18 Best Business Cards for Travel, Points, and Cash Back

Earning Structure:

• 2 miles per dollar on every purchase
• 5 miles per dollar on flights and vacation rentals booked through Capital One Travel
• 10 miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel

Welcome Bonus:

Earn 150,000 bonus miles after spending $30,000 in the first 3 months from account opening.

Card Details:

• Annual fee: $395
• APR: Not applicable
• No preset spending limit
• 10,000 bonus miles each account anniversary
• Airport lounge access at 1,300+ locations, including Capital One Lounge and Priority Pass™
• Premium benefits with Premier Collection hotel and vacation rentals
• Free employee and virtual cards

Key Benefits:

• Access to Capital One lounges and partner lounges worldwide
• Up to $300 annual travel credit for bookings through Capital One Travel
• Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credit every 4 years
• No blackout dates on rewards travel

Redemption Options:

Points can be redeemed for travel, statement credits, gift cards, or transfer to travel partners.

Credit Requirements:

Requires excellent credit, typically a score of 740 or higher.

Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

The higher annual fee may not be ideal for small businesses with low travel budgets.

Why it Works for Beginners:

It combines easy rewards with strong travel perks, making it simple for new business owners to earn value.

Earning Structure:

• 8 points per dollar on Chase Travel℠ for airline tickets, hotels (including The Edit℠), car rentals, cruises, activities, and tours
• 5 points per dollar on Lyft rides through 9/30/27
• 4 points per dollar on flights and hotels booked direct
• 3 points per dollar on social media and search engine advertising
• 1 point per dollar on all other purchases

Welcome Bonus:

Earn 200,000 bonus points after spending $30,000 in the first 6 months from account opening.

Card Details:

• Annual fee: $795
• APR: 18.49%–26.49% variable
• Lounge access via Chase Sapphire Lounge® by The Club and Priority Pass™ Select
• IHG Platinum Elite status and exclusive hotel perks through The Edit

Key Benefits:

• High-value point earnings on travel spend
• Flexible statement credits to offset travel costs
• Premium travel perks such as lounge access
• Comprehensive travel insurance coverage

Redemption Options:

Points can be redeemed for travel through Chase Travel℠, transferred to airline or hotel partners, or used for cash back, gift cards, and other options.

Credit Requirements:

Requires good to excellent credit for approval.

Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

The high annual fee may not suit all businesses, especially those not focused on travel.

Why it Works for Beginners:

Its strong travel rewards and built-in credits make it easy for new business owners to get value quickly, especially if they travel often.

Earning Structure:

• 3 points per $1 on the first $150,000 spent on travel and select business categories each account anniversary year
• 1 point per $1 on all other purchases with no earning limit

Welcome Bonus:

Earn 90,000 bonus points after spending $8,000 in the first 3 months from account opening.

Card Details:

• Annual fee: $95
• APR: 20.24%–26.24% variable
• Points worth 25% more when redeemed for travel through Chase Travel℠
• Primary rental car coverage for business rentals
• Zero Liability protection for unauthorized charges
• 24/7 fraud monitoring
• Cellphone protection, purchase protection, and extended warranty coverage

Key Benefits:

• High earning rates on common business categories
• Points can be transferred or redeemed for travel, gift cards, or cash
• Employee cards at no extra cost
• Built-in expense tracking and management tools

Redemption Options:

Points can be redeemed for travel, cash back, gift cards, or transferred to airline and hotel partners through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.

Credit Requirements:

Requires good to excellent credit (670–850) for approval.

Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

Bonus category earnings are capped annually at $150,000, and the card does not include luxury travel perks.

Why it Works for Beginners:

It offers a straightforward way to earn valuable points with everyday business expenses and useful tools to manage spending.

Earning Structure:

• 5 points per dollar on flights and prepaid hotels booked through AmexTravel.com
• 1.5 points per dollar on eligible U.S. purchases at select suppliers and on purchases of $5,000 or more (up to $2 million annually)
• 1 point per dollar on other eligible purchases

Welcome Bonus:

Earn 150,000 Membership Rewards® points after spending $20,000 in eligible purchases within the first 3 months.

Card Details:

• Annual fee: $695
• APR: 18.49%–29.24% variable
• Access to over 1,400 lounges worldwide through the American Express Global Lounge Collection®
• Marriott Bonvoy Gold and Hilton Honors Gold status (enrollment required)

Key Benefits:

• Access to Centurion Lounges and partners like Priority Pass
• $200 airline fee credit annually
• Monthly Dell credit for tech purchases
• Extensive travel and purchase protections

Redemption Options:

Points can be redeemed for travel through Amex, transferred to airline and hotel partners, or used for statement credits, gift cards, and more.

Credit Requirements:

Requires good to excellent credit for approval.

Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

High annual fee and rewards are best for heavy travelers who can use the premium benefits.

Why it Works for Beginners:

It suits business owners ready to invest in travel perks and rewards to save money and enhance travel comfort.

Earning Structure:

• 2 miles per dollar on every purchase, everywhere
• 5 miles per dollar on hotels, vacation rentals, and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel

Welcome Bonus:

Earn 50,000 miles (equal to $500 in travel) after spending $4,500 in the first 3 months from account opening.

Card Details:

• Annual fee: $0 intro for first year; $95 after
• APR: 25.24% variable
• Transfer miles to 15+ travel loyalty programs
• Redeem miles instantly for travel purchases, including flights, hotels, and ride shares
• Free employee cards with unlimited 2X miles

Key Benefits:

• Simple earning rate across all purchases
• Miles can be transferred to various airline and hotel partners
• Flexible redemption options for travel expenses
• Access to travel and purchase protections

Redemption Options:

Miles can be redeemed for travel purchases directly or transferred to frequent traveler programs.

Credit Requirements:

Requires good to excellent credit (670–850) for approval.

Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

The card’s perks are limited compared to premium travel cards, and the welcome bonus is smaller than some competitors.

Why it Works for Beginners:

Its flat earning rate and straightforward redemption process make it easy for new business card users to earn and use rewards.

Earning Structure:

• 2% cash back on every purchase, everywhere
• 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel

Welcome Bonus:

Earn $2,000 after spending $30,000 in the first 3 months, plus an additional $2,000 for every $500,000 spent during the first year.

Card Details:

• Annual fee: $150 (refunded with $150,000 annual spend)
• APR: None; balance must be paid in full each month
• No preset spending limit
• Free employee and virtual cards
• Automatic syncing with accounting software
• Flexible purchasing power that adapts to business needs

Key Benefits:

• Simple, flat-rate cash back on all business expenses
• Annual fee refund encourages higher spending
• No cap on earnings
• Good for businesses with large, frequent purchases

Redemption Options:

Cash back can be redeemed as statement credits, checks, or bank deposits.

Credit Requirements:

Requires excellent credit (740–850) for approval.

Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

Annual fee refund requires very high spending, and full payment is due each month.

Why it Works for Beginners:

It offers easy-to-understand rewards and no category tracking, making it simple for new business owners to use.

Earning Structure:

• 1.5% cash back on every purchase made for your business

Welcome Bonus:

Earn $750 bonus cash back after spending $6,000 in the first 3 months from account opening.

Card Details:

• Annual fee: $0
• APR: 17.49%–23.49% variable
• 0% intro APR for 12 months on purchases
• Employee cards at no additional cost with spending limits
• Zero Liability protection for unauthorized charges
• 24/7 fraud monitoring
• Primary rental car insurance for business rentals

Key Benefits:

• Simple flat-rate rewards
• No annual fee helps business budgets
• Access to expense management tools
• Fraud protection and purchase security

Redemption Options:

Cash back can be redeemed for statement credits, gift cards, travel, or other rewards through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.

Credit Requirements:

Requires good to excellent credit (670–850) for approval.

Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

No travel protections, and rewards cannot be converted to Chase points unless paired with an eligible premium card.

Why it Works for Beginners:

It is easy to understand and use, making it a good choice for new business owners who want consistent rewards without tracking categories.

Earning Structure:

• Earn 2 Membership Rewards® points per dollar on the first $50,000 spent annually
• Earn 1 point per dollar on all other purchases

Welcome Bonus:

Earn 15,000 Membership Rewards® points after spending $3,000 in eligible purchases within the first 3 months.

Card Details:

• Annual fee: $0
• APR: 17.49%–27.49% variable
• 0% intro APR for 12 months on purchases
• Expanded Buying Power above credit limit (amount varies by account usage and history)
• Ability to transfer points to 22 travel partners

Key Benefits:

• Earn rewards on all purchases with no categories to manage
• Ability to carry a balance with flexible payment options
• Access to Amex Offers for additional savings
• Useful business tools and expense management features

Redemption Options:

Points can be redeemed for travel, gift cards, statement credits, or transferred to Amex partner programs.

Credit Requirements:

It generally requires good to excellent credit for approval.

Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

The 2x points rate caps at $50,000 in spending each year, after which points are earned at a lower rate.

Why it Works for Beginners:

Its easy-to-understand rewards and no annual fee make it a solid starting card for business owners new to credit cards.

Earning Structure:

• 5% cash back on the first $25,000 spent annually at office supply stores and on internet, cable, and phone services.
• 2% cash back on the first $25,000 spent annually at gas stations and restaurants.
• 1% cash back on all other purchases with no limit.

Welcome Bonus:

Earn $350 after spending $3,000 in the first 3 months and an additional $400 after spending $6,000 in the first 6 months from account opening.

Card Details:

• Annual fee: $0
• APR: 17.49%–25.49% variable
• 0% intro APR for 12 months on purchases
• Zero Liability protection for unauthorized charges
• Redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards® for cash back, gift cards, travel, and more
• Automatic credit limit increase assessments every six months or sooner

Key Benefits:

• High cash back rates in useful categories
• No rewards expiration as long as the account is open
• Easy-to-use online account management
• Ability to redeem cash back as a statement credit or check

Redemption Options:

Cash back can be redeemed for statement credits, travel, gift cards, or other rewards through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.

Credit Requirements:

Requires good to excellent credit (670–850) for approval.

Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

Cash back rates apply only up to $25,000 per category annually, then drop to 1%.

Why it Works for Beginners:

It is simple to use and offers strong cash back without complex rules, making it easy for new business owners to benefit from rewards.

Earning Structure:

• 1.5% unlimited cash back on every purchase
• Up to 2.62% cash back for Preferred Rewards for Business Platinum Honors members

Welcome Bonus:

Earn a $300 online statement credit after spending $3,000 in the first 90 days from account opening.

Card Details:

• Annual fee: $0
• APR: 17.49%–27.49% variable
• 0% intro APR on purchases for the first 9 billing cycles
• No annual cap on rewards and no expiration while the account is open
• Redemption available as a deposit, statement credit, or mailed check
• Contactless chip card for added security
• Preferred Rewards for Business membership available at no cost for qualifying customers

Key Benefits:

• Flat-rate cash back makes rewards easy to understand
• Spending controls for employees improve budget safety
• Free access to credit score and reporting tools

Redemption Options:

Cash back can be redeemed as a statement credit, direct deposit, or checks.

Credit Requirements:

Requires excellent credit (740–850) for approval.

Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

A 3% foreign transaction fee makes it less ideal for international use.

Why it Works for Beginners:

It offers straightforward rewards and easy-to-use tools, making it good for new business owners learning to manage expenses.

Earning Structure:

• Earn 4 points per dollar in the top two eligible categories each billing cycle, up to the first $150,000 in combined annual purchases. After that, earn 1 point per dollar
• 3 points per dollar on flights and prepaid hotels booked through amextravel.com
• 1 point per dollar on other purchases

Welcome Bonus:

Earn 100,000 Membership Rewards® points after spending $15,000 in the first 3 months from account opening.

Card Details:

• Annual fee: $375
• APR: 18.49%–29.24% variable
• Up to $20 in monthly statement credits for eligible U.S. purchases at FedEx, Grubhub, and Office Supply Stores (enrollment required)
• Up to $12.95 monthly statement credit for Walmart+ membership (enrollment required)
• Available in Gold, Rose Gold, and White Gold metal designs

Key Benefits:

• Flexible points earnings based on spending habits
• Points do not expire while the account is active
• Ability to add employee cards at no extra cost
• Travel and purchase protections included

Redemption Options:

Points can be redeemed for travel, statement credits, gift cards, or transferred to airline and hotel loyalty programs.

Credit Requirements:

Applicants typically need good to excellent credit to qualify.

Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

The $375 annual fee may be high for smaller businesses with lower spending, and bonus earnings are capped at $150,000 annually for top categories.

Why it Works for Beginners:

Its flexible rewards and simple category structure help new business owners earn points without complicated tracking.

Earning Structure:

• 2% cash back on every purchase
• 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel

Welcome Bonus:

Limited-time offer: Earn $1,500 after spending $15,000 in the first 3 months from account opening.

Card Details:

• Annual fee: $0 intro for first year; $95 after
• APR: 25.24% variable
• Foreign transaction fees: None
• Rewards never expire while the account is open
• Free employee cards with unlimited 2% cash back
• Itemized purchase reports for expense tracking

Key Benefits:

• Flat 2% cash back on all purchases
• No categories to track for rewards
• Useful business expense management tools
• No fees on international purchases

Redemption Options:

Cash back can be redeemed for statement credits or bank deposits in any amount.

Credit Requirements:

Requires excellent credit (740–850) for approval.

Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

Annual fee applies after the first year of card membership.

Why it Works for Beginners:

Its simple earning structure and easy-to-understand rewards make it ideal for new business owners learning about credit cards.

Earning Structure:

• 3% cash back in one chosen category
• 2% cash back in a second chosen category
• 1% cash back on all other purchases

Welcome Bonus:

Earn a $300 online statement credit after spending $3,000 in the first 90 days from account opening.

Card Details:

• Annual fee: $0
• APR: 17.49%–27.49% variable
• Foreign transaction fees: 3%
• 0% intro APR on purchases for the first 9 billing cycles
• Category choices: gas stations & EV charging stations (default), office supply stores, travel, TV/telecom & wireless, computer services, or business consulting services
• Up to 75% more cash back for Preferred Rewards for Business Platinum Honors members (up to 5.25% in choice category)
• Contactless chip card for added security

Key Benefits:

• Customizable rewards categories
• Reports and tools to track business spending
• Easy integration with Bank of America business accounts
• Cash rewards never expire while the account is open

Redemption Options:

Cash back can be redeemed as statement credits, deposits into Bank of America accounts, or gift cards.

Credit Requirements:

This card generally requires good to excellent credit for approval.

Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

Only one choice category can be selected at a time, and there’s a 3% foreign transaction fee.

Why it Works for Beginners:

Its simple rewards system and helpful business tools make it easy to start earning cash back without complex rules.

Earning Structure:

• 3 miles per dollar spent on Alaska Airlines purchases
• 2 miles per dollar on eligible gas, EV charging station, shipping, and local transit (including rideshare) purchases
• 1 mile per dollar on all other purchases

Welcome Bonus:

Earn 60,000 bonus miles and Alaska’s Famous Companion Fare™ ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) after spending $4,000 in the first 90 days.

Card Details:

• Annual fee: $70 for the company and $25 per card
• APR: 20.24%–28.24% variable
• Annual companion fare after spending $6,000 in the prior anniversary year
• Free checked bag for cardholder and up to 6 guests on the same reservation
• Priority boarding when paying for flights with the card
• No international transaction fees

Key Benefits:

• Free checked bag for cardholder and companions on the same reservation
• Priority boarding on Alaska Airlines flights
• Companion fare discount each year on the card anniversary
• No blackout dates on award flights
• 10% rewards bonus for companies with eligible Bank of America small business accounts

Redemption Options:

Miles earned can be redeemed for flights, upgrades, or partner airline travel within Alaska Airlines’ network.

Credit Requirements:

This card is best suited for those with good to excellent credit scores.

Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

Bonus earnings outside of Alaska Airlines purchases are limited to certain categories, and some benefits require meeting spending thresholds.

Why it Works for Beginners:

Simple earning rules and useful travel perks make it an easy choice for first-time business card users who travel by air.

Earning Structure:

• 4 points per dollar on Southwest purchases
• 2 points per dollar at gas stations and restaurants
• 2 points per dollar on hotel accommodations booked directly with the hotel
• 2 points per dollar on local transit and commuting, including rideshare
• 1 point per dollar on all other purchases

Welcome Bonus:

Earn 80,000 points after spending $5,000 in the first 3 months from account opening.

Card Details:

• Annual fee: $299
• APR: 19.99%–28.49% variable
• 9,000 bonus points each cardmember anniversary
• Free first checked bag for cardholder and up to 8 passengers on the same reservation
• Group 5 boarding for cardholder and up to 8 passengers on the same reservation
• Global Entry/TSA PreCheck/NEXUS credit

Key Benefits:

• Access to upgraded boarding and priority check-in
• Four upgraded boardings per year (when available)
• 20% back on in-flight purchases
• Companion Pass qualification

Redemption Options:

Points can be redeemed for Southwest flights, hotel stays, car rentals, gift cards, and other travel experiences.

Credit Requirements:

Requires good to excellent credit for approval.

Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

The $299 annual fee is best justified by frequent Southwest travel; value is limited for those who fly on other airlines.

Why it Works for Beginners:

It offers straightforward rewards and useful benefits for business travelers new to airline rewards programs.

Earning Structure:

• 2 miles per dollar on United purchases, dining (including eligible delivery services), gas stations, office supply stores, and local transit/commuting
• 1 mile per dollar on all other purchases

Welcome Bonus:

Earn 100,000 bonus miles and 2,000 PQP after spending $5,000 in the first 3 months from account opening.

Card Details:

• Annual fee: $150
• APR: 20.49%–28.99% variable
• 5,000-mile “better together” bonus annually when paired with a personal Chase United credit card
• Free first checked bag (terms apply)
• Two United Club℠ one-time passes per year
• Priority boarding privileges
• Free employee cards; miles earned on employee purchases accrue to the primary account

Key Benefits:

• Flexible miles that never expire
• Travel and purchase protection
• Employee cards at no extra cost
• Special offers for United Airlines customers

Redemption Options:

Miles can be redeemed for flights on United and Star Alliance partners, upgrades, and other travel rewards.

Credit Requirements:

The card is generally best for those with good to excellent credit history.

Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

Redemption is primarily limited to United and its partners, and some competing cards may offer higher earning rates.

Why it Works for Beginners:

It is easy to use and offers straightforward travel rewards without many complicated rules.

Earning Structure:

• 8 points per dollar at Hotels by Wyndham and on eligible gas purchases
• 5 points per dollar on eligible marketing, advertising, and utility purchases
• 1 point per dollar on all other purchases (excluding Wyndham Timeshare resort down payments)

Welcome Bonus:

Earn 45,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 in the first 90 days from account opening.

Card Details:

• Annual fee: $95
• APR: 21.24%–29.99% variable
• Automatic Wyndham Diamond status
• Go Free award nights cost 10% fewer points
• 15,000 bonus points each anniversary year

Key Benefits:

• Valuable rewards at Wyndham properties worldwide
• Bonus points on common business expenses
• Flexible points usage for hotel stays
• Access to travel insurance and purchase protection

Redemption Options:

Points can be redeemed for free nights at Wyndham hotels, gift cards, or merchandise.

Credit Requirements:

Requires good to excellent credit (670–850) for approval.

Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

Points can only be redeemed within Wyndham Rewards, and bonus categories are limited to certain spending types.

Why it Works for Beginners:

This card offers simple rewards and valuable business perks, making it easy to use for those new to business credit cards.

Earning Structure:

• Up to 1.5% cash back on every purchase, with no limits or restrictions

Welcome Bonus:

Ramp does not typically offer a sign-up bonus.

Card Details:

• Annual fee: $0
• APR: None; balance must be paid in full each month
• Foreign transaction fees: None
• No personal guarantee or credit check required
• Virtual and custom-branded physical cards
• Real-time spend visibility and reporting tools
• Vendor and category restrictions to control spending

Key Benefits:

• Automated savings on common business expenses.
• Controls to prevent overspending.
• No fees or interest charges from misuse.
• Easy expense categorization and export options.

Redemption Options:

Cash back is automatically applied or credited; no points or transfer partners are available.

Credit Requirements:

No credit history required; available only to established businesses (not sole proprietors).

Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

No ability to carry a balance, no large sign-up bonus, and limited appeal for those seeking travel rewards.

Why it Works for Beginners:

Its simple controls and no fees make it easy for new business owners to manage expenses without worrying about complex rewards or hidden charges.