With purchase cards, you can often enjoy extended periods of interest-free borrowing when you first get the card. This can allow you to conveniently make significant purchases using your credit card and divide the cost over multiple months. As long as you clear the entire balance by the conclusion of the interest-free period, you will not incur any interest charges.
Compare our best business credit cards
Earn rewards and save money with a business credit card
A business credit card can be used to manage regular spending and expenses to help cash flow
What is a business credit card?
A business credit card works like a personal credit card - they can be used for business expenses to help manage business cash flow, for regular spending, earning rewards or as back up in the event of unexpected expenses.
Business credit card's are specifically made for businesses, so they may come with perks like bigger rewards or higher credit limits. Plus, as they are held by a business rather than an individual, banks may take into account your business’ credit score, meaning it shouldn't affect your personal credit score. This will depend on whether you have a credit history as a business - if you don't, managing a business credit card sensibly can help you build a credit score.
Subject to status and credit checks - any registered business in the UK can use a company credit card.
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How does a business credit card work?
Your business can use a credit card for any purchases that take credit card payments. You’ll receive a monthly bill detailing what you've spent and how much money you need to pay off. You can usually pay off the balance in full, a specified amount or the minimum amount set out in your statement. It will nearly always take longer to pay off the balance and cost more overall if you only make the minimum repayment.
Business credit cards have different interest rates, so it’s important to understand how much interest you could be paying if you don’t pay off the balance immediately. Some business credit cards also include an annual usage fee, so always check the terms and conditions to avoid any unexpected surprises.
An alternative option to explore is business charge cards. These can help with bigger monthly expenses as there is normally no set credit limit. However, you’ll need to pay off the card in full each month so it might not be the right option for all business types.
Why should I get a business credit card?
A business credit card can be a valuable tool for managing cash flow, which is crucial for the smooth running of your business. It allows you to cover day-to-day expenses or larger purchases while keeping your business and personal finances separate. With a pre-approved credit limit, you don’t have to wait for funds to arrive, making it easier to handle sudden business costs.
In addition to helping with cash flow management, business credit cards often come with a variety of perks and rewards, such as cashback, discounts, or travel rewards like air miles and hotel points. Some cards also offer 0% interest deals, which can be especially beneficial for large purchases or business growth.
Choosing the right business credit card for your company depends on factors such as your business size, type, and the number of employees. For small businesses and startups, managing cash flow effectively is vital. A business credit card provides flexibility to cover expenses and ease financial management during unpredictable times.
While freelancers and sole traders may not see an immediate need for a business credit card, having one can help separate personal and business expenses, simplifying accounting and tax filing.
If you or your employees travel often for business, a card offering travel rewards, like air miles or travel insurance, can be an added bonus. If you’re already making travel-related purchases, you might as well get rewarded for them.
Before choosing a business credit card, it’s essential to evaluate the card’s terms, fees, and benefits to ensure it aligns with your business’s financial needs and goals.
% of businesses that have a company credit card[1]
67%
How to choose the best business credit card
Choosing the right business credit card depends on how you plan to use it. Here are key factors to consider:
Spreading payments
If you need to borrow money and spread the repayments over time, look for a business credit card with a low APR (annual percentage rate). This can help reduce the cost of interest on any outstanding balances.
Regular spending
If you're planning to use the card frequently for purchases, a business credit card with an interest-free period on purchases can be a good option. This allows you to manage cash flow without incurring interest charges for a set period.
Paying off the monthly balance in full
If you’re able to pay off your balance in full each month, you can avoid interest charges. In this case, focus on cards with low annual fees or those offering attractive rewards such as cashback or travel points.
Our best business credit card
Our editors have picked out our top business credit card with the lowest annual fee.
Editor’s pick
With no annual fee and a competitive APR, it's a very attractive option. This business credit card also includes 1% uncapped cashback when spending £2,000 per month, so this would work well if you plan on using it for big purchases.”
Barclaycard Select Cashback Business Credit Card
Purchase
26.8% p.a. variable
Annual fee
£0
Representative APR (variable)
26.8% APR
Representative example: The standard interest rate on purchases is 26.8% p.a. (variable), so if you borrow £1,200 the Representative APR will be 26.8% APR (variable).
Am I eligible for a business credit card?
There are different types of business credit cards available, each with specific eligibility criteria. For example, some cards will only be for businesses that don’t exceed a turnover of a certain amount, or you might need to have been trading for a specific number of years.
In addition to any card-specific criteria, you can usually expect the need to be:
18 or over
A UK resident with a UK registered business
Able to pass the card provider's credit check
The size and financial strength of your business could determine what kind of card and deal you get - but there are so many cards on the market to cater for many different circumstances so you should be able to find one that's right for your business. You'll need to be either a sole trader, partner or a director of the business or limited company to apply for a business credit card.
What other types of business credit cards are there?
![Purchase cards]()
Purchase cards
With purchase cards, you can often enjoy extended periods of interest-free borrowing when you first get the card. This can allow you to conveniently make significant purchases using your credit card and divide the cost over multiple months. As long as you clear the entire balance by the conclusion of the interest-free period, you will not incur any interest charges.
![Balance transfer cards]()
Balance transfer cards
Balance transfer cards let you move debt from one or more credit cards to a new one and pay that debt off at a lower interest rate. Many offer lengthy interest-free periods, so all your repayments go towards paying off your debt rather than interest, helping you to pay off your balance quicker and save interest at the same time.
![Rewards cards]()
Rewards cards
Rewards credit cards offer a valuable incentive for your spending. The specific rewards may differ depending on the card, but popular options include earning air miles, receiving vouchers or in-store points for your preferred retailers and supermarkets, and even earning cashback with every card purchase. It's important to note that some of these cards may come with annual fees and higher APRs, so it's essential to diligently pay off your balance each month to avoid accruing unnecessary costs.
What other types of business credit cards are there?
Purchase cards
Balance transfer cards
Balance transfer cards let you move debt from one or more credit cards to a new one and pay that debt off at a lower interest rate. Many offer lengthy interest-free periods, so all your repayments go towards paying off your debt rather than interest, helping you to pay off your balance quicker and save interest at the same time.
Rewards cards
Rewards credit cards offer a valuable incentive for your spending. The specific rewards may differ depending on the card, but popular options include earning air miles, receiving vouchers or in-store points for your preferred retailers and supermarkets, and even earning cashback with every card purchase. It's important to note that some of these cards may come with annual fees and higher APRs, so it's essential to diligently pay off your balance each month to avoid accruing unnecessary costs.
Pros and cons
Pros
Higher credit limits for businesses
Rewards and perks such as cashback or airmiles
Streamline finances and take control of cash flow
Improve your business' credit score
Cons
Annual or monthly fees
Higher interest rates
Debt can increase if not paid off in full each month
Can impact credit score negatively if not managed well
Alternatives to business credit cards
Business charge card
Business charge cards provide a convenient way to make purchases and manage expenses, but unlike credit cards, they require the full payment of the outstanding balance each month.
Business bank account
A business current account is specifically designed for businesses to manage their finances. It provides banking services such as receiving and making payments, managing cash flow, and keeping business and personal transactions separate. They often come with an overdraft facility too.
Business loan
A business loan is a way to get extra funds to run or grow your business successfully. The loan could cover rent for your business’ property, employee salaries or opening new offices to name a few examples.
Invoice finance
Invoice finance is a credit facility that pays you for invoices before they're settled by your customer or client.
Alternatives to business credit cards
Business charge card
Business charge cards provide a convenient way to make purchases and manage expenses, but unlike credit cards, they require the full payment of the outstanding balance each month.
Business bank account
A business current account is specifically designed for businesses to manage their finances. It provides banking services such as receiving and making payments, managing cash flow, and keeping business and personal transactions separate. They often come with an overdraft facility too.
Business loan
A business loan is a way to get extra funds to run or grow your business successfully. The loan could cover rent for your business’ property, employee salaries or opening new offices to name a few examples.
Invoice finance
Invoice finance is a credit facility that pays you for invoices before they're settled by your customer or client.
FAQs
How long does it take to get a business credit card?
Depending on the provider, it could take a few days or a couple of weeks for the business credit card to arrive in the post. Once you submit your application it will need to be reviewed by the card issuer but that is normally approved quickly.
Is a credit record checked for a business credit card?
Credit card providers usually check your business's finances and credit record when you apply for a business credit card. If your business doesn't have much credit history, your personal credit history may be checked.
Does using a business credit card affect my personal credit record?
Using a business credit card could affect your personal credit card, particularly if you're the main account holder. It's best to use a business credit card sensibly, as you would a personal credit card, If you're worried about repayments you should speak to the card provider as soon as possible.
Can I get a business credit card with rewards?
Yes, business credit cards with rewards are available. These cards often offer cashback, allowing you to earn a percentage of what you spend back. Other rewards may include air miles, travel points, or shopping vouchers, depending on the card provider. Choose a business credit card with rewards that aligns with your business's spending habits to maximise the benefits.
Can several employees have their own card?
Yes, you can get several credit cards for one account, meaning selected employees can have their own card with the business paying just one bill.
Do I need a business current account to apply?
No, a business current account is not a requirement to apply for a business credit card. However, having one can simplify managing your finances, making it easier to pay your bills and keep business transactions separate from personal ones.
Can I get a business credit card as a startup?
Yes, startups can apply for a business credit card, and it can be a useful tool for managing cash flow during the early stages. However, since your business is new, you may be asked to provide additional information to prove your ability to meet repayment requirements. This could include a personal credit check, company financial statements, and details of any assets, which will help the provider determine your credit limit.
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References
1. UK business statistics and facts 2023 Our report on UK business statistics for 2023, such as growth and borrowing across various sectors, the impact of the cost of living crisis, and how the UK business landscape compares to previous years.