year.*
- AIRLINE BONUS: Get 25% points back after you use points for all or part of an eligible flight booked with Amex Travel, up to 250,000 points back per calendar year.*
- PAY OVER TIME OPTION: Decide whether you want to pay eligible purchases in full each month—or pay over time with interest.*
- *Terms Apply
Pros
- Earn 4x points in two categories every month
- Pay eligible charges over time with interest, or pay your balance in full monthly
Cons
- You’ll pay a high annual fee of $295
- No interest-free financing opportunities
- Premium roadside assistance: Free of charge up to four times a year. You can receive towing up to 10 miles, winching, jump starts, flat tire change, lockout service when the key is in the vehicle, and delivery of up to two gallons of gas
- Return protection: American Express will refund you for eligible purchases when the store doesn’t accept returns of undamaged items. Coverage is limited to 90 days from purchase, up to $300 per item, and up to a maximum of $1,000 per year.
- Baggage insurance: If your baggage is lost, damaged, or stolen, you’re eligible for coverage of up to $1,250 for carry-on luggage and $500 for checked bags
- Extended warranty: Receive one additional year of coverage on purchases with eligible warranties of five years or less
- Purchase protection: Covers new purchases against damage or theft within 90 days of purchase. Coverage is limited to $1,000 per incident.
Intro APR
N/A
Regular APR
15.74% - 23.74% Variable
Annual Fee
$295
Credit Needed
Good, Excellent
- Welcome Offer: Earn 70,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $10,000 on eligible purchases with the Business Gold Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.*
- MORE REWARDS: Get 4X Membership Rewards® points on the 2 select categories where your business spent the most each month. 1X is earned for other purchases. **
- **4X points apply to the first $150,000 in combined purchases from these 2 categories each calendar year.*
- AIRLINE BONUS: Get 25% points back after you use points for all or part of an eligible flight booked with Amex Travel, up to 250,000 points back per calendar year.*
- PAY OVER TIME OPTION: Decide whether you want to pay eligible purchases in full each month—or pay over time with interest.*
- *Terms Apply
Pros
- Earn 4x points in two categories every month
- Pay eligible charges over time with interest, or pay your balance in full monthly
Cons
- You’ll pay a high annual fee of $295
- No interest-free financing opportunities
- Premium roadside assistance: Free of charge up to four times a year. You can receive towing up to 10 miles, winching, jump starts, flat tire change, lockout service when the key is in the vehicle, and delivery of up to two gallons of gas
- Return protection: American Express will refund you for eligible purchases when the store doesn’t accept returns of undamaged items. Coverage is limited to 90 days from purchase, up to $300 per item, and up to a maximum of $1,000 per year.
- Baggage insurance: If your baggage is lost, damaged, or stolen, you’re eligible for coverage of up to $1,250 for carry-on luggage and $500 for checked bags
- Extended warranty: Receive one additional year of coverage on purchases with eligible warranties of five years or less
- Purchase protection: Covers new purchases against damage or theft within 90 days of purchase. Coverage is limited to $1,000 per incident.
Why we like it: Are you frequently on the road for your consulting business? Whether you’re flying or driving, you can earn 4x points on the first $150,000 in combined purchases where you spend the most with the American Express® Business Gold Card. Select from two categories out of six: airfare, gas stations, and restaurants, as well as advertising, shipping, and computer hardware and software (including cloud systems). Earn 1x points for all other purchases. As a welcome bonus, earn 70,000 points after you spend $10,000 in eligible purchases during the first three months. It’s one of our picks for the best business credit cards for consultants.
Chase Ink Business Unlimited®: Best Card for Sole Proprietorships
Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card
Fit Small Business's ratings are calculated by industry experts of our editorial team. Our grading rubric considers the type of credit card (such as cash back or travel), and the card's rates, fees, rewards, and additional features like insurance.
BEST FOR:
Pocketing 1.5% cash back on every single purchase
Intro APR
0% Intro APR on Purchases
Regular APR
13.99% - 19.99% Variable
Annual Fee
$0
Credit Needed
- Earn $750 bonus cash back after you spend $7,500 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
- Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase made for your business
- No Annual Fee
- Redeem rewards for cash back, gift cards, travel and more through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
- Earn rewards faster with employee cards at no additional cost. Set individual spending limits for greater control.
- With Fraud Protection your card transactions will be monitored for possible signs of fraudulent activity using real-time fraud monitoring.
- With Zero Liability you won't be held responsible for unauthorized charges made with your card or account information.
- 0% introductory APR for 12 months on purchases
Pros
- 0% introductory APR on purchases
- Unlimited cash back rewards on all purchases
Cons
- Introductory APR period doesn’t apply to balance transfers
- 5% balance transfer fee
- Charges foreign transaction fees
- Requires excellent credit to qualify
- 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 US 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 US manufacturer’s warranty by an additional year on eligible warranties of three years or less
Intro APR
0% Intro APR on Purchases
Regular APR
13.99% - 19.99% Variable
Annual Fee
$0
Credit Needed
Good, Excellent
- Earn $750 bonus cash back after you spend $7,500 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
- Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase made for your business
- No Annual Fee
- Redeem rewards for cash back, gift cards, travel and more through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
- Earn rewards faster with employee cards at no additional cost. Set individual spending limits for greater control.
- With Fraud Protection your card transactions will be monitored for possible signs of fraudulent activity using real-time fraud monitoring.
- With Zero Liability you won't be held responsible for unauthorized charges made with your card or account information.
- 0% introductory APR for 12 months on purchases
Pros
- 0% introductory APR on purchases
- Unlimited cash back rewards on all purchases
Cons
- Introductory APR period doesn’t apply to balance transfers
- 5% balance transfer fee
- Charges foreign transaction fees
- Requires excellent credit to qualify
- 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 US 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 US manufacturer’s warranty by an additional year on eligible warranties of three years or less
Why we like it: When you’re a sole proprietor and in charge of all aspects of your small business, it helps when your business credit card works easily. The Chase Ink Business UnlimitedSM card offers 1.5% cash back on any business purchase anytime, with 0% APR on purchases for the first 12 months. As with the Chase Ink Business CashSM card, you can benefit from the same introductory offer of $750 cash back when you spend $7,500 in the first three months. Redeem your rewards for cash back, gift cards, travel, or at the Apple® Ultimate Rewards store. It’s our top choice for the best business credit cards for sole proprietorships.
American Express Blue Business CashTM: Best Card for LLCs
American Express Blue Business Cash™ Card
Fit Small Business's ratings are calculated by industry experts of our editorial team. Our grading rubric considers the type of credit card (such as cash back or travel), and the card's rates, fees, rewards, and additional features like insurance.
Intro APR
0% on purchases
Regular APR
14.74% - 22.74% Variable
Annual Fee
No annual fee
Credit Needed
Good, Excellent
- Earn a $250 statement credit after you make $3,000 in purchases on your Card in your first 3 months.
- Earn 2% cash back on all eligible purchases on up to $50,000 per calendar year, then 1% cash back earned is automatically credited to your statement.
- From workflow to inventory to floor plans, your business is constantly changing. That’s why you’ve got the power to spend beyond your credit limit with Expanded Buying Power.
- Just remember, the amount you can spend above your credit limit is not unlimited. It adjusts with your use of the Card, your payment history, credit record, financial resources known to American Express and other factors.
- 0.0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months from the date of account opening, then a variable rate, 14.74% - 22.74%, based on your creditworthiness and other factors as determined at the time of account opening.
- No Annual Fee
- Terms Apply
Pros
- 0% intro APR
- Welcome bonus
- Fixed rate rewards
- No annual fee
Cons
- Cash advance isn’t allowed
- Charges foreign transaction fees
- 2% cash back is capped at $50,000 in annual spending
- Expanded buying power: Enjoy flexible buying power, when your business needs it. Expanded buying power gives you the freedom to spend beyond your credit limit and help get business done. While the amount you can spend above your credit limit isn't unlimited, it adjusts with your use of the card, your payment history, credit record, financial resources known to us and other factors.
- Car rental loss and damage insurance: As a Card Member, You can be covered for damage to or theft of a rental vehicle in a covered territory when you use your eligible card to reserve and pay for the entire rental and decline the collision damage waiver at the rental company counter.
Intro APR
0% on purchases
Regular APR
14.74% - 22.74% Variable
Annual Fee
No annual fee
Credit Needed
Good, Excellent
- Earn a $250 statement credit after you make $3,000 in purchases on your Card in your first 3 months.
- Earn 2% cash back on all eligible purchases on up to $50,000 per calendar year, then 1% cash back earned is automatically credited to your statement.
- From workflow to inventory to floor plans, your business is constantly changing. That’s why you’ve got the power to spend beyond your credit limit with Expanded Buying Power.
- Just remember, the amount you can spend above your credit limit is not unlimited. It adjusts with your use of the Card, your payment history, credit record, financial resources known to American Express and other factors.
- 0.0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months from the date of account opening, then a variable rate, 14.74% - 22.74%, based on your creditworthiness and other factors as determined at the time of account opening.
- No Annual Fee
- Terms Apply
Pros
- 0% intro APR
- Welcome bonus
- Fixed rate rewards
- No annual fee
Cons
- Cash advance isn’t allowed
- Charges foreign transaction fees
- 2% cash back is capped at $50,000 in annual spending
- Expanded buying power: Enjoy flexible buying power, when your business needs it. Expanded buying power gives you the freedom to spend beyond your credit limit and help get business done. While the amount you can spend above your credit limit isn't unlimited, it adjusts with your use of the card, your payment history, credit record, financial resources known to us and other factors.
- Car rental loss and damage insurance: As a Card Member, You can be covered for damage to or theft of a rental vehicle in a covered territory when you use your eligible card to reserve and pay for the entire rental and decline the collision damage waiver at the rental company counter.
Why we like it: As an LLC owner, you expect convenience and ease of use from your business credit card. With the American Express Blue Business CashTM card, you’ll get 2% cash back on all eligible purchases on up to $50,000 per calendar year, then 1% cash back earned is automatically credited to your statement. Plus, benefit from a 0% introductory APR for the first 12 months and pay no annual fee. Also, you can earn a $250 statement credit after the first three months when you spend just $3,000 on purchases. It’s our pick for the best overall business credit card for LLCs.
U.S. Bank Triple Cash Rewards World Elite Mastercard®: Best Card for Self-employed
U.S. Bank Business Triple Cash Rewards World Elite Mastercard®
BEST FOR:
0% APR for 15 billing cycles
Intro APR
0% for first 15 billing cycles
Regular APR
15.49% to 24.49% (Variable)
Annual Fee
$0
Credit Needed
Excellent/Good
- Limited Time Offer: Earn $500 in cash back. Just spend $4,500 on the account owner's card in the first 150 days of opening your account.
- Introducing the U.S. Bank Business Triple Cash Rewards World Elite Mastercard® the card that gives back on all your eligible business needs.
- Earn 3% cash back on eligible purchases at gas stations and EV charging stations, office supply stores, cellphone service providers, and restaurants.
- 1% cash back on all other eligible net purchases.
- Earn 5% cash back on prepaid hotels and car rentals booked directly in the Travel Rewards Center.
- No limit on total cash back earned
- Rewards never expire
- Earn an annual $100 statement credit for recurring software subscription expenses, such as FreshBooks or QuickBooks.
- 0% Intro APR on purchase and balance transfers for 15 billing cycles. After that, a variable APR currently 15.49% to 24.49%.
- No annual fee
- Pay over time by splitting eligible purchases of $100-plus into equal monthly payments with U.S. Bank ExtendPay™Plan.
- Expense management tool VISA Spend Clarity is free to access and sync expenses, set employee card controls, generate reports, and more.
- Great Offer from U.S. Bank, a 2022 World's Most Ethical Company® - Ethisphere Institute, February 2022
- Terms and conditions apply
Pros
- 0% APR applies to both purchases and balance transfers
- Unlimited cash back rewards
- No annual fee
Cons
- Balance transfer fee is charged even during the introductory period
- Intro APR doesn’t apply to cash advances
- MasterRental car rental collision damage waiver: When you rent a car using your U.S. Bank credit card, you’re covered in case of accident or theft on all rentals made worldwide. Coverage is primary, which means you won’t need to use your personal auto insurance or accept the insurance offered by the rental agency. Coverage is capped at $50,000.
- Purchase assurance: U.S. Bank may repair or reimburse for items purchased with your U.S. Bank business credit card that are damaged or stolen within 90 days of purchase. Coverage is limited to $1,000 per loss, up to $25,000 per year per account. Lost items and items left out of reach that others can see are not covered.
- Extended warranty protection: U.S. Bank will double the manufacturer’s warranty up to an additional 1 year from the expiration of warranties of five years or less. An item with a six-month warranty would be backed for an additional six months, for example. The issuer will replace the item or reimburse you up to the amount charged on your U.S. Bank card up to $10,000.
Intro APR
0% for first 15 billing cycles
Regular APR
15.49% to 24.49% (Variable)
Annual Fee
$0
Credit Needed
Excellent/Good
- Limited Time Offer: Earn $500 in cash back. Just spend $4,500 on the account owner's card in the first 150 days of opening your account.
- Introducing the U.S. Bank Business Triple Cash Rewards World Elite Mastercard® the card that gives back on all your eligible business needs.
- Earn 3% cash back on eligible purchases at gas stations and EV charging stations, office supply stores, cellphone service providers, and restaurants.
- 1% cash back on all other eligible net purchases.
- Earn 5% cash back on prepaid hotels and car rentals booked directly in the Travel Rewards Center.
- No limit on total cash back earned
- Rewards never expire
- Earn an annual $100 statement credit for recurring software subscription expenses, such as FreshBooks or QuickBooks.
- 0% Intro APR on purchase and balance transfers for 15 billing cycles. After that, a variable APR currently 15.49% to 24.49%.
- No annual fee
- Pay over time by splitting eligible purchases of $100-plus into equal monthly payments with U.S. Bank ExtendPay™Plan.
- Expense management tool VISA Spend Clarity is free to access and sync expenses, set employee card controls, generate reports, and more.
- Great Offer from U.S. Bank, a 2022 World's Most Ethical Company® - Ethisphere Institute, February 2022
- Terms and conditions apply
Pros
- 0% APR applies to both purchases and balance transfers
- Unlimited cash back rewards
- No annual fee
Cons
- Balance transfer fee is charged even during the introductory period
- Intro APR doesn’t apply to cash advances
- MasterRental car rental collision damage waiver: When you rent a car using your U.S. Bank credit card, you’re covered in case of accident or theft on all rentals made worldwide. Coverage is primary, which means you won’t need to use your personal auto insurance or accept the insurance offered by the rental agency. Coverage is capped at $50,000.
- Purchase assurance: U.S. Bank may repair or reimburse for items purchased with your U.S. Bank business credit card that are damaged or stolen within 90 days of purchase. Coverage is limited to $1,000 per loss, up to $25,000 per year per account. Lost items and items left out of reach that others can see are not covered.
- Extended warranty protection: U.S. Bank will double the manufacturer’s warranty up to an additional 1 year from the expiration of warranties of five years or less. An item with a six-month warranty would be backed for an additional six months, for example. The issuer will replace the item or reimburse you up to the amount charged on your U.S. Bank card up to $10,000.
Why we like it: The U.S. Bank Triple Cash Rewards World Elite Mastercard® offers substantial ongoing rewards, which is ideal if you’re self-employed. Even after you’ve earned the introductory bonus of $500 cash back after spending $4,500 in the first 150 days of card ownership, this card has much more to offer. Get 3% cash back at eligible gas stations, office supply stores, and mobile phone/service providers, and 1% cash back on all other eligible purchases. There’s no limit on total cash back earned and no annual fee. Make any large purchases interest-free for the first 15 billing cycles at 0% APR. It’s on our list of the best business credit cards for the self-employed.
Brex Card for Startups: Best Card for Tech and Ecommerce Startups
Brex Business Card
BEST FOR:
No personal guarantee required
Intro APR
N/A
Regular APR
N/A
Annual Fee
$0
Credit Needed
Poor to Excellent
- No personal liability or security deposit needed―no credit score impact
- Earn points on spend with industry-leading multipliers: 7x on rideshare, 5x on Brex Travel, 4x on restaurants, 3x on software subscriptions, and 1x on the rest
- Easy, online application―get a virtual card in 5 minutes or less and a physical card in the mail shortly thereafter
- Embedded expense management software―never save receipts again and integrate with all major accounting software
- No foreign transaction fees
- Build business credit―Brex partners with Experian to report your on-time payments
Pros
- No additional fees
- Sign up bonus
Cons
- Requires a Brex Cash account
- Bonus rewards are not as extensive compared to other cards
- Protection against fraudulent transactions
- Expense tracking that makes sure you are able to match receipts automatically, close books in half the time, and root out excess spending
- Discounts on software such as QuickBooks, AWS, and others.
Intro APR
N/A
Regular APR
N/A
Annual Fee
$0
Credit Needed
Poor to Excellent
- No personal liability or security deposit needed―no credit score impact
- Earn points on spend with industry-leading multipliers: 7x on rideshare, 5x on Brex Travel, 4x on restaurants, 3x on software subscriptions, and 1x on the rest
- Easy, online application―get a virtual card in 5 minutes or less and a physical card in the mail shortly thereafter
- Embedded expense management software―never save receipts again and integrate with all major accounting software
- No foreign transaction fees
- Build business credit―Brex partners with Experian to report your on-time payments
Pros
- No additional fees
- Sign up bonus
Cons
- Requires a Brex Cash account
- Bonus rewards are not as extensive compared to other cards
- Protection against fraudulent transactions
- Expense tracking that makes sure you are able to match receipts automatically, close books in half the time, and root out excess spending
- Discounts on software such as QuickBooks, AWS, and others.
Why we like it: The Brex Card for Startups is best for companies who anticipate rapid growth and need a card that will scale quickly with the business. Brex is a charge card whose balance is due with each billing cycle. You decide if Brex withdraws your card’s balance in full automatically either daily or monthly.
For daily payments, you’ll need to open a Brex Cash account. The funds held in this account are equal to your credit limit. Businesses of any size don’t need to meet any criteria for daily payments, and you’re eligible for the highest points rewards: 8x on rideshare, 5x on Brex travel, 4x on restaurants, 3x on eligible Apple purchases, 1.5x on ads, and 1x on everything else.
For monthly payments, Brex will need visibility into your bank account, which influences how they determine your card’s limit. This limit can be 10 to 20 times higher than all other business credit cards. Points can be used toward cash, gift cards, miles, or as a statement credit. There’s no credit check, no fees, and it’s also one of our choices for the best business credit cards with no personal guarantee.
Wells Fargo Business Secured Card: Best Card for Business Owners With Little to No Credit History
Wells Fargo Business Secured Credit Card
Fit Small Business's ratings are calculated by industry experts of our editorial team. Our grading rubric considers the type of credit card (such as cash back or travel), and the card's rates, fees, rewards, and additional features like insurance.
BEST FOR:
Business owners with poor credit
Intro APR
N/A
Regular APR
Prime + 11.90% on purchases
Annual Fee
None
Credit Needed
N/A
- Cash Back option:
Earn 1.5% cash back on every $1 spent - Reward Points option:
Earn 1 point on every $1 spent and receive 1,000 bonus points when your company spend is $1,000 or more in any monthly billing period - $0 annual rewards program fee
- $500 to $25,000 credit line
- Zero liability protection
Pros
- Businesses with low or bad credit scores can qualify
- Your choice of fixed-rate cash back or points rewards
- No annual fee
Cons
- Requires a security deposit of at least $500
- Credit limit will be based on the security deposit
- Purchase assurance: Wells Fargo will repair, replace, or reimburse you for items that are damaged or stolen within 90 days of purchase.
- Design studio: Include a personal image or business design on your credit card.
Intro APR
N/A
Regular APR
Prime + 11.90% on purchases
Annual Fee
None
Credit Needed
N/A
- Cash Back option:
Earn 1.5% cash back on every $1 spent - Reward Points option:
Earn 1 point on every $1 spent and receive 1,000 bonus points when your company spend is $1,000 or more in any monthly billing period - $0 annual rewards program fee
- $500 to $25,000 credit line
- Zero liability protection
Pros
- Businesses with low or bad credit scores can qualify
- Your choice of fixed-rate cash back or points rewards
- No annual fee
Cons
- Requires a security deposit of at least $500
- Credit limit will be based on the security deposit
- Purchase assurance: Wells Fargo will repair, replace, or reimburse you for items that are damaged or stolen within 90 days of purchase.
- Design studio: Include a personal image or business design on your credit card.
Why we like it: If you have minimal credit history and you’re already a Wells Fargo customer, the Wells Fargo Business Secured Card can help you build credit the more you use it while earning rewards. You can choose between cash back rewards at 1.5% for each $1 spent on qualifying purchases, or 1 point for every $1 spent. This secured card requires a cash deposit of $500 to $25,000 in a collateral Wells Fargo business checking or savings account, so you control your credit limit. Wells Fargo will intermittently review your account to see if you qualify for an unsecured business card. It’s on our list of the best business credit cards for new businesses with no credit history.
Capital One® Spark® Classic: Best Card for Business Owners With Fair Credit
Capital One® Spark® Classic for Business
Fit Small Business's ratings are calculated by industry experts of our editorial team. Our grading rubric considers the type of credit card (such as cash back or travel), and the card's rates, fees, rewards, and additional features like insurance.
BEST FOR:
Fair credit business owners (580 to 669)
Intro APR
N/A
Regular APR
26.99% (Variable)
Annual Fee
$0
Credit Needed
Average, Fair, Limited
- 1% cash back every time you swipe
- Build your business credit through responsible usage
- Issue employee cards for free
Pros
- Opportunity to build business credit
- Only requires fair credit
- No annual fee
Cons
- No 0% introductory APR
- No sign-up bonus
- High APR
- 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 warranty protection: You’ll get additional warranty protection on eligible items that are purchased with your business card, up to 1 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.
Intro APR
N/A
Regular APR
26.99% (Variable)
Annual Fee
$0
Credit Needed
Average, Fair, Limited
- 1% cash back every time you swipe
- Build your business credit through responsible usage
- Issue employee cards for free
Pros
- Opportunity to build business credit
- Only requires fair credit
- No annual fee
Cons
- No 0% introductory APR
- No sign-up bonus
- High APR
- 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 warranty protection: You’ll get additional warranty protection on eligible items that are purchased with your business card, up to 1 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.
Why we like it: When you have fair credit and you’re starting a new business, the Capital One® Spark® Classic gives you a boost by offering two valuable features: 1% cash back on all business purchases with no limits, and no annual fee. Be sure to pay your credit card bill in full each billing cycle, as the interest rate is fairly high, at 26.99%. With consistent on-time payments, your credit score will quickly grow, allowing you to be eligible for a wider variety of cards. If you need to repair bad credit, this card is also our top choice for the best business credit cards for bad credit.
U.S Bank Business Platinum: Best Card for 0% APR for 20 Billing Cycles
U.S. Bank Business Platinum Card
Fit Small Business's ratings are calculated by industry experts of our editorial team. Our grading rubric considers the type of credit card (such as cash back or travel), and the card's rates, fees, rewards, and additional features like insurance.
BEST FOR:
Extended 0% APR period on purchases and balance transfers
Intro APR
0% for first 20 billing cycles
Regular APR
13.49% to 22.49% (Variable)
Annual Fee
$0
Credit Needed
Good/Excellent
- Limited time offer: 0% Intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 20 billing cycles. After that, a variable APR currently 13.49% to 22.49%.
- Pay over time by splitting eligible purchases of $100-plus into equal monthly payments with U.S. Bank ExtendPay ™Plan.
- Expense management tool Visa Spend Clarity is free to access and sync expenses, set employee card controls, generate reports, and more.
- Great Offer from U.S. Bank, a 2022 World's Most Ethical Company® - Ethisphere Institute, February 2022
- Terms and conditions apply
Pros
- Offers a long 0% APR introductory period
- 0% APR applies to both purchases and balance transfers
- No annual fee
Cons
- No introductory and ongoing rewards
- Balance transfer fee is charged even during the introductory period
- Excellent/good credit score needed to qualify
- Extended warranty protection: U.S. Bank will double an original manufacturer’s warranty up to an additional one year for warranties of three years or less. Coverage is limited to $10,000 per item.
- Purchase protection: U.S. Bank offers purchase protection for items that are damaged or stolen within 90 days of purchase. The coverage is limited to $500 per claim and up to $50,000 per cardholder, per year.
Intro APR
0% for first 20 billing cycles
Regular APR
13.49% to 22.49% (Variable)
Annual Fee
$0
Credit Needed
Good/Excellent
- Limited time offer: 0% Intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 20 billing cycles. After that, a variable APR currently 13.49% to 22.49%.
- Pay over time by splitting eligible purchases of $100-plus into equal monthly payments with U.S. Bank ExtendPay ™Plan.
- Expense management tool Visa Spend Clarity is free to access and sync expenses, set employee card controls, generate reports, and more.
- Great Offer from U.S. Bank, a 2022 World's Most Ethical Company® - Ethisphere Institute, February 2022
- Terms and conditions apply
Pros
- Offers a long 0% APR introductory period
- 0% APR applies to both purchases and balance transfers
- No annual fee
Cons
- No introductory and ongoing rewards
- Balance transfer fee is charged even during the introductory period
- Excellent/good credit score needed to qualify
- Extended warranty protection: U.S. Bank will double an original manufacturer’s warranty up to an additional one year for warranties of three years or less. Coverage is limited to $10,000 per item.
- Purchase protection: U.S. Bank offers purchase protection for items that are damaged or stolen within 90 days of purchase. The coverage is limited to $500 per claim and up to $50,000 per cardholder, per year.
Why we like it: You’ll need time to pay off costly purchases such as equipment, computers, or furniture when you’re getting a startup going. The U.S. Bank Business Platinum card gives you a full 20 billing cycles at 0% interest. With nearly two years interest-free, you can budget your monthly payments so that by the time the regular APR kicks in, your balance will be down to zero. It’s our top selection for the best 0% APR business credit card.
American Express Blue Business® Plus: Best Card for No Annual Fee
The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express
Fit Small Business's ratings are calculated by industry experts of our editorial team. Our grading rubric considers the type of credit card (such as cash back or travel), and the card's rates, fees, rewards, and additional features like insurance.
BEST FOR:
Pocketing 2x points per $1 and 0% introductory APR for 12 months
Intro APR
0% on purchases
Regular APR
14.74% - 22.74% Variable
Annual Fee
No annual fee
Credit Needed
Good, Excellent
- Earn 15,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $3,000 in eligible purchases on the Card within your first 3 months of Card Membership.
- Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points on everyday business purchases such as office supplies or client dinners. 2X applies to the first $50,000 in purchases per year, 1 point per dollar thereafter.
- You’ve got the power to use your Card beyond its credit limit* with Expanded Buying Power.
- *The amount you can spend above your credit limit is not unlimited. It adjusts with your use of the Card, your payment history, credit record, financial resources known to American Express, and other factors.
- 0.0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months from the date of account opening, then a variable rate, 14.74% - 22.74%, based on your creditworthiness and other factors at account opening.
- No Annual Fee
- Terms Apply
Pros
- No annual fee
- 0% APR for 12 months on purchases and balance transfer
- Welcome offer bonus points
- Expanded buying power
- Fixed-rate rewards
Cons
- Cash advances aren’t allowed
- Charges foreign transaction fees
- 2x points rewards are capped at $50,000 in spending
- Extended warranty protection: American Express will match the length of the original manufacturer’s warranty if it’s less than two years. It 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.
Intro APR
0% on purchases
Regular APR
14.74% - 22.74% Variable
Annual Fee
No annual fee
Credit Needed
Good, Excellent
- Earn 15,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $3,000 in eligible purchases on the Card within your first 3 months of Card Membership.
- Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points on everyday business purchases such as office supplies or client dinners. 2X applies to the first $50,000 in purchases per year, 1 point per dollar thereafter.
- You’ve got the power to use your Card beyond its credit limit* with Expanded Buying Power.
- *The amount you can spend above your credit limit is not unlimited. It adjusts with your use of the Card, your payment history, credit record, financial resources known to American Express, and other factors.
- 0.0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months from the date of account opening, then a variable rate, 14.74% - 22.74%, based on your creditworthiness and other factors at account opening.
- No Annual Fee
- Terms Apply
Pros
- No annual fee
- 0% APR for 12 months on purchases and balance transfer
- Welcome offer bonus points
- Expanded buying power
- Fixed-rate rewards
Cons
- Cash advances aren’t allowed
- Charges foreign transaction fees
- 2x points rewards are capped at $50,000 in spending
- Extended warranty protection: American Express will match the length of the original manufacturer’s warranty if it’s less than two years. It 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.
Why we like it: The American Express Blue Business® Plus card offers flexibility with no annual fee. Earn 2x points on the first $50,000 the first calendar year, then 1x points after that. Save money your first year with a 0% APR for the first 12 months. As an introductory offer, earn 15,000 points after spending $3,000 in eligible purchases within the first three months. It’s one of our picks for the best business credit cards with no annual fee.
How We Evaluated
We looked at various features of business credit cards to give you the best selection of cards for startups. We looked at rewards, fees, spend categories, introductory bonuses, and introductory APRs, as well as overall value.
Bottom Line
The best business credit card for your startup is the one tailored to your needs. Select a card that can give you big rewards for costly expenses and discounts on everyday purchases. If you’re unsure if a business credit is the right choice for your small business, read our article on when to use a credit card to fund your business. If you’d like to see a wider selection of cards, check out our list of the best small business credit cards and our Credit Card Marketplace.
