Best Business Credit Cards for New LLCs in 2025 – Top Picks, Rewards & No-Fee Options
Starting an LLC can be exciting—and a bit chaotic. One essential tool new LLC owners shouldn’t overlook is a solid business credit card. The right card not only helps manage expenses smartly but also establishes business credit early. Here are top picks of 2025 that combine great rewards, low fees, and newbie-friendly features.
1. Chase Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card — The All-Around Winner
- Why it’s great for new LLCs:
- No annual fee and 1.5% unlimited cash back on all purchases.
- Strong welcome bonus: $750 back after spending $6,000 in the first 3 months.
- 0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months—perfect for startup expenses.
- Flexibility through Chase Ultimate Rewards® by redeeming for cash, travel, or gift cards.
2. U.S. Bank Triple Cash Rewards Visa® Business Card — Ideal for Short-Term Financing
- Why it’s useful:
- No annual fee and uncapped bonus-category cash back.
- Generous intro APR period on purchases and balance transfers—helpful for managing early cash flow.
3. The Brex Business Credit Card — No Personal Guarantee Required
- Key advantages:
- No personal credit check or guarantee needed; approval based on business financials instead.
- Higher credit limits and robust expense management stack—expense tracking, bill pay, accounting, and more.
4. Capital on Tap Business Credit Card — Fast Approval & Straightforward Rewards
- What makes it stand out:
- Simple 1.5% cash back on all purchases, no annual fee, and quick approval.
- No foreign transaction fees, but variable APR can be high depending on credit profile.
5. Capital One Spark 1% Classic — Great for Businesses with Fair Credit
- Why it’s accessible:
- No annual or foreign transaction fees.
- Earn 1% cash back on all purchases and 5% on hotels and rental cars booked via Capital One Travel.
- Designed for applicants with fair credit scores.
6. Chase Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card — Best for Bonus Category Rewards
- Ideal if your LLC spends heavily in select areas:
- Earn a generous welcome bonus (e.g., 90,000 points after spending $8,000 in first 3 months).
- 3X points on shipping and other select business categories.
- Annual fee: $95.
7. American Express Business Platinum Card — Premium Perks for Growing Businesses
- Why premium makes sense:
- Although high-end, it comes with robust travel, lounge, hotel, and business expense benefits.
- Latest “major refresh” planned later in 2025 to enhance expense rewards, spend flexibility, and visuals.
8. Chase Sapphire Reserve for Business — Luxury Travel for Business Owners
- New in 2025:
- Designed for premium business travel perks—access to Sapphire Lounge, 8X on travel, and a membership value exceeding $2,500.
- Welcome bonus: 200,000 points after spending $30,000 in first 6 months. Annual fee: $795.
Choosing the Right Card: What New LLC Owners Should Consider
| Factor | Why It Matters for Your LLC |
|---|---|
| Personal Credit Requirements | Cards like Brex don’t require a personal guarantee, which is ideal if your personal score is limited. |
| Intro APR Offers | Options like Ink Business Unlimited and U.S. Bank Triple Cash help manage early expenses without interest. |
| Rewards That Match Your Spending | Prioritize cards that amplify returns on your common expenses—e.g., shipping, travel, supplies. |
| Annual Fees vs. Perks | Choose between no-fee simplicity (Ink Unlimited, Capital on Tap) or premium perks (AmEx Platinum, Sapphire for Business) based on your budget. |
| Credit-Building Potential | Business credit cards help establish a credit profile with agencies like D&B, Experian, and Equifax. |
Build Business Credit While Using Your Card Wisely
- Obtain an EIN and a DUNS number—critical identifiers for business credit.
- Use a dedicated business bank account—keep finances separate and clean.
- Report positive payments—ensure card activity is reported to business credit bureaus to boost your score.
- Maintain low credit utilization—max 30% usage is ideal.
- Pay on time—punctual payments go a long way in building credit.
FAQs
What is the best business credit card for a new LLC in 2025?
The Chase Ink Business Unlimited® stands out in 2025 for its no annual fee, unlimited 1.5% cash back, intro 0% APR, and strong welcome bonus—ideal for most new LLCs.
Can I get a business credit card for my LLC without a personal guarantee?
Yes. Cards like the Brex Business Credit Card do not require a personal guarantee or credit check, making them suitable for businesses with limited personal credit history.
Do I need an EIN to apply for a business credit card?
Most issuers require an Employer Identification Number (EIN) for LLCs, though some allow applications with a Social Security Number (SSN) if you’re a sole member.
How do business credit cards help build my LLC’s credit?
When payments are reported to business credit bureaus (D&B, Experian, Equifax), consistent on-time payments and low utilization improve your LLC’s credit profile.
Which card is best for LLCs with fair credit?
The Capital One Spark 1% Classic is designed for fair credit applicants, offering flat cash back, no annual fee, and accessible approval criteria.
Should a new LLC choose a no-fee or premium card?
If you’re just starting out, a no-fee card may be the safest choice. Once your revenue and travel needs grow, premium cards like the AmEx Business Platinum can deliver high-value perks.
Summary: Top Picks for New LLCs in 2025
- Best overall: Chase Ink Business Unlimited (no fee, cash back, intro APR)
- Best intro APR: U.S. Bank Triple Cash Rewards
- No personal guarantee: Brex Business Credit Card
- Fast and simple: Capital on Tap
- Fair credit access: Capital One Spark 1% Classic
- Bonus-heavy expenses: Chase Ink Business Preferred
- Premium perks: AmEx Business Platinum (refresh 2025)
- Luxury business travel: Chase Sapphire Reserve for Business
Final Tip: Select a card that aligns with your LLC’s spending patterns, growth stage, and credit profile. Start strong, use responsibly, and watch your business credit—and financial flexibility—grow!
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