Ideal for spreading the cost of larger business expenses, purchase cards often come with an introductory 0% interest period. This gives you the flexibility to make essential purchases upfront and repay them over time without incurring interest, provided you clear the balance before the interest-free window ends.
Our best business credit cards - compare top UK picks for 2025
Get the right credit card for your business
Boost cash flow, build credit history, and earn rewards. Find a business credit card that fits your needs and maximises your company spending.
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Last updated
December 2nd, 2025
Business credit cards at a glance
A business credit card lets you borrow up to a set credit limit and usually avoid interest if you pay your balance in full each month.
The card can be used to manage cash flow, separate business and personal expenses, and may offer rewards or cashback.
To be eligible, you’ll need to be a UK resident aged 18+ running a sole trader, partnership, or limited company. Applications will usually involve a credit check.
What is a business credit card?
A business credit card is a dedicated card designed to help companies manage everyday expenses, smooth out cash flow, and separate personal and professional spending.
Whether you’re a sole trader or running a growing company, a business card offers flexibility, often with higher credit limits, tailored rewards (like cashback or Avios points), and business-friendly features such as expense tracking, employee cards, and accounting integrations.
It can also help build your company’s credit profile, making future finance easier to access. Available to most UK businesses (subject to credit checks), a business credit card can be a useful safety net for unexpected costs.
Am I eligible for a business credit card?
Eligibility depends on the provider’s criteria and your company’s financial profile. While some cards are designed for startups or sole traders, others may require a minimum turnover or business history.
Most providers will expect you to:
Be 18 or over
Be a UK resident
Run a UK-registered business (sole trader, partner, or limited company director)
Pass a business credit check (sometimes a personal one too)
Additional requirements may include:
Minimum or maximum turnover
Years in business
Proof of steady cash flow
To improve approval chances, check the provider’s specific criteria and consider using an eligibility checker to avoid impacting your credit score.
Only around half of SME owners know their business credit score[1]
55%
6 key steps to apply for a business credit card
1. Assess your eligibility
The basic requirement is that you should be a sole trader, partner, or director of a registered company. Also, be aware that lenders may evaluate both your business and personal credit scores, especially for new or small enterprises.
2. Review your credit reports
Obtain and examine your business and personal credit reports to identify areas for improvement. A strong credit history can significantly boost your approval prospects.
3. Compare business credit card options
Research a number of business credit cards to find one that aligns with your company's spending habits and financial needs. Consider factors such as interest rates, fees, rewards programs, and credit limits.
4. Use eligibility checkers
Before submitting a formal application, use online eligibility checkers to assess your likelihood of approval without impacting your credit score. This can help you avoid unnecessary ‘hard’ checks.
5. Gather your documents
Prepare the required information for your application:
Personal details: Full name, home address, and date of birth.
Business details: Company name, address, start date, and a brief description of your business activities.
6. Submit your application
Submit your application online, over the phone, or in person. Be prepared for a credit check and to provide a personal guarantee, especially if your business is new. Once approved, some issuers may provide immediate access to virtual card details so you can start spending right away, while others will dispatch your physical card shortly thereafter.
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Our best business credit card
Our editors have picked out our best business credit card for small business owners seeking zero annual fees and ongoing rewards.
Editor’s pick
For the first six months you can earn up to £2,000 with 2% cashback, which could give your small business a welcome boost on your regular expenses. It also offers 1% uncapped cashback after this offer period, so the rewards can keep growing. ”
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Funding Circle Business Cashback Credit Card
Purchase
34.9% p.a. variable
Annual fee
£0
Representative APR (variable)
34.9% APR
Representative example: The standard interest rate on purchases is 34.9% pa. (variable), so if you borrow £1,200 the Representative APR will be 34.9% APR (variable)
money.co.uk is a credit broker, not a lender, for consumer credit. Our services are provided at no cost to you. We may receive a commission from the companies we refer you to, but this does not affect what you will pay for the product you choose.
Is it worth getting a credit card for my small business?
The primary benefit of a business credit card is that it completely separates your personal and business finances, making tax returns and accounting much simpler.
Beyond administration, a business credit card is also a tool to help your company grow:
Build a business credit history: Responsible use helps build your business credit score, making it easier to apply for larger loans or mortgages in the future.
Manage cash flow: Use the interest-free period on purchases to free up working capital or cover short-term costs while waiting for invoices to be paid.
Track and control spending: Get itemised statements for tax purposes and issue employee cards with set spending limits to manage expenses.
Earn rewards: Many cards offer cashback, air miles, or points on the business spending you are already doing.
Get protection: Benefit from fraud detection systems and secure payment features to help keep your business funds safe.
SMEs in the UK are twice as likely to use credit cards for financing than loans[2]
2x
Charge card vs. credit card: What’s the difference?
Both business charge cards and credit cards help manage company expenses, but they work in different ways. Knowing the difference can make it easier to pick the right option for your business.
Business charge cards
Pay off the full balance every month.
No interest charges or rolling debt.
Best for businesses with steady income that want tight control over spending.
Business credit cards
Carry a balance month to month with interest on unpaid amounts.
Offers flexibility for short-term cash flow or unexpected expenses.
Ideal for businesses that need to smooth seasonal fluctuations or spread payments over time.
Want to avoid interest and pay in full each month? Go for a charge card. Need more flexibility with payments? A credit card might be the better fit.
Our best charge card deal
Our editors have picked out the best charge card we have on offer.
Editor’s pick
Our chosen charge card
The Moss Corporate card is great for businesses looking for a simple, all-in-one platform with high credit limits. Plus, it offers cashback rewards if you reach a high transaction volume, making it a solid choice for companies looking to simplify expense management and earn a little extra as they spend.”
Moss Business Credit Card
Annual fee
£0
Credit limit
Up to £2.5 million
Accounting integrations
Sage, XERO, exact, DATEV, Quickbooks, Netsuite, Microsoft Dynamics Business Central and others.
Show Details
Eligibility
Min turnover
£2,000,000
Min trading history
No min trading history
UK resident
UK address required
money.co.uk is a credit broker, not a lender, for consumer credit. Our services are provided at no cost to you. We may receive a commission from the companies we refer you to, but this does not affect what you will pay for the product you choose.
How to manage spending and repayments
Choosing the right business credit card depends on how you plan to use it. Here are key factors to consider:
Spread payments
If you’re planning to carry a balance and repay over time, focus on cards with a low APR (annual percentage rate). A competitive APR can help keep interest costs down, making this a strong option for businesses managing larger, one-off purchases, or those with fluctuating incomes. Look for low or 0% introductory APR offers, check how long the low-rate period lasts, and review any fees associated with balance transfers.
Spend regularly
For businesses making frequent purchases — on travel, supplies, or software — consider a card with a generous interest-free period on purchases. This gives you more time to pay without incurring interest, helping with short-term cash flow. Prioritise interest-free days on purchases, consider cards offering points, cashback, or partner discounts, and think about employee cards and expense tracking tools.
Pay the monthly balance in full
If you clear your balance every month, interest becomes less of a concern. Instead, look for cards that offer strong rewards, low or no annual fees, and extra perks, like travel insurance or purchase protection. Choose a card that matches your spending habits (e.g. travel rewards vs cashback), check for introductory offers, bonus points, or fee waivers, and avoid overpaying for premium perks you won’t use.
Key things to consider when comparing business credit cards
With so many options, it’s important to compare key factors to find the right business credit card for your needs:
Annual fees: Some cards charge a yearly fee for perks, while others offer no fee to keep costs low.
Interest rate: If carrying a balance, look for cards with lower APRs to reduce borrowing costs.
Credit limits: Ensure the card’s limit aligns with your company’s spending needs.
Rewards: Choose cards offering points, cashback, or travel perks that suit your business.
Introductory offers: Take advantage of 0% APR periods, bonus points, or waived fees in the first year.
Expense management: Check if the card includes tracking tools or integration with accounting software.
Eligibility: Ensure you meet the provider’s requirements, such as being a registered business and passing a credit check.
What rewards can I earn with a business credit card?
Business credit cards often come with rewards designed to give you something back on your everyday spending. These can include cashback, air miles, travel points, or shopping vouchers. Some cards also offer higher rewards on specific business categories, such as fuel, office supplies, or online advertising, or bonus points when you hit a minimum spend.
To maximise your rewards, choose a card that matches your company’s spending habits. If your business travels frequently, a card offering air miles or hotel points could be particularly valuable. You may also be able to pool rewards earned across multiple employee cards to build them up faster.
Be sure to weigh the value of the rewards against any annual fees, and remember that interest charges can cancel out the benefits if you don’t repay your balance in full each month. Rewards may also have expiry dates or tax implications, so check the terms carefully.
Pros and cons
Pros
Higher credit limits tailored for business expenses
Rewards and perks like cashback, air miles, or travel benefits
Streamlined financial management for better cash flow control
Build your business credit score with responsible use
Cons
Annual or monthly fees may apply, depending on the card
Higher interest rates on outstanding balances
Debt can accumulate if the balance isn’t paid off in full each month
Risk of damaging your credit score if not managed properly
What other types of business credit cards are there?
![Purchase cards]()
Purchase cards
Ideal for spreading the cost of larger business expenses, purchase cards often come with an introductory 0% interest period. This gives you the flexibility to make essential purchases upfront and repay them over time without incurring interest, provided you clear the balance before the interest-free window ends.
![Balance transfer cards]()
Balance transfer cards
Balance transfer business credit cards let you move existing debt from other cards to one with a lower interest rate. Many offer extended 0% interest periods, allowing you to reduce your debt more efficiently by focusing repayments on the balance rather than interest. A useful tool for consolidating multiple credit lines or managing short-term cash flow challenges.
![Rewards cards]()
Rewards cards
If your business makes regular purchases, rewards business credit cards can help you earn something back. Depending on the provider, rewards may include cashback on everyday spending, loyalty points or vouchers for popular retailers, or ravel perks like air miles or hotel discounts.
What other types of business credit cards are there?
Purchase cards
Balance transfer cards
Balance transfer business credit cards let you move existing debt from other cards to one with a lower interest rate. Many offer extended 0% interest periods, allowing you to reduce your debt more efficiently by focusing repayments on the balance rather than interest. A useful tool for consolidating multiple credit lines or managing short-term cash flow challenges.
Rewards cards
If your business makes regular purchases, rewards business credit cards can help you earn something back. Depending on the provider, rewards may include cashback on everyday spending, loyalty points or vouchers for popular retailers, or ravel perks like air miles or hotel discounts.
Alternatives to business credit cards
Business charge card
Business charge cards offer a flexible way to manage day-to-day spending. However, unlike credit cards, the full balance must be paid off each month. They’re ideal for businesses that want to stay on top of expenses without building up debt.
Business bank account
A business current account is essential for keeping your business and personal finances separate. It allows you to receive payments, pay bills, manage cash flow, and often includes tools like overdraft facilities and accounting integrations.
Business loan
A business loan provides a lump sum of money that you repay over time with interest. It’s useful for funding growth, covering one-off expenses like equipment or property, or investing in new opportunities.
Invoice finance
Invoice finance gives you access to cash tied up in unpaid invoices – helping to maintain healthy cash flow. Instead of waiting for clients to pay, you can unlock funds quickly and use them to keep your business moving.
Alternatives to business credit cards
Business charge card
Business charge cards offer a flexible way to manage day-to-day spending. However, unlike credit cards, the full balance must be paid off each month. They’re ideal for businesses that want to stay on top of expenses without building up debt.
Business bank account
A business current account is essential for keeping your business and personal finances separate. It allows you to receive payments, pay bills, manage cash flow, and often includes tools like overdraft facilities and accounting integrations.
Business loan
A business loan provides a lump sum of money that you repay over time with interest. It’s useful for funding growth, covering one-off expenses like equipment or property, or investing in new opportunities.
Invoice finance
Invoice finance gives you access to cash tied up in unpaid invoices – helping to maintain healthy cash flow. Instead of waiting for clients to pay, you can unlock funds quickly and use them to keep your business moving.
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Business credit cards jargon buster
Annual fee
A fee charged yearly for having the card. Some cards offer more benefits but come with a higher annual fee.
APR (annual percentage rate)
The interest rate you’ll pay on any outstanding balance, expressed as an annual percentage. This rate can vary depending on the card and your creditworthiness.
Balance transfer
Moving existing debt from one or more credit cards to another, often to take advantage of lower interest rates.
Cash advance
A withdrawal of cash from your credit card, typically with higher fees and interest rates than standard purchases.
Credit limit
The maximum amount you can borrow on your business credit card. Exceeding this limit could result in fees or declined transactions.
Interest-free period
The period during which you can carry a balance without paying interest, often available on new purchases if paid in full by the due date.
Late payment fee
A fee charged if you fail to make your payment by the due date. Repeated late payments may negatively affect your credit score.
Minimum payment
The smallest amount you must pay by the due date to avoid penalties. Paying only the minimum may lead to interest charges and longer repayment times.
Purchase protection
A benefit that covers purchases made with your business credit card, often protecting against damage, theft, or fraud for a certain period after the purchase.
Rewards
Benefits or incentives offered by the card issuer, such as cashback, travel points, or vouchers, earned based on card spending.
Business credit cards jargon buster
Annual fee
A fee charged yearly for having the card. Some cards offer more benefits but come with a higher annual fee.
APR (annual percentage rate)
The interest rate you’ll pay on any outstanding balance, expressed as an annual percentage. This rate can vary depending on the card and your creditworthiness.
Balance transfer
Moving existing debt from one or more credit cards to another, often to take advantage of lower interest rates.
Cash advance
A withdrawal of cash from your credit card, typically with higher fees and interest rates than standard purchases.
Credit limit
The maximum amount you can borrow on your business credit card. Exceeding this limit could result in fees or declined transactions.
Interest-free period
The period during which you can carry a balance without paying interest, often available on new purchases if paid in full by the due date.
Late payment fee
A fee charged if you fail to make your payment by the due date. Repeated late payments may negatively affect your credit score.
Minimum payment
The smallest amount you must pay by the due date to avoid penalties. Paying only the minimum may lead to interest charges and longer repayment times.
Purchase protection
A benefit that covers purchases made with your business credit card, often protecting against damage, theft, or fraud for a certain period after the purchase.
Rewards
Benefits or incentives offered by the card issuer, such as cashback, travel points, or vouchers, earned based on card spending.
Get expert answers to common questions
How does a business credit card work?
A business credit card allows companies to make purchases on credit and pay the balance later. You'll receive monthly statements and can choose to pay the full amount, a set sum, or the minimum – though only paying the minimum will lead to higher interest charges.
Many business credit cards charge an annual fee, so factor this into your decision. Alternatively, business charge cards have no preset credit limit but require the full balance to be cleared each month, making them ideal for businesses with larger, predictable expenses.
When choosing a card, always check the terms and conditions. Compare interest rates, fees, rewards, and credit limits to find one that suits your business's needs and spending habits.
Is my credit record checked for a business credit card?
Yes, when you apply for a business credit card, credit card providers will typically assess both your business's credit record and your company’s overall financial health.
If your business has limited or no credit history, the card issuer may also check your personal credit score to evaluate your creditworthiness.
What credit card limit can I get?
Your credit limit will depend on factors such as your business’s turnover, credit history, and how long you’ve been trading. In the UK, some providers, including many high street banks, offer limits of around £25,000, while some digital-first providers go as high as £250,000.
Does using a business credit card affect my personal credit record?
Yes – using a business credit card can affect your personal credit, especially if you're the primary account holder or have personally guaranteed the account.
Many issuers check your personal credit when you apply, and your payment history can influence your score if you're liable for the debt.
To avoid negative impacts, use your business card responsibly: pay on time, keep your balance low, and avoid maxing out your limit.
If you’re worried about managing repayments, contact your card provider early – they may offer flexible options or help restructure your debt.
Can I check my eligibility before applying for a business credit card?
Yes, many business credit card providers allow you to check your eligibility online before submitting a full application.
This process usually involves a soft credit check, which won’t affect your credit score. A soft check gives you an idea of your chances of approval.
By checking your eligibility first, you can avoid unnecessary hard credit checks, which could impact your personal credit score and your business’s financial standing.
What is APR and how is it set?
APR (Annual Percentage Rate) shows the total cost of borrowing on a business credit card over a year. It includes both the interest charged on any balance you carry, as well as any additional fees (such as annual fees). Essentially, you can think of it as the "price" of using the card if you don’t pay off the balance in full each month.
Your APR will depend on factors, such as your personal and business credit history, your business's finances, and the card provider's policies. It's also worth nothing that it can change over time, so it's important to check your card agreement for any updates. The exact APR you're offered will vary depending on your circumstances and the card you apply for.
Can several employees have their own card?
Yes, many business credit card providers offer the option to get multiple employee cards under one account. This allows selected employees to have their own cards, while the business receives a single monthly statement for all charges.
In addition, providers often offer spending controls, enabling you to set individual spending limits and easily monitor expenses for each cardholder. This can help streamline expense management and improve oversight of your company's spending.
Do I need a business current account to apply for a business credit card?
No, you do not necessarily need a business current account to apply for a business credit card.
However, having a dedicated business bank account can significantly simplify your financial management, allowing you to separate your business finances from personal transactions, making it easier to track business expenses and manage your cash flow.
A business current account can help you stay organised, streamline bill payments, and ensure smoother financial operations for your company. Many business credit card providers may even prefer applicants with a business account, as it shows more structured financial management.
Can I get a business credit card for my new company?
Yes, startups and new businesses in the UK can apply for a business credit card. A business credit card can be an essential tool for optimising cash flow and covering initial business expenses in the early stages.
However, as a new company, you may be required to provide additional information to demonstrate your ability to meet repayment obligations.
To assess your eligibility, the provider may conduct a personal credit check (especially if you're a sole trader or have personal liability), request company financial statements, and ask for details about your business assets. This will help the provider determine your credit limit and the terms of your card.
Keep in mind that approval may be more challenging for new businesses without an established credit history, but offering a personal guarantee or showing strong personal credit can help increase your chances of approval.
Are there any interest-free business credit cards?
Business credit cards in the UK typically aren’t fully interest-free, but many offer an interest-free period on purchases — usually between 20 and 56 days — as long as you pay the balance in full each month.
If you carry a balance beyond the due date, interest will apply, so it's important to clear the full amount to avoid charges. Always check the card’s terms to understand the interest-free period and any fees.
Choosing a card with a generous interest-free window can help free up working capital, especially when spreading the cost of large purchases.
Is it worth having more than one business credit card?
The number of business credit cards you need depends on your business’s spending habits and financial goals.
Having more than one card can help organise expenses by category, such as travel, office supplies, or client entertainment, and could allow you to maximise rewards like cashback or travel points.
Multiple cards can also improve cash flow by spreading out payment due dates.
However, it’s vital to monitor credit limits carefully, as high credit utilisation can affect your business credit score. Managing several accounts requires discipline to avoid missed payments or overspending.
Ultimately, the best approach is to choose the number of cards that fits your business needs and financial management capabilities.
How do business credit cards impact business taxes?
Using a business credit card for legitimate business expenses — like office supplies, travel, or client entertainment — can help you claim tax deductions.
These purchases are typically considered tax-deductible business expenses when filing your self-assessment or corporate tax return.
To make the process easier, keep detailed records of all transactions. Credit card statements can be a useful tool for tracking and categorising expenses.
Be aware that interest on outstanding balances is generally not tax-deductible, so it’s important to pay off your credit card on time to avoid unnecessary costs.
For personalised advice and to maximise your deductions while staying compliant, consult a qualified accountant or tax adviser.
How long does it take to get approved for a business credit card?
Approval times vary by provider. Some offer instant decisions, and you may even receive a digital card the same day. If additional verification is needed, approval can take a few days, and the physical card typically arrives within 5–10 working days.
To speed up the process, have the following information ready:
Business name and trading details
Company registration number (if applicable)
Financial figures (e.g., annual turnover)
Personal details for directors or partners
About the author
Editorial policy: we create content directly for our customers, so you are always at the centre of every decision. Our aim is to be accurate, up to date and unbiased. We will never write content that’s been swayed by commercials.
Keep learning about business credit cards
Need more detail? We’ve got you covered. Explore our handy expert guides written for UK business owners. From checking your eligibility to maximising rewards, get the information you need to choose the right business credit card with confidence.
What are business credit card eligibility checkers?
When is the best time to apply for a business credit card?
How to get the most out of your business credit card rewards
Didn’t find what you were looking for?
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References
1. OnePoll survey of 1,000 UK SME owners for money.co.uk (14-20 March 2025) Research by money.co.uk of 1,000 SME owners found that just 55% know their business credit score
2. Intuit QuickBooks Small Business Index Annual Report 2025 Credit cards are the number one source of financing for small businesses in the UK