The best LLC credit cards have large introductory offers of up to $750, strong ongoing rewards of up to 5%, and low introductory and ongoing annual percentage rates (APRs). Plus, they offer additional features, such as insurance and travel perks. After reviewing dozens of cards, we found eight of the best LLC credit cards.
Top 8 Best LLC Credit Cards July 2019
Applying for an LLC Credit Card
A limited liability company (LLC) combines elements of a partnership and corporation. It’s similar to a partnership in terms of tax efficiency and business flexibility, and it’s similar to a corporation in terms of limited personal liability for its owners. As an LLC, the owner is not personally liable for the LLC’s debts. You can apply for a business credit card as an LLC, but that doesn’t absolve you of your personal guarantee to repay.
How We Evaluated the Best LLC Credit Cards
Business credit cards for LLC owners offer various introductory and ongoing rewards, a range of APRs, and free additional benefits. The best LLC credit card for you is the card that offers the right mix of rewards, fees, and benefits for your business.
In our evaluation of the best business credit cards for LLC owners, we considered:
- Introductory rewards: The introductory offer you can earn by meeting a minimum spending requirement. Cards on this list offer introductory rewards up to $750.
- Ongoing rewards: The points or cash-back rewards you can earn for your ongoing purchases. The cards on our list pay ongoing rewards worth up to 5% of your purchase.
- Introductory APR: Whether a card offers an introductory 0% APR period on purchases or balance transfers. The best LLC credit card offers include introductory no-interest financing for up to 15 months.
- Ongoing APR: How much it costs to finance purchases or balance transfers. Cards on this list have ongoing APRs as low as 14.49%.
- Additional features: Any free perks or benefits that increase the card’s value. Some cards on our list offer purchase protection, extended warranty protection, and car rental insurance.
- Annual fee: How much it costs to own the card each year. Cards on this list have annual fees between $0 and $595.
- Who the card is best for: Which types of LLCs can benefit from a specific LLC credit card. Evaluate your financial situation and the features or rewards you need before you apply for a card.
While most small business credit cards evaluate your business credit, most also require a personal credit check and a credit score of at least 670 for approval. We also included one fair credit business credit card for LLC owners with personal credit scores below 670. You can compare the best business credit cards for LLC owners through our credit card marketplace.
We recommend Chase Ink Business CashSM as the overall best LLC credit card. This card pays up to 5% cash back and offers an introductory 0% APR period for 12 months on purchases. Additionally, you can earn $500 cash back after spending $3,000 within the first three months.
Chase Ink Business CashSM Costs
Financing costs and fees on the Chase Ink Business CashSM credit card include:
- Introductory APR: 0% APR for 12 months on purchases
- Ongoing APR: 15.49% to 21.49%, which adjusts with the prime rate
- Annual fee: None
- Balance transfer fee: 5% or $5, whichever is greater
Chase Ink Business CashSM is one of the best business credit cards with no annual fee. This card’s introductory APR falls short when compared to American Express Blue BusinessSM Plus. That card offers an introductory 0% APR period for 12 months on both purchases and balance transfers.
Chase Ink Business CashSM Rewards
Chase Ink Business CashSM pays some of the best cash-back rewards, which are worth 5% of your purchase. Owners will also receive a $500 bonus after spending $3,000 within the first three months.
Introductory Rewards
You’ll earn $500 cash back after spending $3,000 within the first three months after account opening. Capital One® Spark® Cash for Business also offers a one-time $500 cash bonus once you spend $4,500 on purchases within the first three months from account opening. You must spend $1,500 more to receive the same bonus as the Chase Ink Business CashSM.
Ongoing Rewards
You will earn the following ongoing rewards when using your card:
- 5% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at office supply stores and on internet, cable, cellular phone, and landline services each account anniversary year, then 1% afterward.
- 2% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at gas stations and restaurants each account anniversary year, then 1% afterward.
- 1% cash back on all other purchases.
Chase Ink Business CashSM pays cash-back rewards that are worth up to 5% of your purchase, which makes it one of the best cash-back business credit cards. American Express SimplyCash® Plus also pays up to 5% cash back but offers no introductory rewards, which is why it ranks lower on our list.
Chase Ink Business CashSM Additional Features
Chase Ink Business CashSM comes with the following additional features:
- Auto rental collision damage waiver: Provides primary coverage when renting for business purposes, which means it replaces your personal insurance. Chase will reimburse you up to the actual cash value of the vehicle for theft and collision damage.
- Purchase protection: Provides coverage against damage or theft for the first 120 days after purchase. Coverage is limited to $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per year.
- Extended warranty protection: Offers an additional year of warranty on U.S. manufacturers’ warranties of three years or less.
The additional benefits are similar to what most business credit cards on our list offer. However, some cards offer higher coverage levels. For example, the American Express Business Platinum Card® extended warranty protection offers up to an additional two years of coverage on warranties of five years or less.
What the Chase Ink Business CashSM Is Missing
Chase Ink Business CashSM sets a $25,000 annual cap on both the 5% and 2% cash-back reward spending categories. This limitation may be too small for some LLC owners. If you spend more than $25,000, consider the American Express SimplyCash® Plus. That card caps its ongoing rewards at $50,000.
Chase Ink Business CashSM Reviews
We considered both user reviews and our own editorial review when rating this card. Chase Ink Business CashSM reviews are very positive. Users especially enjoy the robust rewards and no annual fee.
User Reviews
Online reviews suggest that most cardholders find this an extremely valuable option. Cardholders benefit from its no annual fee and the business-oriented cash-back rewards. However, some users complain that the ongoing APR is too high. The low end of the APR range just beats the average of 17%.
Editorial Reviews
We rate small business credit cards based on their costs, rewards, and benefits. This Chase Ink business credit card is one of the best small business credit cards. Its introductory rewards, ongoing rewards, and introductory interest-free financing period set it apart from other cards. Some reviewers believe travel rewards could make this a stronger card.
How to Apply for the Chase Ink Business CashSM
You can apply for the Chase Ink Business CashSM online by filling out a basic application with your business and personal information, and you could be approved instantly. Once you’re approved, you’ll receive your card in the mail within seven to 10 days
American Express Business Platinum Card® Costs
Financing costs and fees on this American Express business credit card include:
- Introductory APR: None
- Ongoing APR: No APR because it’s a charge card and needs to be paid in full monthly
- Annual fee: $595
- Balance transfer fee: Transfers are not allowed
The American Express Business Platinum Card® charges the highest annual fee on our business credit cards for LLC owners list. Additionally, it’s the only charge card. This means it carries no APR and your balance is due in full every month. If you can’t afford to pay off your balance in full every month, consider a traditional business credit card like American Express SimplyCash® Plus.
American Express Business Platinum Card® Rewards
The American Express Business Platinum Card® offers up to 75,000 bonus points after spending $20,000 within the first three months. You will also receive one year of Premium Global Access from WeWork, which is a co-working space. It also has ongoing rewards of 5x points on purchases made through American Express Travel.
Introductory Rewards
You will earn the following introductory rewards when using your card:
- 50,000 bonus points after spending $10,000 within three months.
- 25,000 extra bonus points after spending an additional $10,000 within first three months.
- One year of Premium Global Access from WeWork, which gives you access to at least 300 premium workspaces in more than 75 cities.
This introductory offer of 75,000 bonus points can be worth up to $750 in flights, Uber rides, and gift cards, and up to $525 in prepaid hotels. Additionally, the WeWork access offer is worth $2,700 and is unique to this card. This is one of the most valuable introductory offers on our list. Other cards may only offer cash rewards. For example, Chase Ink Business UnlimitedSM offers $500 after you spend $3,000 within three months.
Ongoing Rewards
You will earn the following ongoing rewards when using your card:
- 5x points on travel purchases through American Express Travel.
- 1.5x bonus points per dollar for eligible purchases of at least $5,000.
- 1x points on all other purchases.
This card is one of the best business credit cards for travel, as it offers the best returns on airfare and hotel purchases. Plus, it’s the only card that offers bonus rewards for purchases of at least $5,000. That reward also makes it an excellent option for LLCs looking for a high limit business credit card to make larger purchases. Charge cards usually have no preset spending limit, so you can make large purchases without worrying about hitting your credit limit.
American Express Business Platinum Card® Additional Features
The American Express Business Platinum Card® includes:
- American Express lounges: Free access to American Express Centurion lounges, which are located in eight U.S. airports.
- Other airport lounges: Free unlimited access to a network of at least 1,200 airport lounges.
- Airport screening: Either a $100 statement credit for Global Entry or $85 statement credit for TSA Pre✓® once every four years.
- Travel credit: A $200 annual statement credit toward air travel expenses like baggage fees and inflight food and drink.
- Rental status: Elite status at a number of car rental agencies, which includes free upgrades.
- Free in-flight Wi-Fi: 10 annual free Gogo inflight Wi-Fi passes.
- Points rebate: 35% points rebate if you book a business or first-class flight, up to 500,000 bonus points per calendar year.
- Dell statement credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits every six months on purchases with Dell for a total of $200 in credits every year.
Although this card’s annual fee of $595 is steep for most LLC owners, the additional card features are worth the money if you travel frequently. This is the only card on our list that offers airport lounge access and travel credits. We believe these features make it one of the best business credit cards with lounge access.
What the American Express Business Platinum Card® Is Missing
The American Express Business Platinum Card® is a charge card, which means you must pay off your balance every month. If you need to carry a balance, it’s best to look elsewhere. The American Express Blue BusinessSM Plus credit card is an excellent alternative. That card offers an introductory 0% APR period for 12 months on purchases and balance transfers.
American Express Business Platinum Card® Reviews
We considered both user reviews and our own editorial review when evaluating this card. American Express Business Platinum Card® reviews are generally positive. Although it carries a high annual fee, its luxury travel perks are unrivaled.
User Reviews
Online user reviews are generally positive. Cardholders who travel often say the airport lounge access benefit is unbeatable. However, some users who don’t travel frequently complain that the annual fee is too expensive compared to other business credit cards.
Editorial Reviews
We rate small business credit cards based on their costs, rewards, and benefits. Reviewers agree that this is one of the best American Express business credit cards. Its luxury travel perks are like no other card we have reviewed. However, its annual fee is a burden for some LLC owners. It also lack rewards for spending categories other than travel.
How to Apply for the American Express Business Platinum Card®
You can apply for the American Express Business Platinum Card® online in a matter of minutes. You will be required to provide your basic business and personal information. Once approved, you will receive your card within seven to 10 business days.
Chase Ink Business UnlimitedSM Costs
Financing costs and fees on the Chase Ink Business UnlimitedSM credit card include:
- Annual fee: None
- Introductory APR: 0% APR for 12 months on purchases
- Ongoing APR: 15.49% to 21.49%, which adjusts with the prime rate
- Balance transfer fee: 5% or $5, whichever is greater
If you’re looking for the best introductory APR, consider choosing another LLC credit card with no annual fee. The American Express Blue BusinessSM Plus credit card is an excellent alternative. That card has no annual fee and offers an introductory 0% APR period for 12 months on both purchases and balance transfers.
Chase Ink Business UnlimitedSM Rewards
Chase Ink Business UnlimitedSM offers a $500 bonus after you spend $3,000 within the first three months. To earn a larger introductory reward, you’ll need to pay for a card with an annual fee. Additionally, this card pays unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases.
Introductory Rewards
You will earn $500 cash back when you spend $3,000 in the first three months. This introductory reward is identical to Chase Ink Business CashSM. If you want to earn a larger reward, you’ll need to choose a card with an annual fee like the American Express Business Platinum Card®. That card’s introductory reward is worth up to $750 in travel, but it has an annual fee of $595.
Ongoing Rewards
You will earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases, which makes it a solid credit card for new businesses that don’t want to track category rewards. If you want to earn a higher return rate, you’ll have to pay an annual fee. For example, Capital One® Spark® Cash for Business pays 2% cash back on all spending but charges an annual fee of $95, waived over the first year.
Chase Ink Business UnlimitedSM Additional Features
Chase Ink Business UnlimitedSM comes with the following additional features:
- Auto rental collision damage waiver: Primary coverage when renting a car for business purposes, which means it replaces any coverage your personal insurance offers. The issuer may reimburse up to the actual cash value of the vehicle for theft and collision damage.
- Purchase protection: Covers purchased items within 120 days of purchase from damage or theft. Coverage is limited to $10,000 per incident and $50,000 per year.
- Extended warranty protection: Offers an additional year of warranty on U.S. manufacturers’ warranties of three years or less.
Most business credit cards for LLC owners on our list offer similar additional card features. However, some cards offer better coverage levels. For example, the no annual fee American Express Blue BusinessSM Plus credit card’s extended warranty protection provides up to an additional two years of coverage on warranties of five years or less.
What the Chase Ink Business UnlimitedSM Is Missing
Chase Ink Business UnlimitedSM offers a lower reward rate compared to other fixed-rate cash-back LLC business cards on our list. However, you’ll need to take on an annual fee to receive a higher rate. For example, Capital One® Spark® Cash for Business offers 2% cash back on all spending. That card has an annual fee of $95, waived over the first year.
Chase Ink Business UnlimitedSM Reviews
We considered both user reviews and our own Chase Ink Business UnlimitedSM card review when rating this card. Most user reviews are positive, but cardholders think Chase Ink Business CashSM is a better choice. If you want to earn higher return rate, you’ll need to pay an annual fee.
User Reviews
Online user reviews suggest that cardholders especially enjoy the introductory rewards and introductory 0% APR period on purchases. However, some users complain that the ongoing rewards fall short of other cash-back business credit cards. There are some LLC business cards that offer fixed-rate rewards up to 2%, but those credit cards charge annual fees.
Editorial Reviews
We rate small business credit cards based on their costs, rewards, and benefits. Chase Ink Business UnlimitedSM is an excellent card option for LLCs that don’t have the time or patience to track category rewards. Plus, you’ll pay no annual fee. However, reviewers agree there are cards that offer better ongoing rewards.
How to Apply for the Chase Ink Business UnlimitedSM
You can apply for the Chase Ink Business UnlimitedSM online by providing your basic business and personal information, and you could be approved instantly. Once you’re approved, you’ll receive your card in the mail within seven to 10 days
American Express Blue BusinessSM Plus Costs
Financing costs and fees on the American Express Blue BusinessSM Plus card include:
- Annual fee: None
- Introductory APR: 0% for 12 months on purchases and balance transfers, which makes it one of the best balance transfer business cards
- Ongoing APR: 15.49% to 21.49%
- Balance transfer fee: $5 or 3% of the transfer, whichever is greater
Alongside its introductory 0% APR period, this American Express business credit card charges a small balance transfer fee. The Chase Ink Business CashSM card, for example, charges 5% on balance transfers compared to the 3% on this card. This difference can add up to hundreds of dollars if you transfer a large balance.
American Express Blue BusinessSM Plus Rewards
The American Express Blue BusinessSM Plus credit card does not offer any introductory rewards, which is one of its weaknesses. However, it pays 2x points on all purchases up to $50,000 per year.
Introductory Rewards
The American Express Blue BusinessSM Plus credit card does not offer any introductory rewards. Applying for an LLC business card that offers introductory rewards can let you earn a sign-up bonus worth hundreds of dollars. For example, Chase Ink Business CashSM and Chase Ink Business Unlimited SM both offer $500 after you spend $3,000 within the first three months.
Ongoing Rewards
With the American Express Blue BusinessSM Plus card, you can earn:
- 2x points on all purchases up to $50,000 each year.
- 1x points on all additional purchases.
American Express Blue BusinessSM Plus pays the same fixed-rate when compared to the Capital One® Spark® Cash for Business card. However, this American Express business credit card only rewards purchases up to $50,000 annually. Capital One® Spark® Cash for Business has no limit and allows you to earn unlimited rewards of 2% cash back on all spending.
American Express Blue BusinessSM Plus Additional Features
American Express Blue BusinessSM Plus comes with the following additional features:
- Extended warranty protection: Provides up to an additional two years of warranty on the original manufacturer’s warranty of five years or less. Coverage is limited to $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per year.
- Purchase protection: The issuer will repair, replace, or reimburse you for a purchased item that was damaged or stolen within 120 days of purchase. Coverage is limited to $1,000 per claim and $50,000 per year.
American Express is known for its robust and unrivaled additional card features. The extended warranty protection on this card is better when compared to the Chase Ink Business CashSM. That card only covers U.S. manufacturers’ warranties of three years or less.
What the American Express Blue BusinessSM Plus Is Missing
American Express Blue BusinessSM Plus is one of the few cards on our list that doesn’t offer introductory rewards, which may turn off LLCs looking to maximize credit card rewards. If you want a card that offers introductory rewards and charges no annual fee, consider Chase Ink Business CashSM. That card offers $500 after you spend $3,000 within the first three months.
American Express Blue BusinessSM Plus Reviews
We considered both user reviews and our own editorial review when rating this card. American Express Blue BusinessSM Plus reviews are mostly positive. LLC owners believe its introductory 0% APR financing and ongoing rewards help grow their businesses. However, the lack of introductory rewards is a disadvantage.
User Reviews
Online cardholder reviews are mostly mixed. Most cardholders suggest they especially enjoy the benefit of no-interest financing and the card’s fixed-rate rewards. However, some users complain about the lack of an introductory reward.
Editorial Reviews
We rate small business credit cards based on their costs, rewards, and benefits. American Express Blue BusinessSM Plus is one of the best business credit cards for LLC owners who want to save on interest charges. However, the lack of an introductory reward may be a deciding factor for some.
How to Apply for the American Express Blue BusinessSM Plus
You can apply for the American Express Blue BusinessSM Plus online in a matter of minutes. You’ll be required to fill out a basic application containing your business and personal information. Once approved, you’ll receive your card within seven to 10 days.
Capital One® Spark® Cash for Business Costs
Financing costs and fees on Capital One® Spark® Cash for Business include:
- Introductory APR: None
- Ongoing APR: Variable 19.24%, which adjusts with the prime rate
- Annual fee: $95, waived for the first year
- Balance transfer fee: None
Besides the American Express Business Platinum Card®, Capital One® Spark® Cash for Business is the only other card on our list that charges an annual fee. For the first year you’ll pay no annual fee, but Capital One will charge $95 thereafter. In comparison, the American Express Business Platinum Card® charges a steep $595 annually.
Capital One® Spark® Cash for Business Rewards
This Capital One business credit card offers a one-time $500 cash bonus once you spend $4,500 on purchases within the first three months from account opening. Plus, it pays 2% cash back on all spending, which is the highest fixed-rate return on our list. If you would rather earn miles for travel, Capital One offers Capital One® Spark® Miles for Business, which is a nearly identical card.
Introductory Rewards
You’ll earn a one-time $500 cash bonus once you spend $4,500 on purchases within the first three months from account opening. This introductory offer is similar to Chase Ink Business CashSM, but its minimum spending requirement is higher. Chase Ink Business CashSM offers $500 after you spend $3,000 within the first three months.
Ongoing Rewards
You’ll earn unlimited 2% cash back on all spending. This is the highest fixed-rate return on our list. In comparison, Chase Ink Business UnlimitedSM pays 1.5% cash back on all spending. These fixed-rate ongoing rewards are best for LLC owners who don’t want to take the time to track category bonuses. If you want to earn bonus category rewards, consider American Express SimplyCash® Plus.
Capital One® Spark® Cash for Business Additional Features
According to Capital One’s website, this card offers the following Visa® Business Benefits:
- Extended warranty protection: Extends the time period of the U.S. manufacturer’s warranty by up to one year on eligible warranties of three years or less.
- Purchase protection: Covers your new purchases for 90 days against damage or theft up to $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per account per year.
According to Capital One’s website, Capital One® Spark® Cash for Business offers Visa® Business Benefits. These additional card benefits are similar to most other small business credit cards. If you want better coverage levels, you’ll need to consider a card with a higher annual fee, like the American Express Business Platinum Card®.
What the Capital One® Spark® Cash for Business Is Missing
Capital One® Spark® Cash for Business does not have an introductory 0% APR period, which means it’s not the best for carrying a balance. If you need to carry a balance, consider a 0% APR business credit card like American Express Blue BusinessSM Plus. That card offers no interest financing for 12 months on purchases and balance transfers.
Capital One® Spark® Cash for Business Reviews
We considered both user reviews and our own editorial review when rating this card. Capital One® Spark® Cash for Business reviews are mostly positive. It’s one of the top fixed-rate business credit cards, but may not be right for all LLC owners because of its $95 annual fee.
User Reviews
Online Capital One® Spark® Cash for Business user reviews are generally positive. This card offers excellent fixed-rate rewards on all spending, which cardholders find extremely beneficial. However, some users complain about the lack of introductory interest-free financing as seen on other business credit cards.
Editorial Reviews
We rate small business credit cards based on their costs, rewards, and benefits. Editorial reviews for this card agree that it’s best for LLCs that have diverse spending needs because of its fixed-rate rewards. However, LLC owners who spend less than $19,000 may benefit more from the Capital One® Spark® Cash Select for Business, which charges no annual fee.
How to Apply for the Capital One® Spark® Cash for Business
You can apply for the Capital One® Spark® Cash for Business card online. You’ll be required to provide your basic personal and business information. Once approved, you’ll receive your card within seven to 10 business days.
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American Express SimplyCash® Plus Costs
Financing costs and fees on the American Express SimplyCash® Plus card include:
- Annual fee: None
- Introductory APR: 0% for 15 months on purchases
- Ongoing APR: 14.49% to 21.49%, which adjusts with the prime rate
- Balance transfer fee: Balance transfers are not allowed
For LLC owners with a personal credit score of at least 750, you can receive this startup business credit card’s low ongoing APR of 14.49%. This is the lowest ongoing APR on our list, including our best overall LLC credit card, Chase Ink Business CashSM. That card’s ongoing APR starts at one percentage point higher than this card. Additionally, with this card, you’ll have no interest on purchases for the first 15 months.
American Express SimplyCash® Plus Rewards
American Express SimplyCash® Plus does not offer any introductory rewards. However, you’ll earn top ongoing rewards for office supply spending. It pays 5% on office supplies and telecommunications services on up to $50,000 in purchase annually.
Introductory Rewards
This LLC credit card does not offer any introductory rewards. If you want an introductory offer and spend a lot on office supplies, choose the Chase Ink Business CashSM. That card offers $500 after spending $3,000 within the first three months. It also offers 5% cash back on office supply purchases up to $25,000 per year.
Ongoing Rewards
You’ll receive the following rewards for using this card:
- 5% cash back at U.S. office supply stores and on wireless telephone services purchased directly from U.S. service providers on up to $50,000 in purchases during a calendar year, then 1% thereafter.
- 3% cash back on up to $50,000 in annual spending (then 1%) from one of eight categories you pick from:
- Airfare purchased directly from airlines
- Hotel rooms purchased directly from hotels
- Car rentals purchased from select car rental companies
- U.S. gas stations
- U.S. restaurants
- U.S. purchases for advertising on select media
- U.S. purchases for shipping
- U.S. computer hardware, software, and cloud computing purchases made directly from select providers
- 1% cash back on all other purchases.
The main advantage of this card’s rewards is the ability to choose the 3% cash-back category, which no other card on our list offers. This gives LLC owners the flexibility to choose a category where they spend the most monthly, which allows them to maximize their rewards.
American Express SimplyCash® Plus Additional Features
American Express SimplyCash® Plus comes with the following additional features:
- Extended warranty protection: Provides up to an additional two years of warranty if the original manufacturer’s warranty is five years or less. Coverage is limited to $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per year.
- Purchase protection: American Express will repair, replace, or reimburse you for a purchased item that was damaged or stolen within 120 days of purchase. Coverage is limited to $1,000 per claim and $50,000 per year.
These card benefits are similar to other credit cards on our list, including the American Express Blue BusinessSM Plus. If you travel often, other cards on our list also offer top-tier travel perks, including unlimited airport lounge access like the American Express Business Platinum Card®. However, that card charges $595 annually.
What the American Express SimplyCash® Plus Is Missing
American Express SimplyCash® Plus does not offer any introductory rewards. If you’re looking to earn money through welcome offers, consider Chase Ink Business CashSM. That card pays a $500 bonus after you spend $3,000 within the first three months. It also offers similar ongoing rewards, including 5% cash back on office supply purchases up to $25,000.
American Express SimplyCash® Plus Reviews
We considered both user reviews and our own editorial review when rating this card. American Express SimplyCash® Plus reviews agree that this is an excellent card for startup LLCs that have office supply expenses of up to $50,000 annually. However, this card has no signup bonus.
User Reviews
Most American Express SimplyCash® Plus user reviews are mixed. Cardholders enjoy the flexibility they have to choose their spending category for the 3% cash-back rewards. However, most users complain about the lack of introductory rewards.
Editorial Reviews
We rate small business credit cards based on their costs, rewards, and benefits. American Express SimplyCash® Plus offers strong rewards for startup LLCs that want to track category bonuses. If you don’t want to take the time to track category rewards, we suggest Chase Ink Business UnlimitedSM. That card has no annual fee and offers fixed-rate 1.5% cash-back rewards.
How to Apply for the American Express SimplyCash® Plus
You can apply for the American Express SimplyCash® Plus online in a matter of minutes. You’ll be required to provide your business and personal information. Once approved, you’ll receive your card within seven to 10 days.
Discover it® Business Card: Best for Self-employed Workers for Unlimited 3% Cash Back
Discover it® Business Card Costs
Financing costs and fees on Discover it® Business Card include:
- Annual fee: None
- Introductory APR: 0% for 12 months on purchases
- Ongoing APR: 15.24% to 23.24%, which adjusts with the prime rate
- Balance transfer fee: 5% of the amount of each transfer
If you’re looking for a card to help with a balance transfer, this is not the best available. It doesn’t offer an introductory 0% APR on balance transfers and charges a high balance transfer fee of 5%. Instead, consider a balance transfer business credit card like American Express Blue BusinessSM Plus. That card offers an introductory 0% APR period for 12 months on both purchases and balance transfers.
Discover it® Business Card Rewards
Discover it® Business Card doesn’t offer a traditional introductory reward. Instead, Discover will match all of the rewards you earn over your first year of owning the card. With fixed-rate ongoing rewards of 1.5% cash back, this means you can earn 3% cash back for the first 12 months.
Introductory Rewards
Instead of a typical introductory offer, Discover will match all of the cash-back rewards you earned during your first year. After the first 12 consecutive months, you’ll receive your cash-back match rewards in the following one or two billing periods. No other card on our list has a similar offer.
Ongoing Rewards
You’ll earn 1.5% cash back on all spending. Additionally, you can earn 3% cash back during your first 12 months with Discover’s cash-back match offer. This makes it a strong card for self-employed workers looking to maximize their rewards over the first year. If you want a card that offers better long-term value, consider Capital One® Spark® Cash for Business. That card offers 2% cash back on all spending.
Discover it® Business Card Additional Features
Discover it® Business Card includes the following additional features:
- Account lock: Gives you the ability to freeze your account through the mobile app or website to prevent new purchases.
- Late fee waiver: You’ll have no late payment the first time you pay late, but $37 thereafter.
Compared to the rest of the cards on our list, Discover lacks features like purchase protection and extended warranty protection. The features it offers are unique to Discover. If you want additional card features, including insurance, consider Chase Ink Business UnlimitedSM. That card pays 1.5% cash back and offers a variety of insurance.
What the Discover it® Business Card Is Missing
The Discover it® Business Card does not offer an introductory 0% APR period on balance transfers. Plus, it has a high balance transfer fee of 5%. If you need to transfer a balance, consider American Express Blue BusinessSM Plus. That card has no interest for 12 months on purchases and balance transfers. Additionally, its balance transfer fee is 3% compared to 5%.
Discover it® Business Card Reviews
We considered both user reviews and our own editorial review when rating this card. Discover it® Business Card reviews agree this card is lucrative for LLCs with a lot of first-year expenses. However, other cards offer better long-term value.
User Reviews
Discover it® Business Card online reviews are mostly mixed. Although it doesn’t have an upfront introductory offer, cardholders enjoy the cash-back match they receive after their first year. Some users complain that this card’s value drops after the first year when compared to other business credit cards.
Editorial Reviews
We rate small business credit cards based on their costs, rewards, and benefits. Editorial reviews for this card agree that this card is a good pick for self-employed workers who want to maximize their rewards over the first year. However, it quickly loses its value. Plus, it doesn’t offer any travel perks or insurances like other cards on our list.
How to Apply for the Discover it® Business Card
You can apply for the Discover it® Business Card online. The application only takes a few minutes and you can get approved instantly. Once approved, the card typically takes seven to 10 business days to arrive.
Capital One® Spark® Classic for Business Costs
Financing costs and fees on Capital One® Spark® Classic for Business include:
- Annual fee: None
- Introductory APR: None
- Ongoing APR: Variable rate of 25.24%, which adjusts with the prime rate
- Balance transfer fee: None
Capital One® Spark® Classic for Business charges the highest ongoing APR on our list, but it’s average for a fair credit business credit card. This is the only LLC credit card on our list that is designed for fair credit LLC owners. We rank it as one of the best business credit cards for fair credit.
Capital One® Spark® Classic for Business Rewards
Capital One® Spark® Classic for Business does not offer any introductory rewards. However, it pays 1% cash back on all spending. These rewards are common across business credit cards for LLC owners with personal credit scores between 580 and 669.
Introductory Rewards
Capital One® Spark® Classic for Business offers no introductory rewards. Business credit cards for fair credit usually don’t offer any sign-up bonuses. We recommend using this card to build up your business and personal credit to a point where you can qualify for a more favorable card. Most often, the best small business credit cards require a personal credit score of at least 670 to qualify.
Ongoing Rewards
You’ll earn unlimited 1% cash back on all purchases. This is a strong LLC business credit card if you have fair credit, but still want to earn some cash-back rewards. If you want to earn rewards and your personal credit score is below 580, consider applying for a secured business credit card. Secured cards have credit limits that are equal to your cash deposit.
Capital One® Spark® Classic for Business Additional Features
According to Capital One’s website, this card offers the following Visa® Business Benefits:
- Extended warranty protection: Extends the time period of the U.S. manufacturer’s warranty by up to one year on eligible warranties of three years or less.
- Purchase protection: Covers your new purchases for 90 days against damage or theft up to $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per account per year.
According to Capital One’s website, you’ll receive Visa® Business Benefits upon approval. Compared it to the Capital One® Spark® Cash for Business, these features are similar. However, it’s unlikely fair credit LLC owners can qualify for that card.
What the Capital One® Spark® Classic for Business Is Missing
Capital One® Spark® Classic for Business does not have a signup bonus and lacks a strong ongoing reward return rate. However, LLC owners applying for this card are typically looking to build credit and not earn the best rewards. The ongoing rewards are just an additional plus.
Capital One® Spark® Classic for Business Reviews
We considered both user reviews and our own editorial review when rating this card. Capital One® Spark® Classic for Business reviews suggest this is a strong card if you’re looking to build your credit.
User Reviews
Online Capital One® Spark® Classic for Business user reviews are mostly positive. Users especially enjoy the ability to earn rewards even if they have a credit score below 670. However, some users complain about that card’s low credit limits. Capital One® Spark® Classic for Business has credit limits that start at $500.
Editorial Reviews
We rate small business credit cards based on their costs, rewards, and benefits. Most reviewers agree that this is one of the best LLC business cards for fair credit. It’s easy to qualify for and charges no annual fee. If you want to receive perks similar to this card, including controlling employee spending, without a credit check, we recommend a prepaid business card.
How to Apply for the Capital One® Spark® Cash for Business
You can apply for the Capital One® Spark® Classic for Business online. The application takes minutes and you can get approved instantly. Once approved, the card typically takes seven to 10 business days to arrive.
Pros & Cons of Business Credit Cards for LLC Owners
Business credit cards allow LLC owners and their employees access to affordable short-term financing that can be used for everyday expenses. Several cards offer rewards that can be put back into the LLC in the form of cash or free travel. However, some cards come with costly annual fees.
Pros of Business Credit Cards for LLC Owners
The pros of business credit cards for LLC owners are:
- Rewards for everyday spending: LLC business credit cards may offer ongoing rewards of up to 5% on purchases that you can put back into your business. Rewards can usually be redeemed as cash back or free travel, depending on the card.
- Affordable short-term financing: Business credit cards for LLC owners are an excellent way to bridge short-term working capital needs for a 30-day period. If you pay your card off monthly, you can earn rewards and free up your cash without risking interest charges.
- Funding for very small companies: With an LLC business credit card, even microbusinesses have the ability to access financing. This is because the annual revenue requirements are usually low, meaning LLCs with annual revenues less than $100,000 can use business credit cards.
Cons of Business Credit Cards for LLC Owners
The cons of business credit cards for LLC owners are:
- Costly annual fees: A card’s rewards and additional benefits are some of the most common advantages to a business credit card. This is a great way to use a card, as long as you make sure the annual fees don’t offset the rewards you earn.
- Limited access to cash: While LLC business credit cards make access to credit from vendors who accept electronic payments easy, it’s not as easy if you need to use cash. Credit card cash advances are usually expensive and limited to an amount that’s less than your credit limit.
- Potential risk of accruing interest: If you don’t make timely payments on a monthly basis, LLC business credit cards can create a cash trap. You’ll pay interest on any outstanding balances at the end of the month, which adds up quickly. To avoid interest, pay off your balance in full.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Business Credit Cards for LLC Owners
We covered a lot of information on the best business credit cards for LLC owners. Some questions are asked more often than others, and we address those here. If you have any additional questions, please visit the Fit Small Business forum or leave a comment below, and we will provide an answer.
The most frequently asked questions about business credit cards for LLC owners are:
How do I get a business credit card for my LLC?
To get a business credit card, you’ll need a personal credit of at least 670. Before you apply, consider the type of rewards you want, if you need interest-free financing, and if you can afford an annual fee. Once you’ve found the right card, you can typically apply online and receive an instant decision.
How do I qualify for a business credit card?
Most business credit cards require that you have a personal credit score of at least 670. However, it’s not required that you have an employee identification number (EIN). You can apply for a business credit card with your Social Security number. Once know your score, you can apply online and wait for approval.
How do you build credit for a new LLC?
To build your business credit, you should first get a D-U-N-S number (for Dun & Bradstreet credit report) and provide at least three trade references who can vouch for your timely payments. Other business credit report agencies like Equifax and Experian build a credit report on your LLC automatically.
Bottom Line
Overall, business credit cards for LLC owners are an excellent way to access financing and issue employee cards. Additionally, you can earn rewards that you can use to put money back in your business. The best LLC business credit cards usually require you to have a personal credit score of at least 670.
We believe Chase Ink Business CashSM is the overall best LLC credit card. You’ll earn $500 after you spend $3,000 within the first three months and up to 5% cash back. Plus, you’ll have an introductory 0% APR period on purchases for 12 months. You can apply online and receive an approval instantly.
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