Choosing the right business credit card can have a major impact on your company’s cash flow, rewards earnings, and long-term financial health. Whether you’re a freelancer, startup founder, or established small-business owner, the right card can help you manage expenses, earn rewards, and even build business credit.
This guide breaks down alternative business credit cards, explains how experts evaluate them, and walks you through how to choose the best business credit card for your needs—without unnecessary jargon or sales hype.
Read More:
Alternative Business Credit Cards Worth Considering
Some excellent business credit cards aren’t always available through comparison platforms, but they’re still worth your attention if they align with your business goals.
Bank of America® Business Advantage Unlimited Cash Rewards Secured Card
If your personal credit score is holding you back, a secured business credit card can be a smart entry point.
This card requires a refundable security deposit, which becomes your credit limit. In return, you get a no-annual-fee business card that helps establish credit under your business name while earning unlimited cash back on purchases. It’s a practical solution for newer businesses or owners rebuilding credit.
Wells Fargo Signify Business Cash℠ Card
This card stands out for its simplicity. It offers unlimited 2% cash back on all purchases and charges no annual fee—an uncommon combination among major issuers.
As of late 2025, the online application process is open to a wider range of business owners, making it easier to apply without visiting a branch.
How Business Credit Cards Are Evaluated
Editorial teams assess business credit cards using multiple data points to ensure fairness and relevance. These typically include:
- Annual fees and ongoing costs
- Welcome bonuses and spending requirements
- Rewards rates and bonus categories
- Introductory APR offers
- Overall value for typical small-business spending
Only cards that deliver strong long-term value make top recommendations. Some niche or secured cards may still be highlighted if they’re the best option for a specific audience.
Types of Business Credit Cards You’ll Encounter
Understanding the main categories can help you narrow your options faster.
Cash-Back Business Cards
These cards return a percentage of your spending as cash back, often between 1% and 2%. Some offer higher rates in select categories like gas, advertising, or office supplies.
Travel Rewards Business Cards
Designed for businesses that travel frequently, these cards earn points or miles redeemable for flights, hotels, and travel perks like lounge access.
Business Charge Cards
Charge cards typically have no preset spending limit, but balances must be paid in full each month. They work best for companies with strong, consistent cash flow.
Corporate Cards
Corporate cards base approval on business financials rather than personal credit. They usually don’t require a personal guarantee but are often limited to registered businesses with steady revenue.
How to Choose the Right Business Credit Card
Your business’s spending habits and financial goals should guide your decision. Here are the most important factors to consider:
1. Eligibility Requirements
Most small-business credit cards rely heavily on the owner’s personal credit score. If your score is below the high-600s, secured cards or fair-credit options may be a better fit. Corporate cards follow different rules and focus on business revenue instead.
2. Rewards Structure
Some cards offer simple cash back, while others earn points that can be redeemed for travel or statement credits. Choose a rewards system you’ll actually use.
3. Spending Categories
If your business spends heavily on specific costs—like fuel, advertising, or shipping—cards with bonus categories can significantly increase your rewards.
4. Extra Perks
Benefits such as software credits, travel insurance, airport lounge access, or purchase protections can add real value if they match your operations.
5. Welcome Bonuses
Sign-up bonuses can be valuable, but only if the required spending fits naturally into your budget. Avoid stretching your finances just to earn a bonus.
6. Introductory APR Offers
A 0% intro APR can be useful for equipment purchases or startup expenses, helping you avoid interest during the early months.
7. Fees and Hidden Costs
Watch for foreign transaction fees, late payment penalties, and annual fees that could offset your rewards.
8. Impact on Your Personal Credit
Most business cards only affect your personal credit if you miss payments. However, high balances can still indirectly impact your score. Some issuers report all activity, so it’s important to understand the fine print.
Pros and Cons of Business Credit Cards
Advantages
- Helps establish and build business credit
- Earns rewards on everyday operating expenses
- Separates business and personal finances
- Allows employee cards with spending controls
Drawbacks
- Most require a personal guarantee
- High interest rates if balances aren’t paid off
- Fewer consumer protections than personal cards
What You Need to Apply for a Business Credit Card
The application process is usually straightforward. Be prepared with:
- Business name and contact details
- EIN or Social Security number
- Industry and business type
- Time in business and annual revenue (even $0 is acceptable for startups)
- Agreement to a personal guarantee (for most cards)
You don’t need a formal LLC or corporation—freelancers and sole proprietors can apply using their own name.
Tips to Maximize Business Credit Card Value
- Earn the welcome bonus responsibly by aligning spending with normal expenses.
- Use all available perks, not just rewards points.
- Combine multiple cards to optimize rewards across categories.
- Track interest and fees, which may be tax-deductible for business use.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a business credit card?
A business credit card is a revolving line of credit designed for business expenses, often paired with rewards like cash back or points.
Do you need a registered business to apply?
No. Freelancers, gig workers, and side hustlers can qualify as sole proprietors.
What’s the difference between business and personal credit cards?
Business cards typically offer higher limits, business-focused rewards, and larger bonuses, but fewer consumer protections.
Why should a small business use a credit card?
Business credit cards help separate finances, build business credit, and earn rewards on necessary expenses—all while improving cash flow management.
| Card Name | Card Type | Annual Fee | Rewards Rate | Credit Requirement | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bank of America® Business Advantage Unlimited Cash Rewards Secured | Secured Business Credit Card | $0 | 1.5% cash back on all purchases | Bad to fair personal credit | Building business credit with low credit score |
| Wells Fargo Signify Business Cash℠ Card | Unsecured Business Credit Card | $0 | Unlimited 2% cash back | Good to excellent personal credit | Simple, flat-rate cash back |
| Capital One® Spark® Classic for Business | Unsecured Business Credit Card | $0 | 1% cash back | Fair personal credit | New or small businesses with average credit |
| Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card | Unsecured Business Credit Card | $0 | 1.5% cash back | Good to excellent personal credit | Everyday business spending |
| American Express® Blue Business Cash™ Card | Unsecured Business Credit Card | $0 | 2% cash back (up to annual cap) | Good to excellent personal credit | High monthly spenders |
| Ramp Card | Corporate Charge Card | $0 | Variable cash back | Strong business revenue (no personal credit check) | Scaling startups and tech-focused businesses |
| Brex Card | Corporate Charge Card | $0 | Points-based rewards | Established business financials | Venture-backed startups |
| U.S. Bank Triple Cash Rewards Visa® Business Card | Unsecured Business Credit Card | $0 | 3% cash back in select categories | Good personal credit | Businesses with category-based spending |
| Chase Ink Business Preferred® | Unsecured Business Credit Card | $95 | 3x points on select categories | Excellent personal credit | Travel-focused businesses |
| Capital on Tap Business Credit Card | Unsecured Business Credit Card | $0 | 1.5% cash back | Fair to good credit | Small businesses seeking flexible approval |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a business credit card?
A business credit card is a revolving line of credit that helps companies manage daily expenses, earn rewards, and build business credit history. Unlike personal credit cards, business cards typically offer higher credit limits and rewards aligned with business purchases, such as office supplies, travel, and advertising.
Can freelancers and gig workers get business credit cards?
Yes. You do not need a formal LLC or corporation to qualify for a business credit card. Freelancers, independent contractors, and sole proprietors can apply using their personal name and Social Security number. Just be sure to use the card for business-related expenses.
Do business credit cards affect my personal credit score?
Most business credit cards require a personal credit check, which may result in a hard inquiry on your personal credit report. However, business card activity typically does not appear on your personal credit report unless you fail to make payments, except with some issuers like Capital One that report activity to both personal and business bureaus.
What’s the difference between secured and unsecured business credit cards?
- Secured business cards require a refundable security deposit that becomes your credit limit. They are easier to qualify for with bad or limited credit and help build business credit.
- Unsecured business cards don’t require a deposit and usually offer better rewards, but they typically require good to excellent personal credit.
How do corporate cards differ from regular business cards?
Corporate cards are designed for larger, established companies. They often:
- Do not require a personal guarantee
- Approve based on business financials (revenue and bank balance)
- Offer higher limits
- However, they usually target LLCs, corporations, or partnerships—not sole proprietors.
What rewards can I earn with business credit cards?
Business credit cards typically offer:
- Cash back on everyday business spending
- Points or miles redeemable for travel, gift cards, or statement credits
- Enhanced rewards in categories like gas, shipping, restaurants, advertising, or travel
Choosing a card that matches your spending patterns maximizes your rewards.
Do business credit cards have annual fees?
Some do, and some don’t. Cards with richer rewards, premium perks, or travel bonuses often charge an annual fee. Many small-business cash-back or entry-level cards have no annual fee, making them ideal for budget-conscious owners.
Is it worth having multiple business credit cards?
It can be. Using more than one card allows you to:
- Maximize category rewards
- Separate operating expenses
- Leverage multiple welcome bonuses
For example, you might use one card for flat-rate cash back and another for bonus rewards on advertising or travel.
Can business interest and fees be tax deductible?
Yes. Interest and fees on business credit cards can often be deducted as business expenses at tax time, provided the charges were for legitimate business purposes. Always consult a tax professional for personalized advice.
How do I choose the right business credit card?
Start by evaluating:
- Your credit score
- Annual revenue
- Spending categories
- Reward preferences
- Desired perks (lounge access, travel credits, etc.)
Cards with generous sign-up bonuses and reward structures aligned with your spending usually deliver the most value.
Can I qualify for a business credit card with bad credit?
Yes. If your personal FICO score is below 690, consider:
- Secured business credit cards
- Cards designed for fair credit
- Business credit builder services
These help establish business credit and improve your financial profile over time.
Final Thoughts
The best business credit card isn’t the one with the flashiest bonus—it’s the one that fits your spending habits, credit profile, and long-term goals. By understanding how different cards work and what issuers look for, you can confidently choose a card that supports your business’s growth and beyond.
