Cash back business credit cards offer a simple and effective way for business owners to earn rewards on everyday spending. These cards provide a percentage back on purchases, helping to offset expenses and improve the bottom line. Choosing the right card requires careful consideration of spending habits, reward structures, and additional perks.

This guide dives deep into the best cash back business credit cards available in 2024, helping you select the one that best aligns with your business needs and maximizes your returns. We'll explore key features, benefits, and potential drawbacks to empower you to make an informed decision.

Card Name Key Features Detailed Explanation (See Below)
Ink Business Cash® Credit Card 5% cash back on select categories, 2% on others, $750 bonus offer, 0% intro APR. (A)
American Express Blue Business Cash™ Card 2% cash back on all purchases, flexible spending capacity, no annual fee. (B)
Capital One Spark Cash Plus Unlimited 2% cash back on every purchase, cash bonus, no foreign transaction fees. (C)
Chase Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card Points that can be redeemed for cash back, travel, or gift cards, bonus on travel. (D)
U.S. Bank Business Triple Cash Rewards World Elite Mastercard® 3% cash back on select categories, 1% on others, generous bonus offer. (E)
Bank of America® Business Advantage Customized Cash Rewards credit card 3% cash back on a category of your choice, 2% on dining, 1% on everything else. (F)

Detailed Explanations:

(A) Ink Business Cash® Credit Card:

The Ink Business Cash® Credit Card is a popular choice for small business owners seeking a straightforward cash back rewards program. It offers 5% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at office supply stores and on internet, cable, and phone services each account anniversary year. You also earn 2% cash back on the first $25,000 spent at gas stations and restaurants combined each account anniversary year. All other purchases earn an unlimited 1% cash back. The card also offers a $750 bonus cash back after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. It also features a 0% introductory APR on purchases for 12 months, making it a good choice for financing large purchases. This card is a solid option for businesses with significant spending in the bonus categories.

(B) American Express Blue Business Cash™ Card:

The American Express Blue Business Cash™ Card stands out with its simple and consistent 2% cash back on all eligible purchases, up to $50,000 per calendar year (then 1% thereafter). A key feature is its Expanded Buying Power, which allows you to spend above your credit limit (subject to approval). This provides flexibility for fluctuating business needs. The card also has no annual fee, making it an attractive option for businesses looking to minimize costs while earning rewards. It's particularly beneficial for businesses that value simplicity and consistent rewards across all spending categories, especially those that don't want to track spending across various bonus categories.

(C) Capital One Spark Cash Plus:

The Capital One Spark Cash Plus card offers unlimited 2% cash back on every purchase, with no spending caps or category restrictions. This simplicity is a major selling point. The card also offers a cash bonus after you meet certain spending requirements within a specified timeframe. This card also has no foreign transaction fees, making it a valuable tool for businesses that frequently conduct international transactions. While it does have an annual fee, the high flat-rate cash back can easily offset the cost for businesses with significant spending. It's a strong contender for businesses that want a straightforward rewards program and predictable returns.

(D) Chase Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card:

While technically a points-earning card, the Chase Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card is worth considering for its versatility and potential for high cash back value. You earn 3 points per $1 on the first $150,000 spent in combined purchases on travel, shipping purchases, internet, cable and phone services, and advertising purchases made with social media sites and search engines each account anniversary year. These points can be redeemed for cash back at a rate of 1 cent per point, effectively giving you 3% cash back in those categories. However, the real value lies in the ability to redeem points for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards, often at a higher value (up to 1.25 cents per point). The card also comes with valuable travel protections and purchase protection benefits. The $95 annual fee can be justified by the rewards potential and travel perks, making it a good choice for businesses that travel frequently or have high spending in the bonus categories.

(E) U.S. Bank Business Triple Cash Rewards World Elite Mastercard®:

The U.S. Bank Business Triple Cash Rewards World Elite Mastercard® offers a compelling rewards structure. You earn 3% cash back on eligible purchases at gas stations and EV charging stations, office supply stores, restaurants, and cell phone service providers. You also get 1% cash back on all other eligible purchases. The card often includes a generous bonus offer for new cardholders who meet certain spending requirements. The World Elite Mastercard benefits include travel and purchase protections. With no annual fee, this card is a solid choice for businesses with significant spending in the bonus categories.

(F) Bank of America® Business Advantage Customized Cash Rewards credit card:

The Bank of America® Business Advantage Customized Cash Rewards credit card provides flexibility in choosing your rewards category. You earn 3% cash back on a category of your choice from a list of options (gas stations and EV charging stations, office supply stores, travel, TV/telecom & wireless business services, or business consulting services), 2% cash back on dining, and 1% cash back on all other purchases. The 3% and 2% categories are capped at $50,000 in combined purchases each calendar year, then 1% thereafter. The value of this card is amplified for Bank of America Preferred Rewards for Business members, who can earn a bonus on every purchase, increasing the cash back rate even further. This card is a good choice for businesses that can strategically select a 3% category that aligns with their highest spending.

Frequently Asked Questions:

  • What is a business cash back credit card? A business cash back credit card allows you to earn a percentage of your business spending back in the form of cash. This cash back can then be used to offset expenses or reinvest in the business.

  • How do cash back rewards work? For every purchase you make with the card, you earn a percentage back, typically ranging from 1% to 5% or more on specific categories. The cash back is usually redeemed as a statement credit, direct deposit, or check.

  • What are the advantages of using a business cash back card? The primary advantage is the ability to earn rewards on business spending, which can help lower operating costs and improve cash flow. Many cards also offer additional benefits like purchase protection, travel insurance, and employee card management.

  • How do I choose the right business cash back card? Consider your business's spending habits, the rewards structure of the card, any annual fees, and any additional perks that align with your business needs. Analyze your spending to determine which card offers the most value.

  • What is an introductory APR? An introductory APR is a promotional interest rate offered for a limited time, often on purchases or balance transfers. It can help you save on interest charges during the introductory period.

  • Should I prioritize a card with a high bonus offer? While a high bonus offer is attractive, it's important to consider the spending requirements to qualify for the bonus and the ongoing rewards structure of the card. Ensure the card aligns with your long-term spending patterns.

  • What are the potential drawbacks of using a business cash back card? If you carry a balance on the card, the interest charges can outweigh the cash back rewards. It's important to pay your balance in full each month to avoid interest charges.

  • What is the difference between a flat-rate cash back card and a tiered rewards card? A flat-rate card offers the same percentage back on all purchases, while a tiered rewards card offers different percentages back on different spending categories. Choose the card that best aligns with your spending habits.

Conclusion:

Choosing the best business cash back credit card depends on your specific business needs and spending patterns. Carefully evaluate the rewards structure, fees, and benefits of each card to maximize your returns and optimize your business finances. Select the card that aligns best with your spending habits and offers the most value for your business.