The best business credit cards can help you get more out of your everyday expenses. Earn rewards like cash back or travel miles, build your business credit and get organized with expense tracking tools. Whether you’re a freelancer or the owner of a brick and mortar storefront, responsible use of a business credit card can save you thousands every year.
Our experts analyzed 368 business credit cards to find you the best offers – here are the best business credit cards from our partners.
The best business credit cards can help you get more out of your everyday expenses. Earn rewards like cash back or travel miles, build your business credit and get organized with expense tracking tools. Whether you’re a freelancer or the owner of a brick and mortar storefront, responsible use of a business credit card can save you thousands every year.
Our experts analyzed 368 business credit cards to find you the best offers – here are the best business credit cards from our partners.
hfyhpf120.com credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.
hfyhpf120.com credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.
hfyhpf120.com credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.
Get 4X Membership Rewards® points on the 2 select categories where your business spent the most each month.
1X
1X is earned for other purchases. **
25%
Airline Bonus: Get 25% points back after you use points for all or part of an eligible flight booked with Amex Travel, up to 250,000 points back per calendar year.*
At A Glance
Intro Bonus
35,000 points
Earn 35,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $5,000 on eligible purchases with the Business Gold Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.*
Earn 35,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $5,000 on eligible purchases with the Business Gold Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.*
More Rewards: Get 4X Membership Rewards® points on the 2 select categories where your business spent the most each month. 1X is earned for other purchases. **
**4X points apply to the first $150,000 in combined purchases from these 2 categories each calendar year.*
Airline Bonus: Get 25% points back after you use points for all or part of an eligible flight booked with Amex Travel, up to 250,000 points back per calendar year.*
Pay Over Time Option: A flexible payment option with interest to help manage cash flow on purchases of $100 or more.*
hfyhpf120.com credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.
Get 5X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels on amextravel.com.
1.5X
Get 50% more Membership Rewards® points. That's an extra half point per dollar, on each eligible purchase of $5,000 or more. You can get up to 1 million additional points per year.
At A Glance
Intro Bonus
75,000 points
Earn 75,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $15,000 on qualifying purchases within your first 3 months of Card Membership.
Earn 75,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $15,000 on qualifying purchases within your first 3 months of Card Membership.
Get 5X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels on amextravel.com.
Get 50% more Membership Rewards® points. That's an extra half point per dollar, on each eligible purchase of $5,000 or more. You can get up to 1 million additional points per year.
35% Airline Bonus: Use Membership Rewards® Pay with Points for all or part of a flight with your selected qualifying airline, and you can get 35% of the points back, up to 500,000 bonus points per calendar year when you book on amextravel.com.
Enroll to get up to $200 in statement credits annually by getting up to $100 semi-annually for U.S. purchases with Dell. Terms apply.
Pay Over Time Option: A flexible payment option to help manage cash flow on purchases of $100 or more.
hfyhpf120.com credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.
Earn 5% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at office supply stores and on internet, cable and phone services each account anniversary year
2%
Earn 2% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at gas stations and restaurants each account anniversary year
1%
Earn 1% cash back on all other card purchases with no limit to the amount you can earn
At A Glance
Intro Bonus
$750
Earn $750 bonus cash back after you spend $7,500 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
Earn $750 bonus cash back after you spend $7,500 on purchases in the first 3 months from 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 card purchases with no limit to the amount you can earn
hfyhpf120.com credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.
Earn 3 points per $1 on the first $150,000 spent on travel and select business categories each account anniversary year
1X
Earn 1 point per $1 on all other purchases – with no limit to the amount you can earn
At A Glance
Intro Bonus
100,000 points
New Offer! Earn 100k bonus points after you spend $15,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,250 toward travel when redeemed through Chase Ultimate Rewards®
New Offer! Earn 100k bonus points after you spend $15,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,250 toward travel when redeemed through Chase Ultimate Rewards®
Earn 3 points per $1 on the first $150,000 spent on travel and select business categories each account anniversary year
Earn 1 point per $1 on all other purchases – with no limit to the amount you can earn
Points are worth 25% more when you redeem for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards
Redeem points for travel, cash back, gift cards and more – your points don't expire as long as your account is open
hfyhpf120.com credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.
Earn 2% cash back on all eligible purchases on up to $50,000 per calendar year, then 1%. Cash back earned is automatically credited to your statement.
From workflow to inventory to floor plans, your business is constantly changing. That’s why you’ve got the power to spend beyond your credit limit with Expanded Buying Power.
Just remember, the amount you can spend above your credit limit is not unlimited. It adjusts with your use of the Card, your payment history, credit record, financial resources known to us and other factors.
0.0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months from the date of account opening, then a variable rate, 13.24% - 19.24%, based on your creditworthiness and other factors as determined at the time of account opening.
No Annual Fee
Terms Apply
Rates & Fees
Annual Fee
No annual fee
Intro Purchase APR
0% on purchases for 12 months from date of account opening
hfyhpf120.com credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.
hfyhpf120.com credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.
Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points on everyday business purchases such as office supplies or client dinners. 2X applies to the first $50,000 in purchases per year, 1 point per dollar thereafter.
Enjoy the flexibility to put more purchases on the Card and earn rewards when you buy above your credit limit*.
You’ve got the power to use your Card beyond its credit limit* with Expanded Buying Power.
More buying power for your business means more opportunities to earn points. That’s everyday business with the Blue Business Plus Card.
*The amount you can spend above your credit limit is not unlimited. It adjusts with your use of the Card, your payment history, credit record, financial resources known to us, and other factors.
0.0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months from the date of account opening, then a variable rate, 13.24% - 19.24%, based on your creditworthiness and other factors at account opening.
No Annual Fee
Terms Apply
Rates & Fees
Annual Fee
No annual fee
Intro Purchase APR
0% on purchases for 12 months from date of account opening
hfyhpf120.com credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.
3X on all other eligible purchases. Terms & Limitations Apply.
At A Glance
Intro Bonus
130,000 points
Welcome Offer: Earn 130,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points with the Hilton Honors American Express Business Card after you spend $3,000 in eligible purchases on the Card in the first 3 months of Card Membership.
Welcome Offer: Earn 130,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points with the Hilton Honors American Express Business Card after you spend $3,000 in eligible purchases on the Card in the first 3 months of Card Membership.
Earn Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases on your Card: 12X at hotels and resorts in the Hilton portfolio, 6X on Select Business & Travel Purchases, 3X on all other eligible purchases. Terms & Limitations Apply.
Enjoy complimentary Gold Status with your Hilton Honors Business Card.
Earn a Weekend Night Reward from Hilton Honors after you spend $15,000 in purchases on your Card in a calendar year.
Earn another Weekend Night Reward from Hilton Honors after you spend an additional $45,000 in purchases on your Card in the same calendar year.
Relax with 10 free airport lounge visits each year once enrolled in complimentary Priority Pass™ Select membership, which offers access to over 1,000 lounges in over 120 countries.
hfyhpf120.com credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.
Earn 2 Miles on every dollar spent on eligible purchases made directly with Delta, on every dollar spent on eligible U.S. purchases for advertising in select media, on every dollar spent on eligible U.S. shipping purchases, on every eligible dollar spent on dining at restaurants.
1X
Earn 1 Mile on every eligible dollar spent on purchases.
At A Glance
Intro Bonus
40,000 miles
Welcome Offer: Earn 40,000 bonus miles after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new Card in the first 3 months.
Annual Fee
$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $99
Welcome Offer: Earn 40,000 bonus miles after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new Card in the first 3 months.
Additionally, take $100 off your next Delta flight – after you spend $10,000 in purchases on your Card in a calendar year, you will earn a $100 Delta Flight Credit to use toward future travel.
Earn 2 Miles on every dollar spent on eligible purchases made directly with Delta, on every dollar spent on eligible U.S. purchases for advertising in select media, on every dollar spent on eligible U.S. shipping purchases, on every eligible dollar spent on dining at restaurants. Earn 1 Mile on every eligible dollar spent on purchases.
Check or stow your bag with ease: First Checked Bag Free + Main Cabin 1 Priority Boarding.
Pay no foreign transaction fees when you travel overseas.
$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $99.
Terms and limitations apply.
Rates & Fees
Annual Fee
$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $99
hfyhpf120.com credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.
Earn 2 AAdvantage® miles per $1 spent on eligible American Airlines purchases
2X
Earn 2 AAdvantage® miles per $1 spent on purchases at telecommunications merchants, cable and satellite providers, car rental merchants and at gas stations.
1X
Earn 1 AAdvantage® mile per $1 spent on other purchases
At A Glance
Intro Bonus
65,000 miles
Earn 65,000 American Airlines AAdvantage® bonus miles after spending $4,000 in purchases within the first 4 months of account opening.
Earn 65,000 American Airlines AAdvantage® bonus miles after spending $4,000 in purchases within the first 4 months of account opening.
First checked bag is free on domestic American Airlines itineraries to reduce travel costs and boost your bottom line.
25% savings on American Airlines inflight Wi-Fi when you use your card
Enjoy preferred boarding on American Airlines flights
Earn 2 AAdvantage® miles per $1 spent on eligible American Airlines purchases
Earn 2 AAdvantage® miles per $1 spent on purchases at telecommunications merchants, cable and satellite providers, car rental merchants and at gas stations.
Earn 1 AAdvantage® mile per $1 spent on other purchases
hfyhpf120.com credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.
Earn 3 Miles on every dollar spent on eligible purchases made directly with Delta and on every eligible dollar spent on purchases made directly with hotels.
1.5X
Earn 1.5 miles per dollar on single eligible purchases of $5,000 or more (that’s an extra half point per dollar), up to 50,000 additional miles per year.
1X
1 Mile on every eligible dollar spent on other purchases.
At A Glance
Intro Bonus
45,000 miles
Welcome Offer: Earn 45,000 bonus miles and 5,000 Medallion® Qualification Miles (MQMs) after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card in the first 3 months. Plus, earn a $100 Statement Credit after your first Delta purchase on your new Card in the first 3 months.
Welcome Offer: Earn 45,000 bonus miles and 5,000 Medallion® Qualification Miles (MQMs) after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card in the first 3 months. Plus, earn a $100 Statement Credit after your first Delta purchase on your new Card in the first 3 months.
Earn 3 Miles on every dollar spent on eligible purchases made directly with Delta and on every eligible dollar spent on purchases made directly with hotels.
Status-like benefits: First Check Bag Free on Delta flights + Main Cabin 1 Priority Boarding
Earn 1.5 miles per dollar on single eligible purchases of $5,000 or more (that’s an extra half point per dollar), up to 50,000 additional miles per year. 1 Mile on every eligible dollar spent on other purchases.
Get closer to status with Status Boost™. Spend $25,000 in purchases on the Card in a calendar year and earn 10,000 Medallion® Qualification Miles (MQMs); spend a total of $50,000 in eligible purchases on the Card in a calendar year and earn an additional 10,000 MQMs. MQMs are used to determine Medallion Status and are different from the miles you earn toward flights.
hfyhpf120.com credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.
6x points at participating Marriott Bonvoy hotels.
4x
4x points at U.S. restaurants, at U.S. gas stations, on wireless telephone services purchased directly from U.S. service providers and on U.S. purchases for shipping.
2x
2x points on all other eligible purchases.
At A Glance
Intro Bonus
100,000 points
Limited Time Offer: Earn 100,000 Marriott Bonvoy points after you use your new Card to make $5,000 in purchases within your first 3 months of Card Membership. Earn up to $150 in statement credits within your first 6 months of Card Membership for all eligible purchases on your Card on U.S. Advertising in select Media. Plus receive complimentary Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite status for one year (February 1, 2021-January 31, 2022). Offer ends 1/13/21.
Limited Time Offer: Earn 100,000 Marriott Bonvoy points after you use your new Card to make $5,000 in purchases within your first 3 months of Card Membership. Earn up to $150 in statement credits within your first 6 months of Card Membership for all eligible purchases on your Card on U.S. Advertising in select Media. Plus receive complimentary Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite status for one year (February 1, 2021-January 31, 2022). Offer ends 1/13/21.
6x points at participating Marriott Bonvoy hotels.
4x points at U.S. restaurants, at U.S. gas stations, on wireless telephone services purchased directly from U.S. service providers and on U.S. purchases for shipping. 2x points on all other eligible purchases.
Receive 1 Free Night Award every year after your Card account anniversary. Plus, earn an additional Free Night Award after you spend $60K in purchases on your Card in a calendar year. Awards can be used for one night (redemption level at or under 35,000 Marriott Bonvoy points) at a participating hotel. Certain hotels have resort fees.
Editorial disclosure: All reviews are prepared by hfyhpf120.com staff. Opinions expressed therein are solely those of the reviewer and have not been reviewed or approved by any advertiser. The information, including card rates and fees, presented in the review is accurate as of the date of the review. Check the data at the top of this page and the bank's website for the most current information.
All information about the Capital One Spark Classic for Business and U.S. Bank Credit Cards has been collected independently by hfyhpf120.com and has not been reviewed by the issuer.
Comparing Business Credit Card Offers
For most businesses – from brick and mortar storefronts to “side-hustles” – a business credit card can be a great tool to track spending, save money on interest, and earn rewards.
Before applying, you should understand the application requirements and credit implications. Though business credit cards are very similar to personal credit cards, there are a few key differences to know about. Finally, it’s a good idea to decide what’s important to you – are you hoping to spread out payments for several large purchases? Or do you simply want to start earning cash back on the purchases you’re already making?
Once you’ve decided what you’re looking for, it’s time to start comparing credit cards. At this point, you’ll be ready to make an informed decision with your business’s unique needs in mind.
Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card: Best for boosted rewards
Our review
Not only will you earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase, but you can also transfer your rewards to a qualifying Chase Ultimate Rewards card and boost their value by 25% when you redeem for travel. It also comes with no annual fee and a 0% intro APR for 12 months on purchases – it’s 13.24%–19.24% variable after that. On the flip side, some business credit cards offer a higher rewards rate, such as the Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express. Read our full review.
Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card: Best for business travel
Our review
A hefty sign-up bonus of 100,000 points after a $15,000 spend within the first 3 months makes this a stellar business card. And those 100,000 points are worth $1,250 toward future travel when you book through Chase Ultimate Rewards. The rewards rates are pretty great, too: 3X points on all travel, shipping, internet, cable, phone services and advertising purchases with social media and search engines on your first $150,000 in combined purchases each year (1 point per dollar thereafter). On the other hand, this isn’t the best credit card for those who want to do a balance transfer or finance a large purchase since it doesn’t offer a 0% introductory APR. There’s also a $95 annual fee. Read our full review.
American Express® Business Gold Card: Best for no expiration on points
Our review
The welcome offer is only 35,000 points after a quite high $5,000 spend within the first 3 months of card membership. However, in addition to no expiration on points, earn 4X points on 2 select categories where your business spent the most each month (on up to the first $150,000 in combined purchases from these 2 categories each calendar year). The annual fee on this card is $295, which isn’t waived the first year. Read our full review.
The Business Platinum Card® from American Express: Best for airline points
Our review
Earn a sizable 75,000 points after a $15,000 spending within the first 3 months of card membership. Also, get 5X points on flights and prepaid hotels on amextravel.com. The annual fee is super high at $595 and isn’t waived the first year. Read our full review.
American Express Blue Business Cash™ Card: Best for no annual fee
Our review
A cash back rate of 2% isn’t uncommon among business credit cards, but it is special when paired with no annual fee. Keep in mind, though, the 2% cash back applies only to your first $50,000 in purchases each calendar year (then 1%). This flat-rate cash back card offers some unique features, such as the possibility of spending beyond your credit limit and even earning cash back in those cases. Read our full review.
Costco Anywhere Visa® Business Card by Citi: Best for everyday cash back
Our review
Business owners who are already Costco members will love this card’s rewards: 4% cash back on eligible gas purchases (for the first $7,000 in purchases annually, then 1% after that), 3% on restaurants and eligible travel, 2% on Costco purchases, and 1% on general purchases. However, be aware that the cash back rewards are only issued once a year in February and are only redeemable at Costco. Read our full review.
The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express: Best for long intro APR period on purchases
Our review
The card offers a 0% introductory APR on new purchases for 12 months (13.24% - 19.24% Variable thereafter), making it useful if you need to finance a large purchase. You’ll also earn 2X points for up to $50,000 a year on business expenses like office supplies and client dinners, and 1 point per dollar thereafter. Read our full review.
Capital One Spark Cash for Business: Best for cash back rewards
Our review
This card’s sign-up bonus is quite rewarding – earn $500 after a $4,500 spend within the first 3 months. Also, earn 2% cash back on all purchases, meaning you aren’t limited to certain categories. Although there’s a $95 annual fee, it’s waived the first year. You also get free employee cards, as well as quarterly and year-end summaries, no foreign transaction fees, and lost luggage reimbursement. Read our full review.
Ink Business Cash® Credit Card: Best for cash back on office supplies
Our review
It’s one of the only cards that includes a bonus on office supply spending, offering 5% cash back on your first $25,000 in combined purchases at office supply stores, as well as internet, cable and phone services each anniversary year (1% thereafter). If you’re working from 数字货币交易软件_数字货币手机app下载home for the foreseeable future, this cash back reward can be a great benefit for providing your employees the services they need to stay productive online. Read our full review.
Delta SkyMiles® Gold Business American Express Card: Best for hotel and flights redemption
Our review
After you spend $10,000 in a calendar year, you’ll earn a $100 Delta flight credit for future travel. Also, earn 2X miles on purchases made directly with Delta, on eligible U.S. purchases for advertising in select media, on eligible U.S. shipping purchases and on dining at restaurants. Then, earn 1X mile on other eligble purchases. The annual fee is only $99 and is waived the first year. Read our full review.
CitiBusiness®/AAdvantage® Platinum Select® Mastercard®: Best for business travel
Our review
As with any cobranded airline card, it only makes sense to get this card if you’re a brand loyalist who flies often, especially since it comes with a $99 annual fee (waived the first year). Small business owners will love the 2X AAdvantage miles on eligible American Airlines purchases, telecommunications merchants, cable and satellite providers, car rental merchants and at gas stations. Plus, the sign-up bonus is significant: Earn 65,000 American Airlines AAdvantage® bonus miles after spending $4,000 in purchases within the first 4 months of account opening. Read our full review.
The Hilton Honors American Express Business Card: Best for Hilton loyalists
Our review
The Hilton Honors American Express Business Card’s welcome bonus is quite generous at 130,000 points after a $3,000 spend within the first 3 months, which can add up to a fair number of free hotel nights if you are strategic in your redemptions. And although there’s a $95 annual fee that isn’t waived the first year, the ongoing rewards are pretty awesome, including 12X points on Hilton hotel purchases, 6X points on select travel and business purchases, and 3X points on other eligible purchases. Read our full review.
Delta SkyMiles® Platinum Business American Express Card: Best for Delta rewards
Our review
This card’s annual fee is $250, which is on the lower end when compared to other luxury travel cards. Earn 3X miles on purchases made directly with Delta and on purchases made directly with hotels. Then, earn 1.5X miles on single eligible purchases of $5,000 or more up to 50,000 additional miles per year. It’s 1X mile on other purchases. Read our full review.
Marriott Bonvoy Business™ American Express® Card: Best for Marriott rewards
Our review
For a limited time, earn 100,000 points after $5,000 spent within your first 3 months. Earn up to $150 in statement credits within your first 6 months of card membership for eligible purchases on U.S. advertising in select media. You can also receive complimentary Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite status for one year (February 1, 2021-January 31, 2022). Offer ends 1/13/21. Read our full review.
Cash back with high rewards rate on office supplies
5% on office supplies, internet
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
2X AAdvantage® miles on eligible American Airlines purchases
$99, waived for first 12 months
Spring from Capital One you can access deals on services like FedEx, DocuSign and Squarespace no Capital One account required.
Understanding and building business credit
There are some differences between personal and business credit, which we go into on this page. Here are some tips on how to build business, understanding what is a good rating, and more.
How to build business credit
To D&B’s Credit Builder service to provide positive payment information to your credit report. You can provide D&B with your vendors’ contact information, then D&B will contact them to verify your payment history.
Building your personal credit score is one of the first steps to building a credit history for your business. A good personal credit score can help you acquire your first lines of business credit.
Apply for a small-business credit card.
So that you make your own payments on time (and minimize your need for cash flow), make sure your own customers are paying you in a timely manner.
Request credit line increases on your existing accounts – this will improve your credit-to-debt ratio and thus your overall credit score.
Business credit scores vs. personal credit scores
Credit scoring for businesses is a bit different (and more complicated) than scoring for consumers. Personal FICO scores range from 300 to 850, while business credit scores use different scales. There are three primary business credit score bureaus and they all structure their ratings differently.
You can find your business credit score by visiting the Dun & Bradstreet, Equifax and Experian websites. Each bureau calculates scores uniquely and offers different features.
While your business and personal credit are distinct, there is usually some overlap. Some business credit card issuers report activity to consumer credit bureaus. In those cases, your personal credit would be affected by your business credit activity. For that reason, it’s difficult to keep business and personal credit entirely separate.
Can you get a business credit card with fair or bad credit?
Though most business credit cards require good to excellent credit, there are a few business cards available for people with fair credit. These cards usually lack the hefty sign-up bonuses and travel perks of other business cards, but they can be useful as stepping stones to better credit and more lucrative business rewards cards down the line.
Currently, one of the easiest business credit cards to get is the Capital One Spark Classic for Business, a flat-rate cash back card offering 1% cash back on every purchase. While the card has its shortcomings, including a variable APR of 26.99%, which is much higher than that of the average business card, it comes with a number of useful business perks.
You may also consider paying for business expenses with a consumer card designed for people with fair credit or bad credit.
hfyhpf120.com Poll: Over one-third of small businesses relying on personal funds during the COVID-19 pandemic
Our July 2020 Small Business Poll uncovered a worrisome fact – 35% of American small-business decision-makers have tapped into personal funds to finance their businesses since the Coronavirus pandemic struck. That includes those who have dipped into a personal savings account (21%), used a personal credit card (24%) or both (10%).
“It’s commendable how far these dedicated business owners are willing to go in search of their dreams,” says Ted Rossman, industry analyst at hfyhpf120.com. “I worry, however, about the debt they’re taking on, and how they’re potentially putting their personal finances at risk.”
Also notably, 38% of business leaders have turned to either business or personal credit cards during this time, with 20% of those polled leaning on business cards.
Paying off credit card debt can be stressful, but there’s a way to do so efficiently. Negotiating interest rates and paying more than the minimum are two ways to reduce the total time and amount of money repaid. “Many of the normal debt reduction tools are in shorter supply these days — for instance, 0% balance transfer offers have dried up due to worries about the economy. That’s why it’s so important to be creative and ask for a break,” Rossman added. Another good strategy: If you have multiple cards with balances and are able to put some money toward your debt, prioritize the highest interest rates in order to reduce the total interest expense.
Meanwhile, the single most popular form of funding was Paycheck Protection Program loans from the Small Business Administration, used by 30% of small businesses.
Small business funding sources amidst the COVID-19 pandemic
PPP loan(s)
29.6%
Personal credit card(s)
24.4%
Business savings account(s)
24.4%
Personal savings account(s)
20.7%
Business credit card(s)
20.1%
Other types of loan(s)
29.6%
Unfortunately, the negative effects of the pandemic are ongoing for many small-business owners, many of whom see trouble on the horizon. The majority of small-business leaders (53%) agree that they will need either an increase in sales or some type of assistance just to stay in business this year.
To stay afloat until 2021, small business decision-makers say they will need:
An increase in sales (32%)
Government assistance, such as stimulus funding (19%)
Any type of loan (13%)
“I’m encouraged by the spirit behind these findings. Even in an incredibly difficult year, small businesses remain resilient and optimistic – they’re taking matters into their own hands. They’re important parts of our communities and our economy, and we’re rooting for them,” says Rossman.
Methodology
hfyhpf120.com commissioned YouGov Plc to conduct the survey. All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. The total sample size was 499 small-business decision-makers. Fieldwork was undertaken from July 14-20, 2020. The survey was carried out online and meets rigorous quality standards. It employed a non-probability-based sample using both quotas upfront during collection and then a weighting scheme on the back end designed and proven to provide nationally representative results.
Business credit cards are simply credit cards designed for business use rather than personal use. While business credit cards function a lot like personal credit cards, they are unique in a few ways.
One major difference to keep in mind is that many small business credit card issuers report your business credit activity to both consumer and commercial credit bureaus. Additionally, unlike consumer cards, business credit cards aren’t protected under the Credit CARD Act of 2009. This means that consumer protections technically don’t apply to business cards, so your APR could change without notice or you could be charged high fees for minor infractions.
Business cards also tend to come with higher credit limits than personal cards and are more likely to offer rewards in business-related spending categories, such as office supplies and phone and internet expenses.
Business credit cards are often used to build a company’s credit history, improve its cashflow and keep business expenses separate from personal charges. They can help you organize expenses, earn rewards and save on interest payments, so even if your business’s spending is modest, choosing the right business credit card can save you large sums of money each fiscal year.
Unless you own a substantially sized business (and sometimes even when you do), you’ll probably be asked to make a personal guarantee on your business credit card application, stating that you are personally responsible for repaying your card debt. This means if you stop making payments on the card because the business fails, the bank can come after you personally to recover the debt.
While business credit cards that don’t require a personal guarantee do exist, they often carry a number of other requirements and limitations. In place of a personal guarantee, you may have to put up business assets as collateral or prove that your company has millions of dollars in revenue or cash reserves.
If you’d rather avoid a personal guarantee, one option is the Brex Corporate Card for Startups. Not only is no personal guarantee required to be approved for the card, you don’t even need to go through a personal credit check. Instead, you supply your EIN and link your corporate bank account to the card as a security deposit (you’ll need at least $100,000 in your corporate account to qualify for the card). Brex then sets credit limits dynamically based on the amount of capital you’ve raised, equity in your company and your company’s spending patterns.
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Laura Mohammad
hfyhpf120.com Senior Editor Laura Mohammad writes, edits and coaches extensively on all things credit cards and works to bring you the most up-to-date analysis and advice. In Laura's 20+ years as a financial and personal finance journalist, her work has appeared in such publications and websites as The New York Times, The Associated Press, Streetity.com and American City Business Journals. You can reach Laura at laura.mohammad@hfyhpf120.com.
Mariah Ackary
hfyhpf120.com writer Mariah Ackary is passionate about financial literacy for all, especially women. Mariah's work has been cited in such media as Forbes, Fox Business and CNBC. An expert in rewards and small businesses, she does the research to make complicated financial topics more approachable for her readers. Send your questions to mackary@hfyhpf120.com.
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