Best Business Credit Cards For Fair Credit To Grow Smartly
Last Updated on April 7, 2025 by mia
Finding a business credit card can be tough when your credit score isn’t perfect.
About 30% of small business owners face difficulties accessing credit, which can hurt their ability to fund daily expenses or grow their ventures.
However, the best business credit cards for fair credit help build financial reliability while managing spending.
These tools can improve your credit profile and unlock better financing options over time.
New Startups help every start-up business owner overcome challenges like this by connecting you with tailored solutions.
Take control of your business finances and ensure you’re setting yourself up for long-term success. Register now to list your business and connect with other start-ups.
What Are The Best Business Credit Cards Available For Fair Credit?
1. Capital One Spark Classic for Business
The Capital One Spark Classic is a popular choice for small businesses because it has simple requirements for approval if your credit is in the fair range.
You’ll earn 1% cashback on every purchase, which can be a small but steady reward for everyday business expenses.
There’s no annual fee, which makes it a good, budget-friendly option. It also reports to major credit bureaus, so it’s great for improving your business credit over time.
Since you’re not tied to categories for rewards, this card works well for any type of business spending.
It also provides free employee cards so your team can help manage purchases easily.
Its easy application process and straightforward benefits make it a strong pick for businesses just starting out.
Keep in mind the higher interest rate, though, and aim to pay your balance in full each month.
2. Bank of America Business Advantage Unlimited Cash Rewards Secured
This secured business card is excellent for startups looking to build or rebuild credit.
You’ll need to provide a security deposit, but you’ll earn 1.5% cashback on all purchases from day one.
Your cashback doesn’t expire, and you can redeem it automatically, which makes this simple to use.
It comes with no annual fee and access to tools like spending tracking, which is helpful for business owners keeping an eye on their budget.
By using this card responsibly, you might qualify for an upgrade to an unsecured version after proving your creditworthiness.
Businesses can also benefit from fraud protection and detailed account insights, reducing the chances of financial mismanagement.
This card works best for startups willing to invest a little upfront for long-term gains.
3. Discover it Business Secured Credit Card
The Discover it Business Secured Card offers one-of-a-kind rewards for business owners with fair credit.
This card matches all the cashback you earn during your first year, giving you a solid bonus as you spend.
You’ll earn 2% cashback on gas and restaurant purchases (up to a set amount) and 1% on everything else.
The secured deposit ensures approval is more attainable, even with less-than-perfect credit.
There’s no annual fee, and you’ll enjoy benefits like free access to your FICO credit score so you can track your progress.
It also comes with fraud protection and no fees for international transactions, which is a significant benefit for startups dealing with international clients.
If building credit and earning rewards are your priorities, this card is a strong contender.
4. Wells Fargo Business Secured Credit Card
For startups needing flexibility and customizable options, the Wells Fargo Business Secured Card is worth a look.
It offers a choice between earning 1.5% unlimited rewards points or payback for each dollar spent.
There’s no annual fee, and the security deposit determines your credit limit, making it easier for startups with fair credit to qualify.
The rewards program lets you redeem points for travel, gift cards, or cash, which can benefit many businesses.
You’ll also have access to expense tracking tools for better financial management. This card provides peace of mind with fraud monitoring and zero liability for unauthorized transactions.
Though it’s secured, responsible use can help your business transition to an unsecured card in the future.
5. BBVA Secured Business Credit Card
BBVA’s Secured Business Credit Card is designed for owners looking to build a strong credit foundation.
A security deposit is needed, however it enables you to access strong benefits, such as earning 1.5% unlimited cashback on purchases.
You’ll have no annual fee for the first year, and it’s waived in subsequent years if you meet spending requirements.
The card includes categories-focused spending insights, which can guide how you grow your business.
You can assign employee cards to manage finances more effectively without additional fees.
Purchases are protected from unauthorized charges, minimizing potential losses. It’s ideal for startups willing to focus on maintaining financial discipline.
6. U.S. Bank Business Cash Secured Card
The U.S. Bank Business Cash Secured Card can help you establish credit while saving through cashback rewards.
It gives 1% cashback on all eligible purchases and higher rates for gas and office supplies, which is perfect for many growing companies.
There’s no annual fee, and your credit limit is tied to the deposit you make. Over time, excellent payment habits can help you qualify for an unsecured card.
Free financial tools make it easier to track spending and set budgeting limits. You’ll also get built-in fraud protection and free employee cards.
For startups that regularly rely on basic business expenses, this card is a practical option.
7. First National Bank Business Edition® Secured Mastercard®
The First National Bank Secured Business Mastercard focuses on helping businesses establish or strengthen credit.
You’ll need to provide a deposit, but in return, you’ll gain access to flexible credit limits starting at $2,000.
You can manage spending limits for employee cards and track transactions easily through reports.
It doesn’t have a cashback perk, but the low annual fee keeps it affordable for startups on a tight budget.
Fraud protection features are included to ensure your finances stay secure. It reports to business credit bureaus regularly, which helps businesses build credit faster.
If simplicity and credit-building are more important than rewards, this card is worth considering for startups, you can earn points for everyday business spending in categories like travel, software, and dining.
You’ll also get tools like expense tracking and automated receipt matching, saving you valuable time.
The application process is simple, and you can set controls for employee use.
While repayment terms differ from traditional cards, Brex is a forward-thinking option for modern businesses. It’s perfect for tech-savvy entrepreneurs and companies wanting flexibility.
How Fast Can You Get A Business Credit Card?
The time it takes to get a business credit card depends on the application process and the bank, but some companies could approve you almost instantly.
If you’re applying online and meet all the requirements, many banks will give immediate approval and ship the card to you within 7-10 business days.
For startups looking for the best business credit cards for fair credit, the process might take a bit longer, but approval can still be relatively quick if your financial records are in order.
To speed things up, be sure you have all necessary documents, like your EIN or business information, ready to provide during the application.
Another factor that affects how fast you get your card is applying with the right provider for your credit score.
If your credit score is fair, it’s a good idea to research the best business credit cards for fair credit to increase your chances of approval.
Many options cater to fair credit, so finding the right card will not only save time but also give your business the boost it needs.
Networking with others in the startup world can also provide insight into which providers are best suited for your company.
You can immediately begin utilizing your credit line after being approved. If you’re prepared and apply strategically, you could use your card in less than two weeks.
What Is A Fair Credit Score For A Business Credit Card?
A fair credit score for a business credit card usually falls between 580 and 669, and this range offers many options for startups to access the funding they need.
If your business credit score is in this range, you might not qualify for premium perks, but you can still get solid alternatives.
Many of the best business credit cards for fair credit provide rewards, low annual fees, and tools to help manage your expenses.
These cards can also help you build your business credit over time, which is crucial for securing better financing in the future.
Keeping up with startup trends and innovation can also reveal new tools and strategies that help you manage credit more effectively.
To improve your chances of approval, make sure you build a reputation for making on-time bill payments and keep your credit utilization low.
When choosing a card, look for one that offers benefits aligned with your business needs, whether that’s cashback, travel rewards, or flexible payment terms.
By choosing one of the best business credit cards for fair credit, you can give your startup the financial boost it needs while building a brighter future for your business.
How To Build Business Credit Fast?
Building business credit fast begins with registering your business properly, such as forming an LLC or corporation, and securing an EIN (Employer Identification Number).
Open a dedicated business bank account and make sure you routinely separate business expenses from personal ones to establish clear financial records.
Start applying for small vendor accounts or trade lines with companies that report to major credit bureaus, as this will build your credit profile quickly.
Paying your invoices early or on time is crucial because consistent payments show reliability to lenders.
For startups with a limited credit history, exploring the best business credit cards for fair credit can help you gain access to small credit limits while building your credit score responsibly.
If you factor in startup market research, you can better identify which credit-building opportunities align with your business.
Keep a close watch on your credit utilization rate and stay under 30% of your total credit limit to improve your business credit score.
Check your company credit reports frequently for mistakes or updates to ensure your profile accurately reflects your efforts.
How Can New Startups Help My Business?
New Startups can help your business by offering practical resources and guidance to increase your earnings and sell more effectively.
Through tailored advice and tools, they make it easier for startups to attract customers and grow their revenue without feeling overwhelmed.
If you’re searching for financial solutions, they provide insights into the best business credit cards for fair credit, helping businesses manage expenses and build credit at the same time.
They also share proven sales techniques and marketing strategies designed to bring in more customers and boost your overall profit.
By connecting startups with valuable tools and tips, such as funding options and starter guides, they simplify the steps to growing your business.
Additionally, New Startups keeps you informed on how to find the best business credit cards for fair credit to support your company’s cash flow while improving financial stability.
Whether you’re exploring startup funding sources or looking for new ways to manage money, their resources are focused on making your startup succeed.
Conclusion
Finding the best business credit cards for fair credit can help your startup, from building credit to managing expenses more effectively.
These cards often provide tools like spending tracking and manageable credit limits, perfect for small businesses just getting started.
Even with fair credit, you can access options that offer cashback, rewards, and flexible payment terms to support your financial goals.
Utilizing the right credit card can also help you set a solid financial foundation, making it easier to qualify for larger funding opportunities down the line.
By investing time into startup networking, you can also connect with industry peers who share effective strategies to grow credit and build financial strength.
Remember, choosing wisely means comparing benefits, fees, and interest rates to find what best fits your needs.
For startups looking to grow strong, these cards can be an affordable stepping stone on the path to success.
New Startups offers expert guidance and helpful insights to your business needs, making the process smoother and more rewarding.