9 Best Business Credit Cards for Consultants for 2023
This article is part of a larger series onBest Small Business Credit Cards.
Editor’s note: This is a recurring post with regularly updated card details.
The best business credit cards for consultants offer premium rewards on expense categories you usually spend on, like travel, dining, fuel, and supplies. To decide which credit card is right for you, consider factors such as fees, 0% annual percentage rate (APR) offers, sign-up bonuses, and additional features your consultancy business needs. If your expenses vary from month to month, you may benefit more from business credit cards with fixed-rate rewards.
Here are the best business credit cards for consultants:
- Bank of America® Business Advantage Travel Rewards World Mastercard®:Best overall credit card for consultants
- American Express® Business Gold Card:Best for earning premium rewards points where you spend the most
- Capital One® Spark® Cash Select Good Credit:Best for earning easy cash back rewards for consultants with good credit
- Chase Ink Business Cash®:Best for earning rewards on office essentials, fuel, and dining expenses
- Chase Ink Business Preferred®:Best for earning rewards on online advertising
- U.S. Bank Triple Cash Rewards World Elite Mastercard®:Best for 0% introductory APR for 15 months and $100 software credit
- American Express Blue Business Cash™ Card:Best for flexible buying power
- Costco Anywhere Visa® Business Card by Citi:Best for earning rewards on fuel expenses
- Capital One® Spark® Classic for Business:Best for consultants with fair credit
Best Business Credit Cards for Consultants at a Glance
Best For |
Annual Fee |
Sign-up Bonus |
Rewards |
|
---|---|---|---|---|
Bank of America® Business Advantage Travel Rewards World Mastercard® |
Overall best credit card for consultants |
$0 |
30,000 bonus points |
Up to 3x points per dollar |
Credit needed:Excellent |
||||
American Express® Business Gold Card |
Earning premium rewards points where you spend the most |
$295 |
70,000 bonus points |
Up to 4x points per dollar |
Credit needed:Good to Excellent |
||||
Capital One® Spark® Cash Select Good Credit |
Earning easy cash back rewards for consultants with good credit |
$0 |
None |
Up to 5% cash back |
Credit needed:Good |
||||
Chase Ink Business Cash® |
Earning rewards on office essentials, fuel, and dining expenses |
$0 |
$750 bonus cash back |
Up to 5% cash back |
Credit needed:Good to Excellent |
||||
Chase Ink Business Preferred® |
Earning rewards on online advertising |
$95 |
100,000 bonus points |
Up to 3x points per dollar |
Credit needed:Good to Excellent |
||||
U.S. Bank Triple Cash Rewards World Elite Mastercard® |
0% introductory APR for 15 months and $100 software credit |
$0 |
$500 cash back |
Up to 5% cash back |
Credit needed:Good to Excellent |
||||
American Express Blue Business Cash™ Card |
Flexible buying power |
$0 |
$250 statement credit |
Up to 2% cash back |
Credit needed:Good to Excellent |
||||
Costco Anywhere Visa® Business Card by Citi |
Earning rewards on fuel expenses |
None; you need a Costco membership to qualify |
None |
Up to 4% cash back |
Credit needed:Excellent |
||||
Capital One® Spark® Classic for Business |
Consultants with fair credit |
$0 |
None |
Up to 5% cash back |
Credit needed:Fair |
||||
To see how these cards stack up against others we have reviewed on our site, clickAdd to Compareon a card below and select up to two additional cards for comparison.
Bank of America® Business Advantage Travel Rewards World Mastercard®: Best Overall Credit Card for Consultants
Bank of America® Business Advantage Travel Rewards World Mastercard® credit card
BEST FOR:
Earning top rewards on travel purchases booked through Bank of America Travel Center
9 billing cycles
- Earn 30,000 online bonus points after you make at least $3,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of your account opening which can be redeemed for a $300 statement credit towards travel or dining purchases.
- Earn unlimited 1.5 points for every $1 spent on all purchases everywhere, every time-no matter how much you spend.
- No limit to the amount of points you can earn and points don't expire.
- You can earn up to 75% more points on every purchase, if you have a business checking account with Bank of America and qualify for our highest Preferred Rewards for Business tier. That means you could earn up to an unlimited 2.62 points per $1 spent on all purchases.
- No annual fee and no international transaction fees.
- 选择如何redeem points for a statement credit to offset travel and dining purchases, travel with no blackout dates at the Bank of America® Travel Center, for cash back or gift cards.
- 0% Introductory APR on purchases for your first 9 billing cycles. After the intro APR offer ends, a Variable APR that's currently 18.24% to 28.24% will apply.
- Contactless Cards - The security of a chip card, with the convenience of a tap.
- This offer may not be available if you leave this page or visit our website. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.
Pros
- No annual fee:By not having to pay an annual fee, you can reduce your overall credit card cost while earning unlimited rewards on your expenses.
- No blackout dates on travel:You can redeem your points for travel or travel credits through the Bank of America® Travel Center anytime, with no blackout dates.
- 3x points on travel:You can earn 3x points for every dollar spent when you book your travel (car, hotel, or airline) through the Bank of America® Travel Center.
- Welcome bonus points:If you can spend $3,000 in net purchases within 90 days of opening an account, you will earn 30,000 bonus points.
Cons
- Low ongoing rewards on nontravel:While you can earn high rewards points on travel, you can only earn 1.5x points on all other purchases.
- Short 0% APR introductory period:This is a disadvantage if you need a longer 0% APR period.
- No 0% APR on balance transfers:The introductory APR only applies to purchases
- Bank of America doesn’t disclose details of its additional card features. To find out more about these additional features, review your guide to benefits when you receive your card in the mail.
9 billing cycles
- Earn 30,000 online bonus points after you make at least $3,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of your account opening which can be redeemed for a $300 statement credit towards travel or dining purchases.
- Earn unlimited 1.5 points for every $1 spent on all purchases everywhere, every time-no matter how much you spend.
- No limit to the amount of points you can earn and points don't expire.
- You can earn up to 75% more points on every purchase, if you have a business checking account with Bank of America and qualify for our highest Preferred Rewards for Business tier. That means you could earn up to an unlimited 2.62 points per $1 spent on all purchases.
- No annual fee and no international transaction fees.
- 选择如何redeem points for a statement credit to offset travel and dining purchases, travel with no blackout dates at the Bank of America® Travel Center, for cash back or gift cards.
- 0% Introductory APR on purchases for your first 9 billing cycles. After the intro APR offer ends, a Variable APR that's currently 18.24% to 28.24% will apply.
- Contactless Cards - The security of a chip card, with the convenience of a tap.
- This offer may not be available if you leave this page or visit our website. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.
Pros
- No annual fee:By not having to pay an annual fee, you can reduce your overall credit card cost while earning unlimited rewards on your expenses.
- No blackout dates on travel:You can redeem your points for travel or travel credits through the Bank of America® Travel Center anytime, with no blackout dates.
- 3x points on travel:You can earn 3x points for every dollar spent when you book your travel (car, hotel, or airline) through the Bank of America® Travel Center.
- Welcome bonus points:If you can spend $3,000 in net purchases within 90 days of opening an account, you will earn 30,000 bonus points.
Cons
- Low ongoing rewards on nontravel:While you can earn high rewards points on travel, you can only earn 1.5x points on all other purchases.
- Short 0% APR introductory period:This is a disadvantage if you need a longer 0% APR period.
- No 0% APR on balance transfers:The introductory APR only applies to purchases
- Bank of America doesn’t disclose details of its additional card features. To find out more about these additional features, review your guide to benefits when you receive your card in the mail.
Why we like it:The Bank of America® Business Advantage Travel Rewards World Mastercard® is our choice for the overall best consultant credit card because, among all the business cards on this list, it comes with the lowest starting APR. Moreover, it has no annual or foreign transaction fees, and you can take advantage of interest-free financing on purchases for the first nine billing cycles.
It also offers an introductory bonus of 30,000 points when you spend at least $3,000 in the first 90 days of card ownership, which is equivalent to a $300 statement credit toward travel or dining expenses. This card is best paired with a Bank of America business checking account so that you can benefit from the optional overdraft protection service through Balance Connect™. Plus, you can earn up to 75% more points on every purchase if you qualify for the Preferred Rewards for Business.
Rewards:
- 3x points per dollar spent when you book your travel, including car rentals, hotel stays, and flights, through the Bank of America® Travel Center
- Unlimited 1.5x points for every $1 you spend on all purchases
- Up to 75% more points on every purchase if you have a Bank of America business checking account and qualify for the highest Preferred Rewards for Business tier
The Bank of America® Business Advantage Travel Rewards World Mastercard® is also one of our picks for thebest business credit cards with no annual feeandleading business credit cards for travelbecause of its low APR.
American Express® Business Gold Card: Best for Earning Points Where You Spend the Most
American Express® Business Gold Card
BEST FOR:
Maximizing rewards in the two categories where you spend the most
- Welcome Offer: Earn 70,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $10,000 on eligible purchases with the Business Gold Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.*
- MORE REWARDS: Get 4X Membership Rewards® points on the 2 select categories where your business spent the most each month. 1X is earned for other purchases.**
- **4X points apply to the first $150,000 in combined purchases from these 2 categories each calendar year.*
- PAY OVER TIME OPTION: Decide whether you want to pay eligible purchases in full each month—or pay over time with interest.*
- *Terms Apply
Pros
- Earn 4x points in two categories every month
- Pay eligible charges over time with interest, or pay your balance in full monthly
Cons
- You’ll pay a high annual fee of $295
- No interest-free financing opportunities
- Premium roadside assistance:Free of charge up to four times a year. You can receive towing up to 10 miles, winching, jump-starts, flat tire changes, lockout service when the key is in the vehicle, and delivery of up to two gallons of gas
- Return protection:American Express will refund you for eligible purchases when the store doesn’t accept returns of undamaged items. Coverage is limited to 90 days from purchase, up to $300 per item, and up to a maximum of $1,000 per year.
- Baggage insurance:If your baggage is lost, damaged, or stolen, you’re eligible for coverage of up to $1,250 for carry-on luggage and $500 for checked bags
- Extended warranty:Receive one additional year of coverage on purchases with eligible warranties of five years or less
- Purchase protection:Covers new purchases against damage or theft within 90 days of purchase. Coverage is limited to $1,000 per incident.
- Welcome Offer: Earn 70,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $10,000 on eligible purchases with the Business Gold Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.*
- MORE REWARDS: Get 4X Membership Rewards® points on the 2 select categories where your business spent the most each month. 1X is earned for other purchases.**
- **4X points apply to the first $150,000 in combined purchases from these 2 categories each calendar year.*
- PAY OVER TIME OPTION: Decide whether you want to pay eligible purchases in full each month—or pay over time with interest.*
- *Terms Apply
Pros
- Earn 4x points in two categories every month
- Pay eligible charges over time with interest, or pay your balance in full monthly
Cons
- You’ll pay a high annual fee of $295
- No interest-free financing opportunities
- Premium roadside assistance:Free of charge up to four times a year. You can receive towing up to 10 miles, winching, jump-starts, flat tire changes, lockout service when the key is in the vehicle, and delivery of up to two gallons of gas
- Return protection:American Express will refund you for eligible purchases when the store doesn’t accept returns of undamaged items. Coverage is limited to 90 days from purchase, up to $300 per item, and up to a maximum of $1,000 per year.
- Baggage insurance:If your baggage is lost, damaged, or stolen, you’re eligible for coverage of up to $1,250 for carry-on luggage and $500 for checked bags
- Extended warranty:Receive one additional year of coverage on purchases with eligible warranties of five years or less
- Purchase protection:Covers new purchases against damage or theft within 90 days of purchase. Coverage is limited to $1,000 per incident.
Why we like it:With the American Express® Business Gold Card, your spending habits determine where you earn the most points, making it an excellent option if you have varied expenses each month. Plus, you can earn 70,000 bonus points in the first three months of card ownership if you spend at least $10,000 on eligible purchases. It gives you the option to either pay your balance in full each month or use its Pay Over Time feature, which allows you to carry a balance with interest. However, unlike most other cards on this list, it does not offer an introductory 0% APR.
While there’s a $295 annual fee, you can enjoy a number of other benefits with this card. It is an ideal option for traveling abroad because it charges no foreign transaction fees. It also offers baggage insurance and trip delay insurance coverage. Plus, you will receive $100 experience credit and a free room upgrade upon check-in only when you book at least two consecutive nights’ stay at The Hotel Collection participating properties.
Rewards:
- 4x points on the first $150,000 in combined purchases on the top two categories where your business spent the most each billing cycle, including:
- Flights purchased directly from airlines
- Advertising in select media, such as online, TV, radio
- Purchases made directly from select United States technology providers of computer hardware, software, and cloud solutions
- Gas stations, restaurants, and shipping
- 1x on other purchases
The American Express® Business Gold Card is also one of ourtop-recommended high-limit business credit cards, making it a great option if your consultancy business needs to access a high credit limit.
Capital One® Spark® Cash Select Good Credit: Best for Earning Easy Cash Back Rewards for Consultants With Good Credit
Capital One® Spark® Cash Select Good Credit
BEST FOR:
Businesses with good credit that want a 0% introductory APR and fixed 1.5% cash back rewards
- Unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
- Unlimited 1.5% fixed-rate cash back on all purchases with no limits or category restrictions
Pros
- No annual, balance transfer, and foreign transaction fees
- With intro 0% APR on purchases
- Free employee cards
Cons
- No intro 0% APR on balance transfers
- No sign-up bonus for their new cardholders
- With high cash advance and penalty APRs
- Zero fraud liability:If your card is lost or stolen, you can get an emergency replacement and a cash advance
- Roadside assistance:Capital One offers services to help you during auto-related emergencies, such as jump-starting, tire changing, and towing
- Free employee cards:You can track employee spending while earning all the rewards from their purchases by issuing free employee cards. In addition, you can set customized spending limits for employee cards and see transactions as soon as they post
- Purchase records:You can quickly and securely download your purchase records in different formats, such as Quicken®, QuickBooks®, and Excel®
- Unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
- Unlimited 1.5% fixed-rate cash back on all purchases with no limits or category restrictions
Pros
- No annual, balance transfer, and foreign transaction fees
- With intro 0% APR on purchases
- Free employee cards
Cons
- No intro 0% APR on balance transfers
- No sign-up bonus for their new cardholders
- With high cash advance and penalty APRs
- Zero fraud liability:If your card is lost or stolen, you can get an emergency replacement and a cash advance
- Roadside assistance:Capital One offers services to help you during auto-related emergencies, such as jump-starting, tire changing, and towing
- Free employee cards:You can track employee spending while earning all the rewards from their purchases by issuing free employee cards. In addition, you can set customized spending limits for employee cards and see transactions as soon as they post
- Purchase records:You can quickly and securely download your purchase records in different formats, such as Quicken®, QuickBooks®, and Excel®
Why we like it:For consultants with a good credit rating, the Capital One® Spark® Cash Select Good Credit is an easy-to-use, straightforward card. It offers fixed-rate rewards on all purchases, which you can redeem as a statement credit or a check that’s mailed to you. You can redeem your cash back rewards for any amount at any time, and your rewards don’t expire as long as the account remains open and in good standing.
Besides that, it offers interest-free financing on purchases for the first 12 months and charges no annual, balance transfer, or foreign transaction fees. It’s important to note that, unlike most other business cards on this list, this card does not offer a sign-up bonus.
Rewards:
- 无限的1.5%的现金返还所有购买s
- Unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
Are you a self-employed consultant?This card’s simplicity might be just what you need. It is one of ourtop-recommended credit cards for self-employed individuals.
Chase Ink Business Cash®: Best for Earning Rewards on Office Essentials, Fuel, and Dining Expenses
Why we like it:The Chase Ink Business Cash® card offers premium rewards on expenses such as office supplies, internet, cable, phone, fuel, and dining, and is thus a great choice if your consulting business spends significantly on office expenses or when you’re on the road working with clients. Additionally, you can earn a $750 bonus cash back when you spend $7,500 on purchases in the first three months of card membership.
Your cash back rewards can be redeemed as a statement credit or cash deposited directly into most checking and savings accounts. You can also redeem your rewards toward travel, gift cards, or merchandise through Chase Ultimate Rewards®. What’s more, you can also benefit from the 0% introductory APR on purchases for the first 12 months and zero annual fees.
Rewards:
- 5% cash back on office supplies, internet, cable, and phone services for the first $25,000 each account anniversary year
- 2% cash back on purchases at gas stations and restaurants for the first $25,000 each account anniversary year
- 1% back on all other purchases with no limit to the number of rewards you can earn
Have you registered your consultancy business as a limited liability company (LLC)?This card may be a great option as it is ourtop-recommended best LLC credit card.
Chase Ink Business Preferred®: Best for Earning Rewards on Online Advertising
Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card
BEST FOR:
Maximizing travel rewards at a lower annual fee
- Earn 100k bonus points after you spend $15,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,000 cash back or $1,250 toward travel when redeemed through Chase Ultimate Rewards®
- Earn 3 points per $1 on the first $150,000 spent on travel and select business categories each account anniversary year. Earn 1 point per $1 on all other purchases
- Round-the-clock monitoring for unusual credit card purchases
- With Zero Liability you won't be held responsible for unauthorized charges made with your card or account information.
- Redeem points for cash back, gift cards, travel and more - your points don't expire as long as your account is open
- Points are worth 25% more when you redeem for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards®
- Purchase Protection covers your new purchases for 120 days against damage or theft up to $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per account.
- Member FDIC
Pros
- Reward points are worth 25% more when you redeem for travel through the Chase Ultimate Rewards® card
- Comprehensive travel and purchase protection
- No foreign transaction fees
Cons
- No interest-free financing option on both purchases and balance transfers
- With annual fee
- Need to make extremely large purchases to qualify for the sign-up bonus
- Cellphone protection:达到1000美元在手机的保护against covered theft or damage for you and your employees listed on your monthly cellphone bill
- Purchase protection:Can cover your new purchases for 120 days against damage or theft of up to $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per account
- Extended warranty protection:You can extend the period of the United States manufacturer’s warranty by an additional year, on eligible warranties of three years or less.
- Fraud monitoring:Chase will help keep your accounts safe with account alerts―and you can choose how you’d like to receive them
- Free employee cards:You can create employee cards at no additional cost, and lets you set individual spending limits―helping you earn rewards even faster
- Earn 100k bonus points after you spend $15,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,000 cash back or $1,250 toward travel when redeemed through Chase Ultimate Rewards®
- Earn 3 points per $1 on the first $150,000 spent on travel and select business categories each account anniversary year. Earn 1 point per $1 on all other purchases
- Round-the-clock monitoring for unusual credit card purchases
- With Zero Liability you won't be held responsible for unauthorized charges made with your card or account information.
- Redeem points for cash back, gift cards, travel and more - your points don't expire as long as your account is open
- Points are worth 25% more when you redeem for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards®
- Purchase Protection covers your new purchases for 120 days against damage or theft up to $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per account.
- Member FDIC
Pros
- Reward points are worth 25% more when you redeem for travel through the Chase Ultimate Rewards® card
- Comprehensive travel and purchase protection
- No foreign transaction fees
Cons
- No interest-free financing option on both purchases and balance transfers
- With annual fee
- Need to make extremely large purchases to qualify for the sign-up bonus
- Cellphone protection:达到1000美元在手机的保护against covered theft or damage for you and your employees listed on your monthly cellphone bill
- Purchase protection:Can cover your new purchases for 120 days against damage or theft of up to $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per account
- Extended warranty protection:You can extend the period of the United States manufacturer’s warranty by an additional year, on eligible warranties of three years or less.
- Fraud monitoring:Chase will help keep your accounts safe with account alerts―and you can choose how you’d like to receive them
- Free employee cards:You can create employee cards at no additional cost, and lets you set individual spending limits―helping you earn rewards even faster
Why we like it:If you use online searches or social media for advertising your consulting business, the Chase Ink Business Preferred® card is a great option for you. It offers premium rewards on online advertising expenses, which you can redeem for cash back, gift cards, or travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
It also comes with a low annual fee of $95—however, there’s no 0% introductory rate. However, as an introductory bonus, you’ll receive 100,000 bonus points if you spend $15,000 in the first three months, which is equivalent to $1,000 cash back or $1,250 toward travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
Rewards:
- 3x points per dollar on the first $150,000 spent in combined purchases in the following categories per year:
- Shipping purchases
- Internet, cable, and phone services
- Advertising purchases with social media sites and search engines
- Travel
- 1x points per dollar on all other purchases
If you have a real estate consultancy business, this may be the best fit, as it is named one of ourbest credit cards for real estate agents.
U.S. Bank Triple Cash Rewards World Elite Mastercard®: Best for 0% Introductory APR for 15 Months & $100 Software Credit
U.S. Bank Business Triple Cash Rewards World Elite Mastercard®
BEST FOR:
0% APR for 15 billing cycles
- Limited Time Offer:Earn $500 in cash back. Just spend $4,500 on the Account Owner's card in the first 150 days of opening your account.
- 介绍美国Bank Business Triple Cash Rewards World Elite™ Mastercard® the card that gives back on all your eligible business needs.
- Earn 3% cash back on eligible purchases at gas stations and electric vehicle charging stations, office supply stores, cellphone service providers, and restaurants.
- 1% cash back on all other eligible net purchases.
- Earn 5% cash back on prepaid hotels and car rentals booked directly in the Travel Rewards Center.
- No limit on total cash back earned.
- Rewards never expire
- Earn an annual $100 statement credit for recurring software subscription expenses, such as FreshBooks or QuickBooks
- 0% Intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 billing cycles. After that, a variable APR currently 16.99% to 25.99%.
- No annual fee
- Pay over time by splitting eligible purchases of $100-plus into equal monthly payments with U.S. Bank ExtendPay™ Plan.
- Great Offer from U.S. Bank, a 2022 World's Most Ethical Company® - Ethisphere Institute, February 2022
- Terms and conditions apply
Pros
- 0% APR applies to both purchases and balance transfers
- Unlimited cash back rewards
- No annual fee
Cons
- Balance transfer fee is charged even during the introductory period
- Intro APR doesn’t apply to cash advances
- MasterRental car rental collision damage waiver: When you rent a car using your U.S. Bank credit card, you’re covered in case of accident or theft on all rentals made worldwide. Coverage is primary, which means you won’t need to use your personal auto insurance or accept the insurance offered by the rental agency. Coverage is capped at $50,000.
- Purchase assurance: U.S. Bank may repair or reimburse for items purchased with your U.S. Bank business credit card that are damaged or stolen within 90 days of purchase. Coverage is limited to $1,000 per loss, up to $25,000 per year, per account. Lost items and items left out of reach that others can see are not covered.
- Extended warranty protection: U.S. Bank will double the manufacturer’s warranty up to an additional one year from the expiration of warranties of five years or less. An item with a six-month warranty would be backed for an additional six months, for example. The issuer will replace the item or reimburse you up to the amount charged on your U.S. Bank card up to $10,000.
- Limited Time Offer:Earn $500 in cash back. Just spend $4,500 on the Account Owner's card in the first 150 days of opening your account.
- 介绍美国Bank Business Triple Cash Rewards World Elite™ Mastercard® the card that gives back on all your eligible business needs.
- Earn 3% cash back on eligible purchases at gas stations and electric vehicle charging stations, office supply stores, cellphone service providers, and restaurants.
- 1% cash back on all other eligible net purchases.
- Earn 5% cash back on prepaid hotels and car rentals booked directly in the Travel Rewards Center.
- No limit on total cash back earned.
- Rewards never expire
- Earn an annual $100 statement credit for recurring software subscription expenses, such as FreshBooks or QuickBooks
- 0% Intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 billing cycles. After that, a variable APR currently 16.99% to 25.99%.
- No annual fee
- Pay over time by splitting eligible purchases of $100-plus into equal monthly payments with U.S. Bank ExtendPay™ Plan.
- Great Offer from U.S. Bank, a 2022 World's Most Ethical Company® - Ethisphere Institute, February 2022
- Terms and conditions apply
Pros
- 0% APR applies to both purchases and balance transfers
- Unlimited cash back rewards
- No annual fee
Cons
- Balance transfer fee is charged even during the introductory period
- Intro APR doesn’t apply to cash advances
- MasterRental car rental collision damage waiver: When you rent a car using your U.S. Bank credit card, you’re covered in case of accident or theft on all rentals made worldwide. Coverage is primary, which means you won’t need to use your personal auto insurance or accept the insurance offered by the rental agency. Coverage is capped at $50,000.
- Purchase assurance: U.S. Bank may repair or reimburse for items purchased with your U.S. Bank business credit card that are damaged or stolen within 90 days of purchase. Coverage is limited to $1,000 per loss, up to $25,000 per year, per account. Lost items and items left out of reach that others can see are not covered.
- Extended warranty protection: U.S. Bank will double the manufacturer’s warranty up to an additional one year from the expiration of warranties of five years or less. An item with a six-month warranty would be backed for an additional six months, for example. The issuer will replace the item or reimburse you up to the amount charged on your U.S. Bank card up to $10,000.
Why we like it:If you need to transfer high balances off of other business credit cards, or if there are any large or costly business purchases you need to make, the U.S. Bank Triple Cash Rewards World Elite Mastercard® is your best bet. You can benefit from the 0% APR for the first 15 months of card ownership, so you can make purchases interest-free during that time or use the 15 months to pay down a consolidated credit card debt. On top of that, you can also take advantage of the annual $100 statement credit for recurring software subscriptions, such as FreshBooks or QuickBooks.
As an introductory bonus, you’ll earn $500 cash back after spending $4,500 in the first 150 days after opening your account. Cash rewards can be redeemed as a statement credit or as a U.S. Bank Rewards Card, or they can be deposited into most checking, savings, or money market accounts. Plus, there’s no annual fee and no limit on total cash back earned—and rewards never expire.
Rewards:
- 3%的钱在购买合格的气体和加热器tric vehicle (EV) charging stations, office supply stores, cellphone service providers, and restaurants
- 1% cash back on all other eligible purchases
- 5% cash back on prepaid hotels and car rentals booked directly in the Travel Rewards Center
- $100 annual statement credit for recurring software subscription expenses, such as FreshBooks or QuickBooks
It has the longest zero-interest period among all other cards on this list. It is also named one of thebest 0% APR business credit cards.
American Express Blue Business CashTM: Best for Flexible Buying Power
American Express Blue Business Cash™ Card
BEST FOR:
Those who want better cash back rewards
- Earn a $250 statement credit after you make $3,000 in purchases on your Card in your first 3 months.
- Earn 2% cash back on all eligible purchases on up to $50,000 per calendar year, then 1%. Cash back earned is automatically credited to your statement.
- From workflow to inventory to floor plans, your business is constantly changing. That’s why you’ve got the power to spend beyond your credit limit with Expanded Buying Power.
- Just remember, the amount you can spend above your credit limit is not unlimited. It adjusts with your use of the Card, your payment history, credit record, financial resources known to us and other factors.
- 0.0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months from the date of account opening, then a variable rate, 18.24% - 26.24%, based on your creditworthiness and other factors as determined at the time of account opening.
- No Annual Fee
- Terms Apply
Pros
- 0% intro APR
- Welcome bonus
- Fixed rate rewards
- No annual fee
Cons
- Cash advance isn’t allowed
- Charges foreign transaction fees
- 2% cash back is capped at $50,000 in annual spending
- Expanded buying power:Enjoy flexible buying power when your business needs it. Expanded buying power gives you the freedom to spend beyond your credit limit and helps get business done. While the amount you can spend above your credit limit isn't unlimited, it adjusts to your use of the card, your payment history, credit record, financial resources known to us, and other factors.
- Car rental loss and damage insurance:As a Card Member, You can be covered for damage to or theft of a rental vehicle in a covered territory when you use your eligible card to reserve and pay for the entire rental and decline the collision damage waiver at the rental company counter.
- Earn a $250 statement credit after you make $3,000 in purchases on your Card in your first 3 months.
- Earn 2% cash back on all eligible purchases on up to $50,000 per calendar year, then 1%. Cash back earned is automatically credited to your statement.
- From workflow to inventory to floor plans, your business is constantly changing. That’s why you’ve got the power to spend beyond your credit limit with Expanded Buying Power.
- Just remember, the amount you can spend above your credit limit is not unlimited. It adjusts with your use of the Card, your payment history, credit record, financial resources known to us and other factors.
- 0.0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months from the date of account opening, then a variable rate, 18.24% - 26.24%, based on your creditworthiness and other factors as determined at the time of account opening.
- No Annual Fee
- Terms Apply
Pros
- 0% intro APR
- Welcome bonus
- Fixed rate rewards
- No annual fee
Cons
- Cash advance isn’t allowed
- Charges foreign transaction fees
- 2% cash back is capped at $50,000 in annual spending
- Expanded buying power:Enjoy flexible buying power when your business needs it. Expanded buying power gives you the freedom to spend beyond your credit limit and helps get business done. While the amount you can spend above your credit limit isn't unlimited, it adjusts to your use of the card, your payment history, credit record, financial resources known to us, and other factors.
- Car rental loss and damage insurance:As a Card Member, You can be covered for damage to or theft of a rental vehicle in a covered territory when you use your eligible card to reserve and pay for the entire rental and decline the collision damage waiver at the rental company counter.
Why we like it:The American Express Blue Business CashTMcard is ideal for consultants needing a credit card that offers a flexible credit limit. With its expanded buying power, you can spend beyond your credit limit whenever you need to. The amount you can spend above your credit limit adjusts based on your card usage, payment history, credit record, and financial resources.
Plus, you can benefit from a 0% introductory APR on purchases for the first 12 months, and it has no annual fee. You can also earn a $250 statement credit after spending at least $3,000 on purchases within the first three months of opening an account.
Rewards:
- 2% cash back on all eligible purchases of up to $50,000 per calendar year
- 1% cash back on purchases in excess of $50,000 within the same calendar year
Is your consultancy business relatively new?The American Express Blue Business CashTMcard is one of thetop-ranking credit cards for startups, making it a great option for new businesses.
Costco Anywhere Visa® Business Card by Citi: Best for Earning Rewards on Fuel Expenses
Costco Anywhere Visa® Business Card by Citi
BEST FOR:
Existing or new Costco members
- 全球4%的现金返还合格的气体,包括gas at Costco, for the first $7,000 per year and then 1% thereafter
- 3% cash back on restaurant and eligible travel purchases worldwide
- 2% cash back on all other purchases from Costco and Costco.com
- 1% cash back on all other purchases
Pros
- Doesn’t charge annual and foreign transaction fees
- Generous cashback rewards
Cons
- No 0% introductory APR period
- Premium rewards are only suited to those who frequently shop at Costco
- Need to secure Costco membership to qualify
- Damage and theft protection:This can cover you for either repairs or a refund if items purchased with your Citi card are damaged or stolen within 120 days of purchase―90 days for New York residents.
- Rental car damage plan:If you rented a car through Costco travel, a rental car damage plan with Costco preferred rates will be made available to you via Zurich. This offers coverage for rental car damage due to an accidental collision, theft, vandalism, and more.
- Citi® Quick Lock:This helps block new purchases and cash advances instantly while allowing recurring transactions, payments, balance transfers, and credits to continue without disruption.
- FICO® Scores:Citi believes it is important for you to be updated on your credit status. Hence, they partnered with FICO and Equifax to give you a better understanding of where your credit status is.
- Citi® Concierge:Citi® Concierge gives you access to several experts that work around the clock to help you with your travel, shopping, dining, entertainment, and everyday needs.
- 全球4%的现金返还合格的气体,包括gas at Costco, for the first $7,000 per year and then 1% thereafter
- 3% cash back on restaurant and eligible travel purchases worldwide
- 2% cash back on all other purchases from Costco and Costco.com
- 1% cash back on all other purchases
Pros
- Doesn’t charge annual and foreign transaction fees
- Generous cashback rewards
Cons
- No 0% introductory APR period
- Premium rewards are only suited to those who frequently shop at Costco
- Need to secure Costco membership to qualify
- Damage and theft protection:This can cover you for either repairs or a refund if items purchased with your Citi card are damaged or stolen within 120 days of purchase―90 days for New York residents.
- Rental car damage plan:If you rented a car through Costco travel, a rental car damage plan with Costco preferred rates will be made available to you via Zurich. This offers coverage for rental car damage due to an accidental collision, theft, vandalism, and more.
- Citi® Quick Lock:This helps block new purchases and cash advances instantly while allowing recurring transactions, payments, balance transfers, and credits to continue without disruption.
- FICO® Scores:Citi believes it is important for you to be updated on your credit status. Hence, they partnered with FICO and Equifax to give you a better understanding of where your credit status is.
- Citi® Concierge:Citi® Concierge gives you access to several experts that work around the clock to help you with your travel, shopping, dining, entertainment, and everyday needs.
Why we like it:If you are always on the road, a significant portion of your expenses may go to gas purchases. In that case, you can benefit from the Costco Anywhere Visa® Business Card by Citi by earning premium rewards on purchases at eligible gas stations. Cash back will be provided as an annual credit card reward certificate and can be redeemed for cash or merchandise at US Costco Warehouses.
It is also an ideal option for those who frequently shop at Costco and Costco.com. Keep in mind, however, that this card is only available for Costco members. There is no annual fee outside of your Costco membership as well as no foreign transaction fee on international purchases.
Rewards:
- 4%的现金返还sta燃料购买合格的气体tions and EV charging purchases worldwide, including Costco, for the first $7,000 per year; and then 1% thereafter
- 3% cash back on restaurants and eligible travel purchases worldwide
- 2% cash back on all other purchases from Costco and Costco.com
- 1% cash back on all other purchases
Because of its premium fuel rewards, Costco Anywhere Visa® Business Card by Citi is one of our top choices for thebest fuel cards for small businesses.
Capital One® Spark® Classic for Business: Best for Consultants With Fair Credit
Capital One® Spark® Classic for Business
BEST FOR:
Those with fair credit
- 1% cash back every time you swipe
- Build your business credit through responsible usage
- Issue employee cards for free
Pros
- Opportunity to build business credit
- Only requires fair credit to qualify
- Doesn’t charge annual and balance transfer fees
Cons
- Charges high ongoing APR
- Has no 0% introductory APR
- No sign-up bonus
- Automatic payments:Setting up AutoPay in the Capital One mobile app will save you from having to worry about signing in to your account every month
- $0 fraud liability:if your card is either lost or stolen, you can get an emergency replacement and cash advance.
- Purchase records:You can download all purchase records quickly and securely in multiple formats, including Quicken®, QuickBooks®, and Excel®.
- Extended warranty:Get free additional warranty and protection on eligible items purchased with your business credit card.
Free employee cards:You can create multiple employee cards, track employee spending, and customize spending limits while earning all the rewards from their purchases.
- 1% cash back every time you swipe
- Build your business credit through responsible usage
- Issue employee cards for free
Pros
- Opportunity to build business credit
- Only requires fair credit to qualify
- Doesn’t charge annual and balance transfer fees
Cons
- Charges high ongoing APR
- Has no 0% introductory APR
- No sign-up bonus
- Automatic payments:Setting up AutoPay in the Capital One mobile app will save you from having to worry about signing in to your account every month
- $0 fraud liability:if your card is either lost or stolen, you can get an emergency replacement and cash advance.
- Purchase records:You can download all purchase records quickly and securely in multiple formats, including Quicken®, QuickBooks®, and Excel®.
- Extended warranty:Get free additional warranty and protection on eligible items purchased with your business credit card.
Free employee cards:You can create multiple employee cards, track employee spending, and customize spending limits while earning all the rewards from their purchases.
Why we like it:If you’re a consultant with a fair credit score (580 to 669), the Capital One® Spark® Classic for Business is a great choice to use as an unlimited rewards card. It is also ourbest fair credit business card, thanks to its simple rewards program. While it has no annual fee, there’s no sign-up bonus and 0% introductory APR.
Keep in mind, however, that this card comes with a high APR, so it’s best to pay the bill in full each billing cycle rather than carry a balance. Also, make sure to pay your balances on time and use this card responsibly to help improve your credit score. Your payment history will be regularly reported to the major credit bureaus, which can greatly help in growing your score.
Rewards:
- Unlimited 1% cash back on all purchases
- Unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
Since this card only requires a fair credit score, the approval process is typically easier than most other business credit cards. It’s the reason why the card is named one of theleading business cards with instant approval.
How We Selected the Best Credit Cards for Consultants
Since consultants work in a wide range of industries, we selected cards with strong rewards programs that may be valuable to consultancy businesses. We also took into account the annual fees, ongoing APRs, introductory rates, bonuses, credit requirements, and reward redemption options.
Having a separate credit card intended only for your business use is essential for various reasons, including the following:
- To separate your business and personal finances:One of the primary benefits of having a business credit card is to avoid commingling your business and personal expenses. Failure to keep your business and personal finances separate can lead to bigger problems, including potential legal issues with the IRS. Check out the10 steps for separating your personal and business financesfor more information.
- 建立你的商业信贷:如果你想要建立商业信用是至关重要的to have access to more financing options like business loans and business lines of credit. Having a business credit card is a great way to start building your business credit, especially if your consultancy business is relatively new. Learn thesteps for building business creditto help you get started.
- To take advantage of tax deductions:Having a consultancy business makes you eligible for tax deductions for your business-related expenses. If you have a dedicated business credit card, it would be a lot easier for you to track your business expenses, making tax season a lot smoother.
Bottom Line
As an independent consultant, the best credit card for your business offers the most rewards in your preferred spending categories. If your purchases are inconsistent month over month, a fixed-rate rewards card is a better choice. If you’d like to see a wider variety of business credit cards, check out our roundup of thebest small business credit cards.