What makes a business charge card different from a business credit card?

A business charge card requires you to pay off the full balance each month, whereas a business credit card allows you to carry a balance over time. Charge cards often come with more premium rewards and no pre-set spending limits. However, failing to pay off the full balance each month can result in steep fees.

Can a business charge card help me build credit?

Yes, but it's a bit different than with a business credit card. Some charge card providers report your activity to credit bureaus, which can help build your business credit history . However, because you're required to pay off the full balance each month, the impact may be less significant compared to carrying a balance on a credit card.

Is there any downside to not having a preset spending limit?

While not having a preset spending limit offers flexibility, it doesn't mean unlimited spending. Factors such as your payment history and financial stability determine your spending capacity. Exceeding this unstated limit could result in declined transactions or penalties.

Do business charge cards have annual fees?

Most business charge cards come with an annual fee, which can vary widely. It's important to weigh this cost against the benefits and rewards the card offers to determine if it's a good fit for your business. Some cards may waive the annual fee for the first year as an introductory offer.

How can I maximize the benefits of my business charge card?

To get the most out of your business charge card, focus on optimizing the rewards program and using the expense tracking tools provided. Paying the full balance on time each month will help you avoid late fees and maintain good standing with the card issuer. Make sure to leverage additional perks like travel benefits or shopping protections.

Best Business Charge Cards in 2023

The content on this page is accurate as of the posting date; however, some of the offers mentioned may have expired.

Looking for the best business charge cards to manage your company's expenses? While you may be familiar with traditional credit cards, business charge cards offer a unique set of features tailored to your entrepreneurial needs.

We'll walk you through what a business charge card is, how it differs from a business credit card, and the pros and cons you should consider. We'll also give you actionable tips on comparing options and maximizing the benefits of your chosen card.

Why You Can Trust Our List

American Express® Business Gold Card
A dynamic rewards card for high-spending business owners
- 1–4 Points per $1Rewards Rate
- 19.49% – 27.49% VariableAPR
- $295Annual Fee
- Good–ExcellentRecommended Credit
The American Express® Business Gold Card is a gem for any business-savvy individual. Its generous initial rewards can quickly set you up for success, and its tailored rewards structure means you're earning more on your top spending areas. Plus, you're in for extra perks like savings on popular services every month. While it does come with a few intricacies in its reward system and some caps, once you get a hang of it, you'll find it's a valuable ally in managing your business expenses. And, let's not forget, you even get to pick its stylish look.
Pros
Generous welcome points offer
Potentially high rewards
Dynamic bonus categories
Offers monthly credits on select services

Cons
Comes with an annual fee
Complex reward system
High rewards has spending limit
Earn 70,000 Membership Rewards® points after spending $10,000 with the Business Gold Card in the first 3 months. Terms apply.
Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points in the two main categories your business frequents from a list of six eligible ones each billing cycle. Though these top categories might vary, the 4X points apply to the initial $150,000 spent yearly across them, and then it drops to 1X. Only expenses in these top two categories count towards the yearly $150,000 limit.
Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels booked on amextravel.com using your Business Gold Card.
Receive up to $20 in credits monthly on eligible U.S. purchases like FedEx, Grubhub and Office Supplies; potentially saving $240 annually. Enrollment necessary.
Enjoy $12.95 in monthly credits when you auto-renew a Walmart+ membership using the Business Gold Card. Taxes may apply.
Choose between Gold or Rose Gold for your card design.
With $295 annual fee ($375 if application is received on or after 2/1/24)
Terms, rates and fees apply
Capital One Spark Cash Plus
Generous flat-rate cash back on business expenses
- 2% Cash BackRewards Rate
- None (charge card)APR
- $150Annual Fee
- ExcellentRecommended Credit
The Capital One Spark Cash Plus Credit Card is a compelling option for business owners due to its robust reward structure. Notably, it provides an above-average cash back rate, bolstered by additional rewards on travel purchases, creating the potential for substantial savings. A generous welcome bonus adds to the allure, although it comes with a high spending requirement. The card's annual fee is waived for high spenders, and it offers a suite of business tools designed to streamline expense management.
Pros
High flat-rate cash back on all spending
Bonus cash back on select travel purchases
Generous one-time cash bonus
Comprehensive suite of business tools
No foreign transaction fees

Cons
No option to carry a balance
Annual fee with lower spending
Earn 2% cash back on all spending
Earn 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
Earn a one-time cash bonus of $1,200 after spending $30,000 in the first three months
Annual fee of $150 (refunded if you spend at least $150,000 in a year)
No APR (charge card)
Business tools: free employee cards, quarterly and year-end summaries
No foreign transaction fees
Roadside assistance*
Extended warranties on eligible purchases*
Purchase assurance up to 90 days*
Lost or damaged luggage reimbursement*
Terms, conditions and exclusions apply. Refer to your Guide to Benefits for more details.
Terms, rates and fees apply
Ink Business Premier℠ Credit Card
Comes with high cash back rate and welcome offer
- 1–3 Points per $1Rewards Rate
- 19.49% – 27.49% VariableAPR
- $95Annual Fee
- Good–ExcellentRecommended Credit
The Ink Business Premier℠ Credit Card is a powerhouse for entrepreneurs and businesses alike. If you're often on the move, its travel perks and zero foreign transaction fees are game-changers. This card also generously rewards your spending (especially on larger purchases) and boasts unmatched flexibility when managing cash flow. Its built-in protections are like a security blanket for your transactions, maintaining your coverage in various scenarios. While it does come with an annual fee and demands a solid credit profile, its benefits might just make it your business's best financial companion.
Pros
High cash back rate
Good welcome bonus
No foreign transaction fees
Flexible payment options
Travel and purchase protections

Cons
Significant annual fee
Potentially high APR
Requires good to excellent credit
Limitations on the high cash back rate
Earn a $1,000 cash back bonus when you make purchases totaling $10,000 within the first three months of opening your account
Earn unlimited 5% cash back on travel booked through Chase Ultimate Rewards
Earn 2.5% cash back without limits on purchases over $5,000 and a 2% cash back on all other business expenses
The only business credit card with 2.5% cash back on every purchase of $5,000 or more
Annual fee of $195.
Free employee cards.
Flex for business variable APR: 19.49%–27.49%
No foreign transaction fees
Offers trip cancellation or interruption insurance
Rewards can be redeemed as cash back, gift cards or travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards®
Provides the flexibility to spread out payments on qualified purchases, with interest, up to your Flex for Business limit
Comes with security features like fraud protection, zero liability, purchase safeguards, phone protection and extended warranties
Terms, rates and fees apply
Compare this credit card with other top-rated travel rewards cards.
The Plum Card® from American Express
Excellient no preset spending limit card with flexible payback methods
- 1.5% Cash BackRewards Rate
- UnspecifiedAPR
- $250Annual Fee
- Good–ExcellentRecommended Credit
The Plum Card® from American Express could be your go-to for managing cash flow efficiently and enjoying some nifty savings, especially if you're in the habit of clearing your bills early or traveling internationally. While it comes with a yearly fee and fewer frills compared to other cards, the unlimited early pay discount and the extended grace period for payments potentially offer great financial flexibility. Not to forget, it's a boon for businesses, offering free cards for employees, thereby simplifying expense management.
Pros
Extended interest-free payment period
Unlimited early pay discount
No foreign transaction fees
Free employee cards

Cons
Has an annual fee
Limited perks and benefits
Requires good to excellent credit
Earn unlimited 1.5% early pay discount on qualifying purchases, with the savings reflected in your next billing statement
With a $250 annual fee
Get up to 60 interest-free days to settle your bill, provided you meet the minimum payment requirement by the due date
No foreign transaction fees
No fee for employee cards
Terms, rates and fees apply

MONEYGEEK PRO TIP

Charge cards offer generous flexibility with making large purchases, but business owners need to be aware that the balance must be paid off in full each month. Look for “pay over time” offers if you need extra time to pay off your charges. — Lee Huffman, credit card expert at BaldThoughts.com.

What Is a Business Charge Card?

A business charge card is a specialized financial tool for companies and entrepreneurs. Unlike a standard business credit card, a charge card requires you to pay off the entire balance each month. There's no revolving credit, meaning you can't carry a balance over to the next billing cycle without incurring hefty fees.

This unique feature helps businesses manage cash flow more efficiently. You'll know that at the end of each month, the slate will be wiped clean. Additionally, many business charge cards offer perks like travel rewards, cash back and detailed expense reporting, making them a valuable asset for growing businesses. So, a business charge card could be your best bet if you're looking for a card that combines flexibility with financial discipline.

Business Charge Cards: Pros and Cons

When considering a business charge card, weighing the benefits against the drawbacks is crucial. Knowing the pros and cons can guide you in making the right financial decision for your company.

Pros

Promotes responsible spending: Business charge cards can encourage responsible spending since they require you to pay the full balance every month. This setup can prevent a credit card debt spiral, helping you to maintain healthy financial habits in your business operations.
No preset spending limit: One notable benefit of charge cards is the absence of a preset spending limit, giving you the flexibility to make large purchases without worrying about hitting a ceiling. This can be particularly beneficial when unexpected business expenses come up, providing peace of mind in high-spending situations.
No interest rates: Charge cards don't impose interest rates because the issuer expects you to settle the full balance monthly. This eliminates the stress of accumulating interest over time. However, be wary of potential high fees associated with late payments.
Generous rewards and benefits: Many business charge cards offer generous rewards and benefits, including statement credits and purchase points. They can even offer double or triple points on categories like dining and travel, making them a fantastic option for businesses with travel needs.

Cons

Full balance due monthly: The biggest downside is that you're required to pay the full balance every month. While this can be a good financial discipline, it may not be ideal for businesses that occasionally need to carry a balance.
High fees for missed payments: Failure to pay off the balance in full by the due date can result in hefty penalties. This could be a financial risk for businesses with inconsistent cash flow.
Annual fees: It is common for business charge cards to come with annual fees. These fees can vary significantly, so it's essential to assess whether the benefits and rewards you will receive outweigh the costs.

Carefully evaluate your business's financial capabilities and needs to decide whether a charge card is right for you.

Business Charge Cards vs. Business Credit Cards

Both business charge cards and business credit cards can be useful for managing company expenses, but they have key differences that make them suitable for different financial strategies. Here's how they stack up:

Payment Flexibility

Business credit cards allow you to carry a balance from month to month, subject to interest. On the other hand, business charge cards require full payment of the balance each month. If you don't, you may end up paying high penalties.

Spending Limits

Business charge cards often don't have preset spending limits, providing you with greater financial flexibility. Business credit cards typically have set credit limits, which could restrict your purchasing power in certain situations.

Interest Rates

Since your issuer expects you to pay off the balance monthly on a charge card, there's no ongoing interest rate to consider. Business credit cards often come with varying interest rates that can add to your debt if not managed properly.

How to Choose a Business Charge Card

Choosing the right business charge card can be a game-changer for your financial management. Here's a checklist to help you compare different cards and find the one that fits your business needs like a glove.

Check the fee structure
Don't overlook the annual fees, late fees or any other charges associated with the card. While some cards may offer zero annual fees as an introductory offer, others may have hefty costs that could outweigh the benefits you gain.
Assess rewards and perks
Consider the value of rewards and perks like cash back, travel miles or expense tracking features. Some cards offer industry-specific rewards that might be more valuable for your type of business.
Look at spending limits
Although many business charge cards don't have pre-set spending limits, some impose certain restrictions based on your payment history and financial standing. Make sure the card offers enough spending flexibility for your business needs.
Consider additional card features
Check for extra features like fraud protection, purchase protection or travel insurance. These added security measures can be a lifesaver in emergency situations and add value to the card.
Examine foreign transaction fees
If your business operates internationally or you find yourself traveling abroad frequently, look for a card that offers low or no foreign transaction fees. This could save you a considerable amount of money in the long run.

Next Steps

We've equipped you with the information you need to make an informed decision about the best business charge cards for your needs. From understanding the key differences between charge and credit cards to maximizing your card's benefits, you're well on your way to smarter financial management.

Next, consider your business needs and financial goals to narrow down your options. Don't hesitate to contact card issuers for more details or clarification on any important features.

FAQs About the Best Business Charge Cards

Exploring your options for the best business charge cards? We know it can be a complex landscape. That's why we've compiled this FAQ section to tackle some of the most common questions and simplify your decision.

About Grace Pilling

Grace Pilling is passionate about empowering readers to make informed financial choices to support their best lives, not a company’s bottom line. Prior to joining MoneyGeek as a senior content manager, Grace was a senior editor at CreditCards.com and Bankrate, where she focused on teaching people how to use credit cards wisely.

*Rates, fees or bonuses may vary or include specific stipulations. The content on this page is accurate as of the posting/last updated date; however, some of the offers mentioned may have expired. We recommend visiting the card issuer’s website for the most up-to-date information available.
Editorial Disclosure: Opinions, reviews, analyses and recommendations are the author’s alone and have not been reviewed, endorsed or approved by any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. Learn more about our editorial policies and expert editorial team.
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