Choosing the right credit card for business spending can be a game-changer. From earning cashback rewards to improving cash flow with flexible spending options, the right card can be a valuable financial tool for entrepreneurs and businesses of all sizes.
But with so many options out there, it’s easy to feel lost. What’s the best card for your business? Are startups even qualified for a credit card? This guide has you covered.
We’ll compare the top 7 business credit cards in the UK, highlighting their key benefits and pros and cons to help you cut through the confusion and find the perfect fit for your needs.
Tip: If you are looking for a personal credit card instead, Check out the 5 best personal credit cards in the UK.
Top 7 Business Credit Cards in the UK
Business Credit Card | Key Features | APR |
Capital on Tap Business Credit Card |
| As low as 14.95% (Variable) |
Barclaycard Select Cashback Credit Card |
| 26.8% (Representative, variable) |
Metro Bank Business Credit Card |
| 18.9% |
American Express Business Gold Card |
| The full outstanding balance must be repaid |
Santander Business Cashback Credit Card |
| 23.7% (Representative, variable) |
Funding Circle Cashback Card |
| 34.9% (Representative, variable) |
RBS Business Plus Credit Card |
| 29% (Representative, variable) |
Disclaimer: All information is accurate as of February 2025 but may have changed since. For the latest details and promotions, please visit the provider’s website directly.
1
Capital on Tap Business Credit Card
Top pick for small businesses and SMEs looking for a no-fee credit card with uncapped cashback.
Specialising in credit cards and spend management tools for small businesses across the UK, Capital on Tap offers two types of business credit cards: a Free Plan and a Pro Plan with an annual fee of GBP 299.*
The no-annual-fee plan, which we will focus on, offers uncapped 1% cashback and exclusive partner brand offers, making it a great option for SMEs with business spending needs but looking to avoid high credit card fees.
Key Information
- Annual Fee: Free or GBP 299
- Annual Percentage Rate (APR): As low as 14.95% (Variable)
- Penalty Fee: Not specified
- Minimum Repayment: Variable
- How to Apply: Online
Capital on Tap Business Credit Card Benefits
- Uncapped 1% cashback on all card spending.
- Exclusive offers at partner brands, such as Amazon, Sage, Slack, and Uber.
- Top up your balance with your own funds.
- Auto-sync with accounting software.
- Earn 1 point for every GBP 1 spent on your card and redeem for cash or gift cards.
- Convert rewards points to Avios.
- Unlimited, free employee cards.
- No foreign exchange fees.
- 24/7 customer support.
Tip: The Pro Plan comes with added perks, including bonus points when you spend GBP 5,000 in the first 3 months and unlimited airport lounge access.
Eligibility Criteria for the Capital on Tap Business Credit Card
You must meet the following criteria to be eligible for the Capital on Tap Business Credit Card:
- Your business is registered as a private limited company (Ltd) or limited liability partnership (LLP) and is active on Companies House.
- Your business must have a monthly turnover of at least GBP 2,000.
- You can provide the business’s legal name, registered office address, and company registration number.
- There have been no unsatisfied County Court Judgments (CCJs) against you or your business in the last 12 months.
Public limited companies (PLCs), sole traders, charities, trusts, funds, and dormant, dissolved, or inactive companies are currently not eligible.
Pros and Cons of the Capital on Tap Business Credit Card
Pros of the Capital on Tap Business Credit Card
- No annual, ATM, or foreign transaction fees.
- 24/7 customer support for assistance anytime.
- Convenient online application with virtual card access while waiting for the physical card.
Cons of the Capital on Tap Business Credit Card
- Requires a minimum turnover of GBP 2,000 per month, which may exclude very small or new businesses.
2
Barclaycard Select Cashback Credit Card
Top pick for small to medium-sized businesses that primarily make purchases in GBP.
The Barclaycard Select Cashback Credit Card, offered by Barclays, is a business credit card that allows business owners the flexibility to manage their accounts and set controls on business spending limits online.* It also includes purchase protection and cardholder misuse insurance, providing added security against fraud and unauthorised transactions.
Key Information
- Annual Fee: GBP 0
- Annual Percentage Rate (APR): 26.8% (Representative, variable)
- Penalty Fee: GBP 12 for late payments, exceeding your limit, or returned payments
- Minimum Repayment: GBP 5 or the full balance if less than GBP 5
- How to Apply: Online
Tip: Do you typically make online purchases? Explore 10 expert online banking tips to keep your transactions safe and secure.
Barclaycard Select Cashback Credit Card Benefits
- No annual fees for cards or accounts.
- Up to 56 days of interest-free credit on business purchases if you pay your balance in full each month.
- Free FreshBooks accounting plan to simplify business admin tasks.
- Compatible with Apple Pay.
- A range of rewards and discounts, such as cashback on AXA Health subscriptions. (T&Cs apply)*
Eligibility Criteria for the Barclaycard Select Cashback Credit Card
The eligibility requirements for the Barclaycard Select Cashback Credit Card are the following:
- You must be a business owner or director and over 18 years old.
- Your business must be UK-based and not bankrupt or in bankruptcy proceedings.
- Your business turnover or new business plan must be between GBP 10,000 and GBP 6,500,000 per year.
- Your existing financial commitments must not be overdue and should have been managed well over the last 12 months.
- You must not have been declined for a Barclaycard commercial card in the last six months.
Pros and Cons of the Barclaycard Select Cashback Credit Card
Pros of the Barclaycard Select Cashback Credit Card
- No annual fee keeps costs low, making it a budget-friendly option.
- Interest-free credit for up to 56 days helps with cash flow when balances are paid in full.
- Includes purchase protection and misuse insurance for added security against fraud.
Cons of the Barclaycard Select Cashback Credit Card
- High representative APR (26.8%), making it expensive if carrying a balance.
- Foreign transaction fees apply, including a 2.99% fee on non-sterling purchases and a 3% (min GBP 3) + 2.99% fee on cash withdrawals abroad.
3
Metro Bank Business Credit Card
Top pick for business owners who frequently travel or make purchases in Europe.
The Metro Bank Business Credit Card offers a single APR of 18.9% and allows fee-free transactions in most European countries, including those in the Single European Payments Area (SEPA).* This Mastercard® credit card also supports contactless payments for up to GBP 100.
Key Information
- Annual Fee: GBP 0
- Annual Percentage Rate (APR): 18.9%
- Penalty Fee: Not specified
- Minimum Repayment: GBP 20 or the balance if less than GBP 20
- How to Apply: At a branch
Metro Bank Business Credit Card Benefits
- One low rate of 18.9% APR.
- No annual fee.
- Interest-free period of up to 56 days.
- Link up to 9 nominated cardholders to the account.
- No charge from Metro Bank on foreign transactions in Europe.
- Maximum cash advance withdrawal of GBP 300 from ATMs.
Eligibility Criteria for the Metro Bank Business Credit Card
You must hold a Metro Bank Business Current Account and be over 18 to apply for the Metro Bank Business Credit Card. You must also be able to make payments via Direct Debit.
Pros and Cons of the Metro Bank Business Credit Card
Pros of the Metro Bank Business Credit Card
- No annual card fee.
- A single 18.9% APR.
- No foreign transaction fees in most of Europe.
Cons of the Metro Bank Business Credit Card
- Requires a Metro Bank Business Current Account to apply.
- In-branch application only, which may be inconvenient for busy business owners.
4
American Express Business Gold Card
Top pick for larger businesses with multiple employees and high monthly spending.
The AMEX Business Gold Card, offered by leading card issuer American Express, is a charge card that provides flexibility in managing business expenses while earning Membership Rewards. It includes up to 54 days interest-free payment period, purchase and refund protection, and a GBP 100 annual Dell Technologies statement credit.*
Key Information
- Annual Fee: GBP 195 (Free for the first year)
- Annual Percentage Rate (APR): Not specified
- Penalty Fee: GBP 12 for late and returned payment
- Minimum Repayment: Must repay the full amount
- How to Apply: Online
American Express Business Gold Card Credit Card Benefits
- No annual fee for the first year.
- Earn 10,000 extra Membership Rewards points when you spend GBP 20,000 or more per quarter, up to 40,000 points in a year.
- Earn 1 Membership Rewards point for every GBP 1 spent.
- Earn 2X points per GBP 1 spent on American Express Travel.
- Up to 20 complimentary cards.
- Redeem points for travel rewards, gift cards, bill payments, or other business rewards.
Eligibility Criteria for the American Express Business Gold Card
You must meet the following requirements to apply for the Gold Business Card:
- You must be 18 or over.
- Your business must have a UK business bank account or a building society account.
- You have a permanent UK home address.
- You can pay the annual fee of GBP 195 after the first year of Cardmembership.
Tip: Discover the top 7 banks in the UK right now.
Pros and Cons of the American Express Business Gold Card
Pros of the American Express Business Gold Card
- No annual fee for the first year, reducing upfront costs.
- Generous rewards structure, with extra Membership Rewards points for high spenders.
- Up to 20 complimentary employee cards, making it ideal for businesses with multiple team members.
Cons of the American Express Business Gold Card
- The full balance must be repaid each month, as it is a business charge card, not a credit card.
5
Santander Business Cashback Credit Card
Top pick for sole traders and small businesses that make frequent purchases in GBP and occasionally travel for business, incurring expenses abroad.
The Santander Business Cashback Credit Card is a company credit card that offers benefits like cashback on business expenses and no foreign transaction fees on purchases made in the local currency abroad.* It has a purchase and balance transfer rate of 18.9% p.a. (variable), with minimum
Offered by Santander, customers may also be able to access additional banking services, including business loans.
Key Information
- Annual Fee: GBP 30
- Annual Percentage Rate (APR): 23.7% (Representative, variable)
- Penalty Fee: GBP 12 for late payment and over-limit fees.
- Minimum Repayment: GBP 5, or the total of any interest, annual fee, and default fee, plus 1% of the remaining balance on your statement, plus any arrears due immediately—whichever is higher.
- How to Apply: Online
Santander Business Cashback Credit Card Benefits
- 1% cashback on all business spending with no cap.
- No foreign transaction fees on purchases abroad when paying in the local currency.
- Additional cards at no extra cost.
- Set spending limits for each additional cardholder.
- No interest is charged if the balance is paid in full and on time each month.
Eligibility Criteria for the Santander Business Cashback Credit Card
The eligibility criteria for the Santander Business Cashback Credit Card are as follows:
- You must be a sole trader, partnership, limited liability partnership (LLP), or private limited company (Ltd) with no more than two partners, members, or directors.
- Your business must be based and registered in the UK.
- You and all partners, members, directors, and shareholders must be UK residents and over 18 years old.
- You must have an existing 1|2|3 Business Current Account or Business Current Account with Santander and must not already hold a Santander Business Cashback Credit Card.
- All credit is subject to status and credit checks.
Pros and Cons of the Santander Business Cashback Credit Card
Pros of the Santander Business Cashback Credit Card
- Unlimited 1% cashback on all business spending, making it useful for day-to-day business purchases.
- No foreign transaction fees in local currencies, helping businesses that make occasional international purchases.
- Free additional cards allow multiple employees to use the same account without extra fees.
Cons of the Santander Business Cashback Credit Card
- GBP 30 annual fee with no promotional waiver, which may not be worthwhile for low spenders.
6
Funding Circle Cashback Card
Top pick for established limited companies that make frequent business purchases, such as ecommerce businesses.
The Funding Circle Cashback Card is a business credit card that does not require an existing current account with the provider and allows businesses to apply without impacting their business credit score.* It offers a credit limit of up to GBP 250,000, along with additional benefits for managing business finances.
Key Information
- Annual Fee: No monthly or annual fee
- Annual Percentage Rate (APR): 34.9% (Representative, variable)
- Penalty Fee: Not specified
- Minimum Repayment: At least 10% of the outstanding balance.
- How to Apply: Online
Funding Circle Cashback Card Benefits
- Earn up to GBP 2,000 with 2% cashback on all spending for the first 6 months, then 1% uncapped cashback thereafter.
- Up to 42 days interest-free on repayment.
- Can be used anywhere Visa is accepted, both online and in-store.
- Convenient expense management and transaction tracking via the mobile app.
Eligibility Criteria for the Funding Circle Cashback Card
To be eligible for the Funding Circle Cashback Card, your business must:
- Be a limited company based in the UK.
- Have at least 1 year of trading history.
- Have an annual turnover of at least GBP 40,000.
You can apply for a business loan with Funding Circle if you are not a limited company. However, existing customers are not eligible to apply for the Cashback Card.
Pros and Cons of the Funding Circle Cashback Card
Pros of the Funding Circle Cashback Card
- Earn cashback on all spending, from office supplies to large inventory purchases and travel expenses.
- The Visa network ensures wide card acceptance.
- Easy to apply.
Cons of the Funding Circle Cashback Card
- Shorter interest-free period (42 days) compared to competitors (typically 56 days).
- Limited to new Funding Circle customers.
7
RBS Business Plus Credit Card
Top pick for established businesses that already bank with RBS and have regular expenses in fuel, travel, and business supplies.
Offered by the Royal Bank of Scotland, the RBS Business Plus Credit Card provides flexibility for business purchases while earning rewards.* It has a minimum credit limit of GBP 500, with the maximum determined by status, and is compatible with Apple Pay and Google Pay.
Key Information
- Annual Fee: GBP 70 per cardholder
- Annual Percentage Rate (APR): 29% (Representative, variable)
- Penalty Fee: No admin fee for late or returned payments.
- Minimum Repayment: The minimum of the greater of either GBP 5 or that month’s interest, any default charges, 1/12th of any annual fee, and 3% of the remaining balance (excluding any annual fee).
- How to Apply: Online
RBS Business Plus Credit Card Benefits
- 0.5% cashback on all business spending.
- 1% cashback on eligible travel and accommodation, including airlines, vehicle rentals, rail travel, and hotels such as Holiday Inn, Travelodge, and Best Western.
- 2% cashback on eligible trade and business supplies, including purchases at building supply stores, electrical parts suppliers, and office supply retailers.
- 3% cashback at eligible fuel and EV charging stations, including Esso, BP, and Tesla charging points.
- Earn automatic cashback with Mastercard® Business Savings.
- Up to 56 days interest-free on purchases, helping manage cash flow.
Eligibility Criteria for the RBS Business Plus Credit Card
You must be a UK resident aged 18 or over, have a business registered and active on Companies House, and hold a business bank account with the Royal Bank of Scotland to apply for the RBS Business Plus Credit Card.
Pros and Cons of the RBS Business Plus Credit Card
Pros of the RBS Business Plus Credit Card
- Tiered cashback rewards help maximise savings on key business expenses.
- No admin fee for late or returned payments. While timely payments are ideal, this reduces penalty costs compared to cards with strict late fees.
Cons of the RBS Business Plus Credit Card
- Low 0.5% base cashback on general spending.
- Cashback is limited to GBP 600 per year.
How to Choose the Best Credit Card for Your Business
When selecting the right credit card for your business, it’s helpful to start by listing your specific needs and then narrowing down your options. Compare the features carefully, and pay close attention to the costs. This way, you won’t end up paying for a card with benefits you can’t fully use.
Here are key factors to consider when deciding which credit card is best for your business:
- Spending Habits: Identify where your business spends the most. If you often purchase supplies or travel, look for a card that offers cashback or rewards in those areas, like air miles. Consider whether you need a Visa, Mastercard®, or American Express card, as acceptance varies by credit card issuer.
- Fees and Interest Rates: Watch out for annual fees, interest charges, and APRs. A card with great rewards might cost more than it’s worth if the fees outweigh the benefits.
- Card Security and Regulation: Ensure your credit card provider is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) for consumer protection. Many business cards also offer fraud monitoring, purchase protection, and chargeback rights for added security.
- Eligibility Criteria: Check if your business qualifies for the card. Startups might need extra documentation, while established businesses often have more options.
- Perks and Benefits: Look for valuable extras like purchase protection, airport lounge access, travel insurance, or expense-tracking tools.
- Credit Limit and Flexibility: Choose a card with a limit and repayment terms that match your growth needs without stretching your cash flow too thin.
By focusing on these factors, you’ll find a credit card that aligns with your business priorities while keeping costs under control.
Tips for Using Business Credit Cards
Using a business credit card wisely can help you manage expenses, build your credit history, and improve your credit rating. Here are some key tips:
- Pay on time and in full whenever possible to avoid interest charges and maintain a strong credit rating by making timely payments.
- Monitor your spending regularly and keep track of transactions to prevent overspending and detect any unauthorised charges.
- Use the card to build your business credit history. Responsible use can help establish your company’s credit profile, making it easier to access loans from lenders and better financing terms in the future.
- Know your card’s fees and terms, such as interest rates, late payment penalties, and foreign transaction fees, to avoid unnecessary costs.
Tip: Not sure if a credit card is the right choice for your business? Explore alternative payment methods for secure online transactions.
Final Note
Now that we’ve explored the top business credit cards in the UK, you should have an idea of which card suits your needs. However, these aren’t the only options. Take the time to explore others before making a final decision, and always compare the latest offers and terms to find the best fit for your needs. Remember, use your card wisely, repay on time, and manage spending carefully to maximise benefits and maintain a strong credit profile.
FAQs
Can I use my personal credit card for business use?
Using a personal credit card for business expenses is not recommended, as it can make tracking finances more difficult and may impact your personal credit score. A business credit card helps separate expenses, provides tailored rewards, and offers better spending controls.
Can I get a business credit card as a startup or small business?
Which bank has the best business credit card?
What’s the difference between business charge cards and credit cards?
