Discover the 5 best credit cards for small business owners, offering rewards, low fees, and easy financing options to grow your company.
Running a small business requires smart financial strategies, and one of the best tools you can use to manage expenses and earn rewards is a business credit card. Whether you’re looking for low interest rates, high rewards, or flexible financing options, the right credit card can provide valuable benefits. In this blog post, we’ll explore the 5 best credit cards for small business owners in 2025, highlighting their unique features, rewards, and benefits.
Why a Business Credit Card is Essential for Small Businesses
Before we dive into the specifics of the 5 best credit cards for small business, let’s discuss why using a dedicated business credit card is a smart move. Business credit cards offer several advantages over personal cards, including:
- Separation of Personal and Business Expenses: Keep your business transactions organized and simplified for tax purposes.
- Higher Credit Limits: Access larger credit limits to handle bigger expenses.
- Better Rewards and Perks: Earn points, miles, or cash back on your business purchases.
- Building Business Credit: Using a business credit card responsibly helps you establish a positive credit history for your company.
How Business Credit Cards Can Help You Grow Your Small Business
A good business credit card can be more than just a payment tool—it can help you grow and scale your business. Here’s how:
- Cash Flow Management: With the right card, you can manage your cash flow better by extending your payment terms, giving you more time to pay off purchases without incurring interest.
- Business Purchases Made Easier: Business credit cards often come with high spending limits, making it easier to buy office supplies, software, or inventory without using personal funds.
- Building Stronger Vendor Relationships: A business credit card helps you pay vendors and suppliers on time, which can improve your business’s credibility.
1. Chase Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card
Why It’s Great for Small Businesses: The Chase Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card is a top contender for the 5 best credit cards for small business owners. With an impressive sign-up bonus of 100,000 points after spending $15,000 in the first 3 months, this card is perfect for businesses looking to earn big rewards fast. It offers 3 points per dollar on the first $150,000 spent in combined purchases at travel, shipping, internet, cable, and phone services each year, and 1 point per dollar on all other purchases.
Key Benefits:
- 100,000-point sign-up bonus
- 3x points on common business expenses
- Comprehensive travel protection benefits
- $95 annual fee
Website Link: Chase Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card
2. American Express Blue Business Plus Credit Card
Why It’s Great for Small Businesses: For small business owners seeking an easy-to-manage, no annual fee card, the American Express Blue Business Plus Credit Card is an excellent choice. This card offers 2x points on the first $50,000 spent each year (1x on subsequent purchases). It’s ideal for businesses that want to earn solid rewards without the burden of high fees.
Key Benefits:
- 2x points on the first $50,000 spent annually
- No annual fee
- 0% introductory APR on purchases for the first 12 months
- Expense management tools for business owners
Website Link: American Express Blue Business Plus Credit Card
3. Capital One Spark Cash for Business
Why It’s Great for Small Businesses: Capital One Spark Cash for Business stands out among the 5 best credit cards for small business because it offers unlimited 2% cash back on every purchase. This makes it a simple yet powerful tool for businesses that don’t want to worry about rotating categories or limits. Additionally, there’s a one-time $500 cash bonus after spending $4,500 in the first 3 months.
Key Benefits:
- Unlimited 2% cash back on every purchase
- $500 cash bonus for new cardholders
- No preset spending limit
- $95 annual fee (waived the first year)
Website Link: Capital One Spark Cash for Business
4. U.S. Bank Business Platinum Card
Why It’s Great for Small Businesses: For business owners who prioritize low-interest rates and flexible payment options, the U.S. Bank Business Platinum Card is a solid choice. This card offers 0% introductory APR on purchases and balance transfers for the first 12 billing cycles. If your business needs to carry a balance for a while, this card can save you money on interest.
Key Benefits:
- 0% introductory APR for the first 12 months
- No annual fee
- Employee cards at no additional cost
- Flexible rewards redemption options
Website Link: U.S. Bank Business Platinum Card
5. Brex 30 Card
Why It’s Great for Small Businesses: The Brex 30 Card is an innovative option that doesn’t require a personal credit check and is designed for startups and small businesses that may not have a long credit history. Instead of traditional credit limits, Brex evaluates your business’s financials to determine your spending limit. This card offers 1x points on every purchase and various rewards options, including discounts on travel, software subscriptions, and more.
Key Benefits:
- No personal credit check required
- Unlimited 1x points on every purchase
- Access to exclusive business perks and discounts
- No annual fee
Website Link: Brex 30 Card
How to Choose the Best Credit Card for Your Small Business
With so many credit card options available, it’s important to choose one that best fits your business’s needs. Here are a few key factors to consider when selecting a business credit card:
- Spending Categories: Look for cards that reward your primary business expenses (e.g., travel, office supplies, advertising).
- Rewards vs. Interest Rates: Balance the benefits of rewards points with the cost of interest rates and annual fees.
- Credit Requirements: Some cards require excellent credit, while others may be more lenient with new businesses or startups.
- Perks and Tools: Consider the additional benefits that can help you manage your business more efficiently, such as expense management tools, travel perks, or purchase protection.
Top Features to Look for in the Best Business Credit Cards
When evaluating the 5 best credit cards for small business, make sure to consider these top features:
- Sign-Up Bonuses: Many business credit cards offer generous sign-up bonuses, especially for new cardholders.
- Rewards Programs: Look for cards that provide rewards tailored to your business’s spending patterns, whether that’s cash back, travel points, or points redeemable for business-related expenses.
- APR and Fees: Make sure the card’s interest rate aligns with your business’s needs. A card with an introductory 0% APR might be ideal for large purchases, while a low regular APR can help reduce ongoing costs.
- Additional Benefits: Cards may offer extra benefits like extended warranties, purchase protection, and free employee cards.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing a Business Credit Card
Choosing a business credit card might seem straightforward, but there are common mistakes that small business owners often make. Here are a few things to avoid:
- Ignoring Interest Rates: While rewards are great, paying high-interest rates can quickly negate the value of those rewards. Always check the APR before choosing a card.
- Not Leveraging the Rewards: Many business owners miss out on the best rewards simply by not understanding how to maximize their points or cash back.
- Selecting a Card Without Benefits for Your Business: It’s easy to get distracted by high sign-up bonuses, but make sure the card provides long-term value aligned with your business needs.
Benefits of Using Business Credit Cards for Your Small Business
There are numerous benefits that come with using business credit cards. Here are a few reasons to consider them for your company:
- Streamlined Accounting: Business cards come with detailed statements that make accounting and bookkeeping much easier.
- Cash Flow Management: They allow you to buy goods and services and pay later, offering flexibility in your financial management.
- Rewards and Perks: Whether you need travel benefits, cash back, or points for business-related purchases, you’ll earn rewards with every swipe.
Conclusion
Choosing the right credit card can significantly impact your small business’s financial health. The 5 best credit cards for small business mentioned in this post offer a range of rewards, benefits, and flexible features that can help you save money and grow your business. Whether you’re looking for a card with cash back, rewards, or low-interest financing, these cards are designed to suit the unique needs of small business owners. Choose the one that best fits your spending habits and start reaping the rewards today!
Related Posts:
- How Many Credit Cards Should I Have? A Complete Guide to Managing Your Credit in 2025
- Chase Sapphire Preferred: A Comprehensive Guide to Benefits, Pros, and Cons
- Chase Sapphire Preferred vs Freedom Unlimited: A Comprehensive Comparison
Best Credit Cards for Small Business: FAQs
What is the best credit card for a small business with no credit history?
If your business is new and doesn’t have a long credit history, the Brex 30 Card is a solid option. It doesn’t require a personal credit check and evaluates your business’s financials to determine your spending limit. This can be an ideal choice for startups or small businesses with limited credit history.
Are there business credit cards with no annual fee?
Yes, several business credit cards come with no annual fee. For example, the American Express Blue Business Plus Credit Card and the Brex 30 Card offer no annual fees. These cards are perfect for businesses that want to earn rewards without paying an extra yearly cost.
How do business credit card rewards work?
Business credit card rewards typically work by earning points, miles, or cash back on the money you spend. For example, cards like the Chase Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card offer 3x points on certain categories (e.g., travel and shipping). You can redeem these points for travel, gift cards, statement credits, or even merchandise, depending on the card’s rewards program.
Can I use a business credit card for personal expenses?
It is not recommended to use a business credit card for personal expenses. Mixing business and personal finances can complicate your bookkeeping, make tax preparation more difficult, and potentially jeopardize your business’s credit rating. It’s best to keep the two separate.
Can I get a business credit card without a personal guarantee?
Some business credit cards, like the Brex 30 Card, don’t require a personal guarantee. This means the card issuer will rely solely on your business’s financials to approve the credit limit, rather than your personal credit score. However, many traditional business credit cards will still require a personal guarantee, especially if your business is new or lacks a strong financial history.
What credit score do I need to qualify for a business credit card?
The required credit score varies depending on the card and the issuer. Generally, business credit cards may require a good to excellent personal credit score (around 700 or higher). However, some cards, like the Brex 30 Card, may not require a personal credit check at all, which is beneficial for business owners with less-than-perfect credit.
What are the benefits of using a business credit card over a personal one?
Using a business credit card over a personal one offers multiple advantages:
Better Tracking: Business cards make it easier to track expenses and separate personal and business finances.
Higher Credit Limits: Business credit cards typically offer higher limits, giving your company more purchasing power.
Rewards and Perks: Business cards often come with specialized rewards (such as cash back on business-related expenses) and additional perks like extended warranties or travel benefits.
Building Business Credit: Using a business credit card responsibly helps build your company’s credit history, which can help you secure better financing options in the future.
What is a 0% introductory APR, and how does it benefit my business?
A 0% introductory APR means that for a certain period (usually 12 to 18 months), you won’t pay interest on new purchases or balance transfers. This is ideal for businesses planning to make large purchases or carry a balance for a few months without incurring high interest. After the introductory period ends, the regular APR applies.
How can I maximize my business credit card rewards?
To make the most of your business credit card rewards, consider these tips:
Understand Category Bonuses: Choose a card that rewards your specific business spending (e.g., travel, advertising, or office supplies).
Use the Card Regularly: Use your business credit card for all relevant expenses to accumulate points or cash back quickly.
Leverage Sign-Up Bonuses: Many cards offer significant sign-up bonuses—plan your expenses to meet the required spending thresholds to earn the bonus.
Redeem Smartly: Make sure you know the best redemption options for your rewards. Some cards allow you to use points for business-related purchases, like software subscriptions, which can save your business money.
Do I need to pay off the full balance each month?
It’s always a good practice to pay off your balance in full each month to avoid paying interest on purchases. However, if you can’t pay off the full balance, try to pay as much as you can to minimize interest charges. Some cards, like the U.S. Bank Business Platinum Card, offer 0% introductory APR for up to 12 months, which can help businesses that need time to pay off large purchases.
Can I get employee cards with a business credit card?
Yes, many business credit cards allow you to issue employee cards at no additional cost. For example, the Chase Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card and U.S. Bank Business Platinum Card offer employee cards with no extra fees. This is helpful for managing your business’s expenses and providing employees with the ability to make purchases without using personal funds.
How can I monitor my business credit card spending?
Most business credit cards offer online tools and mobile apps to track your spending. You can categorize purchases, monitor spending limits, and set up alerts to ensure that you stay within budget. Additionally, cards like the American Express Blue Business Plus come with expense management tools to help you track and manage business expenses more efficiently.
