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Early financial hurdles can make or break a fledgling enterprise, so as a new business owner you need support in your corner. The right business credit card can pack a real punch and give your business the momentum it needs. Business credit cards can help you expand your purchasing power and tackle initial setup costs over time with introductory 0% APR periods. They can also help you earn valuable rewards and score big welcome bonuses as well as provide expense management tools. Here is our list of the best business credit cards for startups in 2024.

Best business credit cards for startups and new businesses

All information about The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express, Amazon Prime Business American Express Card, American Express® Business Gold Card, The American Express Blue Business Cash™ Card has been collected independently by Blueprint.

Why trust our credit card experts

Our team of experts evaluates hundreds of credit cards and analyzes thousands of data points to help you find the best card for your situation. We use a data-driven methodology to determine each rating. Advertisers do not influence our editorial content. You can read more about our methodology below.

  • 55+ cards analyzed.
  • 10+ data points considered.
  • 5-step fact-checking process.

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Ink Business Cash® Credit Card

Ink Business Cash® Credit Card
Apply Now
On Chase Bank USA, NA’s secure website

Welcome 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

Annual fee

$0

Regular APR

18.49% – 24.49% Variable

Credit score

Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

(700 – 749) Good, Excellent
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 card purchases with no limit to the amount you can earn.

Editor’s Take

Pros
  • No annual fee.
  • Rich rewards rate in areas where businesses are likely to spend the most.
  • Employee cards at no additional cost.
Cons
  • There’s a foreign transaction fee.
  • Bonus categories are capped at $25,000 in spending each account anniversary year.
  • Lackluster rewards outside of bonus categories.
The Ink Business Cash Credit Card earns exceptional cash-back rewards on typical office spending categories and strong rewards in other areas, too. Add in a big welcome bonus, plus travel and purchase coverages and you’ve got a top-notch small business card.

Card details

  • 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
  • 10% Business Relationship Bonus If you have the Ink Business Cash card plus a Chase Business Checking account on your first card anniversary
  • 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 welcome bonus

Ink Business Cash® Credit Card

Ink Business Cash® Credit Card
BLUEPRINT RATING
Our ratings are based on specific use cases for each card. We compared this card to others in the same category and developed our rankings based on this criteria, along with our editorial input. Note that although we chose this card as the best in its category, the right card for you will depend on your own financial circumstances.
Apply Now
On Chase Bank USA, NA’s secure website

Welcome 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

Annual fee

$0

Regular APR

18.49% – 24.49% Variable

Credit score

Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

(700 – 749) Good, Excellent
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 card purchases with no limit to the amount you can earn.

Editor’s Take

Pros
  • No annual fee.
  • Rich rewards rate in areas where businesses are likely to spend the most.
  • Employee cards at no additional cost.
Cons
  • There’s a foreign transaction fee.
  • Bonus categories are capped at $25,000 in spending each account anniversary year.
  • Lackluster rewards outside of bonus categories.
The Ink Business Cash Credit Card earns exceptional cash-back rewards on typical office spending categories and strong rewards in other areas, too. Add in a big welcome bonus, plus travel and purchase coverages and you’ve got a top-notch small business card.

Card details

  • 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
  • 10% Business Relationship Bonus If you have the Ink Business Cash card plus a Chase Business Checking account on your first card anniversary
  • 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 business credit card for startups and new businesses

The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express

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The information for the The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express
BLUEPRINT RATING
Our ratings are based on specific use cases for each card. We compared this card to others in the same category and developed our rankings based on this criteria, along with our editorial input. Note that although we chose this card as the best in its category, the right card for you will depend on your own financial circumstances.

Welcome 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.

Earn 15,000 points

Annual fee

$0

Regular APR

18.49% – 26.49% Variable

Credit score

Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

(700 – 749) Good, Excellent
Earn 2X points on the first $50,000 in purchases each year; Earn unlimited 1X points on purchases thereafter.

Editor’s Take

Pros
  • No annual fee.
  • Simple rewards program.
  • Membership Rewards points can be taken as cash back or used to book travel.
Cons
  • Elevated rewards rate is capped at $50,000 in annual spending.
  • Charges foreign transaction fee.
  • Few travel or purchase protections.
The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express * The information for the The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. offers a number of features many businesses will find appealing: a simple rewards rate on everyday business purchases such as office supplies or client dinners, a low introductory APR offer and a suite of expense management tools.

Card details

  • Annual fee: $0.
  • Rewards: Earn 2 Membership Rewards® points per $1 on everyday business purchases up to the first $50,000 spent per year, then 1 point per $1 on all other purchases.
  • Welcome bonus: 15,000 Membership Rewards points after spending $3,000 in eligible purchases in the first three months of card membership.
  • APR: 0% intro APR on purchases for the first 12 months, then a variable APR of 18.49% to 26.49% applies.
  • Perks and benefits: This card comes with car rental loss and damage insurance, extended warranty and purchase protection policies. It also features extensive expense management tools.

All information about The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express has been collected independently by Blueprint.

Best for fair credit

Capital One Spark 1% Classic

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The information for the Capital One Spark 1% Classic has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Capital One Spark 1% Classic
BLUEPRINT RATING
Our ratings are based on specific use cases for each card. We compared this card to others in the same category and developed our rankings based on this criteria, along with our editorial input. Note that although we chose this card as the best in its category, the right card for you will depend on your own financial circumstances.

Welcome bonus

N/A

N/A

Annual fee

$0

Regular APR

29.99% (Variable)

Credit score

Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Average, Fair, Limited
Earn unlimited 1% cash back on every purchase; earn unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel

Editor’s Take

Pros
  • No annual fees.
  • No foreign transaction fees.
  • Available to those with less-than-excellent credit.
Cons
  • High standard APR.
  • Limited rewards.
  • No welcome bonus or low introductory APR.
For business owners who have fair credit and aren’t eligible for cards requiring good to excellent credit, the Spark 1% classic offers great rewards on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One and decent rewards on everyday spending.

Card details

  • Annual fee: $0.
  • Rewards: 1% cash back on every purchase and 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel.
  • Welcome bonus: None.
  • APR: 29.99% variable APR on purchases and balance transfers.
  • Other perks and benefits: No foreign transaction fees, $0 fraud liability, free employee cards, roadside assistance and access to Capital One Travel.

Best for 0% intro APR

U.S. Bank Business Platinum Card

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The information for the U.S. Bank Business Platinum Card has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

U.S. Bank Business Platinum Card
BLUEPRINT RATING
Our ratings are based on specific use cases for each card. We compared this card to others in the same category and developed our rankings based on this criteria, along with our editorial input. Note that although we chose this card as the best in its category, the right card for you will depend on your own financial circumstances.

Welcome bonus

N/A

N/A

Annual fee

$0

Regular APR

17.24% – 26.24% (Variable)

Credit score

Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

(700 – 749) Good, Excellent
The U.S. Bank Business Platinum does not offer rewards on purchases.

Editor’s Take

Pros
  • Lengthy low APR on both new purchases and balance transfers.
  • No annual fee.
Cons
  • Little benefit to the card once the intro APR offer expires.
  • 3% balance transfer fee.
  • No rewards.
The main event with the U.S. Bank Business Platinum is its introductory low APR on purchases and balance transfers. If you’re seeking to tame your debt, this card delivers. a solution.

Card details

  • Annual fee: $0.
  • Rewards: None.
  • Welcome bonus: None.
  • APR: 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 18 billing cycles, followed by a variable APR of 17.24% to 26.24%. A balance transfer fee of either 3% of each transfer or $5 minimum, whichever is greater, applies.
  • Perks and benefits: None.

Best for flexible payment terms

Amazon Business Prime American Express Card

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The information for the Amazon Business Prime American Express Card has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Amazon Business Prime American Express Card
BLUEPRINT RATING
Our ratings are based on specific use cases for each card. We compared this card to others in the same category and developed our rankings based on this criteria, along with our editorial input. Note that although we chose this card as the best in its category, the right card for you will depend on your own financial circumstances.

Welcome bonus

Get an Amazon.com Gift Card upon approval for the Amazon Business Prime American Express Card.

Earn up to $125 back

Annual fee

$0

Regular APR

19.49% – 27.49% variable

Credit score

Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

(700 – 749) Good, Excellent
Earn 5% Back or 90 Days Terms on eligible U.S. purchases at Amazon Business, AWS, Amazon.com and Whole Foods Market with an eligible Prime membership; Earn 2% Back at U.S. restaurants, U.S. gas stations, and on wireless telephone services purchased directly from U.S. service providers; Earn 1% Back on all other purchases

Editor’s Take

Pros
  • No annual fee.
  • No foreign transaction fees.
  • Great rewards on Amazon purchases, including Amazon Business purchases.
Cons
  • No low introductory APR period.
  • Best value requires significant spending within Amazon or Whole Foods Market.
The Amazon Business Prime Amex earns powerful rewards for businesses that can fulfill most of their purchasing needs via Amazon and are willing to pay for an Amazon Business Prime membership. The ability to choose either cash-back back rewards or 90 days to pay interest free on U.S. purchases can be a boon for businesses who occasionally need extra time to pay their bill.

Card details

  • Annual fee: $0.
  • Rewards: 5% back in rewards on the first $120,000 spent each calendar year or 90 Days Terms on eligible U.S. purchases at Amazon Business, AWS, Amazon.com and Whole Foods Market with an eligible Prime membership. Earn 2% at U.S. restaurants, U.S. gas stations, and on wireless telephone services purchased directly from U.S. service providers and 1% on other purchases.
  • Welcome bonus: Earn a $125 Amazon.com gift card upon approval.
  • APR: 19.49% to 27.49% variable APR on purchases.
  • Foreign transaction fees: None.
  • Other perks and benefits: Amazon Business Enhanced Data Views, Amazon Shop with Points, connect your account to QuickBooks, vendor pay with Bill.com, baggage insurance coverage, car rental loss and damage insurance, extended warranty, purchase protection.

All information about Amazon Business Prime American Express Card has been collected independently by Blueprint.

Best for well-funded startups

Brex Card

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The information for the Brex Card has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Brex Card
BLUEPRINT RATING
Our ratings are based on specific use cases for each card. We compared this card to others in the same category and developed our rankings based on this criteria, along with our editorial input. Note that although we chose this card as the best in its category, the right card for you will depend on your own financial circumstances.

Welcome bonus

10,000 points when you spend $3,000 on your Brex card within your first three months

10,000 points

Annual fee

$0

Regular APR

N/A

Credit score

Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

No Credit Check
Get 10-20x higher limits than traditional business credit cards while earning rewards and cash back on everything you spend, like 7x on rideshare and 2x on recurring software (credit card bill paid monthly).

Editor’s Take

Pros
  • Brex has no impact on your personal credit score.
  • Elevated rewards across a wide swath of business expenses.
  • No interest charges.
Cons
  • Charges are automatically paid daily from your account balance.
  • The balance has to be paid daily.
  • No introductory financing offers.
Brex is a unique product that allows startups that meet certain criteria, such as more than $1 million in revenue or more than $500,000 in cash reserves, to qualify for their corporate card. Those that fit the profile will have access to generous rewards and a wide array of benefits.

Card details

  • Annual fee: $0.
  • Rewards: 7 points per $1 on rideshare, 4 points per $1 on travel booked through Brex Travel, 3 points per $1 on restaurants, 2 points per $1 on recurring software and 1 point per $ on everything else.
  • Welcome bonus: 10,000 points after spending $3,000 on purchases within the first three months of account opening. Available only to Brex Cash customers who make daily card payments.
  • APR: None.
  • Perks and benefits: Multiple rewards redemption choices, rental car insurance, integration with multiple software and bookkeeping programs, thousands of dollars worth of potential credits and discounts with various companies.

Best for gas spending

Wyndham Rewards Earner® Business Card

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The information for the Wyndham Rewards Earner® Business Card has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Wyndham Rewards Earner® Business Card
BLUEPRINT RATING
Our ratings are based on specific use cases for each card. We compared this card to others in the same category and developed our rankings based on this criteria, along with our editorial input. Note that although we chose this card as the best in its category, the right card for you will depend on your own financial circumstances.

Welcome bonus

Earn up to 100,000 bonus points, enough for up to 13 free nights at participating properties — Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first 90 days and earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $15,000 on purchases within the first 12 months. Free nights can require up to 30,000 points per bedroom at participating properties and are subject to availability. Resort fees may apply and cannot be paid with points.

Earn up to 100,000 bonus points

Annual fee

$95

Regular APR

21.24%, 25.24% or 30.24% variable

Credit score

Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

(700 – 749) Good, Excellent
Earn 8 points per $1 spent on Hotels By Wyndham and gas purchases. Earn 5 points per $1 spent on marketing, advertising and utility purchases. Earn 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases (excluding Wyndham Timeshare resort down payments).

Editor’s Take

Pros
  • Eye-popping rewards on spending at the pump.
  • Generous rewards within the hotel brand.
  • Receive top-tier Diamond status automatically.
Cons
  • $95 annual fee.
  • Wyndham properties are mostly value-branded hotels.
  • Non-Wyndham travel earns only 1 point per $1.

Card details

  • Annual fee: $95.
  • Rewards: 8 points per $1 spent on Hotels By Wyndham and gas purchases, 5 points per $1 on marketing, advertising and utility purchases and 1 point per $1 on all other purchases.
  • Welcome bonus: 50,000 points after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first 90 days plus an additional 50,000 points after spending $15,000 on purchases within the first 12 months of account opening. Free nights can require up to 30,000 points per bedroom at participating properties and are subject to availability. Resort fees may apply and cannot be paid with points.
  • APR: 0% intro APR for six billing cycles from the transaction date on all qualifying Wyndham Timeshare purchases. The standard APR of 21.24%, 25.24% or 30.24% variable applies to purchases and balance transfers. A balance transfer fee of either $5 or 3% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater, applies.
  • Perks and benefits: No foreign transaction fees, receive Wyndham Rewards Diamond member level and enjoy suite upgrades, welcome amenity at check-in, and more, anniversary bonus of 15,000 bonus points each anniversary year—enough for up to two free nights at participating hotels every year, redeem 10% fewer Wyndham Rewards points for go free® awards, so you earn your free nights faster.

Best for travel rewards

American Express® Business Gold Card

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The information for the American Express® Business Gold Card has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

American Express® Business Gold Card
BLUEPRINT RATING
Our ratings are based on specific use cases for each card. We compared this card to others in the same category and developed our rankings based on this criteria, along with our editorial input. Note that although we chose this card as the best in its category, the right card for you will depend on your own financial circumstances.

Welcome bonus

Earn 70,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $10,000 on eligible purchases with the Business Gold Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.

Earn 70,000 points

Annual fee

$375

Regular APR

19.49% – 28.49% Variable

Credit score

Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

(700 – 749) Good, Excellent
Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points in the 2 select categories where you spend the most each month (4X points applies to the first $150,000 in combined purchases from these 2 categories each calendar year, then earn 1 point per dollar); Earn 3X points on flights and prepaid hotels booked on amextravel.com using your Business Gold Card. Earn 1X points on all other purchases.

Editor’s Take

Pros
  • Earn big rewards on purchases from the top two business categories you spend the most on each month.
  • Benefits to give you peace of mind while traveling and shopping.
Cons
  • $375 annual fee.
  • Elevated rewards rate is subject to an annual spending cap.
  • No introductory APR offer.
The American Express Business Gold Card earns big rewards on airfare and other select categories. For frequent travelers, the suite of travel and various protections plus a lack of foreign transaction fees can make this card well worth the annual price tag.

Card details

  • Annual fee: $375.
  • Rewards: 4 Membership Rewards points per $1 on up to $150,000 in combined purchases each calendar year on the 2 select categories your business spends the most each month, 3 points per $1 on flights and prepaid hotels booked on amextravel.com and 1 point per $1 for other purchases.
  • Welcome bonus: 70,000 Membership Rewards points after spending $10,000 on purchases in the first three months of card membership.
  • APR: 19.49% to 28.49% variable APR.
  • Perks and benefits: This card includes baggage insurance, car rental insurance and trip delay coverage. You also receive extended warranty and purchase protection.

All information about American Express® Business Gold Card has been collected independently by Blueprint.

Best charge card

Capital One Spark 2% Cash Plus

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The information for the Capital One Spark 2% Cash Plus has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Capital One Spark 2% Cash Plus
BLUEPRINT RATING
Our ratings are based on specific use cases for each card. We compared this card to others in the same category and developed our rankings based on this criteria, along with our editorial input. Note that although we chose this card as the best in its category, the right card for you will depend on your own financial circumstances.

Welcome bonus

Earn a one-time cash bonus of $1,200 once you spend $30,000 in the first 3 months.

Earn a $1,200 cash bonus

Annual fee

$150

Regular APR

See Terms

Credit score

Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

(750 – 850) Excellent
Earn unlimited 2% cash back on all purchases. Plus, earn unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel

Editor’s Take

Pros
  • Unlimited, generous and easy-to-track rewards.
  • Get the $150 annual fee refunded every year you spend at least $150,000.
  • No preset spending limit.
Cons
  • No ability to carry a balance.
  • $150 annual fee.
  • You’d have to spend $7,500 annually to break even with the $150 annual fee.
For big-spending businesses that can pay their balance in full each. month, the Capital One Spark 2% Cash Plus * The information for the Capital One Spark 2% Cash Plus has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. card offers outstanding rewards.

Card details

  • Annual fee: $150.
  • Rewards: 2% cash back on every purchase and 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel.
  • Welcome bonus: $1,200 cash bonus after spending $30,000 in the first three months of account opening.
  • APR: There is no APR because the balance is due in full every month. If the bill is paid late, a 2.99% late fee will be charged each month.
  • Perks and benefits: Get the $150 annual fee refunded every year you spend at least $150,000, extended warranty, free employee cards.

Best for smaller businesses and independent ventures

The American Express Blue Business Cash™ Card

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The information for the The American Express Blue Business Cash™ Card has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

The American Express Blue Business Cash™ Card
BLUEPRINT RATING
Our ratings are based on specific use cases for each card. We compared this card to others in the same category and developed our rankings based on this criteria, along with our editorial input. Note that although we chose this card as the best in its category, the right card for you will depend on your own financial circumstances.

Welcome bonus

Earn a $250 statement credit after you make $3,000 in purchases on your Card in your first 3 months.

Earn $250

Annual fee

$0

Regular APR

18.49% – 26.49% Variable

Credit score

Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

(700 – 749) Good, Excellent
Earn 2% cash back on all eligible purchases on up to $50,000 per calendar year; Earn 1% cash back on all purchases thereafter.

Editor’s Take

Pros
  • Simple and automatic cash-back rewards.
  • Pay no annual fee.
  • Receive valuable cardholder benefits.
Cons
  • Cash-back rate decreases after your first $50,000 spent each year.
  • There’s a foreign transaction fee.
  • Bigger spenders may fare better with a different card.
For small businesses that want to earn simple cash back, it’s difficult to beat the Amex Blue Business Cash Card. The card earns a competitive flat rate on every purchase (until you hit the annual spending cap) and those earnings are automatically credited to your credit card account for fuss-free savings.

Card details

  • Annual fee: $0.
  • Rewards: Earn 2% cash back on all eligible purchases (automatically rewarded via statement credits), up to $50,000 per calendar year, then 1%.
  • Welcome bonus: $250 statement credit after spending $3,000 in purchases in the first three months of card membership.
  • APR: 0% intro APR on purchases for the first 12 months, then a 18.49% to 26.49% variable APR.
  • Foreign transaction fees: 2.7% of each transaction after conversion to US dollars.
  • Perks and benefits: Buy above your credit limit with Expanded Buying Power (terms apply); car rental loss and damage insurance; Global Assist Hotline when traveling more than 100 miles from home; free employee cards; extended warranty; purchase protection.

All information about The American Express Blue Business Cash™ Card has been collected independently by Blueprint.

Compare the best credit cards for startups and new businesses for 2024

Credit Card
Credit score
Best For
Annual Fee
Welcome Bonus
Good, Excellent (700 – 749)
Best welcome bonus
$0
Earn up to $750 bonus cash back  

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.

Good, Excellent (700 – 749)
Best business credit card for startups and new businesses
$0
Earn 15,000 points  

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.

Average, Fair, Limited
Best for fair credit
$0
N/A  

N/A

Good, Excellent (700 – 749)
Best for 0% intro APR
$0
N/A  

N/A

Good, Excellent (700 – 749)
Best for flexible payment terms
$0
Earn up to $125 back  

Get an Amazon.com Gift Card upon approval for the Amazon Business Prime American Express Card.

No Credit Check
Best for well-funded startups
$0
10,000 points  

10,000 points when you spend $3,000 on your Brex card within your first three months

Good, Excellent (700 – 749)
Best for gas spending
$95
Earn up to 100,000 bonus points  

Earn up to 100,000 bonus points, enough for up to 13 free nights at participating properties — Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first 90 days and earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $15,000 on purchases within the first 12 months. Free nights can require up to 30,000 points per bedroom at participating properties and are subject to availability. Resort fees may apply and cannot be paid with points.

Good, Excellent (700 – 749)
Best for travel rewards
$375
Earn 70,000 points  

Earn 70,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $10,000 on eligible purchases with the Business Gold Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.

Excellent (750 – 850)
Best charge card
$150
Earn a $1,200 cash bonus  

Earn a one-time cash bonus of $1,200 once you spend $30,000 in the first 3 months.

Good, Excellent (700 – 749)
Best for smaller businesses and independent ventures
$0
Earn $250  

Earn a $250 statement credit after you make $3,000 in purchases on your Card in your first 3 months.

All information about Amazon Business Prime American Express Card, American Express® Business Gold Card, The American Express Blue Business Cash™ Card and The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express has been collected independently by Blueprint.

Best business credit cards for startups and new businesses of April 2024
Best welcome bonus: Ink Business Cash® Credit Card

Those whose business spending aligns with the bonus categories on this card can reap generous rewards at an affordable annual price. The card also comes with a large welcome bonus and some valuable travel and purchase protections. But bigger spenders should be mindful of the categories and spending caps to get the most out of the card.

Annual fee: $0.
Rewards: 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% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at gas stations and restaurants each account anniversary year, and 1% cash back on all other purchases.
Welcome bonus: $350 after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first three months and an additional $400 after spending $6,000 on purchases in the first six months after account opening.
Foreign transaction fees: 3% of each transaction in U.S. dollars.
Other benefits and drawbacks: This card includes primary auto rental collision damage waiver, purchase protection and extended warranty protection. And if you also have another premium Chase Ultimate Rewards® card, like the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card or Chase Sapphire Reserve®, then you can combine these points and your rewards can be transferred to airline and hotel partners.

Best business credit card for startups and new businesses: The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express *

The information for the The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

For small business owners who want to earn simple and generous rewards without shelling out for an annual fee, The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express * The information for the The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. (terms apply) is an excellent choice. Just be aware that if your company spending goes above and beyond the $50,000 spending cap, another card could yield more value.

Annual fee: $0.
Rewards: 2 Membership Rewards® points per $1 on everyday business purchases up to the first $50,000 spent per year, then 1 point per $1 on all other purchases.
Welcome bonus: 15,000 Membership Rewards points after spending $3,000 in eligible purchases in the first three months of card membership.
Foreign transaction fees: 2.7% of each transaction after conversion to U.S. dollars.
Other benefits and drawbacks: This card comes with secondary car rental loss and damage insurance¹, extended warranty² and purchase protection² policies. It also features extensive expense management tools. But the real benefit is in earning Membership Rewards points without paying an annual fee. These points can be transferred to airline and hotel partners at a potentially greater value than just redeeming your earnings for cash back.

All information about The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express has been collected independently by Blueprint.

Best for fair credit: Capital One Spark 1% Classic *

The information for the Capital One Spark 1% Classic has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Every new business has some expenditures, but when your personal credit is just fair it can be hard to qualify for a business credit card. The Capital One Spark 1% Classic * The information for the Capital One Spark 1% Classic has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. fills that niche by catering to those whose credit is in that middle ground between “meh” and “wow”. The 1% cash-back rewards are a nice extra, too.

Annual fee: $0.
Rewards: 1% cash back on every purchase and 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel.
Welcome bonus: None.
Foreign transaction fees: None.
Other benefits and drawbacks: This card offers cash back and comes with extended warranty coverage. But its primary benefit is that it’s one of the few small business cards that’s available to applicants with fair credit.

Best for 0% intro APR: U.S. Bank Business Platinum Card *

The information for the U.S. Bank Business Platinum Card has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Many business credit cards offer low intro APR offers on purchases, but it’s less common to find balance transfer offers. The U.S. Bank Business Platinum card offers both, making it a sensible choice for those in need.

Annual fee: $0.
Rewards: None.
Welcome bonus: None.
Foreign transaction fees: 3% of each foreign transaction.
Other benefits and drawbacks: This card offers a 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 18 billing cycles, followed by a variable APR of 17.24% to 26.24%. A balance transfer fee of either 3% of each transfer or $5 minimum, whichever is greater, applies, but you may be able to find similar offers on cards that have more to offer once the intro period expires.

Best for flexible payment terms: Amazon Business Prime American Express Card *

The information for the Amazon Business Prime American Express Card has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Those who already find value in their Amazon Business Prime membership are likely to find exceptional value in carrying the Amazon Business Prime American Express Card * The information for the Amazon Business Prime American Express Card has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. . There’s no downside to earning generous cash back on your spending or having the option to pay your purchase off over time without interest for 90 days.

Annual fee: $0 (but a Business Prime membership is required).
Rewards: 5% back in rewards on the first $120,000 spent each calendar year or 90 Days Terms on eligible U.S. purchases at Amazon Business, AWS, Amazon.com and Whole Foods Market with an eligible Prime membership. Earn 2% at U.S. restaurants, U.S. gas stations, and on wireless telephone services purchased directly from U.S. service providers and 1% on other purchases.
Welcome bonus: Get a $125 Amazon.com gift card upon approval.
Foreign transaction fees: None.
Other benefits and drawbacks: This card includes a generous suite of benefits including baggage insurance², secondary car rental loss and damage insurance¹, extended warranty coverage² and purchase protection². Like any cobranded card, however, if you don’t spend a significant amount within the Amazon ecosphere, this card is not the best choice for your business.

All information about Amazon Business Prime American Express Card has been collected independently by Blueprint.

Best for well-funded startups: Brex Card *

The information for the Brex Card has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

The Brex Card * The information for the Brex Card has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. is unique in that it’s not a typical corporate card. A new company or business that meets their funding criteria may be eligible to apply and there’s no personal guarantee requirement as with most other business cards. This makes it a great choice for young or international company founders who may not have a strong credit profile yet.

Annual fee: $0.
Rewards: 7 points per $1 on rideshare, 4 points per $1 on travel booked through Brex Travel, 3 points per $1 on restaurants, 2 points per $1 on recurring software and 1 point per $ on everything else.
Welcome bonus: 10,000 points after spending $3,000 on purchases within the first three months of account opening.
Foreign transaction fees: None.
Other benefits and drawbacks: This card offers an excellent rewards program that allows you to transfer points to airline miles or use your rewards for nontraditional business expenses like billboard advertising. But it isn’t a traditional credit card, or even a charge card as you have to place money on deposit with a Brex account.

Best for gas spending: Wyndham Rewards Earner® Business Card *

The information for the Wyndham Rewards Earner® Business Card has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Those who spend a lot of time on the road will find plenty to like in the Wyndham Rewards Business Earner Card. For a modest annual fee, the card earns exceptional rewards on gas and at Wyndham properties.

Annual fee: $95.
Rewards: 8 points per $1 spent on Hotels By Wyndham and gas purchases, 5 points per $1 on marketing, advertising and utility purchases and 1 point per $1 on all other purchases.
Welcome bonus: Earn 50,000 points after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first 90 days plus an additional 50,000 points after spending $15,000 on purchases within the first 12 months of account opening. Free nights can require up to 30,000 points per bedroom at participating properties and are subject to availability. Resort fees may apply and cannot be paid with points.
Foreign transaction fees: 0% of each transaction in U.S. dollars.
Other benefits and drawbacks: This card’s strength is its rewards program, which now features many vacation rental properties. However, most of the hotels in the Wyndham portfolio are value-priced properties. The card also offers cell phone protection, extended warranty coverage and redeem 10% fewer Wyndham Rewards points for Go Free awards.

Best for travel rewards: American Express® Business Gold Card *

The information for the American Express® Business Gold Card has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Travel rewards enthusiasts value Membership Rewards for the ability to transfer points to dozens of airline and hotel transfer partners, typically at a greater value than just booking through Amex Travel. A business owner seeking the biggest travel rewards bang for their buck will likely find tremendous value in the choose-your-own-rewards structure of this card.

Annual fee: $375 (terms apply).
Rewards: 4 Membership Rewards points per $1 on up to $150,000 in combined purchases each calendar year on the 2 select categories your business spends the most each month, 3 points per $1 on flights and prepaid hotels booked on amextravel.com and 1 point per $1 for other purchases.
Welcome bonus: 70,000 Membership Rewards points after spending $10,000 on purchases in the first three months of card membership.
Foreign transaction fees: None.
Other benefits and drawbacks: This card includes baggage insurance², secondary car rental insurance¹ and trip delay coverage³. You also receive extended warranty² and purchase protection². But perhaps the most valuable perk with this is the ability to transfer your rewards to airline and hotel partners at a potentially greater value than if you redeemed them for cash back.

Best charge card: Capital One Spark 2% Cash Plus *

The information for the Capital One Spark 2% Cash Plus has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Companies who plan to spend big and don’t need to carry a balance can appreciate the simple and generous rewards on the Spark Cash Plus Card. The unlimited rewards on this card are the best you’ll find on any flat-rate business card.

Annual fee: $150.
Rewards: 2% cash back on every purchase and 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel.
Welcome bonus: $1,200 cash bonus after spending $30,000 in the first three months of account opening.
Foreign transaction fees: See Terms.
Other benefits and drawbacks: A big advantage of this card is its large welcome bonus. But you’ll have to pay a $150 annual fee, negating these benefits for businesses with modest spending needs.

Best for smaller businesses and independent ventures: The American Express Blue Business Cash™ Card *

The information for the The American Express Blue Business Cash™ Card has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Modest spenders seeking a generous and straightforward cash-back card can benefit from this no-annual-fee option. The American Express Blue Business Cash™ Card * The information for the The American Express Blue Business Cash™ Card has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. (terms apply) also comes with some valuable extras, especially notable for a card at this price point.

Annual fee: $0.
Rewards: 2% cash back on all eligible purchases (automatically rewarded via statement credits), up to $50,000 per calendar year, then 1%.
Welcome bonus: $250 statement credit after spending $3,000 in purchases in the first three months of card membership.
Foreign transaction fees: 2.7% of each transaction after conversion to US dollars.
Other benefits and drawbacks: This card comes with secondary car rental loss and damage insurance¹, extended warranty² and purchase protection² policies. It also features extensive expense management tools. And the chance to earn 2% cash back without paying an annual fee is a strong benefit.

All information about The American Express Blue Business Cash™ Card has been collected independently by Blueprint.

Methodology

Our credit cards team has spent hours analyzing hundreds of credit cards. We took a deep dive into the details of each product and that analysis, combined with our years of experience covering credit cards, informed us as we developed these credit card rankings. When looking at business cards designed for startups and new businesses, factors we considered included:

  • Annual fees and cost of employee cards.
  • Any low intro APR periods.
  • If the card earned rewards and what type of rewards (cash-back, miles etc.)
  • The application and approval process.
  • Other benefits that could be helpful to a business just starting out, like business tools, purchase protections etc.

Should you get a business credit card for your startup or new business?

Having a small business credit card offers several advantages. First, you are able to separate your personal purchases from your company expenses. This simplifies accounting and tax preparation. In fact, most small business credit cards come with powerful expense tracking features. 

Small business credit cards also offer small business owners short term financing options. While you can find better interest rates for long term loans, a credit card can be a useful business tool for smoothing out dips in your company’s cash flow. For example, builders might have to purchase supplies and finish a project before they can be paid by their customers and credit cards can help finance the initial outlay. 

Finally, small business credit cards can offer valuable rewards in the form of points and miles, or cash back. 

Guide to credit cards for startups and new businesses

Small business credit cards can be used for purchases the same way as a personal credit card, but there are some key differences that you need to be aware of. For example, small business credit cards will generally offer rewards and benefits tailored to business owners rather than consumers. Small business credit cards will also offer more reporting and expense-tracking features that can help with accounting and tax preparation.

Be aware that most credit card companies, with just a handful of exceptions, will ask you to personally guarantee your business credit card account, meaning if your business fails, you’ll still be liable for any debt still owed on the card. 

How to get a business credit card as a startup

Getting a business credit card is the same process for both established businesses and new ones. With most cards, your application will rely on the owner’s personal credit and guarantee of repayment. So long as your credit profile matches the card you’re applying for, you will likely be approved, even if your business is new. 

If your business is incorporated, then you can apply using your Employer Identification Number (EIN). But if you are an unincorporated sole proprietor, then you can use your Social Security number (SSN) instead. 

Business credit cards and LLCs

If you have already created a Limited Liability Corporation (LLC), then you can apply for a small business credit card using your EIN. But if you haven’t created an LLC, then you can use your SSN and apply as an unincorporated sole proprietor.

How to build up credit as a startup or small business

There are several steps you’ll need to take to build your business credit. First, you’ll want to incorporate using the right business structure, such as an LLC, LLP, S-Corp or corporation. Next, you’ll need to apply for an EIN. Other necessary steps include opening a business bank account and obtaining credit with vendors or suppliers that will report balance and payment history to a business credit bureau. And just as with your personal credit, building business credit requires you to make your payments on time and avoid excess debt. 

Things to consider before applying for a business credit card

When choosing a small business credit card, you’ll want to decide which features are most important to you, such as rewards, introductory financing or cardholder benefits. You’ll also want to weigh the cost of the annual fee, interest rates and other fees. There’s also an advantage to applying for a card issued by a bank or card issuer that you already have a relationship with. Managing your accounts can be easier when it’s all in one place. 

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

While there’s never a guarantee that you’ll be approved for a business card, you can maximize your chances of being approved by only applying for cards that are meant for applicants with your credit profile. For example, those with excellent credit should be approved for most cards, while those with good or fair credit may wish to apply for a card like the Capital One Spark 1% Classic * The information for the Capital One Spark 1% Classic has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. , which only requires fair credit.

You can apply for a business credit card with an Employer Identification Number (EIN) or your Social Security number (SSN). However, in most cases you’ll need an SSN to apply for a credit card as most business credit cards rely on your personal guarantee to cover the debt if your business fails. There are a handful of exceptions to this, but the vast majority of business cards require your personal guarantee.

You won’t be able to qualify for most business credit cards if you have bad credit, but there are a few exceptions. For example, the Brex Card * The information for the Brex Card has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. doesn’t rely on your personal credit and it doesn’t do a credit check, so you may still be able to qualify if you have bad credit if your company’s financials meet their criteria.

There are no guardrails in place preventing you from doing so, but keep in mind the terms and conditions of most business credit cards say that the card is intended for business use only. And, it’s possible to be flagged by your issuer if you make purchases that don’t fall within the intended use case. This could result in the issuer rescinding your welcome bonus or rewards. Lastly, remember that a big benefit of having a separate credit card for your business is that it enables you to keep your personal and company expenses separate to make bookkeeping easier at tax time.

¹Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. Car Rental Loss or Damage Coverage is offered through American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc.

²Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.

³Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.

*The information for the Amazon Business Prime American Express Card, American Express® Business Gold Card, Brex Card, Capital One Spark 1% Classic, Capital One Spark 2% Cash Plus, The American Express Blue Business Cash™ Card, The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express, U.S. Bank Business Platinum Card and Wyndham Rewards Earner® Business Card has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Blueprint is an independent publisher and comparison service, not an investment advisor. The information provided is for educational purposes only and we encourage you to seek personalized advice from qualified professionals regarding specific financial decisions. Past performance is not indicative of future results.

Blueprint has an advertiser disclosure policy. The opinions, analyses, reviews or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the Blueprint editorial staff alone. Blueprint adheres to strict editorial integrity standards. The information is accurate as of the publish date, but always check the provider’s website for the most current information.

Jason Steele

BLUEPRINT

Jason Steele is a freelance writer specializing in credit cards and award travel. Since 2008, Jason's work has appeared in over 100 outlets and he's been widely quoted in the mainstream media. Jason also produces CardCon, which is The Conference for Credit Card Media.

Robin Saks Frankel is a credit cards lead editor at USA TODAY Blueprint. Previously, she was a credit cards and personal finance deputy editor for Forbes Advisor. She has also covered credit cards and related content for other national web publications including NerdWallet, Bankrate and HerMoney. She's been featured as a personal finance expert in outlets including CNBC, Business Insider, CBS Marketplace, NASDAQ's Trade Talks and has appeared on or contributed to The New York Times, Fox News, CBS Radio, ABC Radio, NPR, International Business Times and NBC, ABC and CBS TV affiliates nationwide. She holds an M.S. in Business and Economics Journalism from Boston University. Follow her on Twitter at @robinsaks.