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. We compared dozens of cards to identify the nine best business credit cards for startups.
9 Top Business Credit Cards for Startups 2019
| Chase Ink Business CashSM | (Best Overall) Startups looking for 0% APR, rewards, and a bonus |
| American Express SimplyCash® Plus | Owners who want to choose category rewards |
| American Express Blue BusinessSM Plus | Startups that want a long introductory 0% APR |
| Chase Ink Business UnlimitedSM | Owners who want fixed-rate cash back with a big bonus |
| Capital One Spark Cash Select | Businesses with low expenses that want fixed-rate rewards |
| Capital One Spark Miles Select | Startups that want rewards to offset their firm’s travel expenses |
| Bank of America® Business Advantage Cash Rewards Mastercard | Owners looking for easy-to-earn introductory rewards |
| Capital One Spark Classic for Business | Startups with fair credit (580 to 669) |
| Citi Double Cash | Pre-launch entrepreneurs looking for a personal credit card option |
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 EIN. Along with a low barrier to entry, the best business credit cards for startups charge no annual fee, offer introductory 0% APR periods of nine months or longer, and offer rewards worth up to 5%. They also help establish business credit. Compare the best credit cards in the Fit Small Business Marketplace.
We considered the following criteria based on what owners might need and want in a business credit card 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% intro period of nine to 15 months.
- Ongoing APR: How much financing business credit cards for startups costs. The cards on our list offer ongoing APRs as low as 13.24%.
- 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 $3,000 within three months 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 flat 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, its interest-free, 12-month intro period on purchases and balance transfers, and its extra benefits like free car rental insurance, we rank the Chase Ink Business CashSM card as our overall best business credit card for startups. Earn 5% cash back on office supply and telecommunications purchases to get your business rolling.
Chase Ink Business CashSM: Overall Best Business Credit Card for Startups
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 and balance transfers. Owners receive 0% intro APR for 12 months. Only the American Express Blue Business℠ Plus offers a longer intro period—15 months. Ongoing APR is as low as 15.49%.
Chase Ink Business CashSM Costs
Financing costs and fees on the Chase Ink Business CashSM include:
- Introductory APR – 0% APR for 12 months on purchases and balance transfers
- Ongoing APR – A variable rate of 15.49% to 21.49%, which adjusts with the prime rate
- Annual fee – None
- Balance transfer fee – Either $5 or 5% of the balance transferred, whichever is greater
Chase Ink Business CashSM isn’t a card you should get specifically to transfer balances from a high-interest credit card. Chase’s balance transfer fee of 5% is the highest among the cards on our list—which could add hundreds in fees to your transfer. The American Express Blue Business℠ Plus charges 3% on transfers.
Chase Ink Business CashSM Rewards
Chase Ink Business CashSM offers the highest rewards on office supply spending, tied with American Express SimplyCash® Plus, which offers 5% cash back at office supply stores on up to $50,000 in annual spending. It also pays bonus cash back on gas station and restaurant purchases. Introductory rewards are excellent for a card that charges no annual fee.
Introductory Rewards
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).
Ongoing Rewards
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
Chase Ink Business CashSM Additional Features
If you rent cars frequently for business, the protection this card offers may prove beneficial, along with other purchase insurance:
- Auto rental collision damage waiver: Coverage is primary—meaning it replaces any coverage your personal insurance might offer—when renting for business purposes. It provides reimbursement up to the actual cash value of the vehicle for theft and collision damage for most cars in the 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 to those several other cards on this list offer, although the purchase protection lasts longer than the 90 days offered by the Capital One Spark Cash Select.
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 the Capital One Spark Miles Select pays 1.5x miles on all spending, which can be redeemed against your firm’s startup travel costs.
Chase Ink Business CashSM Reviews
Chase Ink Business CashSM reviews are generally very positive. Users say they value the business-oriented rewards structure and the lack of an annual fee. A small percentage of users say the ongoing APR is too high.
Where to Apply for Chase Ink Business CashSM
Apply for the 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 SimplyCash® Plus: Best Business Credit Card for Startups for Category Rewards
The American Express SimplyCash® Plus is best for startups that want to pick which bonus spending category earns top rewards. The card pays 3% on up to $50,000 in annual spending (then 1%) from one of eight categories you pick from. No other card on our list allows cardholders to choose their bonus category. Ongoing APR is as low as 14.49%.
American Express SimplyCash® Plus Costs
Financing costs and fees on the American Express SimplyCash® Plus include:
- Introductory APR – 0% for nine months on purchases
- Ongoing APR – A variable rate of 14.49% to 21.49%, which adjusts with the prime rate
- Annual fee – None
- Balance transfer fee – Balance transfers are not allowed
Although you will have a credit limit, you may spend past your limit without penalty on this card, which could be helpful for startups that need spending flexibility. No other card on our list offers this benefit. If you need to transfer a balance, consider instead the 15-month 0% APR offer from the American Express Blue Business℠ Plus. SimplyCash® Plus doesn’t allow transfers.
American Express SimplyCash® Plus Rewards
he American Express SimplyCash® Plus ongoing rewards are generous, particularly when it comes to office supply spending. You’ll earn the same 5% cash back at U.S. office supply stores with this card as you would with Chase Ink Business CashSM, but the $50,000 spending cap is twice as much as the Chase card allows.
Introductory Rewards
The American Express SimplyCash® Plus currently offers no introductory sign-up bonus.
Ongoing Rewards
You can choose one of eight categories from which you can earn 3% cash back with this card: airfare purchased directly from airlines, hotel rooms purchased directly from hotels, car rentals purchased from select car rental companies, U.S. gas stations, U.S. restaurants, U.S. purchases for advertising in select media, U.S. purchases for shipping, or U.S. computer hardware, software, and cloud computing purchases made directly from select providers.
Earn the following cash back rewards when using your card:
- 5% cash back at U.S. office supply stores and on wireless telephone services purchased directly from U.S. service providers on up to $50,000 in purchases during a calendar year, then 1% thereafter
- 3% cash back on up to $50,000 in annual spending (then 1%) from one of eight categories you pick from
- 1% cash back on all other spending
American Express SimplyCash® Plus Additional Features
The American Express SimplyCash® Plus includes both familiar purchase protection and extended warranty protection policies, plus some rare benefits not seen on the other best business credit cards for startups:
- Extended warranty: American Express will match the length of the original manufacturer’s warranty if it’s less than two years. The issuer 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: American Express will repair, replace, or reimburse you for an item purchased with the card that was damaged or stolen within 120 days of purchase. Coverage is limited to $1,000 per occurrence and $50,000 per account each year.
- Above-limit purchasing: The card allows you to buy above your credit limit and get cash back on those purchases, too—with no overlimit fees. You must pay the amount above your credit limit in full each month on top of your minimum payment due.
- Baggage insurance: If your luggage is damaged or lost when you travel on a common carrier like a plane, trip, ship, or bus, American Express will reimburse you for losses not covered by your own personal insurance.
No other card on our list offers either above-limit purchasing or baggage insurance, the latter of which is typically available on the best business cards for travel rewards, many of which charge an annual fee.
What American Express SimplyCash® Plus Is Missing
The introductory APR on purchases is decent at nine months, but SimplyCash® Plus does not have an introductory interest-free offer on balance transfers, like the American Express Blue Business℠ Plus (15 months), meaning this isn’t a good choice for businesses looking to consolidate debt from other credit cards.
American Express SimplyCash® Plus Reviews
American Express SimplyCash® Plus reviews are generally positive. Users love its rewards program and its lack of an annual fee. They also enjoy the flexibility this card offers in being able to choose which spending category earns a 3% return. Some users say they don’t like that bonus categories can be changed only once a year.
Where to Apply for American Express SimplyCash® Plus
You can apply for the SimplyCash® Plus Business Credit Card online. If you are approved, it may be done instantly. Cards are shipped to your address within seven to 10 days.
American Express Blue Business℠ Plus: Best Business Credit Card for Startups for Introductory 0% APR
The American Express Blue Business℠ Plus offers an outstanding 15-month 0% introductory APR period on purchases and balance transfers. It’s the ideal choice for startups in search of long-term free financing. The ongoing APR of 13.24% to 21.24% is the lowest on our list, which means Blue Business℠ Plus also is a great card for the long term as your startup matures.
American Express Blue Business℠ Plus Costs
Financing costs and fees on the American Express Blue Business℠ Plus include:
- Introductory APR – 0% for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers
- Ongoing APR – 13.24% to 21.24%, which adjusts with the prime rate
- Annual fee – None
- Balance transfer fee – $5 or 3% of the transfer, whichever is greater
The American Express Blue Business℠ Plus offers the longest 0% introductory APR on purchases and balance transfers of any card on our list (15 months). You’ll have to pay 3% of the cost of the transfer, or $450 on a $15,000 transfer. That’s still cheaper than a transfer with the Chase Ink Business CashSM. It charges 5%, or $750 on a $15,000 transfer.
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% the American Express SimplyCash® Plus pays on spending at office supply stores.
Introductory Rewards
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
Earn 2x points on all purchases up to $50,000 each year, then 1x points on all additional purchases.
The return on ongoing rewards is the best among the fixed-rate rewards cards on our list, like the Capital One Spark Cash Select, which pays 1.5% cash back on all spending. Membership Rewards points can be redeemed for airfare or other paid travel through American Express Travel, gift cards, or statement credits against eligible charges. This card also is the only one to allow points transfers to airline and hotel partners for a potentially higher redemption rate.
American Express Blue Business℠ Plus Additional Features
The American Express Blue Business℠ Plus comes with protections against loss and damage, including:
- 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 Capital One Spark Miles Select 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 for a card that doesn’t charge an annual fee. The 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. SimplyCash® Plus, for example, offers cardholders the opportunity to earn 3% cash back on either airfare purchased directly from airlines or U.S. gas station purchases.
American Express Blue Business℠ Plus Reviews
Small business owners applaud the American Express Blue Business℠ Plus in online reviews for helping to grow their firms. Users say they value the points-based rewards system and the issuer’s excellent customer service. Some users complain about the lack of introductory rewards.
Where to Apply for American Express Blue Business℠ Plus
Apply for the American Express Blue Business℠ Plus credit card directly on the issuer’s website. If approved, the 15-month introductory APR period starts as soon as you receive your 0% business credit card.
Chase Ink Business UnlimitedSM: Best Business Credit Card for Startups for Fixed-Rate Rewards & a Big Intro Bonus
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 the Capital One Spark Cash Select, which also pays 1.5% back. Ongoing APR is as low as 15.49%.
Chase Ink Business UnlimitedSM Costs
Financing costs and fees on the Chase Ink Business UnlimitedSM include:
- Introductory APR – 0% APR for 12 months on purchases and balance transfers
- Ongoing APR – Variable rate of 15.49% to 21.49%, which adjusts with the prime rate
- Annual fee – None
- Balance transfer fee – Either $5 or 5% of the balance transferred, whichever is greater
The balance transfer fee is higher than the 3% charged by the American Express Blue Business℠ Plus card, and it will reduce the savings you receive when you transfer a balance from a high-interest card. The length of the introductory APR is longer than the nine months offered by the Capital One Spark Cash Select, 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 the Chase Ink Business CashSM offers.
Introductory Rewards
Earn $500 cash back when you spend $3,000 in the first three months.
Ongoing Rewards
Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases, regardless of spending category. That’s the best fixed-rate return from a credit card that charges no annual fee on our list, tied with the Capital One Spark Cash Select.
Chase Ink Business UnlimitedSM Additional Features
Chase Ink Business UnlimitedSM offers identical protections that also come with Chase Ink Business CashSM:
- Auto rental collision damage waiver: Coverage is primary — meaning it replaces any coverage your personal insurance might offer—when renting for business purposes. It provides reimbursement up to the actual cash value of the vehicle for theft and collision damage for most cars in the U.S. and abroad.
- Purchase protection: Covers your new purchases for 120 days against damage or theft up to $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per account per year.
- Extended warranty protection: Extends the time period of the U.S. manufacturer’s warranty by an additional year on eligible warranties of three years or less.
Note that the purchase protection benefit lasts longer than the 90 days offered by the Capital One Spark Cash Select. The rental insurance and extended warranty protection are similar to what other Chase business cards on our list offer, including the 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, which pays 5% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at office supply stores and on telecommunications services.
Chase Ink Business UnlimitedSM Reviews
Chase Ink Business UnlimitedSM reviews are very good, although not as positive as reviews for the other Chase cards on this list. Customers like the 12-month introductory APR as well as the strong introductory rewards. Some users would like to see a higher fixed-rate return.
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.
Capital One Spark Cash Select: Best Business Credit Card for Startups with Low Expenses
Capital One Spark Cash Select 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 the Ink Business UnlimitedSM, which offers a higher sign-up bonus ($500 versus $200) and a better 0% intro offer (12 months versus nine months). Ongoing APR is as low as 15.24%.
Capital One Spark Cash Select Costs
Financing costs and fees on the Capital One Spark Cash Select include:
- Introductory APR – 0% for nine months on purchases
- Ongoing APR – 15.24% to 23.24%, which will adjust 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 (15 months). It also doesn’t offer an intro APR on balance transfers, although you’ll pay no transfer fee, something other cards don’t offer.
Capital One Spark Cash Select Rewards
The real appeal of the Capital One Spark Cash Select 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: $19,000 in annual spend x 1.5% cash back = $285 in rewards
- Capital One Spark Cash: $19,000 in annual spend x 2% cash back – $95 annual fee = $285 in rewards
Introductory rewards
Earn a $200 cash bonus when you spend $3,000 within the first three months from account opening. That’s a smaller return than the $500 the Chase Ink Business 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 the Chase Ink Business UnlimitedSM.
Capital One Spark Cash Select Additional Features
Capital One Spark Cash Select offers the following protections:
- Purchase protection: Covers your new purchases for 90 days against damage or theft up to $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per account per year.
- Extended warranty protection: Extends the time period of the U.S. manufacturer’s warranty by up to one year on eligible warranties of three years or less.
Notice that the length of purchase protection coverage is shorter at 90 days with Capital One than it is with other cards, like the Chase Ink Business 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 SimplyCash® Plus card offers.
What Capital One Spark Cash Select Is Missing
The biggest drawback for the Capital One Spark Cash Select card is that there are no interest-free balance transfers. If you have a balance on another card that’s accruing interest, you’ll be better off choosing a card like the American Express Blue Business℠ Plus, which offers 0% APR for 15 months on balance transfers.
Capital One Spark Cash Select Reviews
Capital One Spark Cash Select reviews are typically positive. 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.
How to Apply for Capital One Spark Cash Select
You can apply for the Capital One Spark Cash Select 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: Best Business Credit Card for Startups that Travel Frequently
Capital One Spark Miles Select 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 spend no more than $19,000 a year on their small business credit cards for new businesses. That’s the threshold at which you’ll benefit more with the Capital One Spark Miles, which pays 2x points, but charges a $95 annual fee, waived the first year. Ongoing APR is as low as 15.24%.
Capital One Spark Miles Select Costs
Financing costs and fees on the Capital One Spark Miles Select include:
- Introductory APR – 0% for nine months on purchases
- Ongoing APR – 15.24%-23.24%, which adjusts with the prime rate
- Annual fee – None
- Balance transfer fee – None
This card is identical in all ways with the Capital One Spark Cash Select, except with regard to how rewards are handed out—miles versus cash back. Like Spark Cash Select, the introductory 0% APR period is shorter on this card than on others on our list, like the Chase Ink Business CashSM (12 months).
Capital One Spark Miles Select Rewards
The Capital One Spark Miles Select offers a small introductory bonus when compared with other cards and ongoing fixed-rate rewards.
Introductory rewards
Earn 20,000 miles worth $200 cash when you spend $3,000 within the first three months from account opening. This is lower than the $500 you’ll earn with the Chase Ink Business CashSM, which requires the same $3,000 in spending.
Ongoing rewards
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.
Capital One Spark Miles Select Additional Features
Capital One Spark Miles Select offers the following protections:
- Purchase protection: Covers your new purchases for 90 days against damage or theft up to $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per account per year.
- Extended warranty protection: Extends the time period of the U.S. manufacturer’s warranty by up to one year on eligible warranties of three years or less.
Notice that the length of purchase protection coverage is shorter at 90 days with Capital One than it is with other cards, like the Chase Ink Business 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 SimplyCash® Plus card offers.
What the Capital One Spark Miles Select Is Missing
Capital One Spark Miles Select offers a shorter 0% APR intro period on purchases than most other cards on this list, including the Chase Ink Business UnlimitedSM (12 months). It also offers no interest-free period on balance transfers, like the 15 months you’d receive with the American Express Blue Business℠ Plus card.
Capital One Spark Miles Select Reviews
Capital One Spark Miles Select receives numerous positive online 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.
How to Apply for Capital One Spark Miles Select
You can apply for the Capital One Spark Cash Select 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 Easy-to-Earn Sign-up Bonus for Startups
The Bank of America® Business Advantage Cash Rewards Mastercard® is best for startups looking for a cash back introductory bonus with low spending requirements. You’ll earn $200 when you spend just $500 within 60 days. Compare that with the Chase Ink Business CashSM, which pays $500 cash back after you spend $3,000. Ongoing APR is as low as 13.49%.
Bank of America® Business Advantage Cash Rewards Mastercard® Costs
Financing costs and fees on the Bank of America® Business Advantage Cash Rewards Mastercard® include:
- Introductory APR – 0% for nine billing cycles on purchases
- Ongoing APR – A variable rate of 13.49% to 23.49%, which adjusts with the prime rate
- Annual fee – None
- Balance transfer fee – Either $10 or 4% of the amount of each transaction, whichever is greater
Bank of America offers no introductory 0% APR offer on balance transfers, and the length of the intro APR on purchases is quite short compared with other cards on this list, like the 15 months of 0% APR offered by the American Express Blue Business℠ Plus on purchases and balance transfers. But the possible 13.49% APR you could receive is the lowest on our list.
Bank of America® Business Advantage Cash Rewards Mastercard® Rewards
Bank of America offers a $200 introductory bonus and ongoing rewards on gas station, office supply, and restaurant spending.
Introductory Rewards
Earn a $200 statement credit when you make at least $500 in net purchases within 60 days of your account opening. No other card on our list has a lower spending requirement to earn introductory rewards.
Ongoing Rewards
Earn the following rewards when using your card:
- 3% cash back on purchases at gas stations and office supply stores (up to $250,000 each calendar year, 1% after that)
- 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 3.75% at gas stations and office supply stores, 2.75% 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. Rewards on gas spending are higher than any other card on our list.
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. It is the only card on our list to offer this protection.
What Bank of America® Business Advantage Cash Rewards Mastercard® Is Missing
You’ll find a better rewards rate on office supply spending with other business cards, like the American Express SimplyCash® Plus (5%), and the introductory bonus is the lowest among the cards on our list that offer a welcome bonus.
Bank of America® Business Advantage Cash Rewards Mastercard® Reviews
There aren’t many user reviews for this credit card available online, although consumer reviews of Bank of America itself are mixed. Website reviews are generally favorable for this card, both for its rewards structure and its lack of an annual fee.
Where to Apply for Bank of America® Business Advantage Cash Rewards Mastercard®
You can apply for the Bank of America® Business Advantage Cash Rewards Mastercard® online, and you may receive instant approval. Cards are shipped to your address within seven to 10 days.
Capital One Spark Classic for Business: Best Business Startup Credit Card for Fair Credit
The Capital One Spark Classic for Business is best for startup owners with a credit score between 580 and 659 who still want an unsecured cash back credit card. You’ll earn 1% cash back on all purchases (the lowest ongoing rewards rate on our list), and pay 24.74% APR on balances (the highest rate among cards on our list).
Capital One Spark Classic for Business Costs
Financing costs and fees on the Capital One Spark Classic for Business include:
- Introductory APR – None
- Ongoing APR – A variable 24.74%, which will adjust with the prime rate
- Annual fee – None
- Balance transfer fee – None
While this card charges no balance transfer fee, you’ll pay a 24.74% 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 the 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, and it also offers the lowest ongoing rewards at 1%.
Introductory Rewards
Capital One Spark Classic does not offer introductory rewards.
Ongoing Rewards
Earn 1% cash back on all purchases with no cap. That’s the lowest ongoing rewards return of any card on our list.
Capital One Spark Classic for Business Additional Features
Capital One Spark Classic 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.
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 card.
As with other Capital One business cards, the purchase protection is shorter than the 120 days offered on other cards like the Chase Ink Business CashSM. The extended warranty protection is also shorter than the two years offered by the American Express SimplyCash® 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 is designed for cardholders with fair credit, so the 24.74% 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 of 13.49% to 23.49%.
Capital One Spark Classic for Business Reviews
Capital One Spark Classic for Business reviews show that users are largely satisfied with this card. Some users complain about low credit limits and missing perks. Cardholders say the card’s best feature is the cash back rewards.
Where to Apply for Capital One Spark Classic for Business
You can apply for the Capital One Spark Classic for Business online. The application takes minutes and you can get approved instantly. Once approved, the card typically takes seven to 10 business days to arrive.
Citi Double Cash: Best Personal Card as an Alternative to a Business Credit Card for Startups
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 highest on our list. Ongoing APR is as low as 15.74%.
Citi Double Cash Costs
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 – A variable 15.74% to 25.74%, which will adjust with the prime rate
- Annual fee – None
- Balance transfer fee – $5 or 3% of the amount transferred, whichever is higher
The intro APR on balance transfers is three months longer than what 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 three 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 like the Chase Ink Business UnlimitedSM. You might be better off in the long run, however, because the Citi Double Cash pays 2% on all spending versus the 1.5% offered by Ink Business Unlimited.
Introductory Rewards
Citi Double Cash does not offer introductory rewards.
Ongoing Rewards
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.
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 the American Express SimplyCash® Business 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
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.
Where 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.
Complete List of the Best Business Credit Cards for Startups
 | 1%-5% ongoing cash back, $500 introductory cash, no annual fee |
 | 5x points on flights/hotels, 75k introductory bonus, $450 annual fee |
 | 2x airline miles, 200k introductory miles, no annual fee |
 | 1% cash back, no introductory offer, no annual fee |
 | 2% rewards, $2K introductory bonus, $95 annual fee after first year. |
 | 1%-3% rewards, $200 introductory bonus, no fee |
 | 1.5x miles, 20k mile introductory bonus, no annual fee |
 | 1.5% cash back, $200 introductory cash bonus, no annual fee |
 | 1%-5% cash back, earnings on GM purchases, no annual fee |
 | 1x-3x ongoing rewards points, 80k introductory bonus points, $95 annual fee |
 | 1x-2x ongoing rewards points, no introductory offers, no annual fee |
 | 1%-5% ongoing cash back, $500 introductory cash back, no annual fee |
 | 50k bonus miles, $100 introductory statement credit, $195 annual fee |
 | 1x-2x points, 100k introductory points, $95 fee after first year |
 | 1.5% rewards, $600 introductory rewards, $250 annual fee after first year |
 | 2x ongoing rewards points on travel, $95 annual fee after first year |
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 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%.
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