Editor’s note: This is a recurring post with regularly updated card details.
Startup businesses that cannot qualify for a small business loan may consider business credit cards as a good alternative source of funding. The best business credit cards for startups come with a 0% annual percentage rate (APR) period, low annual fees, generous introductory and ongoing rewards, and low ongoing APRs. When selecting new business credit cards, it’s crucial to consider these factors and other features that your business may need.
Here are the top business credit cards for startups:
- American Express Blue Business Cash: Overall best business credit card for startups with cash back rewards and expanded buying power
- U.S. Bank Triple Cash Rewards World Elite Mastercard: Best for earning up to 5% cash back with a long 0% APR period
- Capital One Spark Classic for Business: Best for startup business owners with fair credit
- Chase Ink Business Cash: Best for startups that need premium rewards on office supplies
- Brex Card: Best for daily or monthly payment options with ongoing rewards
- Chase Ink Business Unlimited: Best for simple unlimited rewards and no business credit history
- Bank of America Business Advantage Customized Cash Rewards: Best for earning cash back rewards on your chosen category
- U.S. Bank Business Platinum Card: Best for 18-month interest-free financing period
- Chase Ink Business Premier: Best charge card for frequent large purchases
Overview of the Best Business Cards for Startups
Best for | Annual Fee | Welcome Offer | Ongoing Rewards | ||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
American Express Blue Business Cash | (Overall best) Startups with cash back rewards & expanded buying power | $0 | Up to 2% cash back | ||
U.S. Bank Triple Cash Rewards World Elite Mastercard | Earning up to 5% cash back with long 0% APR period | $0 | Up to 5% cash back | ||
Capital One Spark Classic for Business | Startup business owners with fair credit | $0 | None | Up to 5% cash back | |
Chase Ink Business Cash | Startups needing premium rewards on office supplies | $0 | Up to 5% cash back | ||
Brex Card | Daily or monthly payment options with ongoing rewards | $0 | None | Up to 8x points | |
Chase Ink Business Unlimited | Simple unlimited rewards and no business credit history | $0 | Up to 5% cash back | ||
Bank of America Business Advantage Customized Cash Rewards | Earning cash back rewards on your chosen category | $0 | Up to 3% cash back | ||
U.S. Bank Business Platinum Card | 18-month interest-free financing period | $0 | None | None | |
Chase Ink Business Premier | Charge card for frequent large purchases | $195 | Up to 5% cash back |
If you want to see how a credit card stacks up against others, click Add to Compare on the cards. Note that you can compare up to three credit cards on this page or a credit card here against two other cards on our site.
American Express Blue Business CashTM: Overall Best Business Credit Card for Startups With Cash Back Rewards & Expanded Buying Power
The American Express Blue Business Cash™ Card
BEST FOR:
Those who want better cash back rewards
- Earn a $250 statement credit after you make $3,000 in purchases on your Card in your first 3 months.
- 0.0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months from the date of account opening, then a variable rate, 18.49% - 26.49%, based on your creditworthiness and other factors as determined at the time of account opening. APRs will not exceed 29.99%
- Earn 2% cash back on all eligible purchases on up to $50,000 per calendar year, then 1%. Cash back earned is automatically credited to your statement.
- From workflow to inventory to floor plans, your business is constantly changing. That’s why you’ve got the power to spend beyond your credit limit with Expanded Buying Power.
- Just remember, the amount you can spend above your credit limit is not unlimited. It adjusts with your use of the Card, your payment history, credit record, financial resources known to us and other factors.
- No Annual Fee
- Terms Apply
Pros
- 0% introductory annual percentage rate (APR)
- Welcome bonus
- Fixed rate rewards
- $0 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.
- 0.0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months from the date of account opening, then a variable rate, 18.49% - 26.49%, based on your creditworthiness and other factors as determined at the time of account opening. APRs will not exceed 29.99%
- Earn 2% cash back on all eligible purchases on up to $50,000 per calendar year, then 1%. Cash back earned is automatically credited to your statement.
- From workflow to inventory to floor plans, your business is constantly changing. That’s why you’ve got the power to spend beyond your credit limit with Expanded Buying Power.
- Just remember, the amount you can spend above your credit limit is not unlimited. It adjusts with your use of the Card, your payment history, credit record, financial resources known to us and other factors.
- No Annual Fee
- Terms Apply
Pros
- 0% introductory annual percentage rate (APR)
- Welcome bonus
- Fixed rate rewards
- $0 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.
Who Should Consider the American Express Blue Business CashTM
New business owners would want to consider this card as it offers expanded buying power—which lets you spend beyond your credit limit—and an easy approval process for those with a personal credit score of 700 and above. It also has a 0% introductory period on purchases for the first 12 billing cycles and fixed-rate cash back rewards on everyday eligible business purchases.
It is also our top-recommended business credit card for limited liability companies (LLCs) and one of our best business credit cards for self-employed.
Rewards:
- 2% cash back on all eligible purchases up to $50,000 per calendar year
- 1% cash back when the $50,000 cap is met
Other Benefits:
- Receive a $250 statement credit after spending $3,000 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening
- Issue employee cards at no additional cost
Important Considerations:
- It does not offer a 0% introductory period on balance transfers.
- Its premium cash back is capped at $50,000.
- It charges foreign transaction fees.
U.S. Bank Triple Cash Rewards World Elite Mastercard®: Best for Earning Up to 5% Cash Back With Long 0% APR Period
U.S. Bank Business Triple Cash Rewards World Elite Mastercard®
BEST FOR:
0% APR for 15 billing cycles
- Introducing the U.S. Bank Business Triple Cash Rewards World Elite Mastercard® the card that gives back on all your eligible business needs.
- Earn $500 in cash back. Just spend $4500 on the Account Owner's card in the first 150 days of opening your account.
- Earn 3% cash back on eligible purchases at gas stations and EV charging stations, office supply stores, cell phone service providers and restaurants.
- 1% cash back on all other eligible net purchases.
- Earn 5% cash back on prepaid hotels and car rentals booked directly in the Rewards Center.
- No limit on total cash back earned.
- Rewards never expire.
- Earn an annual $100 statement credit for recurring software subscription expenses such as FreshBooks or quickbooks
- 0% Intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 billing cycles. After that, a variable APR currently 19.24% - 28.24%.
- No annual fee.
- Great Offer from U.S. Bank, a 2022 World's Most Ethical Company® - Ethisphere Institute, February 2022
- Terms and conditions apply
- Pay over time by splitting eligible purchases of $100+ into equal monthly payments with U.S. Bank ExtendPay™ Plan.
Pros
- 0% APR applies to both purchases and balance transfers
- Unlimited cash back rewards
- $0 annual fee
Cons
- Balance transfer fee is charged even during the introductory period
- Intro APR doesn’t apply to cash advances
- MasterRental car rental collision damage waiver: When you rent a car using your U.S. Bank credit card, you’re covered in case of accident or theft on all rentals made worldwide. Coverage is primary, which means you won’t need to use your personal auto insurance or accept the insurance offered by the rental agency. Coverage is capped at $50,000.
- Purchase assurance: U.S. Bank may repair or reimburse for items purchased with your U.S. Bank business credit card that are damaged or stolen within 90 days of purchase. Coverage is limited to $1,000 per loss, up to $25,000 per year, per account. Lost items and items left out of reach that others can see are not covered.
- Extended warranty protection: U.S. Bank will double the manufacturer’s warranty up to an additional one year from the expiration of warranties of five years or less. An item with a six-month warranty would be backed for an additional six months, for example. The issuer will replace the item or reimburse you up to the amount charged on your U.S. Bank card up to $10,000.
- Introducing the U.S. Bank Business Triple Cash Rewards World Elite Mastercard® the card that gives back on all your eligible business needs.
- Earn $500 in cash back. Just spend $4500 on the Account Owner's card in the first 150 days of opening your account.
- Earn 3% cash back on eligible purchases at gas stations and EV charging stations, office supply stores, cell phone service providers and restaurants.
- 1% cash back on all other eligible net purchases.
- Earn 5% cash back on prepaid hotels and car rentals booked directly in the Rewards Center.
- No limit on total cash back earned.
- Rewards never expire.
- Earn an annual $100 statement credit for recurring software subscription expenses such as FreshBooks or quickbooks
- 0% Intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 billing cycles. After that, a variable APR currently 19.24% - 28.24%.
- No annual fee.
- Great Offer from U.S. Bank, a 2022 World's Most Ethical Company® - Ethisphere Institute, February 2022
- Terms and conditions apply
- Pay over time by splitting eligible purchases of $100+ into equal monthly payments with U.S. Bank ExtendPay™ Plan.
Pros
- 0% APR applies to both purchases and balance transfers
- Unlimited cash back rewards
- $0 annual fee
Cons
- Balance transfer fee is charged even during the introductory period
- Intro APR doesn’t apply to cash advances
- MasterRental car rental collision damage waiver: When you rent a car using your U.S. Bank credit card, you’re covered in case of accident or theft on all rentals made worldwide. Coverage is primary, which means you won’t need to use your personal auto insurance or accept the insurance offered by the rental agency. Coverage is capped at $50,000.
- Purchase assurance: U.S. Bank may repair or reimburse for items purchased with your U.S. Bank business credit card that are damaged or stolen within 90 days of purchase. Coverage is limited to $1,000 per loss, up to $25,000 per year, per account. Lost items and items left out of reach that others can see are not covered.
- Extended warranty protection: U.S. Bank will double the manufacturer’s warranty up to an additional one year from the expiration of warranties of five years or less. An item with a six-month warranty would be backed for an additional six months, for example. The issuer will replace the item or reimburse you up to the amount charged on your U.S. Bank card up to $10,000.
Who Should Consider the U.S. Bank Triple Cash Rewards World Elite Mastercard®
This is an excellent business credit card for startups that need a long 0% introductory period on purchases and balance transfers (at 15 billing cycles) and up to 5% cash back on selected spending categories. New startup business owners can also apply for the card using their personal credit history.
Having a 0% introductory period, cash back rewards, and an easy approval process are why it made our lists of the leading small business credit cards and top cards for new businesses with no credit history.
Rewards:
- 5% cash back on prepaid hotels and car rentals booked directly in the Travel Rewards Center
- 3% cash back on eligible purchases at gas and electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, office supply stores, cellphone service providers, and restaurants
- 1% cash back on all other eligible purchases
Other Benefits:
- Receive a $500 bonus cash back after spending $4,500 in purchases within the first 150 days of account opening
- Get a $100 statement credit on recurring software subscription expenses, such as FreshBooks or QuickBooks, that are charged to your card
- Pay over time and divide eligible purchases into equal monthly payments through the U.S. Bank ExtendPay® Plan
Important Considerations:
- It offers low cash back rewards rates outside of the listed bonus categories.
- It charges foreign transaction fees.
Capital One® Spark® Classic for Business: Best for Startup Owners With Fair Credit
- 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 to qualify
- Doesn’t charge annual and balance transfer fees
Cons
- Charges high ongoing APR
- Has no 0% introductory APR
- No welcome offer
- Automatic payments: Setting up AutoPay in the Capital One mobile app will save you from having to worry about signing in to your account every month
- $0 fraud liability: If your card is either lost or stolen, you can get an emergency replacement and cash advance.
- Purchase records: You can download all purchase records quickly and securely in multiple formats, including Quicken®, QuickBooks®, and Excel®.
- Extended warranty: Get free additional warranty and protection on eligible items purchased with your business credit card.
- Free employee cards: You can create multiple employee cards, track employee spending, and customize spending limits while earning all the rewards from their purchases.
- 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 to qualify
- Doesn’t charge annual and balance transfer fees
Cons
- Charges high ongoing APR
- Has no 0% introductory APR
- No welcome offer
- Automatic payments: Setting up AutoPay in the Capital One mobile app will save you from having to worry about signing in to your account every month
- $0 fraud liability: If your card is either lost or stolen, you can get an emergency replacement and cash advance.
- Purchase records: You can download all purchase records quickly and securely in multiple formats, including Quicken®, QuickBooks®, and Excel®.
- Extended warranty: Get free additional warranty and protection on eligible items purchased with your business credit card.
- Free employee cards: You can create multiple employee cards, track employee spending, and customize spending limits while earning all the rewards from their purchases.
Who Should Consider the Capital One® Spark® Classic for Business
Startup business owners who only have Fair credit standing may consider this business credit card as it lets you earn up to 5% cash back rewards. While it does not offer a 0% introductory period on purchases and balance transfers, it does not charge annual and balance transfer fees. For this reason, it made our lists of the best sole proprietorship business credit cards and leading business credit cards with no annual fee.
Rewards:
- Unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
- Unlimited 1% cash back on all business-related purchases, with no limits or category restrictions
Other benefits:
- Build and strengthen your credit when using this card responsibly
- Choose when you pay your monthly credit card balance
- Issue employee cards at no additional cost
Important Considerations:
- It does not have a 0% introductory period on purchases and balance transfers.
- It lacks a sign-up bonus for new cardholders.
- It charges a high regular interest rate.
Chase Ink Business Cash®: Best for Startups That Need Premium Rewards on Office Supplies
Ink Business Cash® Credit Card
BEST FOR:
Office-based businesses that want top cash back rewards
- Earn $900 bonus cash back after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
- Earn 5% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at office supply stores and on internet, cable and phone services each account anniversary year
- Earn 2% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at gas stations and restaurants each account anniversary year. Earn 1% cash back on all other purchases
- Round-the-clock monitoring for unusual credit card purchases
- 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
- Member FDIC
Pros
- Top rewards for office supply spending
- Introductory APR on purchases
- Cash welcome offer
Cons
- 0% APR doesn’t apply to balance transfers
- High balance transfer fee of 5%
- Designed mainly for office-oriented companies
- Auto rental collision damage waiver: Coverage is primary—meaning it replaces any coverage your personal insurance might offer—when renting for business purposes. It provides reimbursement up to the actual cash value of the vehicle for theft and collision damage for most cars in the United States and abroad.
- Purchase protection: Covers your new purchases for 120 days against damage or theft up to $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per account per year.
- Extended warranty protection: Extends the time period of the US manufacturer’s warranty by an additional year on eligible warranties of three years or fewer.
- Earn $900 bonus cash back after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
- Earn 5% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at office supply stores and on internet, cable and phone services each account anniversary year
- Earn 2% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at gas stations and restaurants each account anniversary year. Earn 1% cash back on all other purchases
- Round-the-clock monitoring for unusual credit card purchases
- 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
- Member FDIC
Pros
- Top rewards for office supply spending
- Introductory APR on purchases
- Cash welcome offer
Cons
- 0% APR doesn’t apply to balance transfers
- High balance transfer fee of 5%
- Designed mainly for office-oriented companies
- Auto rental collision damage waiver: Coverage is primary—meaning it replaces any coverage your personal insurance might offer—when renting for business purposes. It provides reimbursement up to the actual cash value of the vehicle for theft and collision damage for most cars in the United States and abroad.
- Purchase protection: Covers your new purchases for 120 days against damage or theft up to $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per account per year.
- Extended warranty protection: Extends the time period of the US manufacturer’s warranty by an additional year on eligible warranties of three years or fewer.
Who Should Consider the Chase Ink Business Cash®
This is a great option for office-based startup businesses, as it offers premium rewards on internet/cable/phone services and office supply stores. It also offers a 0% introductory period on purchases (for the first 12 billing cycles) and charges $0 annual fees.
This card is in our roundups of the top business credit cards with no annual fee and best business credit cards for consultants.
Rewards:
- 5% cash back on Lyft rides until March 2025
- 5% cash back on the first $25,000 in combined purchases at office supply stores, and on internet, cable, and phone services each anniversary year
- 2% cash back on the first $25,000 in combined purchases at gas stations and restaurants each anniversary year
- 1% cash back on all other purchases
Other Benefits:
- Receive $900 bonus cash back after spending $6,000 on purchases within the first three months of account opening
- Issue employee cards at no additional cost
- Redeem earned cash back rewards in several ways—as a statement credit, travel, partial or full payment on Apple purchases, and gift cards
Important Considerations:
- It does not have a 0% introductory period for balance transfers.
- It charges a high balance transfer fee—either $5 or 5% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater.
- Its premium rewards are limited to office supply stores and internet, cable, and phone services.
Brex Card: Best for Daily or Monthly Payment Options With Ongoing Rewards
Brex CardBEST FOR: Those who want daily or monthly payments | |
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Spending Limit | Load Limit |
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Costs | |
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Who Should Consider the Brex Card
Issued by Emigrant Bank and Fifth Third Bank, NA., this is the only business prepaid card on our list that provides the option to choose daily or monthly payments. Aside from not charging any additional fees on purchases and the creation of physical and virtual cards, it offers points rewards on selected spending categories, and you can redeem them for cash back, credits, rebates, and billboards. These are a few reasons why it is our leading business credit card with no personal credit check.
See Brex’s partner banks—all are Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. (FDIC)-insured.
Rewards:
Variations of the Brex Exclusive Program | Specific Rewards |
---|---|
Brex Exclusive Life Science Rewards |
|
Brex Exclusive Daily Payments Rewards | Advertising
Software
Life sciences
|
Brex Exclusive Custom Rewards | This is for companies that have more than 50 Brex users and that can meet minimum spending commitments. Contact any Brex Sales Representative to learn more about it. |
Other benefits:
- Redeem Brex points for mileage points from the following partners:
- Aeromexico (Club Premier, SkyTeam)
- Air France KLM (Flying Blue, SkyTeam)
- Asia Miles (oneworld)
- Avianca (Lifemiles, Star Alliance)
- Emirates (Skywards, Emirates)
- Singapore Airlines (KrisFlyer, Star Alliance)
- Qantas (Frequently Flyer, oneworld)
- Get car rental insurance through MasterRental® Insurance/CDW
- Save on software subscriptions, such as QuickBooks, Freshworks, and Experian
Important Considerations:
- It requires a Brex Business Account to acquire the card; read our review of Brex Business Account for information.
- Its rewards are not as inclusive compared to other cards.
- It does not allow ATM withdrawals.
Chase Ink Business Unlimited®: Best for Simple Unlimited Rewards & No Business Credit History
Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card
BEST FOR:
Those who want fixed-rate 1.5% cash back on all purchases
- Earn $900 bonus cash back after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
- Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase made for your business
- No Annual Fee
- Redeem rewards for cash back, gift cards, travel and more through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
- Earn rewards faster with employee cards at no additional cost. Set individual spending limits for greater control.
- Round-the-clock monitoring for unusual credit card purchases
- 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
- Member FDIC
Pros
- With interest-free financing option on purchases
- Fixed unlimited cash back on all purchases
Cons
- Does not have interest-free financing option on balance transfers
- Charges high foreign transaction fees
- Auto rental collision damage waiver: You can decline the company’s collision insurance and charge the entire rental cost to this card.
- Travel and emergency assistance services: Call the Benefit Administrator for legal and medical referrals or other travel and emergency assistance.
- Purchase protection: You can ensure that your new purchases are covered for 120 days against damage or theft up to $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per account.
- Zero liability protection: Chase will not hold you responsible for unauthorized transactions made with both your card and your account information.
- Cellphone protection: Receive up to $1,000 per claim in cellphone protection against covered theft or damage for you and your employees included in your monthly cellphone bills when using your card to pay for it. This applies for a maximum of three claims within a 12-month period and will charge a $100 deductible per claim.
- Earn $900 bonus cash back after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
- Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase made for your business
- No Annual Fee
- Redeem rewards for cash back, gift cards, travel and more through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
- Earn rewards faster with employee cards at no additional cost. Set individual spending limits for greater control.
- Round-the-clock monitoring for unusual credit card purchases
- 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
- Member FDIC
Pros
- With interest-free financing option on purchases
- Fixed unlimited cash back on all purchases
Cons
- Does not have interest-free financing option on balance transfers
- Charges high foreign transaction fees
- Auto rental collision damage waiver: You can decline the company’s collision insurance and charge the entire rental cost to this card.
- Travel and emergency assistance services: Call the Benefit Administrator for legal and medical referrals or other travel and emergency assistance.
- Purchase protection: You can ensure that your new purchases are covered for 120 days against damage or theft up to $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per account.
- Zero liability protection: Chase will not hold you responsible for unauthorized transactions made with both your card and your account information.
- Cellphone protection: Receive up to $1,000 per claim in cellphone protection against covered theft or damage for you and your employees included in your monthly cellphone bills when using your card to pay for it. This applies for a maximum of three claims within a 12-month period and will charge a $100 deductible per claim.
Who Should Consider the Chase Ink Business Unlimited®
It is great for startup businesses that want to earn fixed-rate cash back rewards on all purchases. It also offers a 0% introductory period on purchases for 12 billing cycles. New startup business owners can also consider this card as long as they meet the personal credit score requirement, making it our top card for new businesses without business credit history.
Rewards:
- 5% cash back on Lyft rides until March 2025
- 1.5% cash back on all purchases
Other benefits:
- Receive $900 cash back after spending $6,000 on purchases within the first three months of account opening
- Issue employee cards at no additional cost
- Receive coverage for your new purchases for 120 days against damage or theft—up to $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per account
Important Considerations:
- It does not have a 0% introductory period on balance transfers
- It charges high foreign transaction fees
Bank of America Business Advantage Customized Cash Rewards: Best for Earning Cash Back Rewards on Your Chosen Category
Bank of America® Business Advantage Customized Cash Rewards Mastercard® credit card
BEST FOR:
Those who want to earn 3% cash back in a spending category of their choice
9 billing cycles
- Get a $300 online statement credit after you make at least $3,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of your account opening.
- Earn 3% cash back in the category of your choice: gas stations & EV charging stations (default), office supply stores, travel, TV/telecom & wireless, computer services or business consulting services, 2% cash back on dining purchases and 1% cash back on all other purchases.
- You'll earn 3% cash back on purchases in the category of your choice and 2% cash back on dining purchases on the first $50,000 in combined choice category/dining purchases each calendar year, 1% thereafter.
- You can earn up to 75% more cash back on every purchase, if you have a business checking account with Bank of America and qualify for Preferred Rewards for Business Platinum Honors tier. That means you could earn up to 5.25% cash back in your selected choice category and up to 3.5% cash back on dining purchases on the first $50,000 in those combined purchases each calendar year, and up to an unlimited 1.75% cash back on all other purchases.
- No annual fee.
- Choose how to redeem your cash rewards-as a deposit into your Bank of America® checking or savings account, as a card statement credit or as a check mailed to you. Cash rewards don’t expire as long as your account remains open.
- To change your choice category for future purchases, you must go to the Mobile Banking app or Business Advantage 360, our small business online banking. You can change it once each calendar month, or make no change and it stays the same.
- 0% Introductory APR on purchases for your first 9 billing cycles. After the intro APR offer ends, a Variable APR that's currently 18.49% to 28.49% will apply.
- Contactless Cards - The security of a chip card, with the convenience of a tap.
- This offer may not be available if you leave this page or visit our website. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.
Pros
- Offers flexible redemption options
- Doesn’t charge annual fees
- Welcome offer
Cons
- Premium cash back rewards are capped on a selected spending category
- Charges foreign transaction fees
- Short introductory APR period
- Access to a business credit score: Bank of America lets you view and monitor your Dun & Bradstreet business credit score for free through Business Advantage 360.
- Zero liability protection: Stay protected against unauthorized transactions. Bank of America offers additional protections that cover certain purchases against loss, damage, theft, or fire and provides extended warranty coverage.
- Fraud monitoring: Bank of America will block potential fraud if it detects abnormal patterns in your transactions. It’ll also notify you if it suspects any fraudulent activity.
9 billing cycles
- Get a $300 online statement credit after you make at least $3,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of your account opening.
- Earn 3% cash back in the category of your choice: gas stations & EV charging stations (default), office supply stores, travel, TV/telecom & wireless, computer services or business consulting services, 2% cash back on dining purchases and 1% cash back on all other purchases.
- You'll earn 3% cash back on purchases in the category of your choice and 2% cash back on dining purchases on the first $50,000 in combined choice category/dining purchases each calendar year, 1% thereafter.
- You can earn up to 75% more cash back on every purchase, if you have a business checking account with Bank of America and qualify for Preferred Rewards for Business Platinum Honors tier. That means you could earn up to 5.25% cash back in your selected choice category and up to 3.5% cash back on dining purchases on the first $50,000 in those combined purchases each calendar year, and up to an unlimited 1.75% cash back on all other purchases.
- No annual fee.
- Choose how to redeem your cash rewards-as a deposit into your Bank of America® checking or savings account, as a card statement credit or as a check mailed to you. Cash rewards don’t expire as long as your account remains open.
- To change your choice category for future purchases, you must go to the Mobile Banking app or Business Advantage 360, our small business online banking. You can change it once each calendar month, or make no change and it stays the same.
- 0% Introductory APR on purchases for your first 9 billing cycles. After the intro APR offer ends, a Variable APR that's currently 18.49% to 28.49% will apply.
- Contactless Cards - The security of a chip card, with the convenience of a tap.
- This offer may not be available if you leave this page or visit our website. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.
Pros
- Offers flexible redemption options
- Doesn’t charge annual fees
- Welcome offer
Cons
- Premium cash back rewards are capped on a selected spending category
- Charges foreign transaction fees
- Short introductory APR period
- Access to a business credit score: Bank of America lets you view and monitor your Dun & Bradstreet business credit score for free through Business Advantage 360.
- Zero liability protection: Stay protected against unauthorized transactions. Bank of America offers additional protections that cover certain purchases against loss, damage, theft, or fire and provides extended warranty coverage.
- Fraud monitoring: Bank of America will block potential fraud if it detects abnormal patterns in your transactions. It’ll also notify you if it suspects any fraudulent activity.
Who Should Consider the Bank of America Business Advantage Customized Cash Rewards
Startup businesses that want to choose where to earn high cash back rewards would find this a great option. In addition, those with an existing business checking account with Bank of America can earn higher cash back rewards through the Preferred Rewards for Business tier. The card made our lists of the top-recommended fuel business credit cards and best 0% APR business credit cards.
Rewards:
- 3% cash back on your chosen spending category and 2% cash back on dining purchases on the first $50,000 in combined category Categories include: gas stations and EV charging stations (default), office supply stores, travel, TV/telecom & wireless, computer services, or business consulting services /dining purchases each calendar year
- 1% cash back after the cap is met
Other benefits:
- Receive a $300 statement credit after spending at least $3,000 in purchases within the first 90 days of account opening
- Earn up to 75% more cash back on every purchase through the Preferred Rewards for Business tier
- Redeem your earned cash back in multiple ways—as a deposit to your Bank of America checking or savings account, as a card statement credit, or as a check mailed to you
Important Considerations:
- Its premium cash back is capped at $50,000.
- It charges foreign transaction fees.
- It requires an excellent credit score to qualify.
- It does not offer a 0% introductory period on balance transfers.
U.S. Bank Business Platinum Card: Best for 18-month Interest-free Financing Period
U.S. Bank Business Platinum Card
BEST FOR:
Extended 0% APR period on purchases and balance transfers
- 0% Intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 18 billing cycles. After that, a variable APR currently 17.24%-26.24%.
- 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
- With a long 0% introductory APR period on purchases and balance transfers
- Does not charge annual fees
- Offers ExtendPay® Plan
Cons
- No introductory and ongoing rewards
- Balance transfer fee is charged even during the introductory period
- Needs Excellent/Good credit score to qualify
- SinglePoint® Essentials: SinglePoint® Essentials is U.S. Bank’s one-stop tool for viewing account balances and transaction details, transferring funds between existing U.S. Bank accounts, downloading statements, and making payments.
- Fraud protection: U.S. Bank offers fraud protection to ensure the safety and security of all cardholders. To learn more about U.S. Bank’s fraud protection services, you can set up a virtual appointment, call U.S. Bank, or go to the nearest U.S. Bank branch.
- ExtendPay® plan: This allows you to pay off balances over time by dividing eligible credit card purchases into affordable monthly payments with no interest—you only need to pay a fixed monthly fee.
Visa Spend Clarity: Another tool that cardholders can use to track spending and manage finances is Visa Spend Clarity.
- 0% Intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 18 billing cycles. After that, a variable APR currently 17.24%-26.24%.
- 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
- With a long 0% introductory APR period on purchases and balance transfers
- Does not charge annual fees
- Offers ExtendPay® Plan
Cons
- No introductory and ongoing rewards
- Balance transfer fee is charged even during the introductory period
- Needs Excellent/Good credit score to qualify
- SinglePoint® Essentials: SinglePoint® Essentials is U.S. Bank’s one-stop tool for viewing account balances and transaction details, transferring funds between existing U.S. Bank accounts, downloading statements, and making payments.
- Fraud protection: U.S. Bank offers fraud protection to ensure the safety and security of all cardholders. To learn more about U.S. Bank’s fraud protection services, you can set up a virtual appointment, call U.S. Bank, or go to the nearest U.S. Bank branch.
- ExtendPay® plan: This allows you to pay off balances over time by dividing eligible credit card purchases into affordable monthly payments with no interest—you only need to pay a fixed monthly fee.
Visa Spend Clarity: Another tool that cardholders can use to track spending and manage finances is Visa Spend Clarity.
Who Should Consider the U.S. Bank Business Platinum Card
This is a great option if you intend to finance large purchases and make large transfers, as it has the longest 0% introductory period on the list (at 18 billing cycles). While it does not offer rewards for its new and existing cardholders, it makes up for it by charging $0 annual fees and the ability to pay over time through the U.S. Bank ExtendPay® Plan. This is why this card is also one of our top business credit cards that don’t report to personal credit.
Other benefits:
- Divide eligible purchases into equal monthly payments with no interest through the U.S. Bank ExtendPay® Plan
- Track your business spending and manage expenses through the Visa Spend Clarity
Important Considerations:
- It does not offer rewards for its new and existing cardholders.
- It requires an excellent credit score to qualify.
- It charges balance transfer fees during the 0% introductory period.
Chase Ink Business Premier: Best Charge Card for Frequent Large Purchases
Ink Business Premier℠ Credit Card
BEST FOR:
Those who frequently make large purchases
- Earn $1,000 bonus cash back after you spend $10,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
- Earn unlimited 2.5% total cash back on purchases of $5,000 or more and unlimited 2% cash back on all other business purchases.
- Travel Benefits: Unlimited 5% total cash back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards, No Foreign Transaction Fees and Trip Cancellation/Trip Interruption Insurance.
- The only business credit card with 2.5% cash back on every purchase of $5,000 or more.
- For businesses who prefer to pay their balance in full each month, Ink Business Premier gives access to increased spending power, rich rewards, and premium benefits.
- Pay off eligible purchases over time with interest up to assigned Flex for Business limit. All other purchases must be paid in full each month.
- Purchase with confidence with built-in protections like Fraud Protection, Zero Liability Protection, Purchase Protection, Cell Phone Protection, and Extended Warranty Protection.
- There's no additional cost for employee cards. Monitor spend with digital tools like purchase alerts, set spending limits, reporting, and more.
- Member FDIC
Pros
- Offers premium rewards for new and existing cardholders
- Does not charge foreign transaction fees
- Has the option to pay for qualifying purchases in installments through Flex for Business
Cons
- Does not have interest-free financing option on both purchases and balance transfers
- Charges a high annual fee
- Requires for you to pay in full each month
- Need to make large purchases within a short period of time to qualify for its sign up bonus
- Cellphone protection: You and your employees listed on your monthly cellphone bill can get up to $1,000 per claim against covered theft or damage
- Extended warranty protection: You can extend the US manufacturer’s warranty period by an additional year on eligible warranties of three years or less.
- Trip cancellation/trip interruption insurance: If your trip is canceled or cut short by sickness, severe weather, and other covered situations, you can be reimbursed up to $5,000 per person and $10,000 per trip for your prepaid, nonrefundable travel expenses, which includes passenger fares, tours, and hotels.
- Flex for Business: Allows a portion of your Credit Access Line to be used for qualifying purchases over time with interest.
- Free employee cards: You can request employee cards at no additional cost and set individual spending limits—helping you earn rewards faster.
- Earn $1,000 bonus cash back after you spend $10,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
- Earn unlimited 2.5% total cash back on purchases of $5,000 or more and unlimited 2% cash back on all other business purchases.
- Travel Benefits: Unlimited 5% total cash back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards, No Foreign Transaction Fees and Trip Cancellation/Trip Interruption Insurance.
- The only business credit card with 2.5% cash back on every purchase of $5,000 or more.
- For businesses who prefer to pay their balance in full each month, Ink Business Premier gives access to increased spending power, rich rewards, and premium benefits.
- Pay off eligible purchases over time with interest up to assigned Flex for Business limit. All other purchases must be paid in full each month.
- Purchase with confidence with built-in protections like Fraud Protection, Zero Liability Protection, Purchase Protection, Cell Phone Protection, and Extended Warranty Protection.
- There's no additional cost for employee cards. Monitor spend with digital tools like purchase alerts, set spending limits, reporting, and more.
- Member FDIC
Pros
- Offers premium rewards for new and existing cardholders
- Does not charge foreign transaction fees
- Has the option to pay for qualifying purchases in installments through Flex for Business
Cons
- Does not have interest-free financing option on both purchases and balance transfers
- Charges a high annual fee
- Requires for you to pay in full each month
- Need to make large purchases within a short period of time to qualify for its sign up bonus
- Cellphone protection: You and your employees listed on your monthly cellphone bill can get up to $1,000 per claim against covered theft or damage
- Extended warranty protection: You can extend the US manufacturer’s warranty period by an additional year on eligible warranties of three years or less.
- Trip cancellation/trip interruption insurance: If your trip is canceled or cut short by sickness, severe weather, and other covered situations, you can be reimbursed up to $5,000 per person and $10,000 per trip for your prepaid, nonrefundable travel expenses, which includes passenger fares, tours, and hotels.
- Flex for Business: Allows a portion of your Credit Access Line to be used for qualifying purchases over time with interest.
- Free employee cards: You can request employee cards at no additional cost and set individual spending limits—helping you earn rewards faster.
Who Should Consider the Chase Ink Business Premier
Despite this card being a charge card that requires you to pay your balances in full, it provides flexibility by letting you pay off eligible purchases over time with interest through the Flex for Business program. What’s more, the card also lets you earn cash back on large purchases, making it a viable option for startup business owners who frequently make large purchases. These are why it made our roundups of the leading credit cards for self-employed and top cash back business credit cards.
Rewards:
- 5% cash back on Lyft rides until March 2025
- 2.5% cash back on every purchase of $5,000 or more
- 2% cash back on all other purchases
Other benefits:
- Receive $1,000 bonus cash back after spending $10,000 on purchases within the first three months of account opening
- Issue employee cards at no additional cost
- Redeem earned cash back rewards in several ways—as a statement credit, travel, partial or full payment on Apple purchases, and gift cards
Important Considerations
- It does not have a 0% introductory period on purchases and balance transfers.
- It charges an annual fee of $195.
- It requires you to make large purchases within a short period to qualify for the sign-up bonus.
How We Selected the Best Business Credit Cards for Startups
When choosing the best new business credit cards, we prioritized cards with low or no annual fees to help startup owners minimize their credit costs. We also considered the overall value of these cards, their requirements, and the various features that startup owners may need—such as rewards, flexible spending categories, an easy application process, introductory bonuses, and introductory APRs.
Alternatives to Business Credit Cards for Startups
Aside from using a business credit card, other options for funding your startup business include:
- Personal loans: These are money borrowed from banks, credit unions, or other lenders. They are usually unsecured, which means you don’t need to provide collateral. See our top-recommended personal loans for business funding for a place to start.
- Small Business Administration (SBA) loans: These are loans issued by eligible lenders and are partially guaranteed by the SBA. For an in-depth guide, read our article on SBA loan types, rates, and requirements.
- Microloans: These are loans of $50,000 or less, usually offered by lenders through SBA microloan programs.
- Equipment financing: This is either a loan or a lease that’s intended to finance the purchase of equipment for your business. The equipment will serve as collateral for the loan. If you choose a lease, the equipment will be returned to the lease provider after the lease term. To learn more, read our article on equipment financing: loans vs leases.
- Rollover for business startups (ROBS): This financing method allows you to use funds from your retirement account to start or purchase a business. It allows you to access your retirement funds early without paying the usual taxes or early withdrawal penalties. Read our ultimate guide on ROBS for more information.
- Home equity loan: This is a startup financing that lets you use the equity in your primary residence for your startup capital needs. Learn about the process through our guide on how to use a home equity loan to finance your business.
- Home equity line of credit (HELOC): A HELOC is also a good option for those who have equity in their primary residence. It gives you access to a business line of credit equivalent to around 90% to 95% of your home’s value. Read our article on how to use a HELOC to fund your business for guidance.
- Small business grants: These are essentially free money for financial assistance provided to new business owners by various organizations, including government agencies, non-profit entities, and private companies. See our lists of the leading small business grants and top small business grants for women.
- Crowdfunding: This financing method sources funds from several investors in exchange for goods, services, or even equity in your company. See our guide on how to crowdfund your small business if you require assistance.
Read our guides on the alternative funding options for startups and ways to fund your startup for more information.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Using business credit cards to finance a startup business is a good idea if you don’t qualify for a small business loan or need immediate funding for working capital. A credit card application usually involves a simpler process and typically results in fast approval compared to a small business loan. Ideally, you can use a business credit card to purchase equipment and other supplies that you need to get your new business off the ground.
The qualification requirements may differ from one business credit card to another. Make sure that your credit score meets the credit requirements. Also, prepare the following documents and information:
- Business legal name, address, and contact details
- Type of business or industry type
- Business entity or legal structure
- Federal tax ID or social security number
- Number employees
- Annual business revenue
- Estimated monthly expenses using the credit card
- Owner’s information and personal credit history
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Note that misuse and abuse of your business credit cards can impact your personal credit scores. See our guide on when to use credit cards to finance your business for more information.
Bottom Line
The best business credit card for your startup is one tailored to your needs. Select a card that can give you lucrative rewards for every expense and interest-free financing options on substantial purchases. Check the credit requirements and other needed documents first to ensure a smooth application process.