Business credit cards are financial tools designed specifically for companies, offering a range of benefits tailored to business needs. Here’s what you should know:
- Separate Personal & Business Expenses: Helps maintain clear financial records, making tax time and audits easier.
- Build Business Credit: Establishes and improves your company’s credit score, separate from your personal credit.
- Higher Credit Limits: Generally offer higher limits than personal cards to accommodate larger business expenses.
- Employee Cards: Issue cards to employees with individual spending limits and tracking.
- Category-Specific Rewards:
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- Travel points/miles for frequent business trips
- Cash back on office supplies, internet, phone services
- Dining rewards for client meals
- Introductory Offers: Many cards offer 0% APR periods or substantial sign-up bonuses.
- Expense Management Tools:
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- Integration with accounting software (QuickBooks, etc.)
- Year-end summaries by category
- Receipt capture and organization
- Travel & Purchase Protection:
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- Trip cancellation insurance
- Auto rental collision damage waiver
- Extended warranties on business purchases
- No Personal Guarantee: Some cards (usually for established businesses) don’t require a personal guarantee.
- Cons to Consider:
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- Higher APRs compared to personal cards
- Annual fees (often higher for premium rewards cards)
- Personal credit check still common for application
- Popular Options:
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- Chase Ink Business Preferred (travel rewards)
- Capital One Spark Cash (flat-rate cash back)
- American Express Business Gold (category-specific points)
Always compare cards based on your business’s spending patterns and needs. Remember, responsible use is key to reaping benefits without accumulating debt.