Running a small business requires careful financial planning and the right tools to manage cash flow, expenses, and rewards. A business credit card can be a valuable asset, offering perks like cashback, travel rewards, and purchase protection, while also simplifying expense tracking and building business credit.
In this guide, we’ll explore the top business credit cards in England, highlight their benefits, and help you choose the best option for your company’s needs.
Why Get a Business Credit Card?
Business credit cards offer unique advantages that personal cards don’t, including:
- Improved Cash Flow: Short-term credit lines help manage expenses between client payments.
- Expense Management: Track business spending separately from personal finances.
- Rewards & Perks: Earn cashback, travel points, or discounts on business-related purchases.
- Build Business Credit: Strengthen your company’s credit profile for future loans.
- Employee Cards: Issue additional cards with set spending limits for employees.
Top Business Credit Cards in England
Here’s a comparison of some of the best business credit cards currently available:
| Credit Card | Annual Fee | Rewards | Intro APR | Best For |
| Amex Business Gold Card | £0 (first year) | 1 point per £1 spent + bonuses | 0% for 12 months | Travel & rewards seekers |
| Barclaycard Select Cashback | £0 | 1% cashback on all spending | 0% on purchases for 6 mths | Everyday spending |
| Capital on Tap Business Rewards | £99 | 1% cashback + Avios option | 0% for 3 months | Flexible rewards |
| HSBC Commercial Card | £32 | 0.5% cashback on all spending | No intro offer | Low annual fee option |
| Santander Business Credit Card | £30 | 1% cashback on fuel/stationery | 0% on purchases for 6 mths | Office-related expenses |
Interest rates and fees may vary. Always check terms before applying.
1. American Express Business Gold Card
Key Perks:
- Earn Membership Rewards points on all purchases.
- Double points on travel and advertising in select categories.
- No annual fee for the first year (£125 thereafter).
- Travel insurance and purchase protection.
Best For:
Business owners who travel frequently or make large business purchases and want to maximise reward points.
2. Barclaycard Select Cashback
Key Perks:
- 1% cashback on all spending with no caps.
- 0% interest on purchases for the first 6 months.
- Free expense management tools for small businesses.
Best For:
Everyday business spending without worrying about categories.
3. Capital on Tap Business Rewards
Key Perks:
- 1% cashback or Avios points on all spending.
- £99 annual fee with high credit limits available.
- Free employee cards with spending limits.
Best For:
Businesses seeking flexible rewards and Avios points collectors.
4. HSBC Commercial Card
Key Perks:
- Low £32 annual fee.
- 0.5% cashback on all purchases.
- Detailed expense tracking tools.
Best For:
Small businesses that want a low-fee credit card with basic rewards.
5. Santander Business Credit Card
Key Perks:
- 1% cashback on fuel, stationery, and office supplies.
- 0% interest on purchases for 6 months.
- £30 annual fee.
Best For:
Businesses with frequent office-related expenses like fuel and supplies.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Business Credit Card
1. Rewards Structure
- Cashback: Simple and flexible.
- Travel Points: Ideal for businesses with frequent travel needs.
- Category Bonuses: Some cards offer higher rewards for specific types of spending (e.g., fuel, office supplies).
2. Fees and Interest Rates
- Look for low or no annual fees if you’re cost-conscious.
- Consider introductory 0% APR offers if planning large purchases.
3. Additional Perks
- Travel Insurance: Helpful for business trips.
- Purchase Protection: Covers items bought with the card against damage or theft.
- Expense Tracking Tools: Many cards offer integrated software for managing spending.
4. Credit Limits and Terms
- Ensure the credit limit meets your business needs.
- Check repayment terms and potential late fees.
Tips for Maximising Business Credit Card Benefits
- Pay in Full Each Month: To avoid interest charges.
- Use for Business-Only Expenses: Keeps accounting simple.
- Leverage Rewards Strategically: Use cashback or points to offset business costs.
- Monitor Employee Spending: Set limits and review statements regularly.
When a Business Credit Card Isn’t the Best Option
- For Large, Long-Term Loans: Business credit cards aren’t ideal for large-scale financing. Consider business loans instead.
- If You Struggle with Debt: Interest rates on business credit cards can be high if balances aren’t paid in full.
Conclusion: Find the Right Business Credit Card for Your Needs
The best business credit card for your company depends on how you spend, your cash flow needs, and the rewards you value most. Whether you prefer cashback, travel points, or simple low fees, there’s a card that can help streamline expenses and improve your business’s financial flexibility.
Compare options carefully, factor in annual fees, and always pay attention to introductory offers that can help your business save in its early stages.
Key Takeaway: Choose a business credit card that aligns with your company’s spending habits, prioritising rewards and perks that support growth while managing costs effectively.
