How Can I Get a Business Credit Card?

In 2023, 56% of businesses used credit cards to access funds quickly — more than loans, leases and other funding methods.1 Cards offer many distinct benefits, particularly for small companies with limited working capital. For example, cards can help a startup build business credit or rapidly improve cash flow. Credit cards also help organizations separate company and personal expenses for accurate recordkeeping.

If you're ready to apply for a small business credit card, it's important to carefully review the options so you choose the one that suits your business needs.

Evaluate spending habits to determine which card is best.

The first step in determining the best card for your business is to evaluate areas in which your spending is highest. Then, you can choose a card with the rewards program that offers the most value.

• Cash-back cards give back a percentage of what you buy.

  Some cards offer a fixed cash-back rate, usually around 1.5% and rarely over 2%.2 For instance, spending $200 on a card with 2% cash back credits the business account with $4. Depending on the card, you might redeem the cash back by applying it to the statement balance. You may also be able to redeem it for actual cash or a gift card. Some credit cards offer a higher cash-back rate on certain spending categories, which may change throughout the year.

• Travel credit cards accumulate points or miles to cover travel-related costs.

  If you travel frequently this card type may be appealing. For example, your business can earn points or miles when you use the card. You can redeem them for hotels, airfare or other expenses. These cards typically provide greater rewards for travel-related categories than cash-back cards.

• Secured credit cards can help small businesses build credit.

  Established companies with fair or poor credit scores might also consider a secured credit card to rebuild business credit. These cards require a cash deposit to open an account, usually equal to the desired credit limit. For example, for a $1,000 credit limit, the business may need to deposit $1,000 into an account.

• Charge cards offer flexibility in exchange for full-balance payments.

  If you have the funds to pay off the balance each month, consider a business charge card. Charge cards function like regular credit cards but you must pay the entire statement balance each month to avoid high interest charges. Charge cards also typically don’t have a preset credit limit for greater spending flexibility.

• Gas rewards cards offer cash back or points on fuel expenses.

  Does your company have significant fuel expenditures each month? Consider a credit card that offers cash back on gas purchases, travel rewards points or fuel discounts. These cards may also offer other perks, like cash back on additional expenses.

There are other ways a business credit card can help you save money. For example, some cards offer trip cancellation insurance or roadside assistance. Additionally, many card issuers provide credit cards for employees at no extra charge. Consider all the benefits and perks and what could be most valuable for your company.

Compare interest rates and fees to narrow your options.

It's important to understand credit card basics such as annual fees, annual percentage rates (APRs) and introductory offers. Understanding these terms will help you form a more complete picture of each card's pros and cons.

• Some cards may charge an annual fee.

  Credit cards with exclusive benefits and generous rewards usually include an annual fee that could be hundreds of dollars. However, the fee might be worth paying if the card's rewards are attractive. Your decision should be based on your company's needs and how much you plan to spend when using your small business credit card.

• APR can impact cash flow if you carry a balance.

  If there's a chance you won’t pay off your card balance each month, consider the APR (or interest rate) the issuer will apply to your outstanding balance. APR has increased over several years and the average rate for business cards was 21.52 in March 2025.3 So, shopping around for a lower APR can be worth the time to avoid high interest charges.

• An introductory offer might be worth considering.

  Some cards offer attractive welcome bonuses, like extra rewards for meeting a certain spending requirement or 0% APR for the first year. If you plan to make a large purchase and pay it off before interest starts to accrue, a card with 0% APR could be a good choice.

Business and personal credit scores can impact the chances of securing better interest rates, so maintaining a good credit score is critical. Actions like missing payments or applying for credit cards too often can lower your credit score, while promptly paying bills can improve it.

Review the terms and conditions of your top choice.

Once you've narrowed down your choices, read the fine print before applying for a card since additional fees could affect what you pay.

• Foreign currency conversions carry transaction fees.

  If you will use your small business credit card abroad, consider the cost to convert foreign currency into U.S. dollars. Foreign transaction fees are usually around 3%, but some cards don't require them.

• Cash advance transaction fees are charged when using your credit card to withdraw money.

  When emergencies arise, you can use your card for a cash advance. However, this will come with a fee — usually around 4% of the withdrawn amount. Cash advances also typically have higher APRs than standard transactions, which begin accruing when you withdraw the money.

• Penalties include late payment, returned payment and over-the-limit fees.

  Not meeting the cardholder agreement can result in penalty fees. For example, scheduling a payment without enough money in the bank can lead to a returned payment fee of around $40. While one penalty fee may not seem significant, they can add up over time.

In addition to understanding potential card fees, review the conditions related to rewards – including redemption – and benefits. Some cash-back rewards expire after periods of inactivity, over certain timespans or if the account is closed. Some cards may also limit the rewards you can earn during a specific period or within a spending category.

Carefully review all the terms and conditions to be sure you understand them or contact the card issuer if you have any questions before applying.

Gather your business’ financial information and apply for the card.

Before applying for a small business credit card, you’ll need to gather some financial details. Don't worry if your business hasn’t generated any revenue yet — you don't need proof of revenue, a business credit score or a license to apply. For example, on the application you can write "zero" under revenue if you just started your business.

There are other details that you’ll need to provide to complete the application.

• Name and contact information
• Number of years in business
• Number of employees
• Business structure, such as sole proprietorship
• Federal tax ID or Social Security number
• Revenue and expenses (or estimated expenses)

It's best not to apply for too many credit cards at once. Each time you apply, it lowers the business's credit score. Though the point reduction is generally small and only for a short time, lower scores could make it harder to qualify for loans you may be considering.

Synovus has a business credit card that’s right for you.

Choosing the best credit card for your small business is the first step to more spending power and flexibility. Whether you want to access more capital, build business credit or accumulate cash rewards on regular expenses, Synovus can help. See our business credit cards and choose one that’s right for you. Or call 1-888-796-6887 or visit a local branch for details on our cards or more lending options.