What an LLC should look for in a business credit card

Business credit cards give LLCs dedicated spending power separate from personal finances. They simplify purchases, improve cash flow management, and build credibility with vendors and lenders.

These cards work for LLCs of all sizes—from startups covering early expenses to established companies managing employee spending. The right card helps track purchases, streamline accounting, and strengthen your business’s financial foundation.

This guide covers everything you need to know about LLC credit cards. You'll learn about key benefits like building business credit, the application process, how to choose the best card, and get answers to common questions.

Benefits of business credit cards for LLCs

Business credit cards offer LLC owners tools—and credit limits—that personal cards can't match. They include expense management, reporting, and spend control features designed specifically for running a company.

Some key benefits include:

• Streamlined accounting operations: Many business credit cards integrate directly with accounting software like QuickBooks and Xero. Pairing your card with expense management software gives you real-time visibility into spending and automates reconciliation, making account management and tax compliance significantly easier. This integration helps reduce manual data entry, minimize errors, and speed up month-end close.
• Clear separation of business and personal expenses: Keeping your expenses separate helps protect your limited liability status. This makes tax preparation easier and helps protect your personal assets if your business faces financial issues or an audit. It also strengthens your LLC’s credibility with banks, investors, and vendors.
• Employee expense management: Some business credit cards let you issue employee credit cards to team members who need purchasing power. These cards usually offer customizable spend limits and controls, helping you manage expenses more effectively.
• Rewards and perks: A dedicated credit card for your LLC gives you access to valuable rewards and perks that are tailored to business spending. Some cards offer elevated points or cashback on categories like travel, and some offer premium perks like airport lounge access.
• Building business credit history: Regularly using your card and paying your balance on time helps you build credit with major business credit bureaus like Dun & Bradstreet. A strong business credit profile can help you qualify for higher credit limits, larger loans, better vendor terms, and lower insurance rates later on.

These advantages help you run your LLC more efficiently and set it up for growth. By simplifying your financial operations, you can focus more of your time on growing revenue and less on administrative tasks.

What LLCs should look for in a business credit card

The best business credit card for your LLC depends on how you run your business, where you spend money, and what financial goals you have. A card that works perfectly for a retail company might not suit a consulting firm or manufacturer. Taking a thoughtful, personalized approach helps you get the most value from your card.

Analyze your spending patterns

Review several months of expenses to identify your top categories. If you spend heavily on travel, software, or advertising, choose cards that reward those areas.

Project your cash flow needs

Consider your monthly expenses and any major purchases or investments in the year ahead. A card with a higher credit limit lets you make larger purchases without straining working capital. You might also consider a 0% APR business credit card if you need short-term flexibility for upfront costs. If your LLC has seasonal fluctuations, a flexible credit line or charge card can help bridge cash-flow gaps.

Evaluate rewards and perks

Think about which rewards make the most sense for your business. Cashback is simple and reliable. Travel rewards or airline miles can be more valuable if your business requires frequent trips. Some cards also include discounts or credits for software, shipping, or advertising—expenses your LLC may already have.

Research fees and interest rates

Compare interest rates and fees based on your cash flow patterns. If your LLC carries a balance, prioritize lower APRs. If you pay in full every month, look for business credit cards with no annual fees or no foreign transaction fees so rewards aren’t offset by costs.

Assess integrations and expense tracking features

Look for financial tools that make operations smoother. Many business credit cards integrate with accounting software and include features like receipt scanning, spend limits, or built-in expense tracking. These save time and improve visibility into company spending.

To make your final choice, narrow your options to two or three cards that match your spending profile. Compare rewards potential based on real expenses, and consider any additional features that could support your operations as your business grows.

Top business credit cards for LLCs

For LLCs in 2025, popular business credit card options include the Ramp Business Credit Card for expense management and high limits, Chase Ink Business Unlimited for straightforward cashback, and American Express Business Gold for flexible rewards categories, with the best choice depending on your LLC's spending patterns, cash flow needs, and credit profile.

We've selected these top business credit cards based on fees, rewards, business features, and their suitability for different types of LLCs. Each card offers unique value depending on your spending patterns and business needs:

This table highlights annual fees, rewards, eligibility, and special features for the best business credit cards for LLCs. Cards with EIN-only applications or no personal guarantee requirements are specially marked. Now, here's a deeper dive into each card:

Ramp Business Credit Card

Email

Get started for free

Annual Fee

$0

APR

N/A

Foreign Transaction Fees

$0

Rewards

Cashback

Approval Time

Typically fewer than 48 hours

Spend Limit

Up to $100,000 or more

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Credit limits up to 30x higher than traditional LLC credit cards
• No annual fee or foreign transaction fees
• Built-in expense tracking and management tools
• Designed to optimize financial processes like expense categorization
• Apply with your EIN only—no personal credit check or personal guarantee
• Cashback rewards on purchases
• Up to $350,000 in exclusive partner rewards, credits, and discounts

Cons:

• Requires a minimum cash balance to qualify
• Requires full balance payments each month
• Only available for businesses with most of their spending and operations in the US

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The Ramp Business Credit Card is a smart pick for LLCs that want to stay on top of spending while earning cashback on everyday purchases. Built with modern businesses in mind, Ramp helps you track expenses, control budgets, and get real-time insights into spending without the hassle of spreadsheets.

Ramp can offer credit limits up to 20x higher than competitors—up to $100,000 or more for some businesses—because it takes a different approach to determining your limit. Ramp doesn’t require a personal credit check or personal guarantee. Instead, Ramp determines your eligibility based on factors like your business revenue and cash on hand.

Plus, Ramp’s built-in expense management tools make it easier to manage your cash flow, whether you’re a solo founder or running a team. On top of higher purchasing power, Ramp cardholders get a best-in-class financial operations platform that includes integrated expense management and tracking, bill pay, and accounting automation features.

Key features:

• Available to LLCs, S corps, C corps, and nonprofits
• Credit limits up to $100,000 or more
• No annual fee or foreign transaction fees
• Cashback on purchases
• Advanced expense management tools
• Integrations with popular accounting software and ERPs
• Unlimited physical and virtual employee cards

American Express Business Gold Card

Annual Fee

$375

APR

18.24%–28.99% variable with Pay Over Time

Foreign Transaction Fees

$0

Rewards

Points

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• High rewards rate in top spending categories
• Flexible points system with numerous redemption options
• No international transaction fees

Cons:

• High annual fee
• Rewards capped for 4x earnings
• Requires good to excellent credit

View full details

The American Express Business Gold Card offers a flexible rewards structure tailored to businesses with diverse spending needs. It earns Membership Rewards points at an accelerated rate, providing 4x points in the two categories where your business spends the most each billing cycle, from a list of eligible categories. With no foreign transaction fees, it’s particularly appealing for businesses with international operations.

However, the card comes with a $375 annual fee, which may be a consideration for smaller businesses. The 4x points on business purchases are also capped at $150,000 in combined spending per calendar year, after which the rate drops to 1x. Additionally, its variable APR can be high depending on your creditworthiness.

Key features:

• $375 annual fee
• 4x points on the two highest spending categories (up to $150,000 per year)
• 1x points on other purchases
• No foreign transaction fees

Chase Ink Business Unlimited Credit Card

Annual Fee

$0

APR

17.49%–23.49% variable

Foreign Transaction Fees

3%

Rewards

Cashback

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• No annual fee
• Introductory APR supports large upfront expenses
• Simple rewards program with 1.5% cashback on all purchases

Cons:

• Foreign transaction fees apply
• Rewards structure may not suit category-specific spending

View full details

The Chase Ink Business Unlimited Credit Card provides a straightforward cashback program, offering cashback on purchases with no annual fee. With a 0% introductory APR for 12 months from account opening, this card is a helpful option for businesses planning larger expenses or looking to manage their cash flow more effectively during the first year.

However, the card does have a 3% foreign transaction fee, which can make it less appealing for businesses with international spending needs. While the rewards structure is simple, it may not maximize returns for businesses that spend heavily in specific categories where other cards could offer higher rewards.

Key features:

• No annual fee
• 0% introductory APR on purchases for 12 months
• Intro bonus offer of $750 cashback if you meet minimum spending requirements
• 1.5% cashback on purchases
• Free employee cards with spending controls

U.S. Bank Business Triple Cash Rewards Visa Business Credit Card

Annual Fee

$0

APR

17.99%–26.99% variable

Foreign Transaction Fees

3%

Rewards

Cashback

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• High cashback potential on qualifying purchases
• No annual fee
• Statement credit for software subscriptions

Cons:

• Foreign transaction fees apply
• Bonus categories may not suit all businesses

View full details

The U.S. Bank Triple Cash Rewards Visa Business Credit Card is a solid option for LLCs that spend consistently in a few key categories, like gas, dining, or office supplies. You’ll earn 3% cashback in those areas and benefit from a 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for the first 12 billing cycles, which can be helpful if you're covering some upfront costs.

However, the card’s rewards are limited to specific spending categories, which may not fit every LLC’s day-to-day expenses. And with a 3% foreign transaction fee, it’s not ideal if you work with international vendors or travel often for business.

Key features:

• No annual fee
• 0% introductory APR on purchases and balance transfers for 12 billing cycles
• Elevated cashback rewards on eligible purchases in specific categories
• $100 annual credit for eligible software subscriptions

Capital One Spark Cash Select

Annual Fee

$0

APR

17.49%–23.49% variable

Foreign Transaction Fees

$0

Rewards

Cashback

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• No annual fee
• Introductory APR supports large purchases
• No foreign transaction fees

Cons:

• No category-specific rewards bonuses
• Limited overall rewards potential for specific spenders

View full details

The Capital One Spark Cash Select is a straightforward option for LLCs that want flat-rate cashback without an annual fee. It offers 1.5% cashback on all purchases with no foreign transaction fees, which is a plus for international purchases. It also offers $500 bonus cashback if you spend $4,500 on purchases in your first three months.

That said, the card doesn’t offer much beyond basic cashback. There are no category bonuses or advanced tools for managing business finances, which could limit its value as your LLC grows. If you’re looking for more than just rewards—like built-in expense controls, team spending limits, or insights to help cut costs—other cards are a stronger choice.

Key features:

• Small business credit card with no annual fee
• Welcome bonus of $500 cashback if you meet spend requirements
• Flat-rate 1.5% cashback on purchases
• No foreign transaction fees

Best business credit cards for LLCs by category

Choosing the right card depends on your LLC’s goals—whether you value cashback, flexibility, or building credit. Here’s an overview of top options by category.

No personal guarantee or EIN-only applicants: LLCs that want to separate business and personal finances should consider the Ramp Business Credit Card. It evaluates your business based on revenue and cash flow, not personal credit checks or guarantees—making it ideal for established companies that want EIN-only approval options.

Cashback: If your LLC values simple, consistent rewards, look at the Chase Ink Business Unlimited (1.5% cashback on all purchases, no annual fee) or the Capital One Spark Cash Select (same 1.5% rate, plus no foreign transaction fees). For targeted spending, the U.S. Bank Triple Cash Rewards offers 3% cashback in key business categories like gas, dining, and office supplies.

Building business credit: New LLCs working to build credit should prioritize cards that report to major business credit bureaus. The Ramp Business Credit Card helps establish credit without a personal guarantee, while the Chase Ink Business Unlimited is a solid choice with its 0% intro APR period and broad eligibility for newer businesses.

Rewards and flexibility: The American Express Business Gold Card is best for LLCs with diverse spending needs. It earns 4x points in your top two spending categories each billing cycle (up to $150,000 annually), offering flexibility that adapts as your business grows.

Expense management: LLCs that want more visibility and control should consider the Ramp Business Credit Card. Beyond credit access, it includes built-in expense tracking, unlimited virtual cards, and accounting integrations—helping you manage spending efficiently as your business grows.

How to apply for a business credit card as an LLC

Getting a business credit card for your LLC typically takes about one to two weeks from application to approval. The process involves comparing options, gathering documentation, and submitting basic business and personal information.

Most issuers require a personal guarantee from at least one member or manager, meaning they’ll check personal credit even if your LLC is established. Some corporate or modern business cards, like Ramp, evaluate your company’s revenue and cash flow instead of personal credit scores.

Steps to apply

1. Gather your business documentation.
   Have your LLC’s legal name, employer identification number (EIN), business address, formation date, annual revenue, and estimated monthly spending ready.
2. Prepare personal information.
   The guarantor—usually an owner or manager—will need to provide their Social Security number, personal income, and contact details.
3. Research and select a card.
   Choose the card that best matches your spending patterns and goals. Narrow it down to two or three options and check for prequalification offers when available
4. Complete the application.
   Most applications can be done online and take only a few minutes. You’ll typically receive a decision within days.
5. Submit additional documents if requested.
   Some lenders may ask for articles of organization, an operating agreement, or business bank statements—especially for newer LLCs.

Some business credit cards allow you to apply with an EIN only, but these come with stricter requirements, such as:

• Established credit history and a strong business credit score
• Significant annual revenue (often $1 million+) or substantial venture funding
• Business bank account with significant balances ($25,000–$100,000+)
• Longer operational history (typically 2+ years)

If your LLC doesn’t meet these strict requirements, the Ramp Business Credit Card offers some unique ways to qualify. Ramp offers sales-based underwriting that lets you qualify by showing proof of ecommerce sales through platforms like Stripe and Shopify.

Troubleshooting common issues when applying for a card

Understand why you were denied

Getting denied for a business credit card can stall your LLC’s plans—but most rejections come down to a few fixable gaps in information or credit profile. Start by requesting the adverse action notice from the issuer. This document outlines the exact reason for your denial—often tied to insufficient business revenue, limited credit history, weak personal credit, or missing application details.

Double-check your documentation

Incomplete or outdated paperwork is a frequent reason for delays. Make sure your business name, address, and financial details match across all documents. Lenders may request additional proof, such as tax forms or bank statements, especially for newer LLCs.

Explore options without a personal guarantee

If you prefer not to back the card personally, look for issuers that review your LLC’s performance instead of your credit score. Ramp, for example, uses business revenue and cash flow to determine eligibility rather than personal credit checks.

Strengthen your next application

Build business credit before reapplying by opening vendor accounts, registering with credit bureaus, and maintaining strong business banking relationships. Matching your card choice to your current profile—such as applying for a no-annual-fee or secured card first—can also improve approval odds.

Easiest business credit cards for new LLCs to qualify for

New LLCs with limited credit history often find the Ramp Business Credit Card among the easiest to qualify for since it uses sales-based underwriting and doesn't require personal credit checks or guarantees—evaluating your business based on revenue and cash flow instead. Other accessible options include no-annual-fee cards like the Chase Ink Business Unlimited or Capital One Spark Cash Select, which have more lenient approval requirements for traditional applications.

How does a new LLC get credit?

New LLCs can often qualify for business credit cards within days of formation by using one of two approaches: leveraging the owner’s personal credit for faster approval, or building business credit independently to keep finances separate. Both are viable depending on your LLC’s goals and credit profile.

1. Establish business banking relationships

Opening dedicated business bank accounts is the foundational step for any new LLC seeking credit. Maintaining positive balances demonstrates financial stability to future lenders and creates the banking history that credit card issuers review during applications. Strong business banking relationships can sometimes substitute for personal credit requirements.

2. Choose your credit building approach

New LLCs have two main paths: using personal credit as backing with a personal guarantee (the fastest option), or building business credit independently without personal involvement. Cards like the Ramp Business Credit Card evaluate your business based on revenue and cash flow rather than personal credit, while traditional cards typically require personal guarantees.

3. Register with business credit bureaus

Registering your LLC with business credit bureaus like Dun & Bradstreet establishes your business credit file and enables future credit reporting. This step is especially crucial if you want to build credit without using personal credit, as it creates the infrastructure for tracking your business-only credit activity.

4. Build vendor trade relationships

Establishing relationships with vendors who offer net-30 payment terms creates trade lines that report to business credit bureaus independently of your personal credit. These arrangements demonstrate your business's ability to manage debt and make timely payments without involving personal guarantees.

5. Consider alternative credit options

If traditional business credit cards aren't accessible, explore secured business credit cards for guaranteed approval or corporate charge cards that focus on business cash flow rather than credit scores. These options can help build business credit while keeping personal and business finances separate.

What kind of business credit card can your LLC get based on your credit?

Not all LLCs are the same—and not all credit situations are either. Whether your company has strong business credit, a limited file, or is still relying on your personal credit, here’s what that means for your business credit card options.

If your LLC has good credit

LLCs with a strong credit profile—whether business credit, personal credit, or both—can typically qualify for unsecured business credit cards with higher limits, better rewards, and more features. These cards may offer cashback, points, or travel perks, and often include built-in tools for managing employee spending or integrating with accounting platforms.

Some issuers may still check your personal credit, especially if your LLC is under two years old. But if the numbers are solid, your options will be broad—including premium business cards, charge cards, and cards with large signup bonuses.

Best fits: Unsecured business credit cards, premium rewards cards, and charge cards with scalable limits.

If your LLC has fair credit

With fair credit—typically a score in the mid-600s—your LLC may still qualify for unsecured business cards, but the options will be more limited. Expect lower limits and fewer rewards, and prepare for a personal credit check if your business profile isn’t strong.

This is also where cards from your existing bank or cards designed for newer businesses can help. Some issuers consider your business bank account activity, not just your credit score.

Best fits: Entry-level business cards, no-annual-fee cards, and cards from banks where you have an existing relationship.

If your LLC has bad or no credit

If your LLC has no established credit—or if your personal score is under 600—you’re unlikely to qualify for traditional business credit cards. But that doesn’t mean you’re stuck. Many companies start by using secured business credit cards, which require a deposit but still help you build credit over time.

You can also look into corporate cards or charge cards that don’t require a personal guarantee. These often evaluate your cash flow or balance sheet instead of your credit score—but they may require significant revenue or reserves.

Best fits: Secured business credit cards, corporate or charge cards with no personal guarantee, and business credit builder programs.

LLC vs. startup vs. small business: What’s the difference?

These terms get used interchangeably, but they don’t mean the same thing—and understanding the difference can help when you’re choosing the right card (or applying for one).

So, your LLC could be a startup or a small business—or something in between. What matters for credit card applications is how long you’ve been operating, how much revenue you generate, what your credit profile looks like, and whether you’re personally guaranteeing the card.

How to choose the best business credit card for your LLC

1. Understand how your LLC spends

Before comparing cards, start with your company’s financial reality. Your spending patterns are the biggest factor in determining which card delivers the most value.

• Review the last 3–6 months of business expenses
• Identify top categories (like advertising, travel, software)
• Estimate average monthly spend and any projected increases
• Note whether expenses are concentrated or spread across categories

This will help you determine whether to look for category-specific rewards or a flat-rate cashback card.

2. Evaluate how you manage cash flow

The right credit card should support—not strain—your company’s liquidity. Think about how your LLC uses credit today:

• Do you pay your balance in full or carry it month to month?
• Is financing flexibility more important than rewards?
• Do you need expense tracking and employee card controls?

If you carry a balance, a card with a low APR or built-in financing options may be worth a lower reward rate. If you pay in full, a charge card or rewards-focused option may make more sense.

3. Know your qualification profile

Even the best credit card won’t help if your business can’t qualify. Take stock of where your LLC stands:

• Personal and business credit scores
• Time in business and annual revenue
• Existing banking relationships

Your answers will narrow the field. For example, new LLCs or those with limited credit history should start with no-annual-fee business cards, secured credit cards, or options from your current bank. If your LLC has strong revenue or an established credit profile, you may qualify for premium business cards with higher limits and more rewards.

4. Match card features to your operational needs

Once you’ve narrowed down the options, compare features based on what matters most to your business:

• Rewards structure: Flat-rate vs. category-based
• Fees: Annual fees, foreign transaction fees, late payment penalties
• Spend controls: Customizable employee limits, card issuance
• Reporting tools: Integration with accounting software or spend platforms

High-growth LLCs often benefit from cards that offer scalable limits, expense visibility, and flexible card controls. If your business operates internationally, look for cards with no foreign transaction fees and global acceptance.

What the best card actually looks like

The best business credit card for your LLC isn’t a universal pick—it’s the one that aligns with four key factors:

• Your real-world spending habits
• Your approach to cash flow and credit
• Your current qualification profile
• Your operational priorities and tooling

Get those right, and the rest—rewards, limits, even perks—will fall into place.

Why more LLCs are choosing Ramp’s business credit card

Ramp’s high spending limits, cashback rewards, unique qualification options, and all-in-one spend management platform make it the ideal choice for an LLC business credit card.

With Ramp, you can:

• Access a higher credit limit: Ramp’s sales-based underwriting leads to higher credit limits (up to $100,000 or more) and makes approval easier for new LLCs
• Simplify your business spending: Manage all your vendors, simplify invoice processing, and automate bill pay via card, check, ACH, or international wire
• Automate tedious accounting tasks: Close your books up to 8x faster with Ramp’s accounting automation features and direct integrations
• Earn unlimited cashback: You’ll earn cashback on all purchases when you or an employee swipes a Ramp card

Learn more about how LLCs save an average of 5% a year across all spending with Ramp’s all-in-one financial operations platform.

Get started with a Ramp Business Credit Card.