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Best business cards for startups of November 2024

Most of the cards we feature here are from partners who compensate us when you approve through our site, and this may impact how or where these products appear. We don’t cover all available credit cards, but our analysis, reviews, and opinions are entirely from our editorial team. Please view our  advertising policy and  product review methodology for more information.

When you’re managing a new business, maximizing your finances is vital for success, which is why it is important to be aware of some of the best business credit cards for startups. Opening a business credit card makes sense for startups since it can help simplify the finances of your new enterprise. Plus, lots of the rewards on these cards are geared toward business expenses and can help you earn points and miles you can redeem for business-related travel and rewards. 

At The Points Guy, we are committed to helping our readers make better financial decisions, whether you’re an established business or just getting started. Here are our top picks for your startup from our partners.

At The Points Guy, our goal is to help you maximize your travel experiences while minimizing spending. Our travel and credit cards experts share their own experiences and give honest analyses to help you make decisions that benefit you the most. While we do receive compensation through our credit card application links, ads, and clearly indicated sponsored content, our editorial content, points valuations and card analysis are entirely our own.
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Best for freelancers

Open Editors rating
Card Rating is based on the opinion of TPG‘s editors and is not influenced by the card issuer.
4 / 5
Go to review
1.5%Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase made for your business
Open Intro bonus
Earn $750 bonus cash back after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
Earn $750 bonus cash back
$0
17.99% - 23.99% Variable
Open Credit score description
Credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.
670-850Good, Excellent

The Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card offers 1.5% cash back on everyday, non-bonus business expenses. Read our full review of the Ink Business Unlimited Credit Card.

Pros

  • No annual fee
  • A generous cash-back sign-up bonus
  • Flat 1.5% cash back on all purchases
  • Primary insurance for car rentals

Cons

  • Higher spend to receive sign-up bonus
  • No conversion to Chase points without holding the Chase Sapphire Reserve®, Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card or Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card
  • No travel protections
  • Earn $750 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

Best for Chase Ultimate Rewards

Open Editors rating
Card Rating is based on the opinion of TPG‘s editors and is not influenced by the card issuer.
4.5 / 5
Go to review
3XEarn 3 points per $1 on the first $150,000 spent on travel and select business categories each account anniversary year
1XEarn 1 point per $1 on all other purchases – with no limit to the amount you can earn
Open Intro bonus
Earn 90,000 bonus points after you spend $8,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
Earn 90,000 bonus points
$95
20.74% - 26.74% Variable
Open Credit score description
Credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.
670-850Good, Excellent

The Ink Business Preferred Credit Card is an excellent all-around business credit card that currently offers its highest welcome offer and the ability to earn valuable Ultimate Rewards points on a variety of business expenses. Read our full review of the Ink Business Preferred Credit Card.

Pros

  • Best-ever sign-up bonus
  • Bonus categories that are most relevant to business owners for a reasonable annual fee
  • Access to the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal for points redemption
  • Trip cancellation/interruption insurance, trip delay reimbursement and primary car rental insurance when traveling on business
  • Additional perks including extended warranty, cellphone protection and purchase protection

Cons

  • High spending needed to get to sign-up bonus
  • Subject to Chase's 5/24 rule on card applications
  • Earn 90k bonus points after you spend $8,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 cash back or $1,125 toward travel when redeemed through Chase Travel℠
  • Earn 3 points per $1 on the first $150,000 spent on travel and select business categories each account anniversary year. Earn 1 point per $1 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.
  • Redeem points for cash back, gift cards, travel and more - your points don't expire as long as your account is open
  • Points are worth 25% more when you redeem for travel through Chase Travel℠
  • Purchase Protection covers your new purchases for 120 days against damage or theft up to $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per account.
  • Member FDIC

Best for office supplies

Open Editors rating
Card Rating is based on the opinion of TPG‘s editors and is not influenced by the card issuer.
4 / 5
Go to review
5%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
2%Earn 2% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at gas stations and restaurants each account anniversary year
1%Earn 1% cash back on all other card purchases with no limit to the amount you can earn
Open Intro bonus
Earn $350 when you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first three months and an additional $400 when you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first six months after account opening.
Earn up to $750 bonus cash back
$0
17.99% - 25.99% Variable
Open Credit score description
Credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.
670-850Good, Excellent

Even if your business does not have a lot of travel expenses, there are still so many ways to take advantage of travel rewards cards. With no annual fee, the Ink Business Cash® Credit Card offers generous returns on a broad spectrum of office expenses like supplies, internet, cable and phone services. Read our full review of the Ink Business Cash Credit Card.

Pros

  • The current sign-up bonus on this card is impressive
  • There is no annual fee, which is perfect for small business owners
  • You’ll earn 5% at office supply stores and on common monthly bills such as internet, cable and phone services up to $25,000 in combined purchases each account anniversary year. Plus, you’ll earn 2% cash back at gas stations and restaurants, up to $25,000 in combined purchases each account anniversary year

Cons

  • 5% cash back earned on certain categories is capped at the first $25,000 you make in combined purchases each account anniversary year
  • Earn $350 when you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first three months and an additional $400 when you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first six months after 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
  • 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

Best for no annual fee

Open Editors rating
Card Rating is based on the opinion of TPG‘s editors and is not influenced by the card issuer.
4 / 5
Go to review
2XEarn 2X points on everyday business purchases such as office supplies or client dinners. 2X applies to the first $50,000 in purchases per year, 1 point per dollar thereafter. Terms and limitations apply.
Open Intro bonus
Earn 15,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $3,000 in eligible purchases on the Card within your first 3 months of Card Membership.
15,000 Membership Rewards® points
No annual fee
17.74% - 25.74% Variable
Open Credit score description
Credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.
670-850Excellent, Good

If you’re just starting out with your small business (or side hustle), you may have some expenses that you’d like to maximize with a credit card but can’t yet justify paying an annual fee on other business cards. That’s where the Blue Business Plus card comes in. Read our full review of The Blue Business Plus Credit Card from American Express.

Pros

  • No annual fee
  • Earn Membership Rewards points
  • Transfer points to airline and hotel partners

Cons

  • 2x points capped at $50,000 per calendar year; then 1x
  • No higher bonus categories for business-related spending
  • Earn 15,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $3,000 in eligible purchases on the Card within your first 3 months of Card Membership.
  • 0.0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months from the date of account opening, then a variable rate, 17.74% - 25.74%, based on your creditworthiness and other factors at account opening. APR will not exceed 29.99%
  • Earn 2X points on everyday business purchases such as office supplies or client dinners. 2X applies to the first $50,000 in purchases per year, 1 point per dollar thereafter. Terms and limitations apply.
  • You’ve got the power to spend beyond your credit limit* with Expanded Buying Power. *The amount you can spend above your credit limit is flexible, so it adapts with your use of the Card, your payment history, credit record, financial resources known to us, and other factors. Just remember, the amount you can spend with Expanded Buying Power is not unlimited.
  • No Annual Fee
  • Terms Apply.

Best for travel perks

Open Editors rating
Card Rating is based on the opinion of TPG‘s editors and is not influenced by the card issuer.
4 / 5
Go to review
5X5X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels on AmexTravel.com
1.5XEarn 1.5X points (that’s an extra half point per dollar) on each eligible purchase at US construction material, hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers, and software & cloud system providers, and shipping providers, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more, on up to $2 million per Card Account per calendar year. Purchases eligible for multiple additional point bonuses will only receive the highest eligible bonus.
1X1X points for each dollar you spend on eligible purchases.
Open Intro bonus
Earn 150,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $20,000 in eligible purchases on the Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
Earn 150,000 points
$695
18.74% - 27.74% Variable
Open Credit score description
Credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.
670-850Good, Excellent

It’s hard to find a card that competes with the mile-long list of benefits that come with the Amex Business Platinum. While it’s certainly not the card for the average consumer, a business owner with tons of expenses — especially related to travel — will find this card incredibly valuable. This card is similar to the consumer version that Amex offers, but with more business-oriented perks around statement credits and earning rates that are a better fit for business owners. Read our full review of The Business Platinum Card from American Express.

Pros

  • $120 statement credit for Global Entry every 4 years or up to $85 TSA PreCheck credit every 4.5 years (enrollment is required)
  • Up to $400 annual credit for eligible U.S. Dell purchases (up to $200 semiannually; enrollment required)
  • Gold status at Marriott and Hilton hotels (enrollment required)
  • Access to the Fine Hotels & Resorts program and Hotel Collection
  • International Airline Program and Cruise Privileges Program

Cons

  • Steep annual fee
  • High spend needed for welcome offer
  • Limited high-bonus categories outside of travel
  • Welcome Offer: Earn 150,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $20,000 in eligible purchases on the Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
  • 5X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels on AmexTravel.com, and 1X points for each dollar you spend on eligible purchases.
  • Earn 1.5X points (that’s an extra half point per dollar) on each eligible purchase at US construction material, hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers, and software & cloud system providers, and shipping providers, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more, on up to $2 million per Card Account per calendar year. Purchases eligible for multiple additional point bonuses will only receive the highest eligible bonus.
  • Unlock over $1,000 in statement credits on select purchases, including tech, recruiting and wireless in the first year of membership with the Business Platinum Card®. Enrollment required. See how you can unlock over $1,000 annually in credits on select purchases with the Business Platinum Card®, here.
  • $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to the Card.
  • $199 CLEAR® Plus Credit: Use your card and get up to $199 in statement credits per calendar year on your CLEAR® Plus Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use the Business Platinum Card®.
  • The American Express Global Lounge Collection® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market as of 03/2023.
  • $695 Annual Fee.
  • Terms Apply.
ELEVATED BONUS OFFER

Best for flexible rewards earning

Open Editors rating
Card Rating is based on the opinion of TPG‘s editors and is not influenced by the card issuer.
3.5 / 5
Go to review
4XEarn 4X Membership Rewards® points on the top two eligible categories where your business spends the most each month from 6 eligible categories. While your top 2 categories may change, you will earn 4X points on the first $150,000 in combined purchases from these categories each calendar year (then 1X thereafter). Only the top 2 categories each billing cycle will count towards the $150,000 cap.*
3XEarn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels booked on amextravel.com using your Business Gold Card.*
1X1X is earned for other purchases. **
Open Intro bonus
Earn 100,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases with the Business Gold Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.*
Earn 100,000 points
$375
18.74% - 27.74% Variable
Open Credit score description
Credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.
670-850Excellent/Good

The American Express Business Gold takes the challenge out of earning points. With no rotating bonus categories, cardholders are in control of where to spend money and easily earn points that best suit their business needs. Read our full review of the American Express Business Gold Card.

Pros

  • Earn 4x Membership Rewards points in the top 2 spending categories billing cycle (on the first $150,000 in combined purchases each calendar year), then 1 point per dollar
  • Comes with a strong welcome offer

Cons

  • Hefty annual fee
  • Must spend $15,000 on the card in the first three months of card membership to earn welcome bonus
  • There may be better options for small businesses that don't spend a lot
  • Welcome Offer: Earn 100,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases with the Business Gold Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.*
  • 0% Intro APR ¤ for 6 months from the date of account opening on purchases eligible for Pay Over Time, then a 18.74% to 27.74% variable APR.*
  • Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points on the top two eligible categories where your business spends the most each month from 6 eligible categories. While your top 2 categories may change, you will earn 4X points on the first $150,000 in combined purchases from these categories each calendar year (then 1X thereafter). Only the top 2 categories each billing cycle will count towards the $150,000 cap.*
  • Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels booked on amextravel.com using your Business Gold Card.*
  • Earn up to $20 in statement credits monthly after you use the Business Gold Card for eligible U.S. purchases at FedEx, Grubhub, and Office Supply Stores. This can be an annual savings of up to $240. Enrollment required.
  • Get up to a $12.95** statement credit back each month after you pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership (subject to auto-renewal) with your Business Gold Card. **Up to $12.95 plus applicable taxes on one membership fee.*
  • The Business Gold Card now comes in three metal designs: Gold, Rose Gold and Limited Edition White Gold. White Gold design is only available while supplies last. Make your selection when you apply on Americanexpress.com.
  • *Terms Apply

Best for flat rate business cash back with no annual fee

Signify Business CashSM Card by Wells Fargo

*
*The information about the Signify Business CashSM Card by Wells Fargo has been collected independently by ThePointsGuy.com. The card details have not been reviewed or approved by the card issuer.
Open Editors rating
Card Rating is based on the opinion of TPG‘s editors and is not influenced by the card issuer.
3 / 5
Go to review
2%Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases made for your business with no categories to track, and no limit to the amount of rewards you can earn
Open Intro bonus
Earn a $500 cash rewards bonus when you spend $5,000 in purchases for your business in the first 3 months.
$500 cash rewards
$0
17.99% to 25.99% (Variable)
Open Credit score description
Credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.
670-850Excellent/Good

Pros

  • No annual fee
  • Intro APR and a cash back welcome bonus

Cons

  • Charges foreign transaction fees
  • No bonus categories

This business cash-back card comes with no annual fee, flat 2% cash back on all purchases, a welcome offer and so much more. Whether you’re looking for an elevated cash-back card or a business travel companion that comes loaded with primary rental car insurance and delayed baggage reimbursement, the Signify Business CashSM Card by Wells Fargo* has got you covered.

Comparing the best startup business cards

Credit card
Best forIntro offerEarning rateAnnual fee
4
Open Editors rating
Card Rating is based on the opinion of TPG‘s editors and is not influenced by the card issuer.
at Chase's secure site
freelancers
Earn $750 bonus cash back
Open Intro bonus
Earn $750 bonus cash back after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
1.5% cash-back
$0
4.5
Open Editors rating
Card Rating is based on the opinion of TPG‘s editors and is not influenced by the card issuer.
at Chase's secure site
Chase Ultimate Rewards
Earn 90,000 bonus points
Open Intro bonus
Earn 90,000 bonus points after you spend $8,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
1 - 3X points
$95
4
Open Editors rating
Card Rating is based on the opinion of TPG‘s editors and is not influenced by the card issuer.
at Chase's secure site
office supplies
Earn up to $750 bonus cash back
Open Intro bonus
Earn $350 when you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first three months and an additional $400 when you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first six months after account opening.
1 - 5% cash-back
$0
4
Open Editors rating
Card Rating is based on the opinion of TPG‘s editors and is not influenced by the card issuer.
at American Express's secure site
no annual fee
15,000 Membership Rewards® points
Open Intro bonus
Earn 15,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $3,000 in eligible purchases on the Card within your first 3 months of Card Membership.
2X points
No annual fee
4
Open Editors rating
Card Rating is based on the opinion of TPG‘s editors and is not influenced by the card issuer.
at American Express's secure site
travel perks
Earn 150,000 points
Open Intro bonus
Earn 150,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $20,000 in eligible purchases on the Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
1 - 5X points
$695
ELEVATED BONUS OFFER
3.5
Open Editors rating
Card Rating is based on the opinion of TPG‘s editors and is not influenced by the card issuer.
at American Express's secure site
flexible rewards earning
Earn 100,000 points
Open Intro bonus
Earn 100,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases with the Business Gold Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.*
1 - 4X points
$375
Signify Business CashSM Card by Wells Fargo
*
*The information about the Signify Business CashSM Card by Wells Fargo has been collected independently by ThePointsGuy.com. The card details have not been reviewed or approved by the card issuer.
3
Open Editors rating
Card Rating is based on the opinion of TPG‘s editors and is not influenced by the card issuer.
Information updated as of 11/18/2024
flat rate business cash back with no annual fee
$500 cash rewards
Open Intro bonus
Earn a $500 cash rewards bonus when you spend $5,000 in purchases for your business in the first 3 months.
2% cash-back
$0

More details on the best business cards for startups

Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card

The Ink Business Unlimited is great for freelancers thanks to its bonus earning of 1.5% cash back on all purchases and no annual fee. Those who hold other premium Chase travel cards can transfer their earned cash back to Chase Ultimate Rewards to widen their redemption options. 

Freelancers, as well as established and small businesses that are just getting started, should consider the Ink Business Unlimited. The flat rate cash back is a solid perk that rewards businesses on all purchases while not having to worry about tracking bonus earning categories.

"I have the Chase Ink Business trilogy — the Ink Business Cash, Ink Preferred and Ink Unlimited cards. The first two cards maximize my points-earning on things like office supply, internet and phone purchases, whilst the Ink Unlimited covers everything else, with a flat 1.5% earn rate. The fact that I have the Ink Preferred means I can convert my cash-back from the Ink Unlimited into more valuable Chase Ultimate Rewards points. This no-annual-fee card will stay in my wallet for years to come." — Matt Moffitt, managing editor

For businesses looking to earn more on their everyday purchases, the Capital One Spark Miles for Business may be a better option. This is especially true if you prefer earning miles over cash back or points since the Spark Miles for Business card earns 2 miles per dollar on all purchases.

Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

The Ink Business Preferred is great for small-business owners or freelancers who spend in the categories of travel, shipping, and advertising. With a low annual fee, cardholders will be pleased to earn Chase Ultimate Rewards that can be combined with other Chase travel cards or transferred to travel partners.

Businesses who spend in the bonus-earning categories of travel and shipping. Business owners will find their rewards stacking up quickly with 3 points per dollar on the first $150,000 spent annually. Business owners can combine rewards with other personal or business Chase credit cards.

"As a freelancer, I spend quite often on work-related travel and advertising of services, both of which are covered bonus earning categories on the card. The card also provides travel protections to give you peace of mind during business travel." — Danyal Ahmed, credit card writer

For businesses looking to earn on their everyday purchases, the Capital One Spark Miles for Business may be a better option. Cardholders earn an impressive 2 miles per dollar on all purchases. Rewards can be combined with other Capital One Miles or transferred to partner airlines and hotels.

Ink Business Cash® Credit Card

Businesses looking to earn bonus rewards on their purchases while avoiding annual fees will love the Ink Business Cash Credit Card. The card offers 5% back on office supplies and telecommunication purchases (up to $25,000 in combined purchases each year), 2% cash back at gas stations and restaurants (up to $25,000 in combined purchases each year) and then 1% back on all other purchases.

Businesses who spend in the bonus-earning categories of the Ink Business Cash should use the card as it maximizes their earning potential. New business owners who are looking to minimize costs also find the card attractive because of its no annual fee. If a business owner holds another premium Chase card they can transfer their rewards to then redeem them as Chase Ultimate Rewards.

As a small business owner, if you spend less than $25,000 annually, then this is the perfect card to complement your spending habits, all while paying no annual fee as you rack up the rewards.

The Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card is for businesses that spend in the categories of travel, shipping, and advertising. The card comes with a low $95 annual fee and earns Chase Ultimate Rewards which can be used to book travel or transfer points to one of Chase’s 14 airline and hotel partners.

The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express

The Blue Business Plus Credit Card is an excellent card for startups looking for solid reward earnings without having to deal with a high annual fee. Cardmembers earn 2 American Express Membership points per dollar, up to $50,000 annually, then 1 point per dollar. The card does charge foreign transaction fees and is best suited for startups who spend in the United States.

Those interested in earning American Express Membership Rewards points at a solid rate of 2 points per dollar while avoiding an annual fee should greatly consider this card.

"There are very few no-annual-fee cards that award fully-transferable points, but the Amex Blue Business Plus is one of them. Not only that, you'll earn 2 Membership Rewards points for every dollar you spend (on up to $50,000 each year, 1 point thereafter). That's a fantastic return of 4% back based on TPG's valuation, making this a great option for your small business needs." — Nick Ewen, senior editorial director

 For those who prefer Capital One and also wish to earn a flat rate of 2 miles per dollar on all purchases, the Capital One Spark Miles for Business could be a strong option. Rewards earned can be transferred for travel to any of Capital One’s 15-plus airline and hotel partners. 

The Business Platinum Card® from American Express

If your startup requires extensive travel while also looking to make the travel experience more seamless and enjoyable, then look no further because the Business Platinum Card from American Express is the card for you. The card offers several benefits such as statement credits, elite status and unparalleled lounge access to elevate your travel experience.

Those who travel often can easily take advantage of the card’s lounge access to Centurion Lounges and others within the Priority Pass network. The card is ideal for startups who also have annual spending for software and hardware, as the statement credits will offset those costs. Startups traveling often should also use this card as it provides extensive travel and purchase protections, giving cardholders peace of mind, knowing that they will be covered.

This card comes with numerous perks that outweigh the large annual fee when leveraged for maximum value. Between access to thousands of airline lounges worldwide, hotel elite status and various statement credits, this card comes with plenty of value. It also earns flexible American Express Membership Rewards, which can be transferred to Amex's network of partners. 

The American Express® Business Gold Card is an ideal card for startups looking for a similar card with a lower annual fee (see rates and fees). Cardholders enjoy statement credits, travel protections, and the same transfer partners for airline and hotel reward redemptions.

American Express® Business Gold Card

The American Express Business Gold Card is a great way for companies to earn travel rewards, specifically if they’re interested American Express Membership Rewards points. Earning 4 points per dollar on your top two spending categories each billing cycle (up to $150,000 in combined purchases every calendar year, then 1 point thereafter) is a great earning rate for startups with ever-changing spending habits. In addition, the card earns 3 points per dollar on flights and prepaid hotels booked through amextravel.com, and 1 point per dollar on all other purchases. Pair this with American Express’s 18 airlines and three hotel transfer partners and this is a card many startups shouldn’t pass up on.

Startups that have flexible spending habits should consider this card as it’s one of the few within the industry that offers 4 points per dollar on the top two spending categories. Despite its $150,000 limit, such an earning rate is a sure way for a business to rack up the rewards and redeem them for amazing redemptions. Additionally, for businesses that make eligible U.S. purchases at FedEx, GrubHub or office supply stores, the up to $240 statement credits annually help lower costs. Enrollment required for select benefits.

The card belongs in the wallet of business owners who are looking for similar benefits to The Business Platinum Card® from American Express, but are looking to pay a lower annual fee and can better utilize the extensive bonus-earning categories of the card.

For those looking to earn American Express Membership Rewards points at a competitive rate of 2 points per dollar on all purchases (up to $50,000 per year, then 1 point per dollar after), but avoid paying any annual fees, The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express (see rates and fees) could keep their business overhead low.

Signify Business CashSM Card by Wells Fargo

The Signify Business Cash Card earns a flat 2% cash back rate, making ideal for entrepreneurs who want to earn credit card rewards they can put back onto their business.

*The information for the Signify Business CashCard by Wells Fargo has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Business owners who want a simple cash back card and want to earn rewards across eligible purchases without worrying about tracking bonus categories.

This card does not charge an annual fee, meaning business owners have one less expense to account for year after year.

If you’re seeking a more premium business product, consider the Capital One Venture X Business card. It also earns a flat rate of 2 miles per dollar spent across all purchases but features a heartier welcome bonus, a $300 annual travel credit when you book through Capital One Travel and complimentary travel perks like lounge access.

How we rate

We chose the best business credit cards for startups based on various factors such as the welcome bonus, earning rates and redemption options. Our picks are solid options for those looking to get their new business off the ground and earn rewards on the purchases associated with that venture. To learn about how TPG evaluates and chooses cards for our roundups, check out our methodology here.
Welcome bonusThe best cards for startups come with good welcome bonuses that can maximize value for your business.
Annual feeOur picks for business cards feature annual fees to align with all budget sizes.
Earning ratesWe chose cards with elevated earning rates across various startup spending categories.
Redemption optionsOur best cards have multiple redemption options that give flexibility for those with a startup.
Added benefitsThe value of additional perks on the card to help with your startup was factored into our ratings.

Ask our experts

What's your favorite business card for startups — and why?

How to choose a startup business credit card

Finding the correct business credit card for startups is based on several factors. These include a card’s annual fee, welcome offer, bonus earning categories, perks and benefits. Startups looking for a business credit card should review their expenditures and what benefits they are looking for in a credit card, such as travel perks, purchase protections, or the ability to earn rewards across broad categories. After a startup has determined what they need, then they can shop around to see which credit card is a good fit.
Here are some of the main points to consider when choosing a business card for your startup:
  • 1
    Sign-up bonus
    Select a card with a minimum spend requirement that is achievable for your startup to earn the sign-up bonus. The welcome bonus is a large part of a card's value since it often offers more points than can be earned through general spending.
  • 2
    Annual fee
    If your card features an annual fee, it is important to consider if the perks and benefits for your startup outweigh it.
  • 3
    Bonus categories
    Choose a card for your startup that features elevated earning rates on your regular spending.
How to pick a strategy for your small-business credit cards - The Points Guy
Get the most out of the card you choose for your startup

Pros + cons of business cards for startups

Pros

  • Using a startup credit card responsibly can help you build your business credit score
  • Startup credit cards can earn rewards in the form of points, miles or cash back on every dollar you spend on your business
  • Many startup business cards provide purchase, theft and fraud protection
  • Startup business credit cards can provide business-friendly perks like travel insurance, complimentary hotel stays and bonus points on expenses related to your startup
  • Opening a startup credit card can separate personal and business expenses

Cons

  • Credit cards can encourage overspending
  • Carrying a balance on your startup credit card could damage your business credit score
  • The cost of borrowing on startup credit cards is higher than traditional loans
  • You’re still personally responsible for any debt incurred on a startup business card
  • Having too many card applications can negatively affect your credit score

Frequently asked questions

Startups typically have a limited credit history, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get a business credit card. Most issuers will allow individuals to apply for business cards using a social security number, but that requires a personal guarantee — an agreement where the applicant agrees to personally cover any debt on the business card. Even in cases of business failure, the personal guarantor is responsible for the debt.

This means that your personal credit history greatly affects your eligibility for a business credit card.

Applying for a business credit card is not a complicated process being that business credit card applications ask for information similar to personal card applications. Most business credit cards offer online applications and usually provide notice of approval or rejection right away. 

The best business credit card for startups is one that best suits the spending needs and redemption options for business owners. Those looking for bonus earning categories to match their spending habits will be able to maximize the specific startup credit card they’re utilizing. 

Most of the cards we've selected for business owners are recommended for those with good to excellent credit scores.

Small business credit cards are often given to companies with minimal credit history based on a personal credit score. However, established businesses should seek to create a dedicated business score to access better loans and lines of credit. For more information on how to build business credit, you can check out our full guide here.