Save money and be informed. CreditDonkey is a credit card comparison and financial education website. Our free online service is made possible through financial relationships with some of the cards mentioned here. Opinions expressed here are CreditDonkey or author's alone, not those of card issuers, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by card issuers. We may receive compensation if you apply for a card through links in our content.

McAfee SECURE sites help keep you safe from identity theft, credit card fraud, spyware, spam, viruses and online scams
Business Cards

Business Credit Card Deals: May 2013

We've compiled a list of the 8 Business Credit Card Deals currently available on CreditDonkey.

Business Credit Cards

Compare credit cards for small business and apply online
A credit card for your small business can provide a secure and convenient method of payment, help with cash flow, and let you earn rewards for your spending. Many of the cards below offer generous sign-up bonuses, business-friendly rewards categories, and perks for you and your employees. Most business credit cards with rewards programs will help you earn points or miles that you can redeem for cash back, free flights, hotel stays, or merchandise. From basic credit cards with no annual fee, to $450/year premium charge cards, there is a card for every budget and type of business.


Share this on Facebook Tweet this

How to Choose a Business Credit Card for Small Business

For small business owners, credit is vital. But with so many credit cards available that are designed for businesses, how can you decide which one is right for you and your company? Consider these factors to help you narrow down your selection:

  • If you plan to pay your balance in full each billing cycle, look to maximize rewards with a business credit card with rewards, such as airline miles or cash back.

  • If you plan to carry a balance, look for a card with a low APR. Avoid charge cards, because they usually require that your balance be paid in full each billing cycle.

Small Business Credit Card Offers

SimplyCash Business Card from American Express Cash Back with No Annual Fee: SimplyCash® Business Card from American Express offers 5% cash back at U.S. office supply stores; 5% cash back on wireless telephone services purchased directly from U.S. service providers; 3% cash back at U.S. gas stations; and 1% cash back on other purchases. Keep in mind, purchases above $12,000 in each category per rebate year will earn only 1%. There is no annual fee.

The Business Platinum Card from American Express OPEN Travel: The Business Platinum Card® from American Express OPEN offers perks for travelers such as complimentary access to 600+ participating airport lounges through Priority Pass™ Select. There is a $450 annual fee, but for frequent travelers, the travel benefits make this a worthwhile card to consider. Cardholders also enjoy the legendary 24/7 concierge service. Keep in mind that the Platinum Card is a charge card, so you'll have to pay your balance in full each month.

How to Choose

Small business owners often rely on credit for day-to-day operations, making a reliable credit card vital for keeping their company up and running. Many owners tend to lean on their personal credit card to pick up those costs. However, it’s a smart move to use a small business-oriented credit card instead. This will help keep your personal and business expenses separate, which can be a lifesaver for accounting purposes and for maintaining your personal credit score.

Keeping your personal and business finances separate when possible is a fairly easy decision. In contrast, choosing the right credit card for your small business can become overwhelming. Thankfully, here are five factors that will help you zero in on the best card for your specific needs.

  1. Credit versus Charge Card
    First, decide if you’re in the market for a small business credit card or charge card.

    Like personal credit cards, business credit cards allow you to carry a balance over into the next billing period, but with interest. This allowance gives small businesses the ability to pay off an expense over time.

    Alternatively, business charge cards usually require the balance to be paid in full during each billing cycle. This distinction typically isn't a realistic route for cash-strapped start-ups, and is better suited for more-established businesses.

  2. Credit Reporting
    One of the great benefits of a small business credit card is that it can help you establish and build your business credit rating. A strong rating will help you when you need a loan to expand your business or upgrade your equipment. Of course, a business credit card will help your business credit rating only if it’s being reported to the credit reporting bureaus. You’ll want to check to see if the credit card issuer reports to companies like Dun & Bradstreet and Experian.

  3. Cost
    As with any aspect of a small business, costs are important. Interest rates and annual fees are the two main costs associated with credit cards before you make your choice:

    • Interest Rate: Business credit cards typically have some of the lowest available rates. Keep in mind that many of the cards also come with introductory rates. Don’t forget to read the full offer details, so you’ll know what the rate will be after the introductory period.

    • Annual Fee: Most business cards have an annual fee. The fee amount can vary greatly depending upon the perks that come with the card. Generally speaking, business rewards credit cards are going to have a slightly higher annual fee to help the card issuer offset the expense of the rewards and benefits. For that reason, make sure to weigh the benefits of the card with the associated rewards.

  4. Budgeting & Cash Flow Management
    If you’re looking for ways to simplify your accounting and manage your cash flow, some small business credit cards can help. Look for cards that offer detailed statements and a variety of payment options.

    Cards that offer detailed statements usually categorize your purchases. This feature will reduce the amount of work you do in analyzing how your business spends money. It could even help you develop and refine your annual and monthly budget. You may also use it to identify seasonal spending trends.

  5. Rewards
    If you plan to pay your balance in full each billing cycle, then a rewards credit card may be a smart option for your small business. Your ability to pay on time is a critical factor, since rewards credit cards often feature a slightly higher interest rate than traditional business credit cards. There are a variety of rewards options now available with business credit cards, so consider what would most benefit your small business:

    • Cash Back: Earn cash back on a percentage of your spending

    • Travel: Earn points or miles for airlines, car rentals, and hotels. This is a great option for small businesses with employees who travel extensively

    • Reward Points: Many of the cards allow you to earn points that can be redeemed for a variety of merchandise. Evaluate the merchandise offering in terms of value for your company’s needs.

    While you’re comparing rewards options, read the fine print—take a look at expiration dates, spending caps, and any other limits that come with the rewards program. This step will help ensure that you’re choosing a card with perks that you can fully utilize.

If you pay attention to the factors above while checking out current promotional offers, you should be able to find a card you can put to work for your business.

Disclaimer: This content is not provided or commissioned by the company whose products are featured on this site. Any opinions, analyses, reviews or evaluations provided here are those of the author's alone, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by the Advertiser. This site may be compensated through the Advertiser's affiliate programs.

Which Small Business Credit Card is Right for You?

The choices when it comes to business credit cards can be daunting: low interest rate, no annual fee, discounts, fraud protection, and the plethora of rewards options. Where do you start, and how do you know which card is best for your business?


SimplyCash Business Card from American Express
Read ReviewApply for SimplyCash Business Card from American Express
Editors' Choice
Business Cards
  • With no annual membership fee, it's a smart choice for your business
  • Automatic cash back - cash back is earned on eligible purchases and automatically credited to your statement
  • 5% at U.S. office supply stores & on wireless telephone services purchased directly from U.S. service providers
  • 3% at U.S. gas stations
  • 1% on other purchases
  • Up to $12,000 in purchases in each 5% and 3% category per rebate year, then 1%.
  • Terms and limitations apply
Cash Back RewardsGas RewardsOffice RewardsCar Rental InsuranceExtended WarrantyPurchase ProtectionBaggage InsuranceIdentity Theft Assistance
Our Review: True to its name, the American Express SimplyCash Business Card gives business owners an easy way to earn cash back on purchases. This card earns cash back on virtually all purchases, as well as bonus cash back for purchases in special categories. Your cash back is automatically credited against your card balance, so you don’t have to worry about managing your rewards. Because this card doesn’t have an annual fee, it offers an inexpensive way to earn cash back... Read full review
Intro APR for PurchasesIntro APR for Balance TransferRegular APRAnnual Fee
0% on Purchases for 6, 9, or 12 months
No
12.24% - 19.24% (Variable)
N/A

Gold Delta SkyMiles Business Credit Card from American Express
Read ReviewApply for Gold Delta SkyMiles Business Credit Card from American Express
  • Get 30,000 bonus miles after you spend $500 in purchases on the Card within your first 3 months of Cardmembership
  • You can check your first bag for free and save up to $50 on a round-trip Delta flight
  • 2x miles for each dollar spent on qualifying Delta purchases and 1x mile for each dollar spent on other eligible purchases
  • Priority Boarding and 20% In-Flight Savings in the form of a statement credit on eligible purchases
  • $0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $95
  • Terms & Restrictions Apply
Introductory Bonus Airline RewardsAirline RewardsBonus Airline RewardsNo Limits on RewardsCar Rental InsuranceExtended WarrantyPurchase ProtectionBaggage InsuranceTravel Accident Insurance Emergency Card ReplacementIdentity Theft Assistance
Our Review: Business owners who want to save on air travel with Delta should check out the Gold Delta SkyMiles Business Card by American Express. The card combines great benefits – like a 30,000 mile bonus offer and a $99 Companion Certificate – with world-class American Express customer service. Below, I'll outline the features of this card, so you can decide whether the $95 annual fee is a good investment for your business... Read full review
Intro APR for PurchasesIntro APR for Balance TransferRegular APRAnnual Fee
NoneNone
15.24% - 19.24% (Variable)
$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $95

The Business Gold Rewards Card from American Express OPEN
Read ReviewApply for The Business Gold Rewards Card from American Express OPEN
  • Earn 50,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $5,000 in purchases on the Card in the first 3 months of Card membership†.
  • Earn points even faster to get more rewards for your business.
  • 3X points on airfare purchased from airlines. 2X points at US gas stations.
  • Up to $100,000 in each category per year, then 1 point.
  • Terms and limitations apply.
  • Reduce travel costs, show appreciation for employees and clients, and offset everyday expenses by using points to get something back and grow your business.
  • $0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $175.
  • †Apply online to qualify for this offer. See offer terms for details.
Introductory Bonus Reward PointsAirline RewardsPoint RewardsTravel RewardsGas RewardsNo Expiration on RewardsNo Pre-Set Spending LimitEventsCar Rental Insurance Extended WarrantyPurchase ProtectionReturn ProtectionBaggage InsuranceEmergency AssistanceEmergency Card ReplacementIdentity Theft AssistanceRoadside Assistance
Our Review: The American Express Business Gold Rewards Card is a fantastic card for established businesses. It has one of the best rewards programs on the market. New business owners should be aware of the high annual fee and tough credit score requirement. However, if your business is stable and has great credit, it is hard to find a better rewards card than the American Express Business Gold... Read full review
Card TypeAnnual Fee
Business Charge Card
$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $175

CitiBusiness ThankYou Card
Read ReviewApply for CitiBusiness ThankYou Card
  • Designed for businesses with an established credit history
  • Earn 15,000 bonus ThankYou® points after you make $3000 in purchases within 3 months of cardmembership - enough for $150 in gift cards
  • 0% intro APR on Purchases for 6 months. After that, 13.24% variable.
  • Earn 3 ThankYou® points for every dollar you spend on eligible purchases in rotating business categories.
  • Redeem points on things for your business or for yourself like business supplies, merchandise, gift cards, travel or even cash.
  • No limit to the amount of points you can earn on purchases and points don't expire.
  • No annual fee *
Introductory Bonus Reward PointsPoint RewardsBonus Reward PointsNo Expiration on RewardsNo Limits on Rewards
Our Review: Running a business is expensive. With the CitiBusiness ThankYou Card, you can earn 3 points on rotating business categories and 1 point for everything else you buy. It also offers a generous signup bonus and an anniversary bonus for cardholders that stay loyal to the program. Best of all, this card doesn’t charge an annual fee... Read full review
Intro APR for PurchasesIntro APR for Balance TransferRegular APRAnnual Fee
0% for 6 months
N/A
13.24% (Variable)
N/A

CitiBusiness / AAdvantage World MasterCard
Apply for CitiBusiness / AAdvantage World MasterCard
  • Designed for businesses with an established credit history
  • Earn 30,000 American Airlines AAdvantage® bonus miles after $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months of cardmembership*
  • First eligible checked bag free for you and up to 4 traveling companions*
  • Priority Boarding with Group 1 privileges*
  • Earn 2 AAdvantage® miles for every $1 you spend on eligible American Airlines purchases and on purchases at certain office supply, telecommunications and car rental merchants*
  • 25% Savings on eligible in-flight purchases
Introductory Bonus Airline RewardsAirline RewardsBonus Airline RewardsConcierge
Intro APR for PurchasesIntro APR for Balance TransferRegular APRAnnual Fee
N/AN/A
15.24% (Variable)
$95, waived for the first 12 months*

Starwood Preferred Guest Business Credit Card from American Express
Read ReviewApply for Starwood Preferred Guest Business Credit Card from American Express
  • Starpoints® bonus: Earn up to 25,000 bonus points: 10,000 after your first purchase and another 15,000 after you spend $5,000 within the first 6 months of Cardmembership
  • Redeem Starpoints® at over 1,100 hotels and resorts in nearly 100 countries and for flights on more than 350 airlines with SPG Flights - all with no blackout dates
  • Earn up to 5 Starpoints® for each dollar of eligible purchases charged directly with hotels and resorts participating in the Starwood Preferred Guest® program
  • Earn 1 Starpoint® for each dollar of eligible purchases
  • $0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $65
  • Terms and limitations apply
Introductory Bonus Hotel RewardsAirline RewardsHotel RewardsPoint RewardsTravel RewardsBonus Airline RewardsBonus Hotel RewardsNo Limits on RewardsExtended Warranty Purchase ProtectionReturn ProtectionTravel Accident InsuranceEmergency Card Replacement
Our Review: With its sign-up bonus, 1:1 point transfer to top frequent flyer programs, and point bonus for those transfers, the Starwood Preferred Guest card is one of the best travel rewards cards available to business owners. If you or your employees travel frequently for business, you will be able to easily offset the $65 annual fee... Read full review
Intro APR for PurchasesIntro APR for Balance TransferRegular APRAnnual Fee
NoneNone
15.24% - 19.24% (Variable)
$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $65

U.S. Bank FlexPerks Business Cash Rewards Visa Card
Read ReviewApply for U.S. Bank FlexPerks Business Cash Rewards Visa Card
  • 0% Intro APR* for 15 billing cycles on purchases and balance transfers
  • Earn 3% cash rewards on cellular, gas and purchases made at office supply stores and 1% on all other purchases
  • 25% annual bonus of your prior year's cash rewards up to $250
  • No cap on the cash rewards you can earn and they never expire
  • $0* annual fee if you make one purchase per year, otherwise $25*
Cash Back RewardsBonus Cash BackGas RewardsOffice RewardsNo Expiration on RewardsNo Limits on Rewards
Our Review: Earn rewards on purchases in common business categories such as cellular, gas, and at office supply stores with the US Bank FlexPerks Business Cash Rewards Card. Provided you make at least one purchase per year on the card, there is no annual fee... Read full review
Intro APR for PurchasesIntro APR for Balance TransferRegular APRAnnual Fee
0% for 15 months
0% for 15 months
11.99% - 17.99% (Variable)
$0 annual fee if you make one purchase per year, otherwise $25

U.S. Bank FlexPerks Business Travel Rewards Visa Card
Read ReviewApply for U.S. Bank FlexPerks Business Travel Rewards Visa Card
  • Get 17,500 bonus FlexPoints after the first $2,500 in net purchases in the first 150 days;
  • Award travel starts at just 20,000 FlexPoints (up to a $400 ticket value) on over 150 airlines with no blackout dates or redemption fees;
  • Earn one FlexPoint for every $1 of eligible net purchases charged to your card;
  • Earn two FlexPoints for every $1 spent on gas, office supplies or airline purchases – whichever you spend most on each monthly billing cycle – and on most cell phone expenses;
  • Earn Triple FlexPoints for your charitable donations;
  • Earn 5,000 FlexPoints when you refer a friend who acquires and uses the card;
  • Receive an airline allowance of up to $25 with every award travel ticket to use toward baggage fees, in-flight food or drinks and more;
  • $0 Annual Fee* the first year, and every year your company spends $24,000 on card; otherwise $55*
Introductory Bonus Reward PointsAirline RewardsPoint Rewards
Our Review: With an introductory 17,500 bonus FlexPoints after $2,500 in net purchases within the first 150 days, the U.S. Bank FlexPerks Business Travel Rewards Visa Card can help cut down on business and travel expense. Redeem reward points toward award travel - starting at 20,000 FlexPoints (up to $400 ticket value) on over 150 airlines with no blackout dates... Read full review
Intro APR for PurchasesIntro APR for Balance TransferRegular APRAnnual Fee
0% for 12 months
0% for 12 months
11.99% - 17.99% (Variable)
$0 introductory for first year, then $55

Business Green Rewards Card from American Express OPEN
Read ReviewApply for Business Green Rewards Card from American Express OPEN
  • Receive 5,000 bonus points on your first purchase
  • No pre-set spending limit* or finance charges
  • Earn one Membership Rewards® point for every dollar you spend
  • Redeem points toward top-tier rewards including travel, merchandise, office equipment, and gift cards for you or your employees
  • $0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $95
  • Terms & Restrictions Apply.
Introductory Bonus Reward PointsPoint RewardsNo Limits on RewardsNo Pre-Set Spending LimitCar Rental InsuranceBaggage InsuranceRoadside Assistance
Our Review: The American Express Business Green Card gives you a way to flexibly manage your business expenses while earning points for all kinds of rewards. This card also comes with a nice sign-up bonus for the first year to make it an even better deal. While this card charges a moderately high annual fee of $95, you’ll more than make this back in rewards as long as you use your card frequently... Read full review
Card TypeAnnual Fee
Business Charge Card
$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $95

The Business Platinum Card from American Express OPEN
Read ReviewApply for The Business Platinum Card from American Express OPEN
  • Limited Time Offer: Get 25,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $5,000 in the first three months of Card membership
  • Enroll and select a qualifying airline to receive up to $200 annually in statement credits for incidental fees, such as checked bags and in-flight refreshments, charged by the airline
  • 20% Travel Bonus when using Membership Rewards® Pay with Points
  • Take advantage of 40 premium benefits to help power your business
  • Complimentary access to 600+ participating airport lounges through Priority Pass™ Select
  • Business Platinum Concierge is like your own assistant, ready to help you with just about anything personal or professional, 24 hours a day
  • Purchasing power that can adjust as your business evolves
  • Terms & Restrictions Apply*
Introductory Bonus Reward PointsAirline RewardsPoint RewardsTravel RewardsNo Limits on RewardsNo Pre-Set Spending LimitConciergeCar Rental InsuranceExtended Warranty Purchase ProtectionReturn ProtectionBaggage InsuranceTravel Accident InsuranceEmergency Card ReplacementIdentity Theft AssistanceRoadside Assistance
Our Review: The Business Platinum Card from American Express offers top-of-the-line benefits—including Airport Club Access and a $200 Airline Fee Credit—to business travelers. The card also features a rewards program and a whole suite of protection that covers travel accidents and business purchases... Read full review
Card TypeAnnual Fee
Business Charge Card
$450

The Plum Card from American Express OPEN
Read ReviewApply for The Plum Card from American Express OPEN
  • Flexible Payment Options: Get a 1.5% discount for paying early or up to 60 days to pay without interest, or both each month
  • Do Business On Your Terms
  • $0 introductory annual fee for your first year, then $250.
  • No annual fee for Additional Cards
  • Terms & Restrictions Apply
No Pre-Set Spending LimitDiscountCar Rental InsuranceExtended WarrantyPurchase ProtectionReturn ProtectionBaggage Insurance$0 Fraud LiabilityIdentity Theft Assistance Roadside Assistance
Our Review: With flexible payment options, a unique discount for prompt payment and access to travel and business protections, the Plum Card offers the great benefits businesses have come to expect from American Express. Although it has an annual fee, this card can be a great value for business owners looking for a flexible charge card for managing cash flow... Read full review
Card TypeAnnual Fee
Business Charge Card
$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $250

Disclaimer: This content is not provided or commissioned by the company whose products are featured on this site. Any opinions, analyses, reviews or evaluations provided here are those of the author's alone, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by the Advertiser. This site may be compensated through the Advertiser's affiliate programs.


Business Benefits

What are the Benefits of Business Credit Cards?

With increasing demand from businesses, credit cards have become the "it" product for small business financing. The use of credit cards topped the list of financing sources for small businesses, according to a 2008 survey by the National Small Business Association. Check out some benefits of business credit cards below.

  • Accessing a Cash Source: Cards provide an immediate, convenient source of cash. They can be used to pay vendors, order supplies and cover travel expenses.

  • Developing Business Credibility: Help establish a successful record and credit history until more capital is readily available.

    After you've taken the leap to open a small business, you need to maintain your business credibility by being financially responsible. Credit cards can help you do that by allowing you to pay periodic expenses on time without tarnishing your relationships with vendors.

  • Earning Rewards for Your Bottom Line: The perks of most cards can impact your business in a positive way. Today’s credit cards allow you to gain rewards (including cash back, airline miles, and discounts), which can help your business grow.

  • Building a Solid Credit History: Help establish a respectable credit history. One option for businesses is a card with a high spending limit that will allow you to carry a balance. With a balance, payments are more manageable when cash flow is not certain.

  • Record Keeping: Allows for better tracking of purchases. Credit card statements also allow you to monitor your records, employee spending, and any changes to the terms of your agreement.

  • Managing Tax Matters: Credit card statements help you sort your expenses come tax time, and they may also come in handy when a tax bill needs to be paid and your cash flow is dry. While it’s not advisable that you do so often, the Internal Revenue Service has begun accepting credit cards for tax payments.

  • Enjoying Increased Security: Many credit card companies protect the user against poor merchandise and undelivered service, giving the small business owner peace of mind about inventory purchases and new vendors.


Articles on Business

    Infographic: Veteran Business Owners

    Veteran-Owned Businesses Are on Active Duty

    May 15, 2013 - By Kelly Teh - Tips
    What do small business owners need to succeed? Among other things, they must have discipline, leadership abilities, and determination. So it’s not surprising that veterans, who’ve spent their time in the military honing those skills, are more ...
    Infographic: Asian Business

    Asian-Owned Businesses: A Thriving Segment of the U.S. Economy

    May 8, 2013 - By Kelly Teh - Tips
    From corner grocery stores to major companies, Asian-American entrepreneurs are helping to make the U.S. thrive. Asian-owned businesses based in the United States employ millions of people and pump billions of dollars into the nation’s economy ...
    Infographic: How to Make Customers Happy

    Infographic: Increase Customer Satisfaction and Make Customers Happy

    April 3, 2013 - By Leah N - Tips
    More than half of small businesses fail within the first five years, according to the Small Business Administration. Make customers happy and beat those odds.

    Study: Industries with Low Barriers to Entry

    March 18, 2013 - By Livia Gershon - Tips
    Barriers to entry are an important consideration for entrepreneurs entering a market. Among the most significant challenges for a new business are startup costs, government red tape, challenges around hiring employees, and competition from more ...
    Infographic: Immigrant Entrepreneurs

    Immigrant Entrepreneurs: Drive the Economy

    March 11, 2013 - By Kelly Teh - Tips
    They may be small in number, but immigrants are starting businesses at a higher rate than entrepreneurs who were born in the United States. Recent data from the SBA and Census Bureau shows a 0.62% rate of business formation among immigrants, ...
    Portrait of a Freelancer

    Portrait of a Freelancer

    March 6, 2013 - By Naomi Mannino - Tips
    Many people assume that the growing workforce of freelance workers is primarily made up of stay-at-home moms who are either trying to maintain their professional skills or supplement their growing family’s income. We think of a young woman ...
    Austin, Texas

    Study: Best Cities to Start a Business

    February 27, 2013 - By Leah N - Tips
    Starting a business is a tough task no matter where you are, but some cities are more startup friendly than others. Choosing one of the cities below as the location for your business won’t guarantee success, but it will give you better access to ...

    Is Credit Card Interest Tax Deductible?

    February 6, 2013 - By Mike Foster - Tips
    In one word: yes. In more than one word: yes, but only for business expenses.
    Infographic: Black Business Thriving

    Black Businesses Are on an Upward Trend

    February 4, 2013 - By Ashyia Hill - Tips
    Of all the minority groups, African-American owned businesses posted the most gains in the early 2000s. Our new infographic explores the gains the black community achieved, as well as some tips on how those who own small businesses can continue ...

About CreditDonkey®
CreditDonkey is a credit card comparison website. We publish credit card reviews, deals, and tips to help you make informed credit decisions.

IMPORTANT LEGAL DISCLAIMERS. READ CAREFULLY.
Disclaimer: This content is not provided or commissioned by the credit card issuer. Opinions expressed here are author’s alone, not those of the credit card issuer, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by the credit card issuer. This site may be compensated through the credit card issuer Affiliate Program.