12 Best Small Business Credit Cards for 2022
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.
The best credit card for your small business should provide easy financing and help you save money on one-time and recurring expenses. Whether you’re a sole proprietor or manage a small or large team, look for cash back and points rewards on everyday business expenses. If you have costly expenses, consider the rich perks and benefits available with high-limit cards and travel cards. We’ve selected the 12 best credit cards that bring the most purchasing power to your business:
- Chase Ink Business Unlimited®: Best overall small business credit card and best card for new businesses with no credit history
- American Express Blue Business® Plus: Best card for self-employed
- U.S Bank Business Triple Cash Rewards World Elite Mastercard®: Best for fuel and restaurant rewards
- Chase Ink Business Cash®: Best card for startup businesses
- American Express Blue Business CashTM: Best cash back business credit card
- U.S. Bank Business Platinum: Best 0% introductory APR for 20 billing cycles
- American Express® Business Gold: Best premium card with flexible rewards
- Capital One® Spark® Miles for Business: Best for business travel
- PNC Cash Rewards® Visa Signature® Business Credit Card: Best for lowest starting APR
- American Express Business Platinum Card®: Best for international business trips
- Wells Fargo Business Secured: Best secured card for small businesses
- Capital One® Spark® Classic: Best card for fair credit
Do you want to compare the features of one card to another? We’ve made it easy for you to do that. Check off up to three cards on this page to add them to your cart. This will allow you to view the details in a side-by-side comparison.
Chase Ink Business Unlimited®: Best Overall Small Business Credit Card and Best Card for New Businesses With No Credit History
Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card
BEST FOR:
Pocketing 1.5% cash back on every single purchase
- Earn $750 bonus cash back after you spend $7,500 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
- Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase made for your business
- No Annual Fee
- Redeem rewards for cash back, gift cards, travel and more through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
- Earn rewards faster with employee cards at no additional cost. Set individual spending limits for greater control.
- With Fraud Protection your card transactions will be monitored for possible signs of fraudulent activity using real-time fraud monitoring.
- With Zero Liability you won't be held responsible for unauthorized charges made with your card or account information.
- 0% introductory APR for 12 months on purchases
Pros
- 0% introductory APR on purchases
- Unlimited cash back rewards on all purchases
Cons
- Introductory APR period doesn’t apply to balance transfers
- 5% balance transfer fee
- Charges foreign transaction fees
- Requires excellent credit to qualify
- Auto rental collision damage waiver: Coverage is primary—meaning it replaces any coverage your personal insurance might offer—when renting for business purposes; it provides reimbursement up to the actual cash value of the vehicle for theft and collision damage for most cars in the US and abroad
- Purchase protection: Covers your new purchases for 120 days against damage or theft up to $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per account per year
- Extended warranty protection: Extends the time period of the US manufacturer’s warranty by an additional year on eligible warranties of three years or less
- Earn $750 bonus cash back after you spend $7,500 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
- Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase made for your business
- No Annual Fee
- Redeem rewards for cash back, gift cards, travel and more through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
- Earn rewards faster with employee cards at no additional cost. Set individual spending limits for greater control.
- With Fraud Protection your card transactions will be monitored for possible signs of fraudulent activity using real-time fraud monitoring.
- With Zero Liability you won't be held responsible for unauthorized charges made with your card or account information.
- 0% introductory APR for 12 months on purchases
Pros
- 0% introductory APR on purchases
- Unlimited cash back rewards on all purchases
Cons
- Introductory APR period doesn’t apply to balance transfers
- 5% balance transfer fee
- Charges foreign transaction fees
- Requires excellent credit to qualify
- Auto rental collision damage waiver: Coverage is primary—meaning it replaces any coverage your personal insurance might offer—when renting for business purposes; it provides reimbursement up to the actual cash value of the vehicle for theft and collision damage for most cars in the US and abroad
- Purchase protection: Covers your new purchases for 120 days against damage or theft up to $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per account per year
- Extended warranty protection: Extends the time period of the US manufacturer’s warranty by an additional year on eligible warranties of three years or less
Why we like it: The Chase Ink Business Unlimited® card is our top choice for the best overall small business credit card because of its straightforward rewards: cash back at a fixed rate of 1.5% for every $1 spent on any business purchase. There are no limits to the amount of cash back you can earn, and there’s no annual fee.
As an introductory bonus, if you spend $7,500 in the first three months of card ownership, you earn $750 cash back. Redeem rewards as a statement credit or toward gift cards, travel, or Apple® products. If you own a brand-new business with no credit history but you have good personal credit, earn cash back easily on a variety of purchases necessary to get you started. This is our top pick for the best card for new businesses with no credit history.
American Express Blue Business® Plus: Best Card for Self-employed
The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express
BEST FOR:
Pocketing 2x points per $1 and 0% introductory APR for 12 months
- Earn 15,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $3,000 in eligible purchases on the Card within your first 3 months of Card Membership.
- Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points on everyday business purchases such as office supplies or client dinners. 2X applies to the first $50,000 in purchases per year, 1 point per dollar thereafter.
- You’ve got the power to use your Card beyond its credit limit* with Expanded Buying Power.
- *The amount you can spend above your credit limit is not unlimited. It adjusts with your use of the Card, your payment history, credit record, financial resources known to American Express, and other factors.
- 0.0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months from the date of account opening, then a variable rate, 13.99% - 21.99%, 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 2 years. It provides an additional 2 years if the original manufacturer’s warranty is between 2 and 5 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.
- Earn 15,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $3,000 in eligible purchases on the Card within your first 3 months of Card Membership.
- Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points on everyday business purchases such as office supplies or client dinners. 2X applies to the first $50,000 in purchases per year, 1 point per dollar thereafter.
- You’ve got the power to use your Card beyond its credit limit* with Expanded Buying Power.
- *The amount you can spend above your credit limit is not unlimited. It adjusts with your use of the Card, your payment history, credit record, financial resources known to American Express, and other factors.
- 0.0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months from the date of account opening, then a variable rate, 13.99% - 21.99%, 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 2 years. It provides an additional 2 years if the original manufacturer’s warranty is between 2 and 5 years. Coverage is limited to $10,000 per occurrence and $50,000 per account each year.
- Purchase protection: The issuer will repair, replace, or reimburse you for an item purchased with the card that was damaged or stolen within 120 days of purchase. Coverage is limited to $1,000 per occurrence and $50,000 per account each year.
Why we like it: When you’re self-employed and you don’t need a high-limit card, the American Express Blue Business® Plus offers 2x Membership Rewards® points per $1 on the first $50,000 spent on any business purchase each year, then 1x points after that. This is a great card for everyday expenses, and there’s no need to keep track of spend categories. Plus, there’s no annual fee.
Earn 15,000 Membership Rewards® points as a welcome offer after spending $3,000 in the first three months of card membership. We chose it as the best overall card for self-employed.
U.S. Bank Business Triple Cash Rewards World Elite Mastercard®: Best for Fuel and Restaurant Rewards
U.S. Bank Business Triple Cash Rewards World Elite Mastercard®
BEST FOR:
0% APR for 15 billing cycles
- Limited Time Offer: Earn $500 in cash back. Just spend $4,500 on the Account Owner's card in the first 150 days of opening your account.
- Introducing the U.S. Bank Business Triple Cash Rewards World Elite Mastercard® the card that gives back on all your eligible business needs.
- Earn 3% cash back on eligible purchases at gas stations and EV charging stations, office supply stores, cellphone service providers, and restaurants.
- 1% cash back on all other eligible net purchases.
- Earn 5% cash back on prepaid hotels and car rentals booked directly in the Travel Rewards Center.
- No limit on total cash back earned
- Rewards never expire
- Earn an annual $100 statement credit for recurring software subscription expenses, such as FreshBooks or QuickBooks.
- 0% Intro APR on purchase and balance transfers for 15 billing cycles. After that, a variable APR currently 14.24% to 23.24%.
- No annual fee
- Pay over time by splitting eligible purchases of $100-plus into equal monthly payments with U.S. Bank ExtendPay™Plan.
- Expense management tool VISA Spend Clarity is free to access and sync expenses, set employee card controls, generate reports, and more.
- Great Offer from U.S. Bank, a 2022 World's Most Ethical Company® - Ethisphere Institute, February 2022
- Terms and conditions apply
Pros
- 0% APR applies to both purchases and balance transfers
- Unlimited cash back rewards
- No annual fee
Cons
- Balance transfer fee is charged even during the introductory period
- Intro APR doesn’t apply to cash advances
- MasterRental car rental collision damage waiver: When you rent a car using your U.S. Bank credit card, you’re covered in case of accident or theft on all rentals made worldwide. Coverage is primary, which means you won’t need to use your personal auto insurance or accept the insurance offered by the rental agency. Coverage is capped at $50,000.
- Purchase assurance: U.S. Bank may repair or reimburse for items purchased with your U.S. Bank business credit card that are damaged or stolen within 90 days of purchase. Coverage is limited to $1,000 per loss, up to $25,000 per year per account. Lost items and items left out of reach that others can see are not covered.
- Extended warranty protection: U.S. Bank will double the manufacturer’s warranty up to an additional 1 year from the expiration of warranties of five years or less. An item with a six-month warranty would be backed for an additional six months, for example. The issuer will replace the item or reimburse you up to the amount charged on your U.S. Bank card up to $10,000.
- Limited Time Offer: Earn $500 in cash back. Just spend $4,500 on the Account Owner's card in the first 150 days of opening your account.
- Introducing the U.S. Bank Business Triple Cash Rewards World Elite Mastercard® the card that gives back on all your eligible business needs.
- Earn 3% cash back on eligible purchases at gas stations and EV charging stations, office supply stores, cellphone service providers, and restaurants.
- 1% cash back on all other eligible net purchases.
- Earn 5% cash back on prepaid hotels and car rentals booked directly in the Travel Rewards Center.
- No limit on total cash back earned
- Rewards never expire
- Earn an annual $100 statement credit for recurring software subscription expenses, such as FreshBooks or QuickBooks.
- 0% Intro APR on purchase and balance transfers for 15 billing cycles. After that, a variable APR currently 14.24% to 23.24%.
- No annual fee
- Pay over time by splitting eligible purchases of $100-plus into equal monthly payments with U.S. Bank ExtendPay™Plan.
- Expense management tool VISA Spend Clarity is free to access and sync expenses, set employee card controls, generate reports, and more.
- Great Offer from U.S. Bank, a 2022 World's Most Ethical Company® - Ethisphere Institute, February 2022
- Terms and conditions apply
Pros
- 0% APR applies to both purchases and balance transfers
- Unlimited cash back rewards
- No annual fee
Cons
- Balance transfer fee is charged even during the introductory period
- Intro APR doesn’t apply to cash advances
- MasterRental car rental collision damage waiver: When you rent a car using your U.S. Bank credit card, you’re covered in case of accident or theft on all rentals made worldwide. Coverage is primary, which means you won’t need to use your personal auto insurance or accept the insurance offered by the rental agency. Coverage is capped at $50,000.
- Purchase assurance: U.S. Bank may repair or reimburse for items purchased with your U.S. Bank business credit card that are damaged or stolen within 90 days of purchase. Coverage is limited to $1,000 per loss, up to $25,000 per year per account. Lost items and items left out of reach that others can see are not covered.
- Extended warranty protection: U.S. Bank will double the manufacturer’s warranty up to an additional 1 year from the expiration of warranties of five years or less. An item with a six-month warranty would be backed for an additional six months, for example. The issuer will replace the item or reimburse you up to the amount charged on your U.S. Bank card up to $10,000.
Why we like it: If you’re often on the road, you can benefit from 3% cash back at eligible gas stations, restaurants, mobile phone/service providers, and office supply stores with the U.S. Bank Business Triple Cash Rewards World Elite Mastercard®. You also get 1% cash back on all other eligible purchases. And earn a $100 annual software credit for recurring software subscription expenses such as QuickBooks.
Earn $500 cash back after spending $4,500 in the first 150 days of card ownership. You also get a 0% introductory APR for 15 billing cycles for both purchases and balance transfers. Plus there’s no annual fee, no limit on total cash back earned, and rewards never expire. It’s one of our picks for the best fuel cards for small businesses.
Chase Ink Business Cash®: Best Card for Startup Businesses
Ink Business Cash® Credit Card
BEST FOR:
Office-based businesses that want top cash back rewards
- Earn $750 bonus cash back after you spend $7,500 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
- Earn 5% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at office supply stores and on internet, cable and phone services each account anniversary year
- Earn 2% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at gas stations and restaurants each account anniversary year. Earn 1% cash back on all other purchases
- With Fraud Protection your card transactions will be monitored for possible signs of fraudulent activity using real-time fraud monitoring.
- With Zero Liability you won't be held responsible for unauthorized charges made with your card or account information.
- No Annual Fee
- Redeem rewards for cash back, gift cards, travel and more through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
- 0% introductory APR for 12 months on purchases
Pros
- Top rewards for office supply spending
- Introductory APR on purchases
- Cash sign-up bonus
Cons
- 0% APR doesn’t apply to balance transfers
- High balance transfer fee of 5%
- Designed mainly for office-oriented companies
- Auto rental collision damage waiver: Coverage is primary—meaning it replaces any coverage your personal insurance might offer—when renting for business purposes. It provides reimbursement up to the actual cash value of the vehicle for theft and collision damage for most cars in the United States and abroad.
- Purchase protection: Covers your new purchases for 120 days against damage or theft up to $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per account per year.
- Extended warranty protection: Extends the time period of the US manufacturer’s warranty by an additional year on eligible warranties of 3 years or less.
- Earn $750 bonus cash back after you spend $7,500 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
- Earn 5% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at office supply stores and on internet, cable and phone services each account anniversary year
- Earn 2% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at gas stations and restaurants each account anniversary year. Earn 1% cash back on all other purchases
- With Fraud Protection your card transactions will be monitored for possible signs of fraudulent activity using real-time fraud monitoring.
- With Zero Liability you won't be held responsible for unauthorized charges made with your card or account information.
- No Annual Fee
- Redeem rewards for cash back, gift cards, travel and more through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
- 0% introductory APR for 12 months on purchases
Pros
- Top rewards for office supply spending
- Introductory APR on purchases
- Cash sign-up bonus
Cons
- 0% APR doesn’t apply to balance transfers
- High balance transfer fee of 5%
- Designed mainly for office-oriented companies
- Auto rental collision damage waiver: Coverage is primary—meaning it replaces any coverage your personal insurance might offer—when renting for business purposes. It provides reimbursement up to the actual cash value of the vehicle for theft and collision damage for most cars in the United States and abroad.
- Purchase protection: Covers your new purchases for 120 days against damage or theft up to $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per account per year.
- Extended warranty protection: Extends the time period of the US manufacturer’s warranty by an additional year on eligible warranties of 3 years or less.
Why we like it: If your recurring startup expenses include office supplies, internet, cable, and phone, you can earn 5% cash back on all of these items up to $25,000 each account anniversary year with the Chase Ink Business Cash® card. You can also earn 2% cash back on the first $25,000 spent at gas stations and restaurants and 1% cash back on all other purchases.
Spend $7,500 in the first three months of card ownership and earn $750 cash back. We’ve chosen this as our best overall business credit card for startup businesses.
American Express Blue Business CashTM: Best Cash Back Business Credit Card
American Express Blue Business Cash™ Card
- Earn a $250 statement credit after you make $3,000 in purchases on your Card in your first 3 months.
- Earn 2% cash back on all eligible purchases on up to $50,000 per calendar year, then 1% cash back earned is automatically credited to your statement.
- From workflow to inventory to floor plans, your business is constantly changing. That’s why you’ve got the power to spend beyond your credit limit with Expanded Buying Power.
- Just remember, the amount you can spend above your credit limit is not unlimited. It adjusts with your use of the Card, your payment history, credit record, financial resources known to American Express and other factors.
- 0.0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months from the date of account opening, then a variable rate, 13.99% - 21.99%, 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.
- Earn a $250 statement credit after you make $3,000 in purchases on your Card in your first 3 months.
- Earn 2% cash back on all eligible purchases on up to $50,000 per calendar year, then 1% cash back earned is automatically credited to your statement.
- From workflow to inventory to floor plans, your business is constantly changing. That’s why you’ve got the power to spend beyond your credit limit with Expanded Buying Power.
- Just remember, the amount you can spend above your credit limit is not unlimited. It adjusts with your use of the Card, your payment history, credit record, financial resources known to American Express and other factors.
- 0.0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months from the date of account opening, then a variable rate, 13.99% - 21.99%, 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.
Why we like it: When cash back is your preferred reward method, earn 2% cash back on all eligible purchases up to $50,000 each calendar year, then 1% cash back earned is automatically credited to your statement with the American Express Blue Business CashTM card. There’s no minimum reward amount to redeem, and cash back is credited to your statement automatically.
It’s our top selection for the best cash back business credit cards and also one of our best business credit cards for nonprofits.
U.S. Bank Business Platinum: Best 0% Introductory APR for 20 Billing Cycles
U.S. Bank Business Platinum Card
BEST FOR:
Extended 0% APR period on purchases and balance transfers
- Limited time offer: 0% Intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 20 billing cycles. After that, a variable APR currently 12.74% to 21.74%.
- U.S. Bank Business Platinum Card
- Pay over time by splitting eligible purchases of $100+ into equal monthly payments with U.S. Bank ExtendPay ™Plan.
- Expense management tool VISA Spend Clarity is free to access and sync expenses, set employee card controls, generate reports, and more.
- Great Offer from U.S. Bank, a 2022 World's Most Ethical Company® - Ethisphere Institute, February 2022
- Terms and conditions apply
Pros
- Offers a long 0% APR introductory period
- 0% APR applies to both purchases and balance transfers
- No annual fee
Cons
- No introductory and ongoing rewards
- Balance transfer fee is charged even during the introductory period
- Excellent/good credit score needed to qualify
- Extended warranty protection: U.S. Bank will double an original manufacturer’s warranty up to an additional one year for warranties of three years or less. Coverage is limited to $10,000 per item.
- Purchase protection: U.S. Bank offers purchase protection for items that are damaged or stolen within 90 days of purchase. The coverage is limited to $500 per claim and up to $50,000 per cardholder, per year.
- Limited time offer: 0% Intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 20 billing cycles. After that, a variable APR currently 12.74% to 21.74%.
- U.S. Bank Business Platinum Card
- Pay over time by splitting eligible purchases of $100+ into equal monthly payments with U.S. Bank ExtendPay ™Plan.
- Expense management tool VISA Spend Clarity is free to access and sync expenses, set employee card controls, generate reports, and more.
- Great Offer from U.S. Bank, a 2022 World's Most Ethical Company® - Ethisphere Institute, February 2022
- Terms and conditions apply
Pros
- Offers a long 0% APR introductory period
- 0% APR applies to both purchases and balance transfers
- No annual fee
Cons
- No introductory and ongoing rewards
- Balance transfer fee is charged even during the introductory period
- Excellent/good credit score needed to qualify
- Extended warranty protection: U.S. Bank will double an original manufacturer’s warranty up to an additional one year for warranties of three years or less. Coverage is limited to $10,000 per item.
- Purchase protection: U.S. Bank offers purchase protection for items that are damaged or stolen within 90 days of purchase. The coverage is limited to $500 per claim and up to $50,000 per cardholder, per year.
Why we like it: If you have significant debt from other business credit cards, the U.S. Bank Business Platinum card can help pay off your balances. It offers a 0% introductory APR for the first 20 billing cycles for both balance transfers and purchases, which allows you to pay down your debt interest-free each month for nearly two years.
It doesn’t offer any rewards, but there’s no annual fee, and it has a low starting APR of 12.74%. It’s our number one choice for the best 0% APR business credit card.
American Express® Business Gold: Best Premium Card With Flexible Rewards
American Express® Business Gold Card
BEST FOR:
Maximizing rewards in the two categories where you spend the most
- Welcome Offer: Earn 70,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $10,000 on eligible purchases with the Business Gold Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.*
- MORE REWARDS: Get 4X Membership Rewards® points on the 2 select categories where your business spent the most each month. 1X is earned for other purchases. **
- **4X points apply to the first $150,000 in combined purchases from these 2 categories each calendar year.*
- AIRLINE BONUS: Get 25% points back after you use points for all or part of an eligible flight booked with Amex Travel, up to 250,000 points back per calendar year.*
- PAY OVER TIME OPTION: Decide whether you want to pay eligible purchases in full each month—or pay over time with interest.*
- *Terms Apply
Pros
- Earn 4x points in two categories every month
- Pay eligible charges over time with interest, or pay your balance in full monthly
Cons
- You’ll pay a high annual fee of $295
- No interest-free financing opportunities
- Premium roadside assistance: Free of charge up to four times a year. You can receive towing up to 10 miles, winching, jump starts, flat tire change, lockout service when the key is in the vehicle, and delivery of up to two gallons of gas
- Return protection: American Express will refund you for eligible purchases when the store doesn’t accept returns of undamaged items. Coverage is limited to 90 days from purchase, up to $300 per item, and up to a maximum of $1,000 per year.
- Baggage insurance: If your baggage is lost, damaged, or stolen, you’re eligible for coverage of up to $1,250 for carry-on luggage and $500 for checked bags
- Extended warranty: Receive one additional year of coverage on purchases with eligible warranties of five years or less
- Purchase protection: Covers new purchases against damage or theft within 90 days of purchase. Coverage is limited to $1,000 per incident.
- Welcome Offer: Earn 70,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $10,000 on eligible purchases with the Business Gold Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.*
- MORE REWARDS: Get 4X Membership Rewards® points on the 2 select categories where your business spent the most each month. 1X is earned for other purchases. **
- **4X points apply to the first $150,000 in combined purchases from these 2 categories each calendar year.*
- AIRLINE BONUS: Get 25% points back after you use points for all or part of an eligible flight booked with Amex Travel, up to 250,000 points back per calendar year.*
- PAY OVER TIME OPTION: Decide whether you want to pay eligible purchases in full each month—or pay over time with interest.*
- *Terms Apply
Pros
- Earn 4x points in two categories every month
- Pay eligible charges over time with interest, or pay your balance in full monthly
Cons
- You’ll pay a high annual fee of $295
- No interest-free financing opportunities
- Premium roadside assistance: Free of charge up to four times a year. You can receive towing up to 10 miles, winching, jump starts, flat tire change, lockout service when the key is in the vehicle, and delivery of up to two gallons of gas
- Return protection: American Express will refund you for eligible purchases when the store doesn’t accept returns of undamaged items. Coverage is limited to 90 days from purchase, up to $300 per item, and up to a maximum of $1,000 per year.
- Baggage insurance: If your baggage is lost, damaged, or stolen, you’re eligible for coverage of up to $1,250 for carry-on luggage and $500 for checked bags
- Extended warranty: Receive one additional year of coverage on purchases with eligible warranties of five years or less
- Purchase protection: Covers new purchases against damage or theft within 90 days of purchase. Coverage is limited to $1,000 per incident.
Why we like it: The American Express® Business Gold card offers 4x Membership Rewards® points per $1 on the two categories out of six where your business spends the most: airfare, advertising (online, radio, TV), computer hardware, computer software, cloud systems, gas stations, restaurants, and shipping. You also get 1 point per $1 on all other business purchases.
You can earn points by purchasing airfare directly from airlines, but if you redeem Membership Rewards® points through Amex Travel you can get 25% of those points back. If you own a limited liability company and prefer flexible rewards, it’s one of our choices for the best cards for LLCs.
Capital One® Spark® Miles for Business: Best for Business Travel
Capital One® Spark® Miles for Business
BEST FOR:
Unlimited 2x miles with every swipe
- Introductory reward worth $500 in travel after you spend $4,500 within the first three months
- 2x miles per $1 spent
- Issue employee cards for free
Pros
- No foreign transaction fees
- TSA Pre✓® or Global Entry application fee credit
Cons
- You’ll pay an annual fee after the first year
- Doesn’t offer interest-free financing
- Airport security screening reimbursement: Either a $100 statement credit for Global Entry or an $85 statement credit for TSA Pre✓® once every four years.
- 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.
- Introductory reward worth $500 in travel after you spend $4,500 within the first three months
- 2x miles per $1 spent
- Issue employee cards for free
Pros
- No foreign transaction fees
- TSA Pre✓® or Global Entry application fee credit
Cons
- You’ll pay an annual fee after the first year
- Doesn’t offer interest-free financing
- Airport security screening reimbursement: Either a $100 statement credit for Global Entry or an $85 statement credit for TSA Pre✓® once every four years.
- 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.
Why we like it: The Capital One® Spark® Miles for Business card is our first choice for the best business credit cards for travel. If you take frequent business trips, use this card to book hotel and rental cars through Capital One Travel and earn 5x unlimited rewards miles. Redeem your miles for flights or hotels, or transfer miles to one of Capital One’s 19 travel partners.
You also get up to $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck, get two free visits each year to a Capital One airport lounge, and pay no foreign transaction fees. You also earn an unlimited 2x miles on any business purchase. There’s no annual fee during the first year, then it’s $95 per year after that.
PNC Cash Rewards® Visa Signature® Business Credit Card: Best for Lowest Starting APR
PNC Cash Rewards® Visa Signature® Business Credit Card
BEST FOR:
PNC Bank account holders who want to earn cash back rewards
- Earn $250 cash bonus for spending $3,000 in the first three billing cycles
- 0% APR on purchases for the first nine billing cycles after opening an account
- Earn 1.5% cash back on all purchases
- No annual fee
Pros
- No annual fee
- Sign-up bonus
- Low ongoing APR
Cons
- Short 0% APR period
- No 0% APR period on balance transfers
- Online application not available for nonaccount holders
- Cash Flow Insight®: This tool helps you monitor your spending categories so you can plan your budget.
- Business integrations: You can download your transactions into Excel®, Quicken® or QuickBooks®, or use .csv files.
- Visa Signature® Benefits: This card comes with Visa travel benefits and protection for purchases.
- Earn $250 cash bonus for spending $3,000 in the first three billing cycles
- 0% APR on purchases for the first nine billing cycles after opening an account
- Earn 1.5% cash back on all purchases
- No annual fee
Pros
- No annual fee
- Sign-up bonus
- Low ongoing APR
Cons
- Short 0% APR period
- No 0% APR period on balance transfers
- Online application not available for nonaccount holders
- Cash Flow Insight®: This tool helps you monitor your spending categories so you can plan your budget.
- Business integrations: You can download your transactions into Excel®, Quicken® or QuickBooks®, or use .csv files.
- Visa Signature® Benefits: This card comes with Visa travel benefits and protection for purchases.
Why we like it: How will your business finances look a few months or years down the road? The PNC Cash Rewards® Visa Signature® Business Credit Card can help if you carry a balance with each billing cycle. It offers the lowest starting APR on our list at 10.99%. It’s one of the few business credit cards with fixed-rate rewards, offering 1.5% cash back on all eligible business purchases with no limit to the amount you can earn.
Plus, earn a $200 welcome bonus if you spend $3,000 in qualifying purchases within the first three months of card ownership, and benefit from a 0% introductory APR for the first nine months.
American Express Business Platinum Card®: Best for International Business Trips
The Business Platinum Card® from American Express
BEST FOR:
Gaining access to unrivaled travel rewards and luxury travel perks like airport lounge access
- Welcome Offer: Earn 120,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases with your Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
- Plus, 0% Intro APR for 12 months from the date of the account opening on purchases eligible for Pay Over Time. After that, your APR will be 14.99% to 22.99% based on your credit worthiness and other factors as determined at the time of account opening.
- Get 5X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels on amextravel.com, and 1X points for each dollar you spend on eligible purchases.
- Earn 1.5X points on eligible purchases at US construction material & hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers and software & cloud system providers, and shipping providers, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more everywhere else, on up to $2 million of these purchases per calendar year.
- Unlock over $1,000 in value per year for statement credits on select purchases with your Card, including up to $400 with Dell Technologies, up to $360 with Indeed, up to $150 with Adobe and up to $120 on wireless telephone purchases. Enrollment required.
- $200 Airline Fee Credit: Get up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year toward baggage fees and more at one qualifying airline.
- $189 CLEAR® Credit: Use your Card and get up to $189 back per year on your CLEAR® membership.
- The American Express Global Lounge Collection® can provide an escape at the airport. With more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more lounge location options than any other credit card on the market as of 9/2021.
- $695 Annual Fee.
- Terms Apply.
Pros
- Premium travel rewards
- Free access to more than 1,300 airport lounges worldwide
- No foreign transaction fees
Cons
- Balance is due in full monthly
- High annual fee
- American Express lounges: Free access to American Express’ network of Centurion lounges located in slightly less than a dozen United States airports.
- Other airport lounges: Priority Pass Select membership, which gets you free access to more than 1,300 lounges worldwide for you and two guests.
- Airport screening: Either a $100 statement credit for Global Entry every four years or $85 statement credit for TSA Pre✓® once every 4 1/2 years.
- Travel credit: Up to $200 annual statement credit toward air travel expenses like baggage fees and inflight food and drink.
- Rental status: Elite status at a number of car rental agencies.
- Free Wi-Fi: 10 annual free Gogo inflight Wi-Fi passes.
- Rebate for redeemed points: 35% points rebate if you book a business or first-class flight, up to 500,000 bonus points per calendar year.
- Dell statement credit: Up to $400 in statement credits annually for Dell purchases.
- Welcome Offer: Earn 120,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases with your Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
- Plus, 0% Intro APR for 12 months from the date of the account opening on purchases eligible for Pay Over Time. After that, your APR will be 14.99% to 22.99% based on your credit worthiness and other factors as determined at the time of account opening.
- Get 5X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels on amextravel.com, and 1X points for each dollar you spend on eligible purchases.
- Earn 1.5X points on eligible purchases at US construction material & hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers and software & cloud system providers, and shipping providers, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more everywhere else, on up to $2 million of these purchases per calendar year.
- Unlock over $1,000 in value per year for statement credits on select purchases with your Card, including up to $400 with Dell Technologies, up to $360 with Indeed, up to $150 with Adobe and up to $120 on wireless telephone purchases. Enrollment required.
- $200 Airline Fee Credit: Get up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year toward baggage fees and more at one qualifying airline.
- $189 CLEAR® Credit: Use your Card and get up to $189 back per year on your CLEAR® membership.
- The American Express Global Lounge Collection® can provide an escape at the airport. With more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more lounge location options than any other credit card on the market as of 9/2021.
- $695 Annual Fee.
- Terms Apply.
Pros
- Premium travel rewards
- Free access to more than 1,300 airport lounges worldwide
- No foreign transaction fees
Cons
- Balance is due in full monthly
- High annual fee
- American Express lounges: Free access to American Express’ network of Centurion lounges located in slightly less than a dozen United States airports.
- Other airport lounges: Priority Pass Select membership, which gets you free access to more than 1,300 lounges worldwide for you and two guests.
- Airport screening: Either a $100 statement credit for Global Entry every four years or $85 statement credit for TSA Pre✓® once every 4 1/2 years.
- Travel credit: Up to $200 annual statement credit toward air travel expenses like baggage fees and inflight food and drink.
- Rental status: Elite status at a number of car rental agencies.
- Free Wi-Fi: 10 annual free Gogo inflight Wi-Fi passes.
- Rebate for redeemed points: 35% points rebate if you book a business or first-class flight, up to 500,000 bonus points per calendar year.
- Dell statement credit: Up to $400 in statement credits annually for Dell purchases.
Why we like it: If you enjoy luxury travel and often take international business trips, the American Express Business Platinum Card® offers excellent travel rewards, perks, and benefits. You can earn 5x points on flights and prepaid hotels booked with Amex Travel, access to 1,300 airport lounges in 500 airports around the world and receive an annual airline credit up to $200 for baggage fees and more. It has the highest annual fee on this list at $695 per year, but it’s well worth it if you travel frequently and maximize the many benefits this card offers.
It’s our top choice for business credit cards with airport lounge access and one of our picks for the best high-limit business credit cards.
Wells Fargo Business Secured: Best Secured Card for Small Businesses
Wells Fargo Business Secured Credit Card
BEST FOR:
Business owners with poor credit
- Cash Back option:
Earn 1.5% cash back on every $1 spent - Reward Points option:
Earn 1 point on every $1 spent and receive 1,000 bonus points when your company spend is $1,000 or more in any monthly billing period - $0 annual rewards program fee
- $500 to $25,000 credit line
- Zero liability protection
Pros
- Approval with credit scores below 580
- Your choice of fixed-rate cash back or points rewards
Cons
- Requires a security deposit of at least $500
- Has an annual fee
- Purchase assurance: Wells Fargo will repair, replace, or reimburse you for items that are damaged or stolen within 90 days of purchase.
- Design studio: Include a personal image or business design on your credit card.
- Cash Back option:
Earn 1.5% cash back on every $1 spent - Reward Points option:
Earn 1 point on every $1 spent and receive 1,000 bonus points when your company spend is $1,000 or more in any monthly billing period - $0 annual rewards program fee
- $500 to $25,000 credit line
- Zero liability protection
Pros
- Approval with credit scores below 580
- Your choice of fixed-rate cash back or points rewards
Cons
- Requires a security deposit of at least $500
- Has an annual fee
- Purchase assurance: Wells Fargo will repair, replace, or reimburse you for items that are damaged or stolen within 90 days of purchase.
- Design studio: Include a personal image or business design on your credit card.
Why we like it: If you have a minimal credit history but have cash on hand, the Wells Fargo Business Secured card is a good choice. A security deposit in a Wells Fargo business checking or savings account serves as your collateral account and is the same amount as your credit line. Your credit line can range from $500 to $25,000.
You have two rewards options: select between 1.5% cash back or 1 point for every $1 spent. Be aware that points three years and older will expire, with no exceptions, every November 30. Wells Fargo doesn’t report business or personal credit history to the major credit bureaus but will review your account periodically to see if you qualify for an unsecured Wells Fargo credit card. It’s one of our choices for the best easy approval business credit cards.
Capital One® Spark® Classic: Best Card for Fair Credit
Capital One® Spark® Classic for Business
BEST FOR:
Fair credit business owners (580 to 669)
- 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.
- 1% cash back every time you swipe
- Build your business credit through responsible usage
- Issue employee cards for free
Pros
- Opportunity to build business credit
- Only requires fair credit
- No annual fee
Cons
- No 0% introductory APR
- No sign-up bonus
- High APR
- Purchase protection: Capital One will replace, repair, or reimburse you for eligible items in the event of theft or damage within the first 90 days of purchase.
- Extended warranty protection: You’ll get additional warranty protection on eligible items that are purchased with your business card, up to 1 year past the manufacturer’s warranty.
- Auto rental collision damage waiver: You’re covered for damage due to collision or theft when you rent an eligible car with your Capital One® Spark® Classic for Business card.
Why we like it: Build your credit with the Capital One® Spark® Classic card. It can help you grow your credit score while earning rewards with no annual fee. With consistent on-time payments, your credit score will grow, and you’ll be eligible for a wider variety of business credit cards.
This easy and straightforward card offers a fixed-rate 1% cash back on all business purchases, with no limits or spend categories. Choose between redeeming rewards as a statement credit or as a paper check. Also, rewards never expire. This card is our number one choice for the best business credit cards for fair credit.
Reasons To Consider a Business Credit Card
- Build business credit: When you use a business credit card, issuers report your credit history to business credit bureaus. As you build your credit and raise your credit score, you’ll increase your eligibility for cards with higher limits and greater rewards.
- Obtain short-term financing: Applying for a business credit card is a quick way to finance your business in the short term. And, depending on your credit history, a business credit card can be easy to qualify for.
- Benefit from introductory financing: Some business credit cards offer introductory 0% APRs, which can help you finance large purchases or pay down a balance from a high-interest credit card.
- Earn rewards: Most business cards offer ongoing rewards that act as discounts on your everyday expenses.
- Separate business and personal finances: Keeping your business and personal expenses separate is important for organizing your business, protecting your personal assets, and making tax season much easier.
Business Credit Cards vs Personal Credit Cards
Business credit cards allow you to build business credit while personal credit cards don’t. Since personal credit cards don’t report to business credit bureaus, all the purchases and history you build using a personal credit card won’t contribute to building business credit. With an excellent credit score, you’re more likely to be eligible for business cards that offer the richest rewards, perks, and benefits.
Use a small business credit card if you want to build your business credit and earn rewards for business-related purchases like office supplies, phones, and internet. Choose a personal credit card if you’re unable to qualify for a business card or want to earn rewards on non-business-related purchases like groceries or streaming services.
How To Choose a Business Credit Card
- Consider how you’ll use the card: Think about what purchases you plan to make with the card. Will there be recurring expenses such as gas, restaurants, flights, or hotels, or large purchases such as office furniture and equipment? The way you’ll use the card should help you decide on the best one for your needs.
- Cards for employees: If you have employees, you may want to select cards with spend management tools, accounting integration, and reporting capabilities.
- Weigh fees against perks and rewards: Some cards charge a substantial annual fee, while others don’t charge a fee at all. Cards that do charge a large fee tend to give substantial rewards for larger purchases.
- Decide if you’ll benefit more from cash rewards or points-based rewards: Cards that offer cash rewards may directly credit your statement, or you may receive a check in the mail. These typically don’t charge an annual fee, and their rewards programs are usually straightforward. Points-based cards often charge an annual fee, but you have many options for redeeming those points.
What You Need To Apply for a Business Credit Card
If you’re starting a new business with no business credit history, business credit card issuers typically require a personal credit score of at least 670 for approval. It’s also common for issuers to require a personal guarantee, which means you’ll become personally liable for the debt if the business fails to repay.
Some cards, such as fair credit and secured business credit cards, are tailored to business owners with personal credit scores below 670. Those cards typically charge high APRs and don’t offer the best reward programs, but they can help you build or repair your credit history.
Other than your personal credit score, you’ll need to provide basic contact information, business contact information, annual revenue, and anticipated monthly expenses when you apply for a business credit card.
How We Evaluated the Best Business Credit Cards
We reviewed dozens of cards and selected the ones that offer the best deals for small business owners: low introductory financing, enticing welcome offers, and robust ongoing rewards. We also considered any monthly or annual fees and any significant perks and benefits.
Bottom Line
The best business credit card for you gives you the most value and works the hardest for your specific needs. Consider what you’ll purchase with the card and what rewards will help save money. Be sure to consider all the different features of a card to make an informed decision.
If you already have an account at a bank or credit union, consider getting your credit card from your financial institution so you can continue building your financial relationship. By doing so, you could potentially negotiate a better interest rate and add additional business products to help build your credit history.
For more credit card options, be sure to check out our Credit Card Marketplace.