10 Startup Credit Cards: Get the Best in 2025

Highlights

• Explore 10 top startup credit cards for 2025, each tailored to meet different business needs.
• Understand why it is important to compare cards by reviewing your credit history, annual fees, and cash flow management tools.
• Discover which cards offer the best rewards, including cashback, bonus miles, and expense control features.
• Find cards that enhance security, allow employee spending oversight, and offer flexible credit limits.
• Get tips on keeping business and personal finances separate to protect your credit score.
• See recommendations for startups with limited credit history or those requiring a secured card.

Introduction

Starting a new company comes with many financial decisions, and choosing the right business credit card is a key one. For startups without established credit, it is important to find a card that supports expense tracking and builds business credit. A well-chosen card can also stabilize your cash flow. This guide highlights 10 of the best startup credit cards for 2025 to help launch your business on solid ground.

10 Best Startup Credit Cards in 2025

Startup credit cards can support business growth by offering rewards, dynamic credit lines, and modern financial tools. Each card listed below includes major benefits tailored to new businesses, including fast approvals and helpful expense management features.

1. Brex Card for Startups

Designed for startups with funds in the bank, the Brex card does not rely on your personal credit score. Instead, it assesses your company’s cash balance to determine your credit limit. Brex integrates with accounting tools like QuickBooks to simplify bookkeeping.

• No personal guarantee or annual fees
• Real-time expense tracking
• Employee spend controls
• Rewards for travel, rideshares, and software purchases

2. Ramp Corporate Card

Ramp evaluates your business’s cash flow instead of running a credit check. It offers excellent expense controls and integrates with tools like QuickBooks and NetSuite.

• Up to 1.5% cash back on business purchases
• No annual fee
• Custom spend policies for employees
• Ideal for post-Series A startups

3. Rho Business Credit Card

The Rho card sets your credit limit based on cash balances and business revenue—not credit scores.

• Up to 1.75% cashback
• Integrates with tools like Expensify
• Real-time expense visibility
• No personal guarantees
• Seamless banking integration with Rho accounts

4. Chase Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

This card benefits startups that spend on travel, office supplies, and digital advertising.

• Earn 3x points in specific categories
• 100,000-point welcome bonus
• $95 annual fee
• Requires a personal guarantee and good credit

5. American Express Blue Business® Plus Credit Card

Earn 2x Membership Rewards points on the first $50,000 spent annually with no annual fee.

• Employee card management tools
• Integrates with Expensify
• Requires proof of income and payment history
• Straightforward terms and strong customer support

6. Capital One Spark 1% Classic for Business

Designed to help startups build credit with 1% cashback on all purchases.

• No annual fee
• Helps establish business credit
• Straightforward use and reporting features

7. BILL Divvy Corporate Card

Divvy combines budgeting tools directly into the credit platform.

• Real-time expense tracking
• Custom employee spend limits
• No annual fee
• Cashback for business-related purchases
• Built-in fraud protection

8. Stripe Corporate Card

Ideal for companies already using Stripe for payments.

• Auto-categorizes expenses
• Real-time reporting
• No annual fee
• Flexible credit limits based on revenue
• Basic rewards and easy tech integrations

9. Bank of America® Business Advantage Unlimited Cash Rewards Secured Mastercard®

A secured credit card that helps startups build credit history.

• 1.5% unlimited cashback
• Security deposit required
• No cap on rewards
• Strong customer support for growing businesses

10. Wells Fargo Business Secured Credit Card

Another secured option for building or repairing business credit.

• Credit limit equals your deposit
• Easy expense tracking
• Suitable for daily spending
• May qualify for credit limit increases or upgrades with good usage

How to Compare Startup Credit Cards

When comparing credit cards for your startup, focus on the following factors:

• Rewards Structures: Choose cards that match your business spending habits.
• Fees: Consider annual fees, foreign transaction fees, and other hidden charges.
• Credit Requirements: Understand whether approval is based on business or personal credit.
• Expense Tools: Look for integrations with platforms like QuickBooks and Expensify.

Rewards Structures and Cashback Options

Many business cards offer increased rewards in select categories like office supplies or travel. Some allow you to redeem points as cashback or for business-related purchases. Understanding each program helps you get the most from your spending.

Expense Management and Integration Tools

Modern credit cards now include tools for expense tracking, reporting, and syncing with accounting software. These features reduce manual data entry and help maintain financial clarity—especially for startups with limited resources.

Credit Requirements for Approval

Approval depends on your business’s income, liabilities, and payment history. For early-stage startups, personal credit may also be reviewed. Knowing these requirements helps improve your chances of approval.

Annual Fees and Hidden Charges

Always compare the value of card features against their costs. While some cards offer strong rewards, they may charge annual or foreign transaction fees. Avoid surprise charges by reviewing fee disclosures carefully.

Features to Look for in Startup Credit Cards

• Flexible credit limits: Support scalability and unforeseen expenses
• Employee card controls: Monitor and restrict team spending
• Fraud protection: Secure your finances with real-time alerts
• Travel perks: Insurance and lounge access can reduce business travel costs

Tips for Maximizing the Benefits of Your Startup Credit Card

• Focus spending on high-reward categories
• Take advantage of interest-free periods
• Separate personal and business expenses for cleaner records
• Use employee spending limits and monitor activity
• Pay in full to avoid interest and build strong credit

Common Challenges Startups Face When Applying for Credit Cards

Limited or No Business Credit History

Startups often face rejections due to short credit histories. Consider starting with vendor accounts or secured cards to build credibility.

High Rejection Rates

Lenders may deny applications if financial records are weak. Apply strategically based on lender criteria to boost approval odds.

Personal Guarantees and Liability

Some cards require a personal guarantee, tying your personal credit to business obligations. Understand these terms before applying.

Understanding Terms and Conditions

Always read the fine print. Review sections related to interest rates, penalties, and liability. This prevents surprises and helps manage risks.

Conclusion

Choosing the right startup credit card lays a foundation for financial success. By focusing on rewards, approval criteria, and business tools, you can select a card that matches your goals. The right card improves cash flow, builds credit, and simplifies your business finances.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the easiest credit card for a new startup to get approved for?

Secured cards or those designed for startups with limited credit requirements are usually the easiest to get. They help build credit over time.

Can I get a business credit card with no credit history?

Yes. Some lenders approve applications based on personal credit or require a security deposit.

Should I use my EIN or SSN to apply for a startup credit card?

Use your EIN to keep business finances separate. However, most new businesses will also need to provide an SSN for personal credit evaluation.

How do rewards work on startup business credit cards?

You earn rewards based on your spending. Rewards can be cashback, travel points, or discounts on business purchases, depending on the card.

How do I apply for a startup credit card in the U.S.?

Prepare your business license, EIN, income details, and tax ID. Compare offers, read the terms, and apply online or in person with your chosen provider.

Written by Emily Birken Updated June 11, 2025 by Albert Fang