Top 7 Business Credit Cards Every Startup Needs in 2025

Choosing the ideal business credit card tailored to your specific requirements can often be a challenging task. There are cards designed for individuals with no credit, options that reward spending, those focused on travel points, and many more choices available. When selecting credit cards for startups, the process can feel even more complex compared to other business types. Additionally, with credit card debt rising by $84.7 billion during 2024, picking the wrong business credit card can have serious consequences for your startup’s financial health. Typically, startup business owners prefer cards that offer flexible repayment options and low monthly fees.

A good startup credit card should also support your company’s growth by offering low fees and extra benefits as your business expands. Considering that as many as 29% of new startups struggle with securing enough funding and end up closing, choosing the right credit card is critical. This article highlights the top 7 business credit cards for startups, evaluated based on approval chances, payment plan flexibility, sign-up bonuses, associated fees, customer service, and more. Keep reading to learn about these options.

Below are my top recommendations for the best startup business credit cards currently available.

This card offers a comprehensive financial package, combining a business account, credit card, and spending software into one seamless platform. There are no fees or minimum deposit requirements. To support your business growth, Brex provides management tools including analytics and cash flow management, helping your startup stay afloat.

Using this card responsibly will improve your credit score and help you establish a strong financial foundation. For startups, building a reliable payment history quickly is essential for future growth.

The Spark card allows you to earn substantial cash-back rewards on purchases made for your business, whether you’re hiring staff, stocking up on office supplies, or purchasing new equipment. Since there’s no expiration date on rewards, you can accumulate cashback from any amount and at any time. This means every purchase, big or small, counts toward your rewards. For example, if your monthly expenses total $10,000, your business could earn around $1,200 in cashback annually.

This card is ideal if your startup seeks exclusive perks, upgrades, and premium benefits to enhance your overall experience. It offers a high earning rate on eligible purchases such as flights, hotels, and resorts. The card provides a 35% airline bonus, allowing your business to book travel more affordably and efficiently. Additionally, cardholders gain access to unique experiences, travel privileges, and entertainment options through its special programs.

For startups, keeping a close eye on your expenses and income is essential for staying financially healthy. This card provides valuable insights into your spending habits, helping you avoid overspending and ensuring you have enough funds to invest in new ventures or seize emerging opportunities. Plus, if you spend $7,500 during the first three months after opening your account, you’ll receive a $750 bonus. Additionally, you earn 1.5% cashback on all purchases, with no limits, so you can earn unlimited rewards regardless of how much you spend.

This card is perfect for companies that require flexible spending power. It allows your business to make large purchases when needed, thanks to the Expanded Buying Power feature, which lets you spend beyond your normal credit limit. Keep in mind, however, that your ability to exceed your limit depends on various factors such as your payment history, credit score, and overall account usage. It’s also among the top startup business credit cards without a credit history, making it suitable for new businesses eager to establish credit.

This card is perfect for earning 6X points on qualifying hotel stays booked through the Marriott Bonvoy program, making business travel more rewarding. It also helps you save money at restaurants, gas stations, shipping providers, and wireless services by maximizing your purchases. If you want to turn every business expense into a potential reward, this card could be ideal for your company’s needs.

If you’re diligent with your spending, this card could be a good choice for you. When you’re able, you can make early payments to earn cashback. This allows you to pay as much or as little as you want for any period and still enjoy the advantages that The Plum Card offers. You might earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on the part of your balance paid within 10 days after your statement closing date. Consequently, you can maximize your benefits without incurring additional costs. There are no caps on earnings, and no specific purchase categories—everything is calculated based on your upcoming statement.

Business credit cards are financial tools designed for startups to manage their expenses effectively. They come with features that help track spending and can be used to generate cash rebates. Today, many small business credit cards include tools to monitor your spending habits and purchases, which is especially useful if your company spends significantly. Keeping tabs on expenses not only helps control cash flow but also provides insights into your business’s financial health each month.

There are various kinds of business credit cards tailored for startups, but not all are suitable for small or new businesses. Below are some of the most common options:

Cashback cards generally fall into two categories: flat-rate cashback and tiered rewards. The flat-rate offers give a consistent 1% back on all purchases, regardless of the retailer. Tiered reward cards provide higher cashback percentages depending on the amount spent within a billing cycle or year. For example, if you spend $5,000 between March and April and receive 5% cashback on eligible purchases, you would earn $250—adding up to a total cashback of $500 over time.

If your business involves operating a fleet of vehicles, a business gas credit card can help save money on fuel expenses. The best cards can be used for both gasoline and diesel, offering flexibility and savings for your company’s vehicle needs.

For companies that frequently travel, a business travel rewards card can be advantageous. These cards incentivize travel by awarding air miles or points for each flight booked online. This approach encourages employees to book flights independently, which can save your business money while giving staff more freedom to choose their routes and schedules. Remember to check for foreign transaction fees if you plan to use the card internationally.

If your business has limited capital, a low-interest-rate credit card is an excellent option. These cards typically come with no annual fee and offer 0% interest on purchases for a specified promotional period. This helps small businesses avoid high interest costs when managing cash flow.

A card with no annual fee is ideal for startups just beginning their journey. While these cards usually come with fewer perks, they allow you to build credit and manage expenses without extra costs. It’s a simple solution for small businesses that don’t require extensive benefits or travel perks.

Shopping rewards cards offer retailers special discounts and deals for cardholders who spend on their specific products. For startups, these cards can attract customers by providing exclusive offers, encouraging repeat business both in-store and online. This strategy can help grow your customer base and increase sales over time.

7. Prepaid Corporate Credit Cards

Prepaid business cards are often used in specific industries such as hospitality, entertainment venues, casinos, and cruise ships, where employees need to make purchases from branded suppliers to boost company revenue. This type of card allows employees to spend a predetermined amount on goods and services before needing to reload it with additional funds.

If you’re an employer aiming to attract millennial students, partnering with companies that issue student reward cards could be an excellent option. Young adults can use their student credit cards for purchases at campus stores, topping up mobile plans, and booking public transportation or rideshare services. This kind of card helps young employees build a positive credit history, which can be beneficial when they apply for business credit cards after graduation.

Small business owners, whether running a startup or working as freelancers, need to develop a strong business credit profile. This requires having a dedicated business credit card that supports business-related expenses. This financial tool is vital for growth, helping companies manage cash flow without stressing liquidity. Added features like sales tax reimbursements, emergency support, and chargeback protection make managing finances more efficient.

When using tools and software to operate a startup, a business credit card becomes essential. Integrating the use of top-rated business planning software helps keep everything organized and promotes clear strategic direction. These cards also support budgeting, customer relationship management, strategic planning modules, and email marketing services, all at affordable rates suitable for new businesses.

Startups should opt for business credit cards over personal ones because they not only help grow their credit standing but also generally offer higher credit limits for daily operations. Rather than making personal monthly payments, businesses spend to generate income, enabling access to more substantial credit lines. The key differences include extra features tailored to business needs, such as cash flow rewards, employee tracking tools, and sales tax reimbursement options. Business cards often have lower interest rates to support financial stability; plus, a business credit score remains separate from an individual’s personal score, avoiding potential credit impacts.

Various types of businesses can benefit from having a dedicated business credit card, including:

There are many business credit card options, including rewards, cashback, travel benefits, international use, and low-interest rates, each offering unique perks essential for startups. Rewards programs often earn bonus points or miles usable for flights and hotels, while cashback cards give a percentage rebate on purchases.

If you’re a new or struggling startup owner, choosing the right business credit card can be a game-changer, helping you access valuable features that can support your growth. These cards can include tools like digital receipts that send real-time updates, ensuring every expense is tracked accurately. They may also offer coverage for travel and medical emergencies, and sometimes warranty protections on purchased items, reducing unexpected costs. Some cards include travel accident insurance, giving peace of mind during business trips.

Employees who are injured during business trips can return home without worrying about the financial burden since they are covered for injuries sustained abroad. Accidents are unexpected, so it’s wise to establish an emergency fund before traveling, ensuring you’re protected if the worst-case scenario occurs.

Many companies provide 24/7 customer support, which can be extremely helpful when resolving payment issues with vendors and third parties—an issue that’s quite common in growing businesses today.

Yes, you can use your Employer Identification Number when applying for a business credit card. While some online lenders might ask for a Social Security number, submitting your EIN can streamline the application process.

The easiest way to build credit for your LLC is by opening a business credit card account in your company’s name. Ensure you obtain an EIN from the IRS during the application process to help establish your credit profile.

Overall, business credit cards can be an excellent tool for managing expenses and improving your company’s financial tracking. They go beyond earning cashback or rewards—they provide entrepreneurs with detailed tools to monitor every dollar spent and see how funds are used over time.

In summary, some of the top business credit cards for startups include:

Hopefully, this overview helps you choose the right credit card for your business. Which one are you planning to sign up for? Share your thoughts below!