best rewards credit cards for small business
The Best Rewards Credit Cards for Small Business in 2025: A Comprehensive Guide
Running a small business today means juggling expenses, managing cash flow, and always looking for smart ways to maximize every dollar spent. One of the easiest and most effective strategies to improve financial efficiency is choosing the best rewards credit cards for small business. The right card can help business owners earn cash back, points, miles, and valuable perks simply by doing what they already do—purchasing supplies, paying for advertising, booking travel, or covering daily operational expenses.
In 2025, credit card issuers have expanded their offerings with more generous bonuses, flexible redemption options, and premium benefits once limited to large corporations. But with so many options available, finding the card that fits your business needs can feel overwhelming. That’s why this guide breaks down the best choices, what makes them valuable, and how to choose the ideal rewards card for your specific business.
Why Small Businesses Need a Rewards Credit Card
A good business credit card does more than just simplify payments. It can:
1. Improve Cash Flow
Most business cards offer built-in short-term financing by giving 20–30 days before interest accrues. Some cards even offer introductory 0% APR periods, giving you more time to pay off big purchases.
2. Earn Valuable Rewards
Using one of the best rewards credit cards for small business allows you to turn everyday spending into travel points, statement credits, or cashback.
3. Separate Personal and Business Finances
Clear separation improves bookkeeping, simplifies tax preparation, and helps build your business credit profile.
4. Access Premium Business Benefits
These may include purchase protection, extended warranties, free employee cards, spend reporting, and travel perks.
Top 6 Best Rewards Credit Cards for Small Business in 2025
Below are six standout cards that consistently rank among the best rewards credit cards for small business due to their bonus categories, welcome offers, and overall value.
1. Chase Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card
The Chase Ink Business Preferred remains one of the strongest all-around small business credit cards for rewards.
Key Benefits
- High welcome bonus: One of the biggest on the market, often worth over $1,000 in travel.
- 3x points on the first $150,000 spent annually in categories such as:
- Shipping
- Online advertising
- Travel
- Internet, cable, phone services
- Points transferable to travel partners like United, Hyatt, and Southwest.
- Strong travel protections and cell phone insurance.
Best for: Businesses with high online advertising, travel, or shipping expenses.
2. American Express® Business Gold Card
The Amex Business Gold Card is ideal for flexible rewards earners and companies that want premium value.
Key Benefits
- 4x Membership Rewards® points on your top two spending categories each billing cycle—including:
- Online advertising
- Tech purchases
- Gas stations
- Restaurants
- Transit
- Shipping
- Huge welcome offer for new cardholders.
- Flexible redemption for travel, gift cards, or business purchases.
- Expense management tools and purchase protections.
Best for: Businesses with fluctuating spending patterns who want custom rewards categories.
3. Capital One Spark Cash Plus®
This card is a powerhouse for businesses that prefer simple, unlimited cashback.
Key Benefits
- 2% unlimited cash back on every purchase—no categories, no caps.
- Large welcome bonus that can cover your annual fee.
- No preset spending limit, which adapts to your business’s financial needs.
- Statement credits for travel, software, and annual fees.
Best for: High-spending businesses that want uncomplicated, predictable rewards.
4. Bank of America® Business Advantage Customized Cash Rewards
Perfect for smaller companies or sole proprietors who want no annual fee and customizable categories.
Key Benefits
- 3% cash back in a chosen category:
- Online advertising
- Gas
- Office supplies
- Travel
- 2% cash back at restaurants.
- Boost rewards up to 75% more with the Bank of America Preferred Rewards for Business program.
Best for: Small businesses with lean budgets and targeted spending areas.
5. The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express
A favorite among startups and entrepreneurs who want rewards without annual fees.
Key Benefits
- 2x Membership Rewards® points on all purchases up to $50,000 per year.
- No annual fee.
- 0% intro APR for 12 months.
- Access to Amex expense tracking and vendor management tools.
Best for: New businesses or freelancers who want simple points and no annual cost.
6. Chase Ink Business Cash® Credit Card
One of the best rewards credit cards for small business that combines no annual fee with excellent bonus categories.
Key Benefits
- 5% cash back on:
- Office supply stores
- Internet, cable, phone services
- 2% cash back on:
- Gas stations
- Restaurants
- No annual fee.
- Can pair with premium Chase travel cards to boost point value.
Best for: Brick-and-mortar businesses and office-based companies.
How to Choose the Best Rewards Credit Card for Your Small Business
Selecting the right card depends on your spending habits, cash flow, and long-term goals. Here’s what to consider:
1. Identify Your Top Spending Categories
Look at your last 3–6 months of expenses and ask:
- Do you spend heavily on ads?
- Do you travel often?
- Do you buy equipment or supplies consistently?
Choose a card that maximizes those categories.
2. Decide Between Points or Cash Back
- Cash back works best if you want straightforward savings.
- Points and miles are more valuable if you travel or want premium perks.
3. Consider Annual Fees
A card with a $95 or $295 annual fee might still be worth it if the rewards exceed the cost.
4. Check the Welcome Bonus Requirements
Many of the best rewards credit cards for small business offer massive bonuses—but they often require spending $3,000–$10,000 in the first few months.
Make sure it fits your budget.
5. Think About Additional Perks
These may include:
- Free employee cards
- Purchase protection
- Airport lounge access
- Travel insurance
- Accounting software integration
- Business insights dashboards
These benefits can drastically increase a card’s value.
Maximizing Rewards: Smart Strategies for 2025
Getting the right card is only the first step. To fully take advantage of the best rewards credit cards for small business, use these strategies:
1. Put Every Business Expense on the Card
From software subscriptions to fuel, every dollar equals potential rewards.
2. Use Bonus Categories Wisely
Match your highest spending categories with cards that reward those purchases.
3. Combine Multiple Cards
Many business owners use:
- A flat-rate card like Spark Cash Plus for all purchases
- A bonus category card like Ink Business Cash or Amex Gold for targeted spending
This ensures maximum rewards.
4. Redeem Rewards for High-Value Options
Travel points can often yield 30–70% more value than cash back.
5. Track Your Rewards Regularly
Make sure points don’t expire and keep tabs on special promotions.
Conclusion: Which Card Is Truly the Best?
There’s no single answer to which is the best rewards credit card for small business—it depends entirely on your business model, spending patterns, and goals.
- If you want versatility and strong travel value, consider Chase Ink Business Preferred.
- If you prefer flexible bonus categories, the Amex Business Gold is hard to beat.
- For unlimited simplicity, go with Capital One Spark Cash Plus.
- For new businesses, the Blue Business Plus from Amex offers unmatched value.
No matter which option you choose, having a well-matched rewards credit card can transform your everyday spending into meaningful financial advantages. In 2025, rewards programs are more powerful than ever—making now the perfect time to choose a card that elevates your business and helps you grow.