10 Best Business Credit Cards for Startups in 2023
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.
Benilyn has over a decade of experience as a banking officer. Her expertise is featured throughout Fit Small Business in personal finance, credit card, and real estate investing content.
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 businesses that cannot qualify for a small business loan may consider business credit cards as a good alternative source of funding. The best business credit cards for startups come with a 0% annual percentage rate (APR) period, low annual fees, generous introductory and ongoing rewards, and low ongoing APRs. When selecting new business credit cards, it’s crucial to consider these factors and other features that your business may need.
Here are the 10 best business credit cards for startups:
- Chase Ink Business Cash: Best overall credit card for startups
- Chase Ink Business Unlimited: Best for straightforward rewards program
- U.S. Bank Triple Cash Rewards World Elite Mastercard: Best for fuel and dining with long 0% APR period
- Capital One Spark Miles Select for Business: Best for earning travel rewards with flexible redemption options
- American Express Blue Business Cash: Best for earning cash back with flexible buying power
- American Express Blue Business Plus: Best points-based rewards card with flexible credit limit
- U.S. Bank Business Platinum: Best for longest interest-free period and low ongoing APR
- Capital One Spark Classic: Best for startup business owners with fair credit
- Bank of America Business Advantage Unlimited Cash Rewards Secured Credit Card: Best for startup business owners with low credit scores
- SVB Innovators Card: Best charge card with no personal guarantee
To see how these cards stack up against others we reviewed on our site, click Add to Compare on a card below and select up to two additional cards for comparison.
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
16.99% - 22.99% Variable
Annual Fee
$0
Credit Needed
Good - Excellent
- BEST OFFER EVER: Earn $900 bonus cash back after you spend $6,000 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 three years or less.
Intro APR
0% Intro APR on Purchases
Regular APR
16.99% - 22.99% Variable
Annual Fee
$0
Credit Needed
Good - Excellent
- BEST OFFER EVER: Earn $900 bonus cash back after you spend $6,000 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 three years or less.
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
16.99% - 22.99% Variable
Annual Fee
$0
Credit Needed
Good - Excellent
- BEST OFFER EVER: Earn $900 bonus cash back after you spend $6,000 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
16.99% - 22.99% Variable
Annual Fee
$0
Credit Needed
Good - Excellent
- BEST OFFER EVER: Earn $900 bonus cash back after you spend $6,000 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
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
17.74% - 26.74% (Variable)
Annual Fee
$0
Credit Needed
Excellent/Good
- Earn $500 in cash back. Just spend $4500 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, cell phone 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 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 purchases and balance transfers for 15 billing cycles. After that, a variable APR currently 17.74% - 26.74%.
- No annual fee.
- Pay over time by splitting eligible purchases of $100+ into equal monthly payments with U.S. Bank ExtendPay™ Plan.
- 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 one 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
17.74% - 26.74% (Variable)
Annual Fee
$0
Credit Needed
Excellent/Good
- Earn $500 in cash back. Just spend $4500 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, cell phone 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 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 purchases and balance transfers for 15 billing cycles. After that, a variable APR currently 17.74% - 26.74%.
- No annual fee.
- Pay over time by splitting eligible purchases of $100+ into equal monthly payments with U.S. Bank ExtendPay™ Plan.
- 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 one 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.
Capital One® Spark® Miles Select 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:
Travel rewards and annual spending less than $19,000
Intro APR
0% on purchases
Regular APR
16.99% to 26.99% (Variable)
Annual Fee
$0
Credit Needed
Excellent, Good
- Introductory reward worth $200 in travel after you spend $3,000 within the first three months
- 1.5x miles per $1 spent
- 5x miles on hotel and rental car bookings through the issuer
- Issue employee cards for free
Pros
- No foreign transaction fees
- Interest-free financing on purchases
Cons
- No 0% APR balance transfer offer
- Limited list of airline partners
- Purchase assurance: Most purchases made entirely with your card are covered if damaged or stolen within 90 days from the date of purchase. Coverage is limited to $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per cardholder account per 12-month period.
- Extended warranty coverage: Doubles the original warranty time period and duplicates the coverage of the original manufacturer’s warranty up to a maximum of 12 months on most items you purchase.
- Travel medical emergency assistance: Provide referrals to medical services if you have a medical emergency while traveling. You’re covered if you’re 100 or more miles away from home and from the day you leave until midnight of the 60th day of your trip, or the day you return to your city of residence, whichever is sooner.
Intro APR
0% on purchases
Regular APR
16.99% to 26.99% (Variable)
Annual Fee
$0
Credit Needed
Excellent, Good
- Introductory reward worth $200 in travel after you spend $3,000 within the first three months
- 1.5x miles per $1 spent
- 5x miles on hotel and rental car bookings through the issuer
- Issue employee cards for free
Pros
- No foreign transaction fees
- Interest-free financing on purchases
Cons
- No 0% APR balance transfer offer
- Limited list of airline partners
- Purchase assurance: Most purchases made entirely with your card are covered if damaged or stolen within 90 days from the date of purchase. Coverage is limited to $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per cardholder account per 12-month period.
- Extended warranty coverage: Doubles the original warranty time period and duplicates the coverage of the original manufacturer’s warranty up to a maximum of 12 months on most items you purchase.
- Travel medical emergency assistance: Provide referrals to medical services if you have a medical emergency while traveling. You’re covered if you’re 100 or more miles away from home and from the day you leave until midnight of the 60th day of your trip, or the day you return to your city of residence, whichever is sooner.
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.
BEST FOR:
Those who want better cash back rewards
Intro APR
0% on purchases
Regular APR
16.99% - 24.99% 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 us and other factors.
- 0.0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months from the date of account opening, then a variable rate, 16.99% - 24.99%, 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
16.99% - 24.99% 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 us and other factors.
- 0.0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months from the date of account opening, then a variable rate, 16.99% - 24.99%, 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.
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
16.99% - 24.99% 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 us, and other factors.
- 0.0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months from the date of account opening, then a variable rate, 16.99% - 24.99%, 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
16.99% - 24.99% 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 us, and other factors.
- 0.0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months from the date of account opening, then a variable rate, 16.99% - 24.99%, 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.
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% Intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 18 billing cycles. After that, a variable APR currently 15.74%-24.74%.
Regular APR
15.74% - 24.74% (Variable)
Annual Fee
$0
Credit Needed
Excellent/Good Credit
- U.S. Bank Business Platinum Card
- 0% Intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 18 billing cycles. After that, a variable APR currently 15.74%-24.74%.
- 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% Intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 18 billing cycles. After that, a variable APR currently 15.74%-24.74%.
Regular APR
15.74% - 24.74% (Variable)
Annual Fee
$0
Credit Needed
Excellent/Good Credit
- U.S. Bank Business Platinum Card
- 0% Intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 18 billing cycles. After that, a variable APR currently 15.74%-24.74%.
- 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.
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.
Business Advantage Unlimited Cash Rewards Secured Credit Card
BEST FOR:
Those who cannot qualify for unsecured business credit cards
Intro APR
None
Regular APR
24.49%
Annual Fee
None
Credit Needed
Poor
- Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases
Pros
- No annual fee
- Unlimited rewards
- Builds business credit
Cons
- Security deposit is required
- No sign-up bonus
- No 0% Intro APR
- Cash flow management tools
- Travel and emergency services
- Online and mobile access
- Balance Connect™ for overdraft protection
- Zero liability protection
Intro APR
None
Regular APR
24.49%
Annual Fee
None
Credit Needed
Poor
- Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases
Pros
- No annual fee
- Unlimited rewards
- Builds business credit
Cons
- Security deposit is required
- No sign-up bonus
- No 0% Intro APR
- Cash flow management tools
- Travel and emergency services
- Online and mobile access
- Balance Connect™ for overdraft protection
- Zero liability protection
SVB Innovators Card
BEST FOR:
Those who don’t want to provide a personal guarantee
Intro APR
N/A
Regular APR
N/A
Annual Fee
None
Credit Needed
Good
- Earn 2 points for every dollar spent
Pros
- No annual fee
- No personal liability required
- Offers rewards
Cons
- Balance is due in full each month
- Balance transfer isn’t allowed
- No sign-up bonus
- Seamless integration with digital payments and spend management tools, including QuickBooks, Xero, and Expensify
- Flexible credit limits that scale with your company’s growth
- Free employee cards
Intro APR
N/A
Regular APR
N/A
Annual Fee
None
Credit Needed
Good
- Earn 2 points for every dollar spent
Pros
- No annual fee
- No personal liability required
- Offers rewards
Cons
- Balance is due in full each month
- Balance transfer isn’t allowed
- No sign-up bonus
- Seamless integration with digital payments and spend management tools, including QuickBooks, Xero, and Expensify
- Flexible credit limits that scale with your company’s growth
- Free employee cards
Chase Ink Business Cash®: Best Overall Credit Card for Startups
Why we like it: Chase Ink Business CashSM is our best overall credit card for startups because it offers generous rewards and opportunities to lower your credit cost. When you’re a new business owner setting up an office (or a home office), you can earn 5% cash back on office supplies, internet, cable, and phone services for up to $25,000 each year. You’ll also earn 2% cash back on the first $25,000 per year at restaurants and gas stations. Plus, you can earn 1% on all other business purchases, with no cap on rewards earned.
Other benefits:
- Enjoy 0% APR for the first 12 months of card ownership, which is useful if you plan to make a large purchase
- Earn a $750 bonus cash back when you spend $7,500 on purchases in the first three months after opening an account
- Reduce your overall credit cost by not paying an annual fee and getting free employee cards
It’s also our best credit card for LLCs and one of our leading credit cards for consultants because of its strong rewards program and low cost.
Chase Ink Business Unlimited®: Best for Straightforward Rewards Program
Why we like it: Chase Ink Business Unlimited® offers unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases, making it ideal for startup owners who don’t have time to keep track of their spending categories. Similar to the Chase Ink Business CashSM, it comes with a 12-month 0% APR and a $900 cash bonus when you spend at least $6,000 within the first three months of card ownership.
Other benefits:
- Lacks an annual fee, which means you can earn unlimited rewards while saving on overall credit cost
- Add employee cards without additional cost
Since it has a straightforward rewards program, it’s also an excellent choice for sole proprietors with expenses in various categories, making it our top sole proprietorship business credit card.
U.S. Bank Triple Cash Rewards World Elite Mastercard®: Best for Fuel & Dining With Long 0% APR Period
Why we like it: If you’re looking for a business credit card with a long interest-free period on both purchases and balance transfers and want to earn rewards on your purchases, the U.S. Bank Triple Cash Rewards World Elite Mastercard® is a great option. It’s best for startup business owners who are frequently on the road as it offers 3% cash back at eligible gas stations and restaurants. Plus, you can take advantage of zero-interest financing for the first 15 months of card membership.
Other benefits:
- Earn substantial ongoing rewards on other purchases without limits or expiration date, including:
- 5% cash back on prepaid hotels and car rentals booked directly in the Rewards Center
- 3% cash back at eligible office supply stores and mobile phone service providers
- 1% cash back on all other purchases
- Receive a $500 cash back bonus when you spend $4,500 within the first 150 days after opening an account
- Get an annual $100 statement credit when you use your card to pay for your recurring software subscription like QuickBooks or FreshBooks
The generous rewards on gas and other purchases make this our best fuel card for small businesses. It’s one of our top-recommended business cards for nonprofits. If you don’t need to earn rewards but prefer a 20-month zero-interest period and low ongoing APR, you may benefit more from the U.S Bank Business Platinum card.
Capital One® Spark® Miles Select for Business: Best for Earning Travel Rewards With Flexible Redemption Options
Why we like it: Capital One® Spark® Miles Select for Business has no annual fee and offers unlimited 1.5x miles on all purchases and 5x miles on hotels and rental cars that are booked through Capital One Travel, making it a great choice if your startup requires you to travel frequently. You can use your rewards to book flights, rent cars, and pay for hotel stays. You can also redeem your miles to pay past travel purchases within 90 days of the date of the travel purchase, as a statement credit or check by mail, or as gift cards for restaurants, retailers, or hotels.
Other benefits:
- Earn a one-time bonus of 20,000 miles, equivalent to $200 in travel, when you spend $3,000 within the first three months after opening an account
- Take advantage of the 0% APR for the first nine months
- Use your card to make purchases outside the US without having to pay foreign transaction fees
It’s our best business credit card for travel and one of our leading business credit cards for miles.
American Express Blue Business CashTM: Best for Earning Cash Back With Flexible Buying Power
Why we like it: The American Express Blue Business CashTM card features Expanded Buying Power, which allows you to spend beyond your credit limit whenever you need to. The amount you can spend above your credit limit will adjust based on your card usage, payment behavior, credit record, and financial resources. In addition, you’ll get 2% cash back on all eligible purchases on up to $50,000 per calendar year, then 1% cash back thereafter.
Other benefits:
- Enjoy 0% introductory APR for the first 12 months
- Reduce your credit cost while earning rewards because it comes with no annual fee
- Receive a $250 statement credit after the first three months when you spend at least $3,000 on purchases
It’s our top-recommended business credit card for self-employed because of its rich rewards and flexible credit limit. If you prefer to earn points rewards, consider the American Express Blue Business® Plus.
American Express Blue Business® Plus: Best Points-based Rewards Card With Flexible Credit Limit
Why we like it: American Express Blue Business® Plus card is similar to American Express Blue Business CashTM in many ways, except that it offers points-based rewards instead of cash back. You can earn 2x points per dollar on the first $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1x point per dollar after that. Plus, it also allows you to spend over your credit limit through its Expanded Buying Power feature. Your buying power will adjust based on your spending and payment behavior, credit record, and financial resources.
Other benefits:
- Earn 15,000 points after spending $3,000 within the first three months
- Enjoy a 12-month interest-free financing on purchases
- Minimize your credit cost by paying no annual fee while earning rewards on your expenses
If you’re a new business owner with no business credit, this may be a good fit. It’s one of our top credit cards for businesses with no credit history, along with the American Express Blue Business CashTM, Chase Ink Business Unlimited®, Capital One® Spark® Classic for Business, and Bank of America® Business Advantage Unlimited Cash Rewards Secured.
U.S Bank Business Platinum: Best for Longest Interest-free Period & Low Ongoing APR
Why we like it: If your startup’s primary need is more time to pay off costly purchases, such as equipment and furniture, then U.S. Bank Business Platinum is a great choice. It has the longest 0% APR period among all the cards on this list, making it our best 0% APR business credit card. It gives you zero-interest financing options on both purchases and balance transfers for a full 18 billing cycles. This lets you budget your monthly payments because, with nearly two years interest-free, your balance will be zero by the time the regular APR kicks in.
Other benefits:
- Comes with a low ongoing APR, making it an ideal option for business owners who plan to carry a balance even after the 0% APR period
- Has no annual fee, which means you can borrow money for 20 months without any cost
While its ongoing APR is lower compared to the U.S. Bank Triple Cash Rewards World Elite Mastercard®, this card doesn’t offer introductory and ongoing rewards.
Capital One® Spark® Classic: Best for Startup Business Owners With Fair Credit
Why we like it: When you have a fair credit score (580 to 669) and are starting a new business, you may qualify for the Capital One® Spark® Classic, our best business credit card for fair credit. It gives you a boost by offering two valuable features: 1% cash back on all business purchases with no limits and no annual fee.
It’s important to note that unlike Capital One® Spark® Miles Select for Business, Capital One® Spark® Classic doesn’t offer a zero-interest financing option. Also, it comes with a high ongoing APR of 26.99%, so it’s best to pay your balance in full each month to avoid paying a high interest rate.
Other benefits:
- Can help you build your credit if you use it responsibly and pay balances on time
- Business owners with fair credit can qualify for card
- Earn unlimited fixed-rate rewards without having to pay an annual fee
Bank of America® Business Advantage Unlimited Cash Rewards Secured Credit Card: Best for Startup Business Owners With Low Credit Scores
Why we like it: The Bank of America® Business Advantage Unlimited Cash Rewards Secured credit card is a great choice if you have a low credit score or no credit history and cannot qualify for a regular unsecured business credit card. You can earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases, and you can redeem your cash rewards as a deposit into your Bank of America checking or savings account, a statement credit, or a check mailed to you. To qualify, you need to make a security deposit of at least $1,000.
Other benefits:
- Comes with no annual fee, which means you can enjoy earning unlimited rewards without additional cost
- Helps you build your business credit over time when you make consistent on-time payments, allowing you to qualify for unsecured business credit cards
- Lets you set your credit limit; amount will depend on your security deposit
It’s also our best secured business credit card and the top business credit card for bad credit. Keep in mind that while it offers unlimited cash back rewards, it has no signup bonus and interest-free financing period.
SVB Innovators Card: Best Charge Card With No Personal Guarantee
Why we like it: Unlike all the other business cards on this list, the SVB Innovators Card is a charge card and not a credit card, which means your balance is due in full each month. What’s good about this is that it doesn’t come with an APR, and you’ll have a flexible credit limit that scales as your business grows. Since it doesn’t require a personal guarantee, the issuer won’t go after your personal assets in case your business fails to pay its debts.
Other benefits:
- Doesn’t have an annual fee, reducing your overall credit cost
- Offers unlimited, fixed-rate 2x points per dollar on every purchase
Keep in mind that you need to pay your balance in full every month, or you’ll be charged with a late payment fee of $32 or 2.5% of the unpaid charges, whichever is greater. It’s our leading business card without personal guarantee.
How We Evaluated Business Credit Cards for Startups
When choosing the best business credit cards for startups, we prioritized cards with no annual fees to help startup owners minimize their credit costs. We also considered the overall value of these cards, their requirements, and the various features that startup owners may need—such as rewards, spend categories, introductory bonuses, and introductory APRs.
Is It Good to Use a Credit Card to Fund Your Business?
Using business credit cards to finance a startup business is a good idea if you don’t yet qualify for a small business loan or need immediate funding for your working capital. A credit card application usually involves a simpler process and typically results in fast approval compared to a small business loan.
Ideally, you can use a business credit card to purchase equipment and other supplies that you need to get your new business off the ground. If you plan to make a large purchase, it’s best to opt for a card that offers zero-interest financing options. Additionally, using it to pay for your everyday business expenses and other recurring expenses can help you earn rewards that are useful to your business.
To learn more about the advantages and limitations of using credit cards to start a business, read our article on when to use a credit card to fund your business.
Bottom Line
The best business credit card for your startup is one tailored to your needs. Select a card that can give you lucrative rewards for every expense and interest-free options on substantial purchases. If you’d like to see more options, check out our list of the best small business credit cards or visit our Credit Card Marketplace.
