As a business owner, choosing the right business credit card can be a flexible and effective way for you to borrow money. But how do you decide which one is best for your needs?
To help you decide, we’ve reviewed the top business credit cards available in the UK and compared their features, benefits, and terms.
- Capital on Tap Free Business Rewards Card
- American Express Business Gold Card
- Metro Bank Business Credit Card
- Amazon Business Prime American Express Card
- Santander Business Cashback Credit Card
- Barclaycard Select Cashback Business Credit Card
- RBS Business Plus Credit Card
- Capital on Tap Business Rewards Card
- The American Express Business Basic Card
- Business Charge Cards
- Overdrafts
- Business Loans
Capital on Tap Free Business Rewards Card
(Best Overall)

The Capital on Tap Free Business Credit Card is our top overall pick due to its impressive range of benefits tailored to small businesses, a competitive 1% cashback reward scheme, and flexible credit limits.
Features
- No monthly/annual fee
- £250,000 credit limit, which can be topped up further with pre-loading
- Purchase Rate and Representative APR between 14.67% and 36.19% APR (variable)
- 1% uncapped cashback on all spending
- Points redeemable for cashback, Avios, gift cards, or statement credit
- No introductory offers
- No foreign exchange fees on international purchases
- No ATM withdrawal fees (limit of 2 withdrawals per day, max £400 per day)
- Unlimited free employee cards with individual spend controls
- Instant access savings account with up to 4% AER (variable)
- Free expense management tools with accounting integrations (Xero, QuickBooks, Sage, FreeAgent)
- Zero liability on fraud policy with Visa
- 24/7 UK-based customer support
Card Summary
The Capital on Tap Business Credit Card is a no-fuss, no-fee credit card designed for limited companies and LLPs that want a simple way to earn rewards on everyday business spending. With no annual or monthly fees, it’s a great option if you want to keep costs low while still benefiting from cashback and flexible credit limits.
One of its standout features is the 1% unlimited cashback on all purchases, meaning every pound your business spends earns you money back. Plus, you can redeem your rewards however it suits you—as cashback, Avios points, gift cards, or statement credit.
The card comes with a credit limit of up to £250,000 (subject to approval) and, unlike many business cards, there are no foreign transaction fees, making it a strong choice if you regularly make international purchases. You can also withdraw cash without extra fees, though there’s a £400 daily limit (max 2 withdrawals per day).
For businesses that need expense management tools, the card integrates seamlessly with Xero, QuickBooks, FreeAgent, and Sage, making it easy to track spending and manage finances. And if you need to issue cards to your team, you can add unlimited employee cards for free, each with their own spending controls.
Frequent travellers may find Capital on Tap’s premium Pro card more appealing. For an annual fee of £299, this card gives cardholders unlimited access to over 1,600 lounges as well as grants them Radisson Rewards VIP status.
Overall, this is a practical, cost-effective credit card for UK businesses that want flexibility, rewards, and simple expense management—without the hassle of hidden fees or complex rewards structures.
Read our full Capital on Tap review
American Express Business Gold Card
(Best Business Charge Card with Rewards)

The American Express Business Gold Card is designed to reward your business spending with flights, hotels, shopping discounts or charitable donations.
As this is a charge card rather than a credit card, you must repay the full balance each month.
Features
- Pay no annual fees for the first year, then £195/year
- No preset spending limit
- Up to 54 days of interest-free credit (if the balance is paid in full each month)
- 1%-2% Cashback variable
- Earn 1 Membership Rewards point per £1 spent, with no cap (2 points per £1 American Express Travel)
- 20,000 bonus membership points if you spend $3,000 in the first 3 months
- Up to 20 free employee cards with individual spend controls
- Access to AmexExpense, a free business expenses solution.
- 24/7 fraud alerts and phone line, purchase protection, and travel insurance
- Access to American Express Experiences and The Hotel Collection perks
- 24/7 customer support
Card Summary
The American Express Business Gold Card isn’t a typical credit card—it’s a charge card, meaning you have to pay off the full balance every month. That makes it a great choice for businesses that spend regularly and want to earn rewards, but not for those looking to spread out payments over time.
With 1 Membership Rewards point earned per £1 spent and no cap on points, it’s a solid option if your business makes a lot of purchases. Plus, if you spend £20,000 in a quarter, you’ll get an extra 10,000 bonus points—adding up to 40,000 bonus points per year if you hit that spending milestone consistently.
The first year is completely free, which is a nice perk, but after that, there’s a £195 annual fee to keep the card. On the plus side, you get up to 20 free employee cards, expense management tools, and travel perks like purchase protection and insurance—which can add real value if you use them.
If your business spends enough to take advantage of the rewards, travel perks, and extra protections, this card can be a powerful tool for managing cash flow and earning valuable points. But if you’re after a card that lets you carry a balance, this isn’t the one for you.
You won’t be eligible for the welcome bonus if you hold or have held a Membership Rewards enrolled American Express Card in the past 13 months. Note that American Express is not accepted everywhere.
More About American Express
Read my detailed comparison of American Express business credit cards
How do Amex credit card rewards work?
The American Express Business Gold Card offers 1 Membership Rewards point per £1 spent. For example, if you spend £1,000 on the card in a month, you would earn 1,000 Membership Rewards points.
These points can then be redeemed for statement credits, with each point worth around 0.5p, meaning 1,000 points would equal £5 in statement credits.
Metro Bank Business Credit Card
(Best for European Travel)

Metro Bank’s Business Credit Card is designed to effectively manage your business’s spending, offering a streamlined service with a focus on simplicity and accessibility.
Features
- No monthly/annual fee
- Credit limit subject to approval (minimum £500, no fixed upper limit)
- 18.9% APR variable (nominal interest rate of 17.44% per annum)
- Up to 56 days of interest-free credit on purchases (when paid in full each month)
- No cashback or rewards programme
- No introductory offers
- Up to 9 additional employee cards
- Expense management tools available
- No UK cash withdrawal fees
- Multi-factor authentication, real-time detection systems and more
- Limited customer support
- Metro Bank business current account required to apply
Card Summary
The Metro Bank Business Credit Card keeps things simple, with no annual fees, no hidden charges, and one straightforward interest rate of 18.9% APR variable. It’s designed for Metro Bank business account holders who want a fuss-free way to manage business spending without worrying about extra costs.
One of its biggest perks is fee-free spending across SEPA Europe, which makes it a great choice if your business frequently travels or makes purchases in countries like the Eurozone, Sweden, Norway, and Switzerland. However, a 2.99% currency conversion fee applies if you spend outside Europe, so it’s something to keep in mind.
Unlike many other business credit cards, Metro Bank doesn’t charge late payment or over-limit fees, so while it’s always best to pay on time, you won’t get hit with surprise penalties if something slips through.
Overall, this card is ideal for businesses that just want a simple, cost-effective credit option without rewards or cashback gimmicks. If you already bank with Metro Bank and want a no-fuss way to handle expenses, especially within Europe, it’s definitely worth considering.
Amazon Business Prime American Express Card
(Best Business Credit Card for Amazon Rewards)

The Amazon Business Prime Credit Card from American Express offers higher rewards for Amazon purchases and the option to extend payment periods by 90 days, improving cash flow.
However, note that the APR is high.
Features
- No fee for the first 12 months, then £50 per year (waived if spending £8,000+ annually)
- Representative APR: 39.0% variable (Purchase Rate: 27.6% p.a. variable)
- Choice between two benefits for Amazon purchases:
- 2% cashback on Amazon.co.uk, Amazon Business UK, and Whole Foods Market UK (up to £120,000 per year, then 1%)
- 90-day interest-free payment terms on eligible Amazon purchases
- 0.5% cashback on all spending
- Extended Payment Terms
- £50 Amazon voucher + £50 statement credit if you spend £1,000 in the first 3 months
- Up to 20 free employee cards with spending controls
- Expense management software integration available
- Detailed Amazon Business transaction tracking for easier accounting
- Advanced fraud monitoring and Zero Liability Protection
- 24/7 customer support
Card Summary
If your business spends heavily on Amazon, this card is designed to help you maximise savings or improve cash flow. You get the choice of 2% cashback on Amazon purchases (up to £120,000 per year, then 1%), or you can opt for 90-day interest-free payment terms, a useful perk if you prefer to spread out costs.
There’s no annual fee for the first year, and after that, the £50 annual fee is waived if you spend £8,000 or more per year, making it effectively free for frequent Amazon users. On top of that, new cardholders get a £50 Amazon voucher plus a £50 statement credit when spending £1,000 in the first three months.
You can also issue up to 99 free employee cards, making it easier to manage spending across teams while earning rewards faster. Plus, detailed purchase tracking on Amazon Business UK ensures easier expense reporting and reconciliation for businesses that rely on Amazon for supplies.
However, the APR is high at 39.0% variable, so it’s not ideal if you plan to carry a balance. It’s best suited for businesses that always pay off their balance in full and want to maximise Amazon-related benefits.
Santander Business Cashback Credit Card
(Best for Small Business)

The Santander Business Cashback Credit Card offers a rewarding way to manage your spending, with features aimed small and medium-sized businesses and a low annual fee.
Features
- £30 annual fee
- Credit limit starts at £500, subject to approval
- 23.7% APR variable (purchase interest rate: 18.9% p.a. variable)
- 1% cashback on all business spending, with no cap
- No Rewards
- No Introductory Offers
- Up to 3 additional employee cards (for a total of 4 cards per account)
- No foreign transaction fees when paying in local currency
- Cash withdrawals abroad incur a 3% fee (minimum £3) + interest
- Up to 56 days interest-free credit on purchases when paid in full each month
- Santander’s own “My Money Manager” tool
- Zero liability on fraud policy, monitoring systems and more
- Limited customer support
- Santander business current account required to apply
Card Summary
The Santander Business Cashback Credit Card is a straightforward and cost-effective option for small businesses that want to earn cashback on everyday spending without high fees. With 1% cashback on all purchases and no cap, it’s a great way to get something back on your regular business expenses. Cashback is automatically credited to your card balance each month, keeping things simple.
A big plus is that there are no foreign transaction fees when spending abroad in the local currency, making it a solid option for international business purchases or travel. However, cash withdrawals overseas will incur a 3% fee (minimum £3), plus interest, so it’s best to avoid using this card for cash access.
The £30 annual fee is lower than many other business credit cards, and you can issue up to 3 additional employee cards at no extra cost, helping to manage business spending across multiple team members. Just keep in mind that you must have a Santander business current account to apply.
With up to 56 days interest-free on purchases (when you pay in full), plus basic expense tracking and fraud protection, this card is a practical choice for small business owners who want cashback rewards without any complicated extras.
Barclaycard Select Cashback Business Credit Card
(Best for Cashback)

The Barclaycard Select Cashback Credit Card offers business owners a rewarding cashback scheme and other perks, such as free insurance coverage.
Features
- No monthly/annual fee
- Credit limit subject to approval
- 26.8% APR variable (purchase rate: 26.8% per annum variable)
- 1% cashback on eligible business spending (minimum £2,000 spend per statement month required to qualify)
- Up to 56 days interest-free credit on purchases (when paid in full each month)
- Complimentary FreshBooks accounting plan (worth over £300 annually)
- Offer of £85 after first eligible £5,000 spent
- Unlimited employee cards with individual spending controls
- Purchase protection (up to £6,000 per claim, £10,000 annually)
- Access to Barclaycard Business rewards and discounts
- Fraud prevention tools, real-time transaction controls, and the ability to freeze cards via MyControls
Card Summary
The Barclaycard Select Cashback Business Credit Card is a solid choice for businesses that want to earn cashback on spending without paying annual fees. You’ll earn 1% cashback on all purchases, but only if your business spends at least £2,000 per statement month, so it’s best suited for businesses with regular expenses that can consistently meet this threshold.
One of the biggest perks is up to 56 days of interest-free credit on purchases, helping businesses manage cash flow more effectively. There’s also no annual fee, making it an affordable option for businesses looking to keep costs low while still enjoying perks.
Beyond cashback, the card offers strong expense management tools, including a complimentary FreshBooks subscription (worth over £300 per year) to help streamline accounting. You also get purchase protection and cardholder misuse insurance, providing extra security against fraud and employee misuse.
For businesses that spend regularly, want to earn cashback, and value added perks like free accounting software, this card is a great option, especially since it comes with no ongoing costs. Just be sure to hit the £2,000 monthly spend requirement to unlock the full cashback benefits.
More About Barclaycards
Read my full article on Barclaycard Business Credit Cards
RBS Business Plus Credit Card
(Best for Managing Spend)

The RBS Business Plus Credit Card offers different levels of cashback depending on the type of purchase, up to an annual limit.
While it does have an annual fee, it also comes with access to a free app to help businesses manage their spending.
Features
- Free for the first 12 months, then £70 per year per cardholder
- Credit limit starts at £500, subject to approval
- 29% APR variable (13.9% p.a. purchase interest rate)
- 0.5% cashback on all spending and 1-3% cashback on other certain purchases. £600/year limit
- No foreign transaction fees on overseas purchases
- Up to 56 days interest-free credit on purchases (when paid in full each month)
- No late payment, over-limit, or returned payment fees
- Merchant discounts via Mastercard Business Savings programme
- No introductory offers
- No employee cards
- FreeAgent accounting integration and access to ClearSpend available
- 24/7 fraud monitoring and one-time passcodes for payments
- 24/7 customer support
Card Summary
The RBS Business Plus Credit Card is a great choice if your business spends regularly on fuel, travel, or trade supplies, thanks to its tiered cashback structure. You’ll earn up to 3% cashback on selected business expenses, but keep in mind that cashback is capped at £600 per year; so once you hit that limit, you won’t earn any more rewards until the following year.
One of its best perks is 0% foreign transaction fees, making it a strong option for businesses that travel internationally or make overseas purchases. Plus, with up to 56 days interest-free on purchases, it offers flexibility for managing cash flow; as long as you clear the balance in full each month.
Unlike many business cards, there are no fees for late payments, over-limit spending, or returned payments, helping to avoid extra costs if you occasionally miss a payment. You also get access to Mastercard Business Savings, which offers automatic discounts at selected business merchants.
To apply, you’ll need to already have a Royal Bank of Scotland business current account, and your business must have an annual turnover under £6.5 million.
Capital on Tap Business Rewards Card

The Capital on Tap Business Rewards Card is designed for UK-based small businesses looking for high credit limits, flexible rewards, and no hidden fees.
With uncapped cashback, free employee cards, and seamless accounting integrations, it’s an excellent choice for businesses that want to maximise rewards while managing expenses efficiently.
Features
- No annual fee
- Up to £250,000 credit limit (subject to approval)
- 1% cashback on all business spending (uncapped)
- Up to 42 days interest-free credit on purchases (when balance is paid in full)
- Free unlimited employee cards with individual spending limits
- Expense management tools & real-time tracking (integrates with Xero, QuickBooks, FreeAgent & Sage)
- 0% foreign transaction fees on international purchases
- No cash withdrawal fees (but interest applies from withdrawal date)
- 24/7 UK-based customer support
- Rewards redemption options: Cashback, Avios points, gift cards, or statement credits
Card Summary
The Capital on Tap Business Rewards Card is a hassle-free way for small businesses to earn rewards on everyday spending. With 1% cashback on every purchase and no cap, you’ll be getting something back every time you use it; whether it’s for office supplies, travel, or client expenses.
Unlike many business credit cards, there’s no annual fee for the standard plan, and you won’t pay foreign transaction fees when spending abroad. If you pay off your balance in full each month, you’ll also benefit from up to 42 days of interest-free credit, giving your business more breathing room when managing cash flow.
If you need to issue cards to your team, you can add unlimited employee cards for free, each with its own spending limits. Plus, with real-time tracking and seamless accounting integrations with Xero, QuickBooks, FreeAgent, and Sage, keeping on top of expenses is easy.
For businesses that travel frequently, the optional £299 Pro Plan adds some serious perks, including airport lounge access, Radisson Rewards VIP status, and a 10,000-point welcome bonus. You can even convert your points into Avios, making this card a great option if flights and hotels are a regular business expense.
All in all, this card is ideal for small businesses that want a flexible, high-limit credit card with real rewards and no hidden costs. Whether you’re focused on cashback, earning Avios, or managing team spending, it’s a smart, straightforward choice.
Read our full Capital on Tap review
The American Express Business Basic Card
(Best for a Basic Charge Card)

The American Express Business Basic Card is designed to provide businesses with the essential features they need for making purchases, offering flexible spending power and no annual fee.
It is a charge card that offers convenience and control to business owners.
Features
- No monthly/annual fee
- No pre-set spending limit (purchasing power adjusts based on usage and financial history)
- Charge card, full balance must be paid each month
- £12 late payment fee if the full balance is not paid on time
- Up to 20 free supplementary cards for employees
- Expense management tools for tracking business spending
- Online account access for transaction monitoring and payments
- No introductory offers
- 24/7 fraud alerts and fraud phone line
- 24/7 customer support
Card Summary
The American Express Business Basic Card is as simple as it gets. There are no annual fees, no pre-set spending limit, and no complicated rewards schemes. It’s a straightforward charge card that gives your business flexibility without extra costs, as long as you pay off the full balance each month.
Because there’s no fixed credit limit, your spending power adjusts based on your account activity and financial history. That makes it a great option for businesses that want more freedom with their purchases while keeping control of expenses. If you need to issue cards to your team, you can add up to 20 employee cards for free, helping you track and manage business spending more easily.
While the card doesn’t charge interest, there are a couple of fees to watch out for. Foreign transactions come with a 2.99% fee, and late or returned payments will cost you £12. As long as you stay on top of payments, it’s a no-hassle way to manage business expenses.
One perk is that Amex cardholders get access to priority booking for some shows and events through American Express Experiences.
If you’re looking for a simple, no-fee charge card that keeps business spending flexible and easy to manage, this is one of the best options out there. Just remember that it’s not a credit card, so carrying a balance isn’t an option.
Note that American Express is not accepted everywhere.
What’s our methodology?
To rank the top business credit cards, our methodology focused on a mix of financial factors and card features that directly impact business users. We considered the following key criteria:
- Interest Rate on Purchases: We looked at the representative Annual Percentage Rate (APR), which indicates the cost of borrowing on the card. A lower APR means the card is cheaper to use for carrying a balance.
- Cashback: We evaluated cards that offer cash back, a feature where a percentage of spending is returned to the cardholder. This provides direct financial rewards for card usage.
- Other Perks or Benefits: We included additional benefits such as points earning systems, which can offer value in forms like travel, merchandise, or further cashback, enhancing the card’s overall worth.
- Availability: The accessibility of cards was also a consideration, assessing whether they are offered to all businesses or exclusively to existing customers of the issuer.
- Purpose-Specific Benefits: Recognising different business needs, we also considered how well each card serves specific purposes, including:
- Rewarding spending with cashback and points.
- Offering low APR and minimal fees for cost-effective borrowing.
- Features for managing spending, essential for budgeting and financial control.
- Providing no-frills, basic credit options for straightforward use.
- Supporting the unique needs of small but growing businesses.
What is a Business Credit Card?
A business credit card is a flexible way to borrow money up to a pre-set credit limit.
It functions similarly to a personal credit card but is tailored to meet the needs of businesses.
It provides a line of credit that allows businesses to make purchases, manage expenses, and build a credit history separate from personal finances.
A business credit card differs from a prepaid business card in that a business credit card offers a line of credit to make purchases and withdraw cash, accruing interest if the balance is not paid in full, whereas a prepaid business card requires loading funds in advance.
How Does a Business Credit Card Work?
A business credit card works by providing businesses with a revolving line of credit. Once approved, you can use the card to make purchases for your business, pay bills, and cover other expenses.
The credit card issuer sets a credit limit, which is the maximum amount you can borrow. You can make payments on the card either in full or in minimum monthly instalments, and any remaining balance incurs interest charges.
Business credit cards may also offer additional perks and rewards tailored to business needs.
Do I Need a Business Credit Card?
Having a business credit card can offer several advantages for your company.
It helps separate your personal and business expenses, simplifies accounting and expense tracking, and allows you to build a credit history for your business.
Business credit cards often come with various perks, such as cashback on your everyday spending, travel benefits, and expense management tools.
Who Can Get a Business Credit Card?
Business credit cards are typically available to various types of businesses, including sole proprietorships, partnerships, corporations, and limited liability companies (LLCs).
The specific eligibility requirements may vary depending on the issuer, but generally, you will need to have a legitimate business with a certain level of income or revenue.
Some issuers may also consider your personal credit history and financial situation when evaluating your application.
Pros and Cons of Business Credit Cards
Reasons to Use a Business Credit Card
- Manage short-term expenses and cash flow during uneven revenue periods.
- Earn rewards like cashback, travel rewards, and points per pound spent.
- Easily track and categorise business spending.
- Build a strong credit history with timely repayments.
- Control business spending with free employee cards and customisable limits.
- Get protections like extended warranties, travel insurance, and fraud protection.
- Access quick capital for small businesses.
You Should be Aware Of
- High interest rates can accumulate on balances carried month to month.
- Easy access to funds can lead to overspending and debt.
- Personal liability for business debts can impact your personal credit score.
- Rewards can be complex and require management.
- Annual fees may outweigh the benefits depending on card usage.
- Foreign transaction fees can add up.
- Limited consumer protection against billing errors or disputes compared to personal credit cards.
How Do I Apply for a Business Credit Card?
To apply for a business credit card, you typically need to provide information about your business, such as its legal name, address, and tax identification number.
You may also need to provide financial statements, proof of income, and other documentation depending on the issuer’s requirements.
The application process can often be completed online.
Business Credit Card Eligibility Check
There are a few main criteria you’ll usually need to meet to be eligible for a business credit card in the UK, although different credit card issuers may have their own specific policies.
- Business type: Eligibility depends on business type, with preferences or restrictions for certain industries or structures.
- Business age: Credit card issuers often require the business to be operating for a few months to a year.
- Turnover and financials: Issuers assess annual turnover, profit margins, and cash flow to determine creditworthiness.
- Personal credit history: For small businesses, the owner’s credit score can impact approval chances.
- Debt-to-income ratio: A favourable debt-to-income ratio indicates the business can manage additional credit.
- Legal entity and company registration: The business must be a registered legal entity with a unique company registration number.
- Documentation and verification: Issuers may require bank statements, filed accounts, or tax returns to verify financial standing.
- Other factors: Additional considerations may include industry, number of employees, and trading history.
The Best Business Credit Cards in the UK (2025)
As of 2025, here’s what we think are the best deals for different needs, like low fees and interest rates, or cashback and rewards.
Card Name | Key Features | Rating | Register |
---|---|---|---|
Capital on Tap Business Credit Card | Competitive rewards programme, low fees, flexible credit limits | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Check My Eligibility |
American Express Business Gold Card (Charge Card) | High reward rates, comprehensive travel benefits | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Check My Eligibility |
Metro Bank Business Credit Card | Low APR, suitable for carrying a balance | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Check My Eligibility |
Amazon Business Prime American Express Card | High rewards for Amazon purchases, extended payment terms, welcome offer, additional employee cards. | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Check My Eligibility |
Santander Business Cashback Credit Card | Cashback on purchases, low annual fee | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Check My Eligibility |
Barclaycard Select Cashback Credit Card | Straightforward cashback scheme, no annual fee | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Check My Eligibility |
RBS Business Plus Credit Card | Competitive interest-free period, purchase protection | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Check My Eligibility |
American Express Basic Charge Card | No-frills charge card option | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Check My Eligibility |
Juni Business Card | Virtual cashback charge card for e-commerce companies | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Check My Eligibility |
Learn More
Read our articles on the best credit cards for startups, best interest-free, best credit cards for air-miles, and best international credit cards
Alternatives to Business Credit Cards
Business Charge Cards
Best For: Businesses that can reliably pay off their balance in full each month and seek flexible spending without preset limits.
Key features
No preset spending limit; spending capacity adjusts based on your financial health.
Requires full payment of the balance each month.
Often includes rewards and benefits similar to business credit cards.
Comprehensive expense tracking and reporting tools.
One major advantage of charge cards is the elimination of interest charges, as these cards require full payment each month, unlike business credit cards that accrue interest on carried balances.
Additionally, charge cards offer greater spending flexibility due to the lack of preset limits and provide detailed expense tracking, which aids in budgeting and financial planning.
However, the strict payment terms can strain cash flow if not managed carefully, as charge cards do not allow you to carry a balance forward.
Missing a payment can result in high fees, which can be more severe than the interest charges on a business credit card balance.
Overdrafts
Best For: Businesses needing short-term, flexible access to additional funds to manage cash flow gaps.
Key features
Linked to a business current account, allowing you to overdraw up to an agreed limit.
Interest is charged only on the amount overdrawn.
Provides a financial buffer for unexpected expenses or shortfalls.
Overdrafts charge interest only on the amount overdrawn, which can be more cost-effective than paying interest on the entire balance of a business credit card.
They also offer flexible access to funds when needed, similar to business credit cards, but with the added benefit of paying only for what you use.
On the downside, overdrafts can have higher interest rates compared to business credit cards, especially with frequent use.
Additionally, the credit limit on an overdraft is usually lower than what business credit cards offer, which may limit its usefulness for larger expenses.
Business Loans
Best For: Businesses needing a lump sum for significant expenses or investments, such as equipment purchase, expansion, or major projects.
Key features
A fixed amount of money borrowed and repaid over a set period.
Can be secured (backed by collateral) or unsecured.
Fixed or variable interest rates.
Predictable monthly payments.
Business loans offer higher sums than credit cards, making them ideal for large investments or projects.
Loans have fixed repayment schedules, which aid in budgeting and financial planning, unlike credit cards with variable interest rates.
However, loans provide a lump sum upfront, and you can’t increase the amount without reapplying.
The application process is more time-consuming and requires extensive documentation and financial review.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What does APR mean?
APR stands for Annual Percentage Rate. It is a financial term used to describe the annual cost of borrowing money, expressed as a percentage.
APR is a comprehensive measure that includes not only the interest rate but also any fees or additional costs associated with the transaction.
APR is commonly used for credit cards (as with the examples on this page), as well as mortgages, car loans, and other types of credit.
For example, when comparing two credit card offers, the one with the lower APR generally represents the better deal, assuming all other terms are equal.
What types of APR can be applicable to credit cards?
When it comes to credit cards, several types of APR (Annual Percentage Rate) can be applicable. These include:
Purchase APR: The interest rate applied to purchases made with a credit card.
Variable APR: The interest rate that can change over time based on an underlying benchmark interest rate or index, such as the prime rate.
Cash Advance APR: The interest rate charged on cash advances taken from a credit card.
Balance Transfer APR: The interest rate applied to balances transferred from one credit card to another.
Introductory APR (Teaser Rate): A temporarily low APR offered at the beginning of a credit card agreement.
Ongoing APR: The standard interest rate applied after any introductory or promotional rates have expired.
Penalty APR: A higher interest rate that is applied if you violate the terms of your credit agreement, such as making a late payment.
How can I find the right credit card for my business?
Finding the right business credit card involves assessing your business needs and comparing different options.
Consider factors such as the credit card’s interest rate, credit limit, annual fees, rewards programme, and any additional benefits that align with your business goals.
Research and compare different credit card issuers, their terms, and customer reviews to make an informed decision.
Consulting with a financial adviser or fellow business owners for insights and recommendations can be helpful.
How does the application process for a business credit card work?
The application involves submitting business information and financial statements, the owner’s personal credit check, verifying documentation, and applying online or in-branch, followed by the issuer for approval over typically 2 days to 2 weeks.
What credit score do I need to get approved for a business credit card?
Most issuers prefer good to excellent personal credit scores of 670 and above for the business owner, while those with scores below 650 may face greater difficulty getting approved.
Do business credit cards affect my personal credit?
Although opened in the company name, small business cards may require a personal guarantee, so late payments can lower your personal score and high balances can negatively impact the overall picture of your credit usage.
Can I get a business credit card if I have a low credit score?
Yes, some credit card companies do offer business cards to those with low credit scores, but the terms may not be as favourable.
They might have higher interest rates, lower credit limits, and fewer rewards.
Does using a business credit card build credit?
Yes, using a business credit card can help build your business credit profile.
Timely payments and responsible use can improve your credit score, making it easier to obtain loans and better credit terms in the future.
It’s important to ensure the card issuer reports to commercial credit bureaus to benefit your business credit history.
Can freelancers or self-employed individuals apply for a business credit card?
Absolutely. Freelancers, sole proprietors, and self-employed individuals can apply for a business credit card.
In fact, having a business credit card can help separate personal and business expenses, making accounting and tax preparation easier.
Can I get more than one business credit card?
Yes, you can hold multiple business credit cards.
Having more than one card could help you maximise rewards across different spending categories or give you backup options in case of emergencies.
Is it OK to max out a business credit card?
Maxing out a business credit card (meaning you spend up to your credit limit) is not recommended as it leads to high credit utilisation, which can negatively impact your business credit score.
A good practice is to keep your credit utilisation below 30% to maintain a healthy credit profile.
Should I pay off my business credit card every month?
Yes, you should pay off your business credit card every month to avoid interest charges and maintain a healthy credit profile.
What perks can I get with a business credit card?
Business credit cards often come with perks and benefits designed to cater to business needs.
These may include travel rewards, airline lounge access, expense management tools, dedicated customer support, and discounts on business services or products.
Carefully review the perks different credit cards offer to find the ones that align with your business priorities.