Best business credit cards of June 2023

The Business Platinum Card® from American Express: Best for travel perks

Why we love it: While its $695 annual fee (see rates and fees) may appear jarring at first, the Business Platinum Amex offers unmatched benefits, including lounge access, plus other value-added perks that can easily offset the card’s annual fee each year. Not to mention, it has an earning structure that can add up quickly for those who travel frequently. If you want to be rewarded for travel spending with American Express Travel and want extra comfort on your trips, this card provides both. New applicants can earn 120,000 bonus points after spending $15,000 on purchases in the first three months of cardmembership.

Who should use it: You don’t have to be a high spender to find value in this card. It’s well suited for those who travel frequently, will enjoy airport lounge access, will benefit from automatic elite status with Marriott and Hilton (enrollment required) and can maximize the card’s various statement credits. Plus, the card’s return on spending for travel purchases is very strong — as is the return in select business categories and purchases totaling more than $5,000. You’ll also enjoy a 35% points rebate on eligible flights booked with Amex Travel on up to 1 million points back per calendar year. Enrollment is required for select benefits.

Why it’s in my wallet: “I find that the annual perks and credits vastly outweigh the large annual fee. And that’s even without using some of them. By using the benefits with Priority Pass and Amex lounges, the airline incidental credits, plus the statement credits for Clear, our cellphone plan and restocking my home printer with ink and paper from Dell, I get more value out of the card than it costs to keep it. Plus, it earns my favorite points — American Express Membership Rewards — earning 5 points per dollar spent on flights and hotels booked with Amex Travel.” — Ryan Smith, credit cards writer

Alternative card option: If you have a business banking relationship with Capital One, consider the Capital One Venture X Business Card. It comes with a lower annual fee and access to Priority Pass lounges and Capital One Lounges. Additionally, it earns at least 2 Capital One miles per dollar spent on all purchases.

The information for the Venture X Business card has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

For more details, check our American Express Business Platinum Card review.

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Official application link: Amex Business Platinum.

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Ink Business Preferred Credit Card: Best for bonus earning

Why we love it: With just a $95 annual fee, you’ll unlock several valuable perks on the Ink Business Preferred. These include a strong earning structure, valuable insurance benefits and access to Chase’s full range of airline and hotel transfer partners, such as World of Hyatt and United Airlines MileagePlus. Using these partners is the key to getting huge value from your Chase Ultimate Rewards points. Additionally, you can earn a welcome bonus of 100,000 bonus points after spending $15,000 on purchases within three months from account opening.

Who should use it: Small business owners who spend heavily on travel, shipping, advertising or internet, cable and phone services will benefit from earning 3 points per dollar spent on these purchases (on up to $150,000 of purchases per account year, then 1 point per dollar). Plus, they can take advantage of the card’s primary rental car insurance, excellent purchase protection, extended warranty and cellphone protection (when you pay your monthly bill with your card) — valuable benefits if something goes wrong.

Why it’s in my wallet: “I originally signed up for the Ink Business Preferred primarily for its sign-up bonus. But, over the last year, I’ve found myself making it my go-to card when booking travel. After all, the Ink Business Preferred earns 3 points per dollar spent on travel and provides excellent travel protections, including trip delay protection and rental car insurance.”  — Katie Genter, senior writer

Alternative card option: Consider the Capital One Spark Miles for Business, which has a $0 introductory annual fee the first year, then $95. It earns 5 miles per dollar spent on hotel and rental car reservations made with Capital One Travel and unlimited 2 miles per dollar spent on other purchases. You’ll also enjoy reimbursement for your Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee — a benefit worth up to $100 once every four years.

For more details, check our Chase Ink Preferred Card review.

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Official application link: Ink Business Preferred.

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American Express® Business Gold Card: Best for flexible rewards earning

Why we love it: There are few perks more rewarding than earning a large number of points automatically — but that’s just the attraction of the Amex Business Gold. You’ll earn 4 Membership Rewards points per dollar in your top two spending categories monthly (on up to $150,000 of these purchases annually, then 1 point per dollar). Categories include popular business expenses like shipping, advertising and computer software, to name a few. Plus, you can add up to 99 employee cards for free, paying just the primary card’s $295 annual fee (see rates and fees). The card currently has a welcome bonus of 70,000 bonus points after spending $10,000 on purchases in the first three months of cardmembersip.

Who should use it: Business owners who spend in the card’s bonus categories will love its up-to-8% return (based on TPG’s valuations). Bonus categories where you can earn up to 4 points per dollar include airfare purchased directly from airlines; U.S. purchases for online, TV and radio advertising; U.S. purchases for shipping; U.S. purchases at gas stations; U.S. purchases at restaurants; and U.S. purchases of computer hardware, software and cloud solutions from select technology providers. You’ll also enjoy perks like Amex Offers and a 25% rebate when you pay with points on eligible flights up to 250,000 points per calendar year.

Why it’s in my wallet: “No other card provides the earning potential and adaptability this card has. Sure, its annual fee isn’t cheap, but I love the fact that I don’t need to think about what purchases I put on this card. It will automatically adapt and provide 4 points per dollar in my top two spending categories monthly (up to $150,000 of these purchases yearly).” — Ryan Smith, credit cards writer

Alternative card option: If you’re looking for a lower annual fee or a card that earns bonus points on more purchase categories (not just your top two per month), consider the Ink Business Preferred Credit Card. You’ll earn 3 Chase Ultimate Rewards points per dollar spent on travel, shipping, select advertising purchases and internet, cable and phone services (on up to $150,000 in annual purchases, then 1 point per dollar). Its annual fee is just $95.

For more details, read our Amex Business Gold Card review.

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Official application link: Amex Business Gold.

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Capital One Spark Miles for Business: Best for everyday business spending

Why we love it: The Capital One Spark Miles for Business card has an intro offer of 50,000 miles after spending $4,500 in the first three months from account opening. Based on TPG’s valuations, this bonus is worth $925. You can transfer Capital One miles to nearly 20 airline and hotel partners, including Air Canada Aeroplan and Wyndham Rewards, and you’ll earn at least 2 miles per dollar spent on all purchases. Plus, the card has an introductory annual fee of $0 the first year, then $95.

Who should use it: Business owners who want to earn a transferable currency will love Capital One miles, which have grown in value and redemption options over the past few years. You’ll also enjoy a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit (up to $100 every four years) and the flexibility to use your miles to cover travel expenses at a fixed value of 1 cent apiece. If you’re looking for a card that earns valuable miles without needing to track bonus categories, this is it.

Why it should be in your wallet: You’ll earn transferable points on every purchase without worrying about bonus categories, all for a low annual fee.

Alternative card option: The Ink Business Preferred Credit Card has the same $95 annual fee but earns Chase Ultimate Rewards points instead of Capital One miles. You’ll earn 3 points per dollar spent on travel, shipping, select advertising purchases and internet, cable and phone services (on up to $150,000 in annual purchases, then 1 point per dollar); you’ll earn 1 point per dollar on other purchases.

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Official application link: Capital One Spark Miles for Business.

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Bank of America® Business Advantage Unlimited Cash Rewards Mastercard® credit card: Best for BofA Preferred Rewards for Business members

Why we love it: This card has few travel perks but no annual fee, so it can be worthwhile for business owners looking to earn cash back easily. The Bank of America Business Advantage Unlimited Cash offers a terrific 1.5% earning rate on all purchases, but Bank of America Preferred Rewards for Business customers can earn even higher rates — from 1.875% to 2.625%, depending on their tier within the program.

Who should use it: Business owners who can qualify for Preferred Rewards status should consider this card thanks to its accelerated earning rates that are based on your banking and investment accounts. Additionally, this card is a solid option for business owners looking for a quality cash-back rate on a card without an annual fee and without annual earning limits.

Why it should be in your wallet: For no annual fee, earning up to 2.625% back on your business expenses is a solid return.

Alternative card option: Consider the Ink Business Unlimited Credit Card if you don’t have qualifying accounts with Bank of America or prefer to earn points in the Chase Ultimate Rewards ecosystem. The Ink Unlimited earns 1.5% back on all purchases, but you can redeem these as transferable Ultimate Rewards points if you have other eligible Chase credit cards, such as the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card.

For more details, check our Bank of America Business Advantage Unlimited Cash card review.

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Official application link: Bank of America Business Advantage Unlimited Cash.

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Ink Business Unlimited Credit Card: Best for freelancers

Why we love it: If you’re looking for ease of earning on all your purchases — or a card that earns well on purchases that don’t fall into bonus categories with other credit cards — the Ink Unlimited card is a clear winner. Freelancers and independent contractors love the ability to earn 1.5% back on all purchases, pay no annual fee and even combine the points they earn with Chase Ultimate Rewards from other eligible Chase credit cards like the Sapphire Preferred. Plus, there are no earning limits on this card.

Who should use it: There are two types of business owners who will benefit from this card. The first is the person looking for a card with a lucrative earning structure but no annual fee. The second is someone who needs a card for those “other” expenses that fall outside the bonus categories offered by other rewards cards in their wallet. This is an ideal card for everyday business expenses.

Why it’s in my wallet: “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, while 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, senior credit cards editor

Alternative card option: If you’re looking for a card that rewards you based on your banking relationship, the Bank of America Business Advantage Unlimited Cash Rewards Mastercard credit card earns 1.5% back on all purchases. Those with banking and investment accounts at Bank of America can bump their earning rate up to 2.625% on all purchases thanks to Bank of America Preferred Rewards for Business.

For more details, check our Chase Ink Business Unlimited review.

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Official application link: Ink Business Unlimited.

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Ink Business Cash Credit Card: Best for office supplies

Why we love it: No card can match the Ink Business Cash for earning on office supplies. You’ll love accruing 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, plus 2% back on the first $25,000 in combined purchases at gas stations and restaurants each account anniversary year. New applicants can earn $750 back after spending $6,000 on purchases within three months of account opening. However, you can turn your cash back into Chase Ultimate Rewards points if you have other eligible Chase credit cards, such as the Chase Sapphire Preferred.

Who should use it: This is an ideal card for business owners whose primary expenses are at office supply stores, telecommunications providers, gas stations or restaurants thanks to those bonus categories. You can earn handsomely in these categories without paying an annual fee to keep the card in your wallet.

Why it’s in my wallet: “I love this card for awarding 5% back on my telecommunication services and office supply purchases, all with no annual fee. But my favorite perk is taking those cash-back rewards and combining them with my earnings from the Chase Sapphire Reserve. This means I’m effectively earning 5 fully-transferable Ultimate Rewards points for every dollar I spend in these categories — which I then can transfer to valuable partners like World of Hyatt and Air Canada Aeroplan.” — Nick Ewen, director of content

Alternative card option: If your expenses are spread across many categories, you may prefer a card that earns a flat rate on all purchases. Consider the Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express, which earns 2 American Express Membership Rewards points per dollar spent on all purchases (on up to $50,000 of purchases annually, then 1 point per dollar) and has no annual fee (see rates and fees).

For more details, see the full card review for the Ink Business Cash card.

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Official application link: Ink Business Cash.

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Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express: Best for no annual fee

Why we love it: The Blue Business Plus Card from American Express offers a solid earning rate of 2 Membership Rewards points per dollar spent on the first $50,000 in purchases each calendar year, then 1 point per dollar. If your small business spends less than $50,000 each year in purchases, the Blue Business Plus can be a good no-annual-fee option (see rates and fees) that provides an effective 4% return on spending, based on TPG’s valuations of Amex points. For those with spending that falls outside other cards’ bonus categories, this is an excellent option.

Who should use it: Freelancers, those with a side hustle, newcomers to points and miles and those with varying expenses will love this card and the fact that it doesn’t require tracking any bonus categories to maximize earnings. Instead, its flat earning rate provides value on all purchases without an annual fee required to unlock its full potential.

Why it’s in my wallet: “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, but you’ll earn 2 Membership Rewards points for every dollar you spend (on up to $50,000 each year). That’s a fantastic return of 4% back based on TPG’s valuations, making this a great option for your small-business needs.” — Nick Ewen, director of content

Alternative card option: If you want a card without an annual fee that doesn’t have the earning limits of the Blue Business Plus, look at the Ink Business Unlimited Credit Card. You’ll earn 1.5% back on all purchases (and can convert these into transferable Chase Ultimate Rewards points if you have other eligible Chase credit cards like the Sapphire Preferred). Doing so would yield a 3% return on all spending based on TPG’s valuations.

For more details, read our Blue Business Plus Credit Card from American Express review.

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Official application link: Amex Blue Business Plus Card.

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Capital One Spark Cash Plus: Best for unlimited business cash back

Why we love it: We love earning 2% cash back on all purchases with the Spark Cash Plus, meaning there are no bonus categories to track or complex transfer partners to understand when it’s time to redeem your rewards. Plus, the card has two user-friendly elements: Rewards don’t expire as long as your account is open, and you can redeem your cash back in any increment, starting from just a cent. The annual fee is a reasonable $150.

Who should use it: Business owners whose spending habits fluctuate will love the fact that this card has no preset spending limits. It adapts to you, which can be great when you need to spend more around busy periods or to restock inventory. If you can pay your bill in full each month (which is required on this card), you’ll love this spending flexibility.

Why it should be in your wallet: High-spending businesses can take home a ton of cash-back without worrying about complicated travel rewards.

Alternative card option: If you’d prefer to earn transferable rewards points or get higher earnings in your most common spending categories, the American Express® Business Gold Card might fit well in your wallet. You’ll earn 4 points per dollar (an 8% return on spending based on TPG’s valuations) in your top two spending categories each month on up to $150,000 of these purchases annually, then 1 point per dollar.

For more details, read our Capital One Spark Cash Plus review.

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Official application link: Capital One Spark Cash Plus.

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Bank of America® Business Advantage Customized Cash Rewards Mastercard® credit card: Best for customizable business cash back

Why we love it: With the Bank of America Business Advantage Customized Cash, you can maximize your ever-changing business purchases with up to 3% cash back. You can choose your top spending category monthly for 3% earnings, plus receive 2% on dining purchases (for the first $50,000 spent in combined category and dining purchases per year, then 1% back). If you have qualifying accounts for the Bank of America Preferred Rewards for Business program, you could boost your earning rate to 5.25% back in your chosen category — impressive earnings for a card with no annual fee.

Who should use it: Two types of business owners should consider this card. First, it works well for those who can maximize the 3% categories — which include gas stations, office supply stores, travel, TV/telecom and wireless, computer services and business consulting services — and are looking for a card without an annual fee. Second, those who can qualify for Preferred Rewards tiers will love the accelerated earnings rates that far outpace earnings on other cards without annual fees.

Why it should be in your wallet: Picking your top spending category each month allows you to maximize rewards, even when your purchases vary across the year.

Alternative card option: Those who need different bonus categories or who won’t qualify for Preferred Rewards should consider the Ink Business Cash Credit Card. It has no annual fee and earns 5% back on the first $25,000 of purchases at office supply stores and on internet, cable and phone services each cardmember year. You’ll also earn 2% back on the first $25,000 of combined purchases at gas stations and restaurants each cardmember year and 1% back on other purchases.

For more details, check our Bank of America Business Advantage Customized Cash card review.

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Official application link: Bank of America Business Advantage Customized Cash.

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United Business Card: Best for United Airlines flyers 

Why we love it: The United Business Card is an affordable option for business travelers who tend to fly with United and its partners. This is a great card to pair with your personal United credit card, too, because it will not only help you keep personal and business expenses separate, but you’ll also receive 5,000 bonus miles each year on your United Business Card account anniversary for carrying both cards. Plus, you can spend your way toward United elite status and gain access to expanded award availability when it comes time to redeem those MileagePlus miles.

Who should use it: Those who want elite-like benefits with United — such as priority boarding and free checked bags — but aren’t willing to shell out for premium cards with lounge access will love this card. Its earning rates, perks and moderate annual fee ($0 intro annual fee the first year, then $99) are a powerful combination for those who fly United a few times a year.

Why it’s in my wallet: “As a frequent United traveler, I actually have a couple of United credit cards that unlock different perks and benefits. While I initially got the United Business Card for the bonus and to keep business expenses separate, I keep it for the discount on inflight purchases, the 5,000 annual mile bonus for having both a business and personal United card and the $100 statement credit for charging at least seven annual United flights to the card.” — Summer Hull, director of content

Alternative card option: If you’re looking for points you can use with United and in other ways, see if the Ink Business Preferred Credit Card is a better fit for your wallet. For a $95 annual fee, this card earns Chase Ultimate Rewards points that you can transfer to more than a dozen airline and hotel partners, including United, though you do miss out on the airline-specific perks.

For more details, check our United Business Card review.

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Official application link: United Business Card.

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Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Business Credit Card: Best for occasional Southwest Airlines flyers 

Why we love it: If you’re a business owner and a Southwest loyalist but can’t justify an annual fee greater than $100, the Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Business is the card for you. You’ll get two EarlyBird check-ins per year, receive a 25% discount on inflight purchases, earn tier-qualifying points toward Southwest A-List elite status and get 6,000 bonus points on each account anniversary.

Who should use it: Business owners who fly Southwest a handful of times each year can easily obtain more than $99 in value from the card’s perks each year, justifying its annual fee. It’s also a solid earner in the Southwest ecosystem, accruing 3 points per dollar spent on Southwest purchases, 2 points per dollar spent on Rapid Rewards hotel and car rental purchases through Southwest’s partners, 2 points per dollar spent on local transit and commuting and 1 point per dollar spent on other eligible purchases.

Why it should be in your wallet: Business owners can enjoy added perks when flying Southwest, but the main appeal may be the ability to spend your way to the carrier’s coveted Companion Pass.

Alternative card option: If you want extra Southwest perks, look at the Southwest Rapid Rewards Performance Business Credit Card. For a $199 annual fee, you’ll get a higher earning rate on Southwest purchases, four priority boardings annually and up to 365 daily Wi-Fi purchase credits, as well as reimbursement for your Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee, which is worth up to $100 once every four years.

For more details, read our Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Business review.

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Official application link: Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Business Credit Card.

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Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business American Express Card: Best for Delta Air Lines flyers

Why we love it: The Delta SkyMiles Reserve Business American Express Card can significantly enhance your travel experience both on the ground and when flying if Delta is your preferred airline. You’ll get elite-like benefits such as priority boarding and a checked bag free, plus access to Delta Sky Clubs and Amex Centurion Lounges when flying with Delta. You can earn Delta Medallion elite status with Medallion Qualification Miles from credit card spending, too.

Who should use it: Delta flyers who will maximize the card’s lounge access benefit and its other potentially ultra-valuable benefit, an annual companion certificate good for one round-trip domestic itinerary in the main cabin, Comfort+ or even first class each year upon card renewal (you just pay up to $80 in taxes and fees on the second ticket).

Why it’s in my wallet: “The Delta SkyMiles Reserve Business Amex helped me attain airline status without actually having status. As a newbie Delta flyer, I wanted to have a credit card that will make my overall travel experience better. Having access to the Delta Sky Club and Centurion Lounges when flying Delta were massive perks. Also getting triple miles when making Delta purchases, an annual companion pass and a 15% discount when using my SkyMiles to book travel make the high annual fee worth it.” — Hannah Streck, senior SEO manager

Alternative card option: For those looking to earn Delta miles but with a lower annual fee of $250 (see rates and fees), consider the Delta SkyMiles® Platinum Business American Express Card. You’ll still enjoy the 15% off benefit for award travel, get free checked bags and priority boarding, earn 3 miles per dollar spent on Delta purchases and receive 20% off on inflight purchases of food, beverages and audio headsets.

For more details, check our Delta SkyMiles Reserve Business Amex Card review.

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Official application link: Delta SkyMiles Reserve Business Amex.

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Southwest Rapid Rewards Performance Business Credit Card: Best for frequent Southwest Airlines flyers

Why we love it: The Southwest Performance Business credit card is ideal for Southwest fans, as it’s packed with perks that will make business trips on the airline more comfortable than ever, especially for those who don’t yet have A-List or A-List Preferred status. You’ll earn extra points in popular business categories, enjoy four priority boarding positions each year, receive up to 365 inflight Wi-Fi credits annually and have the ability to accelerate your path to the Southwest Airlines Companion Pass.

Who should use it: Business owners who can both take advantage of those day-of-travel perks and maximize this card’s earning structure. It accrues 4 points per dollar spent on Southwest purchases; 3 points per dollar spent on Rapid Rewards hotel and car rental partner purchases; 2 points per dollar spent on social media and search engine advertising, internet, cable, phone services, local transit and commuting; and 1 point per dollar spent on other eligible purchases.

Why it’s in my wallet: “It made sense for me to get this as my first Southwest card given that I live in Austin, where almost 40% of flights are operated by Southwest. I get the most value out of this card by taking advantage of the upgraded boardings, inflight Wi-Fi credits and 9,000 anniversary bonus points, which help offset the significant annual fee.” — Matt Moffitt, senior credit cards editor

Alternative card option: If you only fly Southwest a handful of times per year or want a lower annual fee, you should consider the Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Business Credit Card instead. You’ll enjoy a 25% discount on inflight drinks and Wi-Fi purchases, have the chance to spend your way toward A-List status, get a shortcut toward the Companion Pass and receive two EarlyBird check-ins each year.

For more details, read our Southwest Performance Business credit card review.

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Official application link: Southwest Rapid Rewards Performance Business Credit Card.

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Marriott Bonvoy Business® American Express® Card: Best for Marriott business travelers

Why we love it: This card is packed with perks, such as automatic Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite status and 15 annual elite night credits you can put toward earning a higher status level and even stack with those from personal credit cards. Plus, you’ll receive an annual free night award worth up to 35,000 points, which can easily offset the card’s affordable $125 annual fee (see rates and fees).

Who should use it: Business owners who stick with Marriott year after year can find tremendous value from this card’s benefits, but its earning structure can also help you rack up points for future stays quickly. It earns 6 points per dollar spent at participating Marriott Bonvoy hotels; 4 points per dollar spent at restaurants worldwide, at U.S. gas stations, on wireless telephone services purchased directly from U.S. service providers and on U.S. purchases for shipping; and 2 points per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases — all with no earning limits. Cardmembers also enjoy a 7% discount off standard rates on standard guest rooms at participating hotels when booking directly.

Why it’s in my wallet: “If I had to name one credit card I’ll never cancel, I’d choose this one. I love that its elite night credits stack with those from my personal Marriott credit card, and I can get far more value from the free night award than I pay for the card’s annual fee each year. This card has a permanent place in my wallet.” — Ryan Smith, credit cards writer

Alternative card option: If you’re looking for Marriott Gold Elite status but want even more travel perks, the The Business Platinum Card from American Express should be up for consideration. You’ll enjoy unparalleled access to airport lounges, automatic Gold status with Marriott Bonvoy and Hilton Honors (enrollment required) and up to hundreds of dollars in annual spending credits. Plus, you’ll earn Amex points that transfer to dozens of airline and hotel partners for award travel — including Marriott Bonvoy.

For more details, read our full Marriott Bonvoy Business Amex card review. 

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Official application link: Marriott Bonvoy Business Card.

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Hilton Honors American Express Business Card: Best for Hilton business travelers

Why we love it: Business owners who stay with Hilton even a few times per year can find value in the Hilton Business Amex. You’ll receive automatic Hilton Honors Gold elite status (providing perks like a 20% earning bonus on qualifying spending, a fifth night free on standard room award stays of five nights or more, availability-based room upgrades and food and beverage credits at most properties), as well as earn 12 points per dollar spent at Hilton properties. You’ll also receive 10 annual passes for Priority Pass lounges. Enrollment is required for select benefits.

Who should use it: This is an ideal card for those who stay (even infrequently) with Hilton and enjoy elite perks during their travels but don’t want a high annual fee (this card’s is just $95, see rates and fees). High spenders who make $40,000 or more in purchases on the card in a calendar year also receive a bump up to top-tier Hilton Diamond status, which comes with even more perks. Add in this card’s phenomenal earning capabilities — it has seven bonus categories, and even everyday purchases earn 3 points per dollar — and this card can really enhance your loyalty experience with Hilton.

Why it should be in your wallet: You’ll enjoy automatic Gold status plus an array of bonuses for a reasonable annual fee.

Alternative card option: If you’re looking for Hilton Honors elite status but want even more travel perks, The Business Platinum Card from American Express might be a better bet. Cardmembers can enroll for Hilton Honors Gold status and tons of other non-Hilton perks, including access to Amex’s Global Lounge Collection and up to hundreds of dollars in annual statement credits.

For more details, read our Hilton Honors American Express Business Card review.

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Official application link: Hilton Honors American Express Business Card.

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CitiBusiness® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® Mastercard®: Best for American Airlines flyers

Why we love it: The CitiBusiness / AAdvantage Platinum Select Mastercard comes with some solid bonus categories for an airline credit card, and miles earned can be redeemed not only on American Airlines but on the carrier’s Oneworld and non-alliance partners. Cardholders also earn Loyalty Points toward AAdvantage elite status based on their spending. Best of all, the $99 annual fee is waived for the first 12 months.

Who should use it: Those who want elite-like perks with American Airlines but might not fly or spend enough with the airline to earn elite status will love this card for its elite-like benefits, such as a free checked bag for the cardholder and up to four companions when flying American, priority boarding and 25% savings on inflight purchases. You can even earn a companion certificate good for one round-trip domestic itinerary in the main cabin (there’s a $99 fee) after spending $30,000 or more on the card in an account year and your card is renewed. 

Why it’s in my wallet: “I originally signed up for the CitiBusiness® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® Mastercard® for its sign-up bonus, but I’ve kept the card to earn American Airlines miles and Loyalty Points on my spending. I have American Airlines elite status, so I don’t get any incremental value from the card’s first checked bag free benefit on domestic itineraries. However, I sometimes enjoy getting a 25% discount on inflight purchases of food and beverages when I use my card for purchases on flights operated by American Airlines.” — Katie Genter, senior points and wiles writer

Alternative card option: If you aren’t tied to American Airlines and simply want a business card that provides airline perks, look into the Delta SkyMiles Reserve Business American Express Card. You’ll get elite-like benefits (such as free checked bags, priority boarding and access to Delta Sky Clubs and Amex Centurion Lounges when flying with Delta) and can earn Delta Medallion elite status with Medallion Qualification Miles from credit card spending. Like the CitiBusiness / AAdvantage card, the Delta SkyMiles Reserve Business card offers a companion certificate, only you don’t have to hit a spending threshold to attain it. Instead, each year after renewing your card and paying the annual fee (see rates and fees), you receive an annual companion certificate good for one round-trip domestic itinerary in the main cabin, Comfort+ or first class (you just pay up to $80 in taxes and fees on the second ticket).

For more details, read our CitiBusiness / AAdvantage Platinum Select Mastercard review.

The information for the CitiBusiness Platinum Select card has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Related: Best credit cards for American Airlines flyers

Research methodology

There are many credit cards geared toward small businesses, so narrowing down the list to the best ones can be challenging. Here are the criteria we used to choose the cards listed above:

Bonus value

As you can see, the bulk of the first-year value comes from the sign-up bonus itself — I used our latest valuations to calculate a dollar amount for each offer. Other solid business cards — such as the Costco Anywhere Visa® Business Card by Citi — aren’t included because they don’t currently offer a sign-up bonus and are bested by other cards in terms of first-year value as a result.

Related: The best cards for each business credit card category

Travel credits

From there, I factored in annual travel credits, like the up to $200 annual airline credit offered by the Business Platinum Card from American Express (enrollment required). As the Amex Business Platinum also offers various lounge access types through the American Express Global Lounge Collection, I assigned a value of $325 for these perks. Additionally, if a card waives its annual fee for the first year, I didn’t subtract that from the value of the welcome bonus and other perks since this post is focused on how much you’ll get from the card as a new applicant.

Bonus requirements

More and more business credit cards offer tiered bonuses based on your business spending in the first three to six months. In the past, I focused on the value you’d get by meeting only the lowest spending requirement, but many business credit cards require higher tiers of spending. That said, given the ability of businesses to put large expenses on credit cards, I’m now including the maximum number of bonus points you can earn — assuming your business meets all the spending requirements.

Related: The ultimate guide to credit card application restrictions

How to choose a small business credit card

There’s no single best business card. Instead, the best business card for your small business depends on various aspects. For example, do you prefer earning cash-back rewards, airline miles, hotel points or transferrable currencies? Are you willing to pay an annual fee? What categories does your business spend the most in each year? Do you or your employees travel frequently, and if so, would there be a benefit in having hotel elite status or a checked bag allowance when flying?

Here are some of the most critical things to consider when choosing a small business card.

Where you spend your money

First, take into consideration the kind of expenses your business incurs. For example, if you spend a lot of money on travel for business, then look for a card that offers bonus rewards on travel purchases. However, if you’re frequently entertaining clients with business meals, consider a card with a bonus for dining purchases. In other words, try to align your spending categories with bonus opportunities to maximize every dollar your company spends.

It’s also a good idea to check out possible reward expirations, minimum redemption amounts and earning limits for cards before making your final decision.

Business cash flow

The most important thing to consider is whether you’ll likely need to carry your balance over a month-to-month basis, as this would mean you’d need to consider a card with a 0% intro APR period or a fixed low-interest rate.

Or, if you plan on paying your balance each month in full, then you might consider going for a card that has the biggest sign-up bonus and the most lucrative rewards.

Business-friendly benefits

You may notice that on closer inspection, some business credit cards offer extra little perks like itemized end-of-year statements, employee cards and in-app functionality for uploading photos of receipts to match with card purchases. Some even offer statement credits when you make eligible purchases with select vendors or pay for certain services.

These perks can help offset any annual fee that a card incurs.

Pros and cons of getting a business credit card

A business credit card can help you maximize your purchases, separate your expenses and save money on interest each year. These business credit cards offer bonus rewards on categories popular with small businesses, such as office supplies, airfare, advertising and gas.

In fact, business-specific bonus categories are one of the main ways that business credit cards differ from personal credit cards. For more information about the best personal credit cards on the market, be sure to check out our best credit cards, best rewards credit cards and best travel credit cards pages to find the perfect partner to pair with your new business card.

But you need to do your research before applying for a small-business credit card. While business cards often offer tailored bonus categories and additional benefits for business owners, they also have fewer consumer protections than personal credit cards.

Related: The best business and personal credit card combinations

How to get the most out of your business credit card

Your card’s arrived and you’re all excited. But what next? There are several ways to make sure you’re making the most out of your card — here are some key habits to adopt.

Use it as often as possible

The more you use your card, the more points and rewards you’ll earn. It can be strange to switch up spending habits, but try to switch to using your business credit card as your go-to option rather than cash, debit, bank transfers or other payment methods.

Earn your sign up bonus

The sign-up bonus is one of the most, if not the most, lucrative ways of earning lots of points or air miles and for the least amount of effort.

Sign-up bonuses are usually in the form of spending a certain amount of money in a certain amount of time. Remember, if you don’t think you’ll hit the spending limit, you may want to reconsider taking out the card in the first place.

Claim interest and fees as tax deductions

Some credit card fees and interest are deductible from your tax returns as business expenses. If you’re not sure how this works, check with your accountant.

Pay statement on time

Pay today, don’t delay. No, this is not a commercial, it’s the single most important rule that should stop you from running into any issues with credit and interest.

If you cannot make your card payments on time, don’t take out the card.

How to apply for a business credit card

If you own a small business or just do freelance gigs, you could be eligible for a business credit card. You don’t necessarily need a tax ID or an Employer Identification Number (EIN) to qualify for a business credit card; if you’re a sole proprietor with a small business or side gig, you can usually enter your Social Security number (SSN) instead.

Information you’ll need to provide

When filling out an application form for a business credit card, there are some extra pieces of information required in addition to what you might provide for a personal credit card application.

This is likely to include:

The name of your business

If you’re the sole owner of your small business, you might not even have a designated name for it. If this is the case, don’t worry, you’re allowed to use your own name instead.

Contact information

Similarly, if you don’t have a separate business contact number and mailing address, you can also use your own here too.

A Taxpayer Identification Number

There are two numbers you could use for this, depending on how your business is set up. If you’re the sole business owner, you can use your Social Security number. Or, in the instance that you employ staff or have a more formal business structure, then you should use your business’s Employer Identification Number. You can easily get an EIN on the IRS website.

Your industry

It’s up to you how you want to describe your business; you can either use more rigid categories like travel, food and drink, or retail, or you can describe the exact service you provide should your business type not fall into those categories.

How long you’ve been in business

This one’s pretty self-explanatory.

Revenue and expenses

This is the part where you enter how much money your business makes and how much your outgoings were to run your business.

What you do not need

A specific business type

Whether you have a structured company, LLC or partnership, or you operate without a formal or legal business structure, you’re still perfectly eligible to apply.

Business credit history

In most cases, your small business credit card would be guaranteed by you personally and not the business itself. This means that you won’t be required to include an existing credit history for your business.

Check out the following guides to applying for small-business cards for issuer-specific strategies:

• How to fill out an Amex business card application.
• How to complete a Chase business credit card application.
• How to complete a Capital One business credit card application.

Related: 5 ways you might be eligible for a business credit card without realizing it

Business credit vs. personal credit

Business credit is similar to your personal credit in that it allows potential creditors to judge what kind of credit risk your business poses. A higher business credit score could mean you’ll have better access to loans and lines of credit, lower interest rates, and cheaper insurance premiums for established firms.

Having business credit helps keep your business and personal finances from affecting each other in the long run.

An important thing to remember when considering both business and personal credit is that making payments on time is crucial to avoid damaging your credit score.

Reporting bureaus

Credit reporting bureaus are companies that generate both business and personal credit scores. They gather information about a person or a business’s debt and use it to decide how risky lending money to them would be. The higher your credit score, the lower the risk, and the more likely it is you’ll be accepted for more credit.

When you’re just starting, you won’t have a business credit score, at least until you open a business credit card or secure a line of credit from a vendor that reports to the business credit bureaus — such as Experian, Equifax and Dun & Bradstreet. For personal credit, the main bureaus are Equifax, Experian and TransUnion.

If you’re looking to build up your business credit, we advise taking extra care when deciding which vendors and business suppliers you do business with, as not all of them report your financial activity to the business bureaus.

Credit score range

Credit scoring systems differ for business and personal credit. For business scores, the range is commonly from zero to 100 and for personal scores, you’ll likely see a range of 300 to 850.

Access to score

Getting access to your personal credit score is relatively easy. Federal law entitles you to a copy of your credit report once every 12 months from each of the main three bureaus, for free.

Unfortunately, the same cannot be said for access to your business credit report and score as the major bureaus’ charge for this.

Additional reporting by Daniel Ross.

Featured photo by Roman Chazov/Shutterstock

For rates and fees of the Business Platinum Card, please click here.

For rates and fees of the Hilton Honors Business Amex, please click here.

For rates and fees of the Marriott Bonvoy Business card, click here.

For rates and fees of the Blue Business Plus, please click here.

For rates and fees of the Amex Business Gold, please click here.

For rates and fees of the Amex Delta SkyMiles Reserve Business, please click here.