Best Business Credit Cards For Small Businesses
Last Updated on April 5, 2025 by mia
Starting a small business comes with many challenges, and one big hurdle is managing finances effectively.
Nearly 82% of small businesses fail due to cash flow problems, highlighting the importance of smart financial tools.
The best business credit cards for small businesses can help you quickly handle expenses, earn rewards, and separate your personal and business purchases.
New Startups is a way to help every start-up business owner find practical solutions like these so they can focus on growing their company.
Whether you need flexible payment options, cashback perks, or credit-building opportunities, the right card helps address these common startup pains.
By joining our platform, you’ll get access to valuable resources, expert insights, and a community that understands your needs.
Register now to list your business and connect with other startups taking their next step toward success!
Which Credit Card Is The Best For Small Businesses?
1. Chase Ink Business Unlimited®
This card is a favorite among many small business owners because it offers unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase with no extra categories to track.
It has no annual fee, which means you can save money right off the bat. With a generous welcome bonus (after spending a set amount), it provides a quick boost to your business funds.
Another plus is its free employee cards, helping you control and monitor spending easily.
The statement credits can really stretch your budget, especially if you’re starting with limited capital.
Additionally, there’s a 0% APR introductory offer for the first year, making it easier to tackle startup costs.
For flexibility and simplicity, this is one of the best business credit cards available.
2. American Express Blue Business® Plus
This card stands out because you can earn 2x Membership Rewards points for your first $50,000 in purchases yearly, and 1x points after that.
It also offers a very useful 0% APR on purchases for the first year, which can help during those lean early months.
The no annual fee feature makes it beginner-friendly while still delivering solid benefits.
You’ll love how flexible the points system is, allowing you to redeem rewards for travel, gift cards, or statement credits.
Unlike some cards, this one adapts well to growing businesses with a “buy above your limit” feature.
This means it evaluates your needs and lets you spend beyond the credit limit when necessary.
For rewards and financial breathing room, this card consistently ranks among the best business credit cards.
3. Capital One Spark Cash Plus
If your business spends a lot, this card’s flat 2% cash back on every purchase is hard to beat.
You’ll benefit even more from its massive welcome bonus, which rewards high spenders once a certain amount is reached.
Although it has an annual fee, the unlimited cash-back rewards often make up for it quickly.
There’s no preset spending limit, offering greater flexibility for businesses that need to make big purchases.
The straightforward rewards system means no confusion or categories to keep track of.
Plus, you can redeem cash back easily as statement credits or deposits into your account.
If you’re looking for a card that’s simple and lucrative, this card deserves a spot among the best business credit cards.
4. Chase Ink Business Cash®
This is one of the best business credit cards for small businesses that spend heavily on office supplies or internet services.
You’ll earn 5% cash back on these purchases up to $25,000 annually, along with 2% cash back for dining and gas.
It also offers a welcome bonus when you hit a modest spending requirement, giving you value upfront.
Despite all these perks, this card doesn’t have an annual fee, which is ideal for startups keeping costs low.
It’s also great for businesses that prioritize expenses in those key categories, allowing them to maximize returns.
Free employee cards are included, and their spending can help you build more cash back. With an introductory 0% APR on purchases, managing upfront costs has never been easier.
5. Brex Card for Startups
This card is specially designed for startups and doesn’t require a personal guarantee.
Your credit limit is based on your business’s cash flow, which can be a relief if you’re concerned about your personal credit score.
It offers 7x points on rideshare, 4x on travel, and 3x on restaurants, making it ideal for businesses with a lot of these expenses.
There’s no annual fee, and you can track spending through their easy-to-use online tools.
You’ll also get discounts on essential business services like software tools and shipping a category of your choosing, such office supplies, gas, travel, providing flexible rewards.
This is an excellent option for new businesses looking for their first credit card with tailored benefits.
6. Bank of America® Business Advantage Customized Cash Rewards MasterCard®
This card stands out because of its ability to customize your top rewards category. In any category of your choosing, you can receive 3% cash back, such as gas, office supplies, or consulting.
There’s also 2% back at restaurants and 1% on everything else, making it versatile and budget-friendly.
Like others, it charges no annual fee, so you can keep more of your profits.
A welcome bonus is available after meeting certain spending requirements, giving your business an early financial boost.
This flexibility allows you to focus rewards on what’s most important for your business.
It also offers low foreign transaction fees, which are helpful for businesses working internationally.
This adaptability is what makes it one of the best business credit cards for small businesses.
7. Discover it® Business Credit Card
Getting 1.5% cash back on every dollar you spend is straightforward and valuable, but what’s unique is Discover’s first-year cashback match.
At the end of your first year, they’ll match all the cashback you’ve earned, doubling your benefits without extra effort.
There’s no annual fee, keeping it truly cost-effective for startups. The online account management tools help you track purchases, making it easier to budget.
This card also doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees, making it practical for global spending. Adding employee cards is free, which is a key bonus for small teams.
This card shines due to its simplicity, affordability, and excellent intro rewards.
8. Wells Fargo Business Platinum Credit Card
This card is a great choice for small businesses managing tight budgets, as it offers two reward structure options.
Businesses can either earn cash back for every dollar spent or collect points for every dollar, it can be exchanged for gift cards, airfare, or even merchandise.
The annual fee is $0, and there’s an introductory 0% APR for the first few months to help with cash flow.
You’ll find its spending controls practical for managing employee purchases. While it doesn’t have as many flashy features, it serves as a reliable, no-frills option for budding businesses.
Flexible credit lines are also available, which grow as your business expands.
For businesses that need solid features without the fuss, this is undeniably one of the best business credit cards for startups.
9. CitiBusiness® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Mastercard®
This card is perfect for small businesses with significant travel needs, offering 2x AAdvantage miles on American Airlines flights.
It also gives miles for every other dollar spent, so you can turn business expenses into travel rewards easily.
You’ll enjoy preferred boarding and a free checked bag, which can help save money during trips.
A great welcome bonus is available when you meet moderate spending requirements, adding even more miles to your account.
The annual fee is waived during the first year, making it a risk-free option for startup owners.
This card works best for those who frequently fly with American Airlines or travel domestically for networking and business growth.
If your work involves travel, this is one of the best business credit cards to consider.
10. U.S. Bank Business Triple Cash Rewards World Elite Mastercard®
This card is all about value, giving you 3% cash back in multiple high-spending categories like gas, utilities, and mobile services.
There’s also an impressive welcome bonus that’s perfect for startups looking for some extra breathing room.
The card has no annual fee, keeping costs manageable right from the start. On top of that, there’s a 0% APR offer for 15 months, which helps with larger purchases during the initial phase of your business.
Its customer support and account tools are easy to use, which is helpful for first-time business card owners.
Another advantage is the ability to redeem rewards without a complicated process, keeping things straightforward.
For versatility and low costs, this card is one of the best business credit cards small business owners should look into.
How To Build Business Credit Fast?
1. Register Your Business the Right Way
To start building business credit, your company needs to be properly set up.
Make sure you register your business with the government and get a federal Employer Identification Number (EIN).
This EIN is like a Social Security number for your business, and it’s required for opening business accounts or applying for credit.
Ensure your business has a dedicated phone number, email address, and a real physical address to look professional.
Being properly registered makes your business appear trustworthy to lenders and credit issuers. Without this step, credit bureaus can’t even track your business credit activity.
Think of it as building a strong foundation before anything else. Once your business is officially set up, you’re headed in the right direction.
2. Open a Business Bank Account
One of the fastest ways to build business credit is by separating your personal and business finances through a business bank account.
Banks and creditors want to see that your company is professional and financially responsible.
With a business account, you can pay bills, manage revenue, and keep records in one place. Be sure to use this account for all business-related expenses.
Lenders love consistency, and having a clear financial history increases your chances of getting approved for loans or the best business credit cards later.
Plus, these accounts usually come with other benefits that help you grow your credit faster.
Skipping this step could hurt your ability to appear credible to credit institutions.
If you haven’t opened a business bank account yet, make it your next move.
3. Apply for a DUNS Number
A DUNS number from Dun & Bradstreet is essential for your business credit profile. This unique nine-digit number is used by creditors when evaluating your business.
It’s completely free to apply, and having it ensures that your company is listed with one of the main business credit bureaus.
Without it, you might miss out on lending opportunities or partnerships that require a DUNS number for credibility.
Once you get your number, actively update your business details with Dun & Bradstreet. This makes it easier for vendors, suppliers, or lenders to report your payment history.
Remember, the more information they see about how you handle payments, the easier it is to build your credit. This step is quick and simple but can make a big impact.
4. Use Net-30 Vendor Accounts
One fast way to establish credit is by working with net-30 vendors. These are companies that allow you to buy now and pay within 30 days, which helps you build a payment history.
Some vendors, like office supply companies or wholesalers, report your payments to business credit agencies.
Paying your invoices early or on time improves your credit score over time. Even if your purchases are small, the habit of paying on time shows lenders that you’re reliable.
This is particularly beneficial for new businesses that might not be eligible for loans yet. Look for vendors that report to credit bureaus to make the most of this opportunity.
Strong relationships with these vendors can open doors to more credit options.
5. Get a Small Business Credit Card
Applying for one of the best business credit cards is a great way to build credit fast.
The purpose of business credit cards is to assist businesses like yours manage cash flow and pay for expenses.
Just like personal credit cards, they report your payment activity to credit bureaus, which helps build your score when you make payments on time.
Plus, many business credit cards offer perks like cashback, travel rewards, or purchase protection that are useful for small businesses.
Look for a card with low fees and simple terms that fit your startup’s needs. Be careful not to max out your card or carry a high balance, as this can hurt your credit score.
Instead, aim to pay it off each month to show lenders that you’re responsible. A good credit card can be a game changer for startups.
6. Always Pay Bills on Time
Timely payments are the most important factor in building business credit quickly. Whether you’re paying a vendor, a credit card bill, or utility expenses, being on time matters.
Late payments can damage your credit profile and scare off lenders. Set reminders or automate payments to avoid accidentally missing deadlines.
Over time, consistent payments will boost your credit profile and make you eligible for larger loans or better credit cards.
If you’re able, paying early is even better, as it shows extra reliability to creditors. Remember, a strong payment history is like gold for your business credit.
Start good habits now to build trust with lenders.
7. Monitor Your Credit Regularly
Keeping an eye on your business credit report helps you spot errors or issues before they become problems.
Agencies like Dun & Bradstreet, Experian, and Equifax offer business credit monitoring services.
Check your report at least once a quarter to ensure everything is accurate. If you notice missing payments or incorrect information, dispute it right away to protect your score.
Monitoring also helps you understand where you stand, so you can aim for more credit opportunities.
The more active you are in managing your credit, the more control you’ll have over how fast it grows.
Staying informed will give you confidence when applying for loans or credit cards.
8. Increase Credit Limits Gradually
Once you’ve built some credit, ask for higher limits on your business credit accounts when possible.
Higher limits reduce one important component of your credit score is your credit utilization ration.
But remember, only request an increase if you’re sure you won’t overspend or misuse the credit. Lenders assume that businesses with higher limits are financially stable and capable of handling larger amounts of credit.
Keep using your account responsibly to continue building trust. Over time, this will show lenders that your business is growing and financially strong.
Additionally, a larger credit limit may make it simpler to handle large expenses or emergencies. This small step makes a big difference as your company expands.
Is A Business Credit Card Worth It?
Yes, a business credit card is definitely worth it for startups because it can help you separate personal and business expenses, making your bookkeeping much easier.
With the best business credit cards, you can additionally raise your company’s credit score, which is essential when you’re looking to secure loans or attract investors in the future.
Cash back is one of the perks that many of these cards offer or travel points on your purchases, which can save your business money over time.
Additionally, having a business credit card can improve your cash flow by allowing you to cover expenses quickly while paying them off later.
When exploring startup marketing strategies, investments using a business credit card can also yield rewards for campaigns and outreach.
Some of the best business credit cards even provide helpful perks like extended warranties or purchase protections for your business-related spending.
They also offer higher credit limits than personal cards, giving you the flexibility to handle larger expenses when you’re just getting started.
Overall, using a business credit card can give your startup financial support and useful benefits that help your business grow.
What Is The Limit On A Business Credit Card?
The limit on a business credit card depends on factors like your business’s financial health, your credit history, and the specific card you’re applying for.
Many companies review your annual revenue, outstanding debts, and personal credit score before deciding on a limit.
While some cards offer set limits, others, especially the best business credit cards, provide flexible spending options that adjust based on your spending patterns and payments.
If you’re running a digital marketing startup, having a card with a generous limit can help fund marketing efforts while managing cash flow effectively.
This means newer startups or those with less established credit may start with lower limits but can often negotiate higher ones over time.
If you’re wondering how to get a higher limit, paying off your balance regularly and showing strong financial management can help build trust with the card issuer.
Additionally, choosing the best business credit cards that cater to small businesses can open up more opportunities for higher limits as your business grows.
Always check the card’s terms, as some may include features like no preset spending limit, which can benefit startups needing flexibility.
How Can New Startups Help My Business?
New Startups can help your business by providing reliable resources and tools designed to make starting and growing your business easier and more successful.
One of the biggest challenges for a small business is managing finances, and this is where our guidance can help you find the best business credit cards to manage expenses, earn rewards, and build your credit.
If you’re working on product development roles within your startup, access to detailed financial insights can ensure you allocate resources effectively.
We also create tailored content that helps you stay informed about practical strategies, including better funding options and simple ways to handle everyday business needs.
Through New Startups, you can access advice from knowledgeable experts who know what it takes to turn a startup into a thriving organization.
Whether you’re part of a digital product development consultancy or another rapidly evolving industry, finding the best business credit cards through our resources not only helps you save money but also gives you flexibility when you need it most.
Our platform helps you connect with answers, tools, and insights that are simple to apply and directly benefit a growing business like yours.
You can rely on New Startups for useful, straightforward advice like finding the best business credit cards to help your company succeed with confidence.
Conclusion
Identifying small businesses’ top business credit cards can make a huge difference in managing expenses, earning rewards, and building credit for your company.
Choosing the right card not only helps you save money but also provides the flexibility to invest in your business when needed.
Cash flow issues are common for small firms, and having access to credit rewards programs or low interest rates can make handling daily expenses much smoother.
If you’re managing a product development team, a business credit card can provide the financial stability to test ideas and refine your product offerings.
Selecting the best business credit cards for small businesses allows you to keep track of spending, keep business and personal costs apart, and even make additional perks like travel or cashback.
Making the right financial choices early on can have a major effect on the expansion and stability of your startup over time.
That’s why businesses like yours need to have a trustworthy resource to guide you through these key decisions.
With New Startups, you can explore actionable advice, financial tools, and expert insights to help your business thrive, including tips on finding the best business credit cards for small businesses.