The best business credit cards for startups give entrepreneurs easier credit access to build their firms. Startups will enjoy low APRs, rewards tailored to growing businesses, and no annual fee—allowing them to keep more money in their companies. You can expect APRs as low as 14.24% and ongoing rewards up to 5%.
9 Top Business Credit Cards for Startups July 2019
| Credit Card | Best For |
|---|---|
| Chase Ink Business CashSM | (Best Overall) 0% APR, cash back rewards, and a sign-up bonus. |
| Fixed-rate points. | |
| Chase Ink Business UnlimitedSM | Fixed-rate cash back and a big introductory bonus. |
| U.S. Bank Business Cash Rewards World Elite™ Mastercard® | 0% APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers. |
| Capital One® Spark® Cash Select for Business | Low credit card expenses and earning fixed-rate rewards. |
| Capital One® Spark® Miles Select for Business | Rewards to offset travel expenses. |
| Bank of America® Business Advantage Cash Rewards Mastercard® | Earning 3% back on fuel purchases. |
| Capital One® Spark® Classic for Business | Fair credit (580 to 669). |
| Citi® Double Cash | (Personal credit card) 2% cash back on all spending and no annual fee. |
What’s Changed With the Best Business Credit Cards for Startups
This article was originally published in August 2017. We update the rankings of the best business credit cards for startups because issuers regularly change introductory offers and APRs. Our most recent revisions include an update to a U.S. Bank business credit card’s introductory rewards and no-interest financing offer.
Recent changes with the largest impact on our update to the best business credit cards for startups rankings are:
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How We Evaluated Business Credit Cards for Startups
Business credit cards for startups allow entrepreneurs to rely on their personal credit to open an account—even before they have a tax ID or Employer Identification Number (EIN). Along with a low barrier to entry, the best business credit cards for startups charge no annual fee, have introductory 0% APR offers of nine months or longer, and offer ongoing rewards worth up to 5%. They also help establish business credit, similar to startup business loans.
We considered the following criteria when judging credit cards for startups:
- Introductory APR: Whether the card offers startups a period of no-interest financing on purchases or balance transfers. The best cards offer a 0% introductory period of nine to 15 billing cycles.
- Ongoing APR: How much financing business credit cards for startups costs. The cards on our list offer ongoing APRs as low as 14.49%.
- Required qualifications: The credit score needed to qualify. Owners with credit scores above 670 should be able to qualify for most cards on our list, although we included one card for owners with fair credit (a credit score of 580 to 669).
- Introductory rewards: What you’ll earn for reaching minimum spending requirements within several months of card ownership. Cards on this list offer rewards worth as much as $500 after you spend $4,500 within 150 days of account opening.
- Ongoing rewards: The points or cash back you’ll earn by using your business card. Cards on our list offer either a fixed rate on all spending up to 2%, 2x points, or tiered rewards worth up to 5% cash back on certain bonus categories.
- Additional benefits: Whether the card comes with free perks that may increase its value, like rental car insurance and extended warranty protection.
With its mix of rewards and benefits, the Chase Ink Business CashSM card is our overall best business credit card for startups. Earn 5% cash back on office supply and telecommunications purchases to get your business rolling. You can also compare the best credit cards in the Fit Small Business Marketplace.
Chase Ink Business CashSM: Overall Best Business Credit Card for Startups
On Chase's Secure WebsiteInk Business Cash℠ Credit Card
See Full Editorial Review Here INTRO APR REGULAR APR ANNUAL FEE CREDIT NEEDED 0% Intro APR on Purchases 15.49% - 21.49% Variable $0 Good - Excellent
The Chase Ink Business CashSM card is our pick for the best business credit card for startups because it offers the top combination of introductory and ongoing rewards along with a lengthy introductory period on purchases. Business owners receive 0% introductory APR on purchases for 12 months. The ongoing APR is as low as 15.49%.
Chase Ink Business CashSM Costs
This Chase Ink business credit card charges no annual fee and no interest for 12 months on purchases. Once the introductory APR period ends, ongoing APR is between 15.49% and 21.49%.
Financing costs and fees on the Chase Ink Business CashSM include:
- Introductory APR: 0% APR for 12 months on purchases
- Ongoing APR: 15.49% to 21.49% variable, which adjusts with the prime rate
- Annual fee: None
- Balance transfer fee: $5 or 5% of the balance transferred, whichever is greater
Chase recently removed its offer for introductory 0% APR on balance transfers. That didn’t change our view of this card, as Chase Ink Business CashSM never was an ideal card for owners looking to consolidate credit card debt. The balance transfer fee is just too high in our view compared with other small business credit cards.
Chase Ink Business CashSM Rewards
Chase Ink Business CashSM offers the highest rewards on office supply spending. It also offers excellent introductory rewards 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 from a card that charges no annual fee (tied with Chase Ink Business UnlimitedSM and the U.S. Bank Business Cash Rewards World Elite™ Mastercard®).
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%).
- 2% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at gas stations and restaurants each account anniversary year (then 1%).
- 1% cash back on all other purchases.
No other card offers higher cash back on office supply spending. You will, however, find other small business credit cards that offer better returns on gas station spending, including the Bank of America® Business Advantage Cash Rewards Mastercard®, which pays 3% cash back.
Chase Ink Business CashSM Additional Features
This card comes with additional features that are similar to other cards we reviewed. If you rent cars frequently for business, the protection this card offers may prove beneficial, along with other purchase insurance.
This card offers the following additional features:
- 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.
This is a similar package of benefits several other cards on our list offer, although the purchase protection lasts longer than the 90 days offered by the U.S. Bank Business Cash Rewards World Elite™ Mastercard®.
What Chase Ink Business CashSM Is Missing
Businesses that have travel expenses won’t benefit with Chase Ink Business CashSM. The best startup credit cards rarely offer bonus categories that cover travel, although Capital One® Spark® Miles Select for Business pays 1.5x miles on all spending, which can be redeemed against your firm’s startup travel costs.
Chase Ink Business CashSM Reviews
We considered both user reviews and our own editorial review when rating this card. Chase Ink Business CashSM reviews are generally 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.
User Reviews
We searched the internet to find users’ opinions of 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 actually a bit better than average. The high end of the range is also about three percentage points lower than some cards charge.
Editorial Reviews
We rate small business credit cards based on their costs, rewards, and benefits. Chase Ink Business CashSM 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 on purchases. This card could improve by adding travel rewards.
How to Apply for Chase Ink Business CashSM
Apply for Chase Ink Business CashSM 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.
American Express Blue Business® Plus: Best for Fixed-rate Points
on The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express's secure website. on The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express's secure website.
Apply NowThe Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express
See Full Editorial Review Here INTRO APR REGULAR APR ANNUAL FEE CREDIT NEEDED 0% on purchases 15.24% - 21.24% Variable No annual fee Good, Excellent
American Express Blue Business® Plus offers fixed-rate points rewards and a 12-month 0% introductory APR period on purchases and balance transfers. It’s the ideal choice for startups that don’t want to track category bonuses and are seeking long-term free financing. The ongoing APR of 15.24% to 21.24% is lower than some cards on our list, which means it’s also a great card for the long term as your startup matures.
American Express Blue Business® Plus Costs
American Express Blue Business® Plus is a no annual fee credit card that charges no interest for 12 months on purchases and balance transfers. Its ongoing APR is as low as 15.24%.
Financing costs and fees on American Express Blue Business® Plus include:
- Introductory APR: 0% for 12 months on purchases and balance transfers
- Ongoing APR: 15.24% to 21.24% variable, which adjusts with the prime rate
- Annual fee: None
- Balance transfer fee: $5 or 3% of the transfer, whichever is greater
American Express Blue Business® Plus offers a long 0% introductory APR on purchases and balance transfers (12 months). However, it’s not as long as the U.S. Bank Business Cash Rewards World Elite™ Mastercard®. That card offers no-interest financing for 15 billing cycles on purchases and balance transfers.
American Express Blue Business® Plus Rewards
Cardholders will earn 2x Membership Rewards points on all spending, which means there are no bonus categories to track. There are also no opportunities to earn higher returns on category spending, like the 5% Chase Ink Business CashSM pays on spending at office supply stores.
Introductory Rewards
American Express Blue Business® Plus offers no sign-up bonus or other introductory rewards. It’s one of three cards on our list that has no introductory rewards, including Citi® Double Cash, and this drawback is one reason why this card doesn’t top our list.
Ongoing Rewards
You’ll earn two Membership Rewards points per dollar on all purchases up to $50,000 each year, then one point on all additional purchases.
The return rate is the best among the fixed-rate rewards cards on our list, like Capital One® Spark® Cash Select for Business, which pays 1.5% cash back on all spending. You can redeem points for airfare or other paid travel through American Express Travel, gift cards, or statement credits against eligible charges.
American Express Blue Business® Plus Additional Features
The American Express Blue Business® Plus card comes with protections against loss and damage. These features are similar to most other business credit cards.
With this card, you’ll receive the following features:
- 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.
These benefits are fairly standard, although the length of coverage on purchase protection is more than the 90 days the U.S. Bank Business Cash Rewards World Elite™ Mastercard® offers.
What American Express Blue Business® Plus Is Missing
American Express Blue Business® Plus doesn’t offer introductory rewards, while other cards on our list offer fairly large sign-up bonuses, including cards that charge no annual fee. Chase Ink Business CashSM, for instance, offers a $500 cash bonus when you spend $3,000 in the first three months of account opening.
You’ll also earn fixed-rate ongoing rewards, which may be bad for businesses that spend heavily in certain categories—like airfare or gas—where other cards offer enhanced rewards. Bank of America® Business Advantage Cash Rewards Mastercard®, for example, offers cardholders the opportunity to earn 3% cash back on gas.
American Express Blue Business® Plus Reviews
We considered both user reviews and our own editorial review when rating this card. American Express Blue Business Plus® reviews show that business owners applaud this card for helping to grow their firms. Both the card’s points-based rewards system and its lengthy 0% introductory offer draw praise.
User Reviews
Users say they value the two points per dollar you’ll earn in ongoing rewards and the issuer’s excellent customer service. Some users say they were disappointed this card doesn’t offer a sign-up bonus.
Editorial Reviews
We rate small business credit cards based on their costs, rewards, and benefits. American Express Blue Business® Plus is one of the best business credit cards for owners who want or need a break on financing. It offers 0% introductory APR for 12 months. This card isn’t as valuable as some others that offer bonus category rewards of up to 5%.
How to Apply for American Express Blue Business® Plus
Apply for American Express Blue Business® Plus credit card directly on the issuer’s website. If approved, the 12-month introductory APR period starts as soon as you receive your 0% business credit card.
Chase Ink Business UnlimitedSM: Best for Fixed-rate Rewards & a Big Intro Bonus
On Chase's Secure WebsiteInk Business Unlimited℠ Credit Card
See Full Editorial Review Here INTRO APR REGULAR APR ANNUAL FEE CREDIT NEEDED 0% Intro APR on Purchases 15.49% - 21.49% Variable $0 Good - Excellent
Chase Ink Business UnlimitedSM is a solid pick for startups that want to earn fixed-rate rewards and a solid sign-up bonus. It pays 1.5% cash back on all spending and $500 cash back after you spend $3,000 in the first three months. That’s $300 more than you’d earn with Capital One® Spark® Cash Select for Business, which also pays 1.5% back. Ongoing variable APR is as low as 15.49%.
Chase Ink Business UnlimitedSM Costs
This limited liability company (LLC) credit card charges no annual fee and no interest on purchases for the first 12 months. Once the introductory APR period ends, its ongoing APR is between 15.49% and 21.49%.
Financing costs and fees on the Chase Ink Business UnlimitedSM include:
- Introductory APR: 0% APR for 12 months on purchases
- Ongoing APR: 15.49% to 21.49% variable, which adjusts with the prime rate
- Annual fee: None
- Balance transfer fee: $5 or 5% of the balance transferred, whichever is greater
The length of the introductory APR is longer than the nine months offered by Capital One® Spark® Cash Select for Business, which only offers 0% APR on purchases.
Chase Ink Business UnlimitedSM Rewards
Along with fixed-rate ongoing rewards, this card also comes with a great introductory bonus—the highest among cards on our list and equal to what Chase Ink Business CashSM offers.
Introductory Rewards
You’ll earn $500 cash back when you spend $3,000 in the first three months. This monthly minimum spending requirement is lower than other cards on our list. For example, the U.S. Bank Business Cash Rewards World Elite™ Mastercard® offers $500 after you spend $4,500 within 150 days.
Ongoing Rewards
You’ll earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases, which also makes it a solid credit card for new businesses. That’s the best fixed-rate cash-back return from a credit card that charges no annual fee on our list, tied with Capital One® Spark® Cash Select for Business.
Chase Ink Business UnlimitedSM Additional Features
Chase Ink Business UnlimitedSM offers identical protections that also come with Chase Ink Business CashSM, which include car rental insurance, purchase protection, and extended warranty protection.
With this card, you’ll receive the following additional features:
- 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 U.S. Bank Business Cash Rewards World Elite™ Mastercard®. The rental insurance and extended warranty protection are similar to what other Chase business cards on our list offer, including Chase Ink Business CashSM.
What Chase Ink Business UnlimitedSM Is Missing
Chase Ink Business UnlimitedSM 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 CashSM card. That card pays 5% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at office supply stores and on telecommunications services.
Chase Ink Business UnlimitedSM Reviews
We considered both user reviews and our own editorial review when rating this card. Chase Ink Business UnlimitedSM 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.
User Reviews
Customers like the 12-month introductory APR as well as the strong introductory rewards, but say the ongoing rewards aren’t competitive with other cards that offer fixed-rate rewards. Indeed, American Express Blue Business® Plus earns two points per dollar on all spending up to $50,000 annually.
Editorial Reviews
We rate small business credit cards based on their costs, rewards, and benefits. Chase Ink Business UnlimitedSM fills in the rewards gaps Chase Ink Business CashSM and Chase Ink Business PreferredSM 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 UnlimitedSM.
How to Apply for Chase Ink Business UnlimitedSM
You can apply for the Chase Ink Business UnlimitedSM 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.
U.S. Bank Business Cash Rewards World Elite™ Mastercard®: Best for 0% APR on Purchases & Balance Transfers
On US Bank's Secure WebsiteU.S. Bank Business Cash Rewards World Elite™ MasterCard®
See Full Editorial Review Here INTRO APR REGULAR APR ANNUAL FEE CREDIT NEEDED 0% 14.24% - 25.24% Variable $0 Excellent
The U.S. Bank Business Cash Rewards World Elite™ Mastercard® is best for businesses that want no-interest financing for 15 billing cycles on purchases and balance transfers. It offers 3% cash back on cellphone purchases and service, gas purchases, and office supply expenses. You’ll also earn $500 cash back after spending $4,500 within the first 150 days and an annual bonus up to $250. Ongoing APR starts at 14.24%.
U.S. Bank Business Cash Rewards World Elite™ Mastercard® Costs
The U.S. Bank Business Cash Rewards World Elite™ Mastercard® charges no annual fee. Plus, you’ll have no interest for 15 billing cycles on purchases and balance transfers, which makes it a solid choice if you need to carry a balance.
Financing costs and fees on the U.S. Bank Business Cash Rewards World Elite™ Mastercard® include:
- Introductory APR: 0% on purchases and balance transfer for the first 15 billing cycles
- Ongoing APR: 14.24% to 25.24% variable, which adjusts with the prime rate
- Annual fee: None
- Balance transfer fee: $5 or 3%, whichever is greater
This U.S. Bank card has the potentially lowest ongoing APR on our list. However, the high end of the ongoing APR range on Chase Ink Business CashSM is about four percentage points lower than the U.S. Bank Business Cash Rewards World Elite™ Mastercard®. However, this card offers the longest introductory 0% APR period at 15 billing cycles.
U.S. Bank Business Cash Rewards World Elite™ Mastercard® Rewards
U.S. Bank Business Cash Rewards World Elite™ Mastercard® offers a $500 introductory bonus after you spend $4,500 within the first 150 days. It’s tied with Capital One® Spark® Cash Select for Business. This U.S. Bank business card also pays up to 3% cash back on select spending categories.
Introductory Rewards
You will earn $500 cash back after spending $4,500 within the first 150 days. Chase Ink Business CashSM and Chase Ink Business UnlimitedSM both offer $500 after you spend $3,000 within the first three months.
Ongoing Rewards
You’ll earn the following ongoing rewards when using your card:
- 3% cash back on cellphone purchases and service.
- 3% cash back on gas purchases up to $200 per single purchase.
- 3% cash back at office supply stores.
- 1% cash back on all other eligible purchases.
U.S. Bank also offers a unique annual bonus that’s equal to 25% of your prior year’s cash rewards, up to $250. We have reviewed dozens of small business credit cards, and we have not come across a similar feature.
The cellphone category bonus is also unique compared to other small business credit cards on our list. However, the everyday spending reward of 1% cash back is common. If you’re looking to earn non-category bonus rewards, a good card option would be Chase Ink Business UnlimitedSM. That card offers unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases.
U.S. Bank Business Cash Rewards World Elite™ Mastercard® Additional Features
Similar to other cards on our list, the U.S. Bank Business Cash Rewards World Elite™ Mastercard® offers extended warranty protection and purchase protection.
U.S. Bank Business Cash Rewards World Elite™ Mastercard® includes:
- Extended warranty protection: U.S. Bank will double the manufacturer’s warranty up to an additional one year on warranties of five years or less. Coverage is limited to $10,000 per claim.
- Purchase protection: The issuer may repair or reimburse purchased items that are damaged or stolen within 90 days of purchase. Coverage is limited to $1,000 per claim and $25,000 per account, per year.
The additional features provided on the U.S. Bank Business Cash Rewards World Elite™ Mastercard® are common across the best small business credit cards. However, this card offers better extended warranty protection compared to American Express Blue Business® Plus. That card covers warranties of five years or less, but the coverage is limited to $1,000 per claim.
What U.S. Bank Business Cash Rewards World Elite™ Mastercard® Is Missing
The U.S. Bank Business Cash Rewards World Elite™ Mastercard® offers lower ongoing rewards compared to other cards on our list. Chase Ink Business CashSM, for example, offers ongoing rewards up to 5% on specific spending categories.
U.S. Bank Business Cash Rewards World Elite™ Mastercard® Reviews
We considered both user reviews and our own editorial review when rating this card. U.S. Bank Business Cash Rewards World Elite™ Mastercard® reviews are generally positive. Most users enjoy the ongoing rewards, but some users complain about the card’s additional features.
User Reviews
Online user reviews are mostly positive. Cardholders especially like the card’s ongoing rewards and how easy it is to redeem their rewards. However, some say that other business credit cards offer more top-tier additional benefits.
Editorial Reviews
The U.S. Bank Business Cash Rewards World Elite™ Mastercard® is a solid card that offers a unique annual cash bonus up to $250. However, it’s primarily designed for business owners who are looking for the best introductory 0% APR financing period.
How to Apply for U.S. Bank Business Cash Rewards World Elite™ Mastercard®
You can apply online for the U.S. Bank Business Cash Rewards World Elite™ Mastercard®. You’ll be required to provide both your basic business and personal information. Once you’re approved, you’ll receive your card in the mail within seven to 10 days.
Capital One® Spark® Cash Select for Business: Best for Low Credit Card Expenses
on Capital One® Spark® Cash Select for Business's secure website.Capital One® Spark® Cash Select for Business
See Full Editorial Review Here INTRO APR REGULAR APR ANNUAL FEE CREDIT NEEDED 0% on purchases 15.24% - 23.24% (Variable) $0 Excellent, Good
Capital One® Spark® Cash Select for Business is another on our list of startup credit cards to offer 1.5% cash back on all spending. It’s a fine pick, but not quite as good at Chase Ink Business UnlimitedSM, which offers a higher sign-up bonus ($500 versus $200) and a better 0% introductory offer (12 months versus nine months). Ongoing variable APR is as low as 15.24%.
Capital One® Spark® Cash Select for Business Costs
Capital One® Spark® Cash Select for Business charges no annual fee, which also makes it a solid nonprofit credit card. You’ll pay no interest for the first nine months on purchase, after which its ongoing variable APR starts at 15.24%.
Financing costs and fees on Capital One® Spark® Cash Select for Business include:
- Introductory APR: 0% for nine months on purchases
- Ongoing APR: 15.24% to 23.24% variable, which adjusts with 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 American Express Blue Business® Plus (12 months). It also doesn’t offer an introductory APR period on balance transfers, although you’ll pay no transfer fee, something other cards don’t offer.
Capital One® Spark® Cash Select for Business Rewards
The real appeal of 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. But 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
Earn a one-time $200 cash bonus once you spend $3,000 on purchases within the first three months from account opening. That’s a smaller return than the $500 Chase Ink Business UnlimitedSM pays on the same amount of spending.
Ongoing Rewards
Earn 1.5% cash back on all spending with no limits. That’s the same return you’ll see on Chase Ink Business UnlimitedSM.
Capital One® Spark® Cash Select for Business Additional Features
According to Capital One’s website, this card offers similar features to other business credit cards, which include purchase protection and extended warranty protection.
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 Chase Ink Business CashSM, which offers purchase protection for up to 120 days. The extended warranty benefit is also less than the two years additional protection American Express Blue Business® Plus offers.
What Capital One® Spark® Cash Select for Business Is Missing
The biggest drawback to Capital One® Spark® Cash Select for Business 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 U.S. Bank Business Cash Rewards World Elite™ Mastercard®, which offers 0% APR for 15 billing cycles on balance transfers and purchases.
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 reviews show that users generally like the 1.5% cash back rewards on all purchases, but some bigger spenders may be better off finding a card that offers a higher return.
User Reviews
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. However, if this is a deciding factor, there are business credit cards that don’t report to personal credit bureaus.
Editorial Reviews
For businesses that put less than $19,000 in charges per year on their card, Capital One® Spark® Cash Select for Business is a fine choice. But you’ll be losing out on rewards if your company has a higher credit card spending budget. You’ll be better off with Capital One® Spark® Cash for Business, which pays 2% cash back on all spending and comes with a $95 annual fee, waived the first year.
How to Apply for 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.
Capital One® Spark® Miles Select for Business: Best for Startups That Travel Frequently
on Capital One® Spark® Miles Select for Business's secure website.Capital One® Spark® Miles Select for Business
See Full Editorial Review Here INTRO APR REGULAR APR ANNUAL FEE CREDIT NEEDED 0% on purchases 15.24% - 23.24% (Variable) $0 Excellent, Good
Capital One® Spark® Miles Select for Business is the only credit card on our list that offers miles as a reward. It pays 1.5x miles on all spending. It’s best for businesses that have no more than $19,000 in annual expenses. That’s the threshold at which you’ll benefit more with Capital One® Spark® Miles for Business, which pays unlimited 2x points per $1 but charges a $95 annual fee, waived the first year. Ongoing variable APR is as low as 15.24%.
Capital One® Spark® Miles Select for Business Costs
Capital One® Spark® Miles Select for Business has the same costs as Capital One® Spark® Cash Select for Business. It charges no annual fee and no interest for nine months on purchases.
Financing costs and fees on Capital One® Spark® Miles Select for Business include:
- Introductory APR: 0% for nine months on purchases
- Ongoing APR: 15.24% to 23.24% variable, which adjusts with the prime rate
- Annual fee: None
- Balance transfer fee: None
This card is identical in all ways to Capital One® Spark® Cash Select for Business, except with regard to how rewards are handed out—miles versus cash back. Like Capital One® Spark® Cash Select for Business, the introductory 0% APR period is shorter on this card than on others on our list, like Chase Ink Business CashSM (12 months).
Capital One® Spark® Miles Select for Business Rewards
Capital One® Spark® Miles Select for Business offers a small introductory bonus when compared with other cards and ongoing fixed-rate rewards. It also offers fixed-rate rewards of 1.5x miles on all spending.
Introductory Rewards
You’ll earn a one-time bonus of 20,000 miles—equal to $200 in travel—once you spend $3,000 on purchases within the first three months from account opening. This is lower than the $500 you’ll earn with Chase Ink Business CashSM, which requires the same $3,000 in spending.
Ongoing Rewards
You’ll earn 1.5x miles on all spending with no limits. This is just one of two startup credit cards on our list (American Express Blue Business® Plus) that allows startups to redeem rewards directly for flights. Business owners can use rewards to book new airfare or cancel out the cost of flights booked within 90 days using the card through its Purchase Eraser feature. You can also transfer points to airline and hotel partners for a potentially higher redemption rate.
Capital One® Spark® Miles Select for Business Additional Features
According to Capital One’s website, this card offers similar features to other business credit cards, which include purchase protection and extended warranty protection.
Capital One® Spark® Miles 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 Chase Ink Business CashSM, 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 Blue Business® Plus card offers.
What Capital One® Spark® Miles Select for Business Is Missing
Capital One® Spark® Miles Select for Business offers a shorter 0% APR introductory period on purchases than most other cards on this list, including Chase Ink Business UnlimitedSM (12 months). It also offers no interest-free period on balance transfers, like the 15 billing cycles you’d receive with the U.S. Bank Business Cash Rewards World Elite™ Mastercard®.
Capital One® Spark® Miles Select for Business Reviews
We considered both user reviews and our own editorial review when rating this card. Capital One® Spark® Miles Select for Business reviews show users generally like the 1.5x miles they earn on all purchases, but some bigger spenders may be better off finding a card that offers a higher return.
User Reviews
Users appreciate the simple rewards program structure and the ability to use miles to pay for airfare. Cardholders unhappy with the card are disappointed that Capital One reports the primary cardholder’s account activity to consumer credit bureaus, which not all business card issuers do.
Editorial Reviews
We rate small business credit cards based on their costs, rewards, and benefits. For businesses that put less than $19,000 in charges per year on their card, this card offers a good return on value. But you’ll be losing out on rewards if your company has a higher credit card spending budget. You’ll be better off with the Capital One® Spark® Miles for Business, which pays unlimited 2x miles on per $1 all spending and comes with a $95 annual fee, waived the first year.
How to Apply for Capital One® Spark® Miles Select for Business
You can apply for the Capital One® Spark® Miles 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.
Bank of America® Business Advantage Cash Rewards Mastercard®: Best for Fuel Purchases
on Bank of America® Business Advantage Cash Rewards Mastercard® credit card's secure website. on Bank of America® Business Advantage Cash Rewards Mastercard® credit card's secure website.
Apply NowBank of America® Business Advantage Cash Rewards Mastercard® credit card
See Full Editorial Review Here INTRO APR REGULAR APR ANNUAL FEE CREDIT NEEDED 0%
9 billing cycles 14.49% - 24.49% Variable APR on purchases $0.00 Excellent
The Bank of America® Business Advantage Cash Rewards Mastercard® is best for startups that have a big budget for fuel. It pays 3% cash back on gas station purchases and 2% cash back on restaurant purchases on up to $50,000 in combined spending each year. The ongoing APR is as low as 14.49%, which also makes it one of the best credit cards for self-employed workers.
Bank of America® Business Advantage Cash Rewards Mastercard® Costs
This cash-back business credit card charges no annual fee and no interest on purchases for nine billing cycles. Once the introductory APR ends, its ongoing APR is between 14.49% and 24.49%.
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: 14.49% to 24.49%, which adjusts with the prime rate
- Annual fee: None
- Balance transfer fee: $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 introductory APR on purchases is quite short compared with other cards on this list, like the 12 months of 0% APR offered by American Express Blue Business® Plus on purchases and balance transfers.
Bank of America® Business Advantage Cash Rewards Mastercard® Rewards
The Bank of America® Business Advantage Cash Rewards Mastercard® offers a $300 introductory bonus. You’ll also earn ongoing rewards on gas station and restaurant spending. Bank of America customers who also have cash on deposit with the bank can increase the value of their ongoing rewards.
Introductory Rewards
You’ll earn a $300 statement credit when you make at least $3,000 in net purchases within 90 days of your account opening, with no annual fee and cash rewards don’t expire. That’s $100 more than what the Capital One® Spark® Cash Select for Business card offers.
Ongoing Rewards
You’ll earn the following rewards when using your card:
- 3% cash back on the category of your choice such as gas stations (default), office supply stores, travel, TV, telecom, and wireless, computer services, or business consulting services (for the first $50,000 in combined choice category and 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 the category of your choice, 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. No other card on our list offers a relationship bonus.
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. You will receive up to $100,000 in travel accident insurance, which covers you in case of loss of life or dismemberment. This protection is also offered through American Express business credit cards, which are typically stronger 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 Chase Ink Business CashSM (5%). The introductory bonus is also the lowest among the cards on our list that offer a welcome bonus.
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.
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, 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.
Editorial Reviews
We rate small business credit cards based on their costs, rewards, and benefits. Our review of this card 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 small business credit cards.
How 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.
Capital One® Spark® Classic for Business: Best for Fair Credit
on Capital One® Spark® Classic for Business's secure website.Capital One® Spark® Classic for Business
See Full Editorial Review Here INTRO APR REGULAR APR ANNUAL FEE CREDIT NEEDED N/A 25.24% (Variable) $0 Average, Fair, Limited
Capital One® Spark® Classic for Business is best for startup owners with a credit score between 580 and 669 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% variable APR on balances (the highest rate among cards on our list).
Capital One® Spark® Classic for Business Costs
This Capital One business credit card charges no annual fee and a high ongoing 25.24% variable APR. This card does not offer a no-interest financing period, like others on our list. However, those cards require a personal credit score of at least 670.
Financing costs and fees on Capital One® Spark® Classic for Business include:
- Introductory APR: None
- Ongoing APR: 25.24% variable, which adjusts 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% variable APR on the transferred balance. That’s the highest APR on balance transfers among the cards on our list. If you need to transfer a balance and your credit is better than 659, consider applying for American Express Blue Business® Plus.
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 Blue Business® Plus and the Citi® Double Cash card. It also offers the lowest ongoing rewards at 1%.
Introductory Rewards
Capital One® Spark® Classic for Business does not offer introductory rewards. You may not be able to find a credit card designed for business owners with fair personal credit that offers introductory rewards.
Ongoing Rewards
You’ll earn 1% cash back on all purchases with no cap. That’s the lowest ongoing rewards return of any card on our list. The return, however, is average or better for a business credit card designed for owners with fair personal credit.
Capital One® Spark® Classic for Business Additional Features
According to Capital One’s website, Capital One® Spark® Classic for Business offers a number of protections against lost or damaged items you purchase with the card. Many, but not all, of the cards on this list offer similar protections.
You’ll enjoy the following additional benefits:
- 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 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 Chase Ink Business CashSM. The extended warranty protection is also shorter than the two years offered by the American Express Blue Business® Plus card. Several other cards, including Chase Ink Business CashSM, offer car rental insurance.
What Capital One® Spark® Classic for Business Is Missing
Capital One® Spark® Classic for Business is designed for cardholders with fair credit, so the 25.24% variable APR is understandably high compared with cards designed for owners with better credit. The Bank of America® Business Advantage Cash Rewards Mastercard®, for example, charges a variable APR up to 10 percentage points lower.
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.
User Reviews
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.
Editorial Reviews
We rate small business credit cards based on their costs, rewards, and benefits. Our review recognizes that 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. However, we rank it as one of the best business credit cards for fair credit.
How to Apply for Capital One® Spark® Classic for Business
You can apply for 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.
Citi® Double Cash: Best Personal Card as an Alternative to Business Credit Cards for Startups
On Citi's Secure WebsiteCiti® Double Cash Card
INTRO APR REGULAR APR ANNUAL FEE CREDIT NEEDED N/A 15.99% to 25.99% Variable None Good - Excellent
The Citi® Double Cash card is best for startups that aren’t yet up and running and may not qualify for a small business credit card. It offers 2% cash back on all spending, which ties the American Express Blue Business® Plus card among fixed-rate cards, and 18 months no interest on balance transfers, the longest offer our list. The ongoing APR is as low as 15.74%.
Citi® Double Cash Costs
The Citi® Double Cash card is a personal card for business use that charges no annual fee. It also charges no interest for 18 months on balance transfers made within the first four months.
Financing costs and fees on the Citi® Double Cash card include:
- Introductory APR: 0% for 18 months on balance transfers completed within four months of account opening
- Ongoing APR: 15.74% to 25.74% variable, which adjusts with the prime rate
- Annual fee: None
- Balance transfer fee: $5 or 3% of the amount transferred, whichever is higher
The introductory APR on balance transfers is six months longer than what American Express Blue Business® Plus offers, but there is no similar no interest break on purchases. The balance transfer fee is lower than the 5% charged by the Chase Ink Business CashSM card.
Citi® Double Cash Rewards
Citi® Double Cash is one of four startup business credit cards that offers no introductory rewards. That means you’ll miss out on up to $500 cash back offered by cards on our list Chase Ink Business UnlimitedSM. You might be better off in the long run, however, because Citi® Double Cash pays 2% on all spending versus the 1.5% offered by Chase Ink Business UnlimitedSM.
Introductory Rewards
Citi® Double Cash does not offer introductory rewards, which is rare for a personal credit card that offers ongoing rewards. If introductory rewards are important to you, consider another card that pays 2% cash back on all spending, like Capital One® Spark® Cash for Business. Unlike the Citi® Double Cash, that Capital One card charges an annual fee, which is waived the first year.
Ongoing Rewards
You’ll earn 1% cash back on all purchases and an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases. This card isn’t a straight 2% card. You’ll receive credit for the second 1% of your rewards only after you pay your bill. Pay your bill in full and on time to receive the full 2% without paying any interest charges.
Citi® Double Cash Additional Features
Citi® Double Cash offers a common benefit—extended warranty protection—and some unique benefits other cards on our list don’t offer, including price protection and a one-time late fee waiver. However, most of these benefits are reportedly going away in September.
You’ll enjoy the following benefits Citi® Double Cash offers:
- Price Rewind: Citi’s price protection benefit will refund the difference up to $200 per item (up to $1,000 per year) if something you purchased goes on sale within 60 days of purchase. You’ll have to alert Citi to start tracking the price for you after purchase.
- Waived late fee: Your first late payment is free; up to $35 after that.
- Extended warranty protection: Receive two additional years on the manufacturer’s warranty, not to exceed seven years from the purchase date. Coverage is limited to $10,000 per occurrence.
The extended warranty protection is slightly better than the excellent coverage American Express Blue Business® Plus offers. That card will match the length of the original manufacturer’s warranty if it’s less than two years and provide an additional two years only if the original manufacturer’s warranty is between two and five years.
What Citi® Double Cash Is Missing
Since Citi® Double Cash is a consumer credit card, Citi will report your payment behavior only to the consumer credit bureaus. This means you cannot establish or build your business credit by using this card. All of the other cards on our list report to business credit bureaus.
Citi® Double Cash Reviews
We considered both user reviews and editorial reviews when rating this card. This card receives high marks for its fixed-rate return on all spending. The card is missing introductory rewards, which decreases Citi® Double Cash’s overall appeal.
User Reviews
Citi® Double Cash earns mostly positive online reviews from cardholders who appreciate the 2% cash back on all spending—a high rate for a card that charges no annual fee—and that the first late fee is forgiven. Negative reviews tend to focus on card users having trouble with customer service.
Editorial Reviews
We rate small business credit cards based on their costs, rewards, and benefits. Citi® Double Cash is a personal credit card that offers one of the best rewards returns available. This card may be best for consumers and business owners who don’t want to manage category spending in order to earn bonus rewards. Other cards that charge no annual fee manage to offer at least some sign-up bonus. Citi® Double Cash does not, and that’s disappointing.
How to Apply for Citi® Double Cash
Apply for Citi® Double Cash online. You may be approved instantly. Your card should arrive via mail service within seven to 10 business days after approval.
Bottom Line
The best business credit cards for startups allow you to keep more money for your growing business. They charge no annual fees and offer lower APRs and advantageous rewards for early-stage businesses. What’s more, startup credit cards offer new firms easy ways to qualify and begin building business credit. Compare the best business credit cards for startups in the Fit Small Business Marketplace.
With its 12-month, 0% introductory APR on purchases and balance transfers and its $500 introductory cash-back offer, we find the Chase Ink Business CashSM card is our preferred business startup credit card. Along with the introductory bonus, this card offers ongoing cash-back rewards of up to 5% and an ongoing APR as low as 15.49%.
For rates and fees on the American Express Blue Business® Plus Card, please click here.
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Disclaimer: Reviews on FitSmallBusiness.com are the product of independent research by our writers, researchers, and editorial team. User reviews and comments are contributions from independent users not affiliated with FitSmallBusiness.com's editorial team. Banks, issuers, credit card companies, and other product & service providers are not responsible for any content posted on FitSmallBusiness.com. As such, they do not endorse or guarantee any posted comments or reviews.
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