Top Business Credit Cards for Startup Businesses

In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best business credit cards available for startups, helping you make an informed decision that aligns with your financial goals.

1. Chase Ink Business Cash® Credit Card

Key Features:

• Sign-Up Bonus: $750 after spending $7,500 in the first three months.
• 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% on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at gas stations and restaurants; 1% on all other purchases.
• Annual Fee: $0
• APR: Variable APR of 18.24%–24.99%.

Why It’s Great for Startups:

The Chase Ink Business Cash® card offers a robust rewards program that’s perfect for startups with significant operational costs in the office supply, internet, and phone services space. The 0% introductory APR on purchases for the first 12 months allows startups to make purchases and pay them off without interest in the initial phase of growth.

2. American Express® Business Gold Card

Key Features:

• Sign-Up Bonus: 70,000 Membership Rewards® points after spending $10,000 in the first three months.
• Rewards: 4X Membership Rewards® points on the 2 select categories where your business spends the most each month (from a list of 6 categories); 1X on other purchases.
• Annual Fee: $295
• APR: Variable APR of 18.24%–26.24%.

Why It’s Great for Startups:

The American Express® Business Gold Card is excellent for startups that have fluctuating expenses in different categories. You can earn 4X points on the two categories where you spend the most each month. For new businesses with unpredictable costs, this flexibility is an advantage. The 70,000-point sign-up bonus is a significant boost that can be used for travel, business expenses, or gift cards.

3. Capital One Spark Cash for Business

Key Features:

• Sign-Up Bonus: $500 after spending $4,500 in the first three months.
• Rewards: 2% cash back on every purchase.
• Annual Fee: $0 for the first year, then $95.
• APR: 22.99% (Variable).

Why It’s Great for Startups:

If you prefer straightforward cash back without the hassle of tracking bonus categories, the Capital One Spark Cash for Business card is a top choice. With 2% cash back on every purchase, it’s an ideal option for startups that need to make various types of purchases. The card offers a solid sign-up bonus, and the annual fee is waived for the first year, making it especially appealing for new businesses looking to keep costs low.

4. Brex 30 Card

Key Features:

• Sign-Up Bonus: Up to $1,000 in travel credits.
• Rewards: 1X on all purchases, 2X on travel and dining.
• Annual Fee: $0
• APR: N/A (no interest charges due to the card’s unique funding model).

Why It’s Great for Startups:

The Brex 30 Card is a great option for startups that prefer a no-personal-guarantee card. Brex uses your business financials (rather than personal credit) to determine your eligibility, making it a unique option for new entrepreneurs. Additionally, the card offers no annual fee and rewards for travel and dining, which can be useful for businesses on the go. The sign-up bonus of travel credits is perfect for companies that have frequent business travel.

5. U.S. Bank Business Cash Rewards World Elite Mastercard®

Key Features:

• Sign-Up Bonus: $500 cash back after spending $4,500 in the first 150 days.
• Rewards: 3% cash back on eligible purchases in the first $2,500 spent in combined purchases at gas stations and EV charging stations; 1% on all other purchases.
• Annual Fee: $0
• APR: Variable APR of 14.49%–23.49%.

Why It’s Great for Startups:

For startups that frequently have to pay for gas and EV charging, the U.S. Bank Business Cash Rewards Mastercard® can be an ideal choice, offering 3% cash back on these expenses. The $500 sign-up bonus gives you a strong financial boost early on, and with a no annual fee policy, the card is a low-cost way to build your business credit.

6. Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

Key Features:

• Sign-Up Bonus: 100,000 points after spending $15,000 in the first three months.
• Rewards: 3X points on the first $150,000 spent in combined purchases on travel, internet, cable, phone services, and select advertising; 1X on other purchases.
• Annual Fee: $95
• APR: Variable APR of 18.24%–24.99%.

Why It’s Great for Startups:

The Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card is best suited for startups that have substantial advertising expenses or travel needs. With 3X points on these purchases, it’s a great way to build business credit while earning valuable rewards. The 100,000-point sign-up bonus can be used for travel, merchandise, or even cashback.

Conclusion: Building Strong Business Credit with the Right Tools

Choosing the right business credit card is an essential step toward building strong business credit, and for startups, it can set the tone for future financial success. Whether you prioritize cash back, rewards points, or travel perks, each of the cards listed above can help you manage your cash flow, build credit, and take your business to the next level.

At ThickAFCredit, we understand that building business credit from scratch can seem daunting, especially when resources are limited. However, with the right guidance and tools, your startup can thrive. We specialize in helping entrepreneurs like you navigate the complex world of business credit and ensure that your business is positioned for long-term financial success. Don’t let your business credit hold you back—let us help you unlock your full potential and achieve your financial goals.

Remember, success is not just about the steps you take but about the mindset you carry along the way. With perseverance, dedication, and the right tools, you can turn your startup into a successful business with strong financial backing.