Running a business today requires more than hard work. It requires tools that make payments simple, rewards that add value, and benefits that can help a company grow. Among the options available to business owners, the American Express business card stands out as a powerful solution.
In this detailed review, we explore the features of Amex business credit cards, look at popular card options, and help you decide which one fits your goals.
American Express Business Card Overview
American Express business cards are known for their strong rewards, useful features, and reliable service. Here’s a quick overview:
Why a Business Credit Card Matters
A business credit card is more than a way to pay bills. It separates personal and business expenses, builds a credit profile for the company, and can deliver rewards on every dollar spent.
Having a dedicated card for your business also makes accounting easier. It simplifies tracking purchases and can integrate with bookkeeping software. Many cards also come with bonus categories and perks that go beyond what a personal credit card offers.
American Express has built a strong reputation in this space. Known for customer service and premium benefits, the company has created a full lineup of cards aimed at small and medium-sized businesses.
The American Express Business Card Lineup
American Express offers a variety of cards designed to match different business needs. Some focus on rewards, others on cash back, while a few are geared toward travel.
From no-annual-fee cards to premium options with a long list of perks, AmEx covers a wide range of business spending styles.
These cards are part of a larger package of tools. AmEx business customers have access to expense tracking, employee cards with custom limits, and a range of resources through AmEx Business Tools.
Top Models in American Express Business Card Lineup
Below are the top American Express business card options, each designed for different business needs:
Business Platinum Card from American Express
This card is the premium option in the American Express business portfolio. It is designed for companies that travel often and want extra perks along the way.
Annual Fee: $695
Sign-Up Bonus: Earn 150,000 Membership Rewards® points after spending $20,000 in your first 3 months.
Rewards:
- 5× points on flights and prepaid hotels booked through AmexTravel.com
- 1.5× points on eligible purchases of $5,000 or more (like software, building materials, or large orders)
- 1× point on all other eligible purchases
Top Benefits:
- Access to 1,400+ airport lounges worldwide, including Centurion Lounge, Delta Sky Club, and Priority Pass.
- Annual credits for travel and tools: up to $200 in airline fees, $150 Dell credit, Adobe services, wireless phone bills, and CLEAR or Global Entry fees.
- Hilton Gold and Marriott Bonvoy Gold elite status, with extra travel perks like free nights and room upgrades.
- A 35% rebate on points used for eligible flights when booking through AmexTravel (up to 1 million points back per year).
This American Express business card is best suited for businesses that frequently book flights or hotels and want to maximize their travel benefits.
American Express Business Gold Card
If your business regularly spends in categories like advertising, shipping, or dining, the AmEx Business Gold Card can help you earn big rewards while keeping things flexible.
Annual Fee: $375
Sign-Up Bonus: Earn 100,000 Membership Rewards® points after spending $15,000 in your first 3 months.
Rewards:
- 4x points in your top two spending categories each billing cycle (categories include advertising, gas, restaurants, shipping, etc.), up to $150,000/year.
- 3x points on flights booked through AmexTravel.
- 1x point on all other purchases.
Top Benefits:
- Up to $240 in flexible statement credits (covering expenses like FedEx, Grubhub, and office supply stores).
- Walmart+ membership credit of up to $12.95/month.
- No preset spending limit and Pay Over Time for more control.
The Blue Business Cash Card from American Express
For business owners who want simple cash back with no American Express business card annual fee, the Blue Business Cash Card offers straightforward rewards and useful features to help manage everyday spending.
- Annual Fee: $0
- Sign-Up Bonus: Spend $3,000 within the first three months to receive a $250 statement credit.
- Rewards:
- 2% cash back on eligible purchases up to $50,000 each year.
- 1% cash back after you reach the $50,000 limit.
- No category tracking, rewards are simple and automatic.
- Top Benefits:
- 0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months.
- Expanded Buying Power, so you can go beyond your limit when needed (based on factors like payment history).
- Free employee cards, real-time alerts, and clear expense tracking through the AmEx dashboard.
Amex Blue Business Plus Credit Card
Looking for a no-annual-fee card that earns flexible points on all your purchases? The Blue Business Plus Card is a solid pick, especially if you value travel rewards and simplicity.
- Annual Fee: $0
- Sign-Up Bonus: Earn 15,000 Membership Rewards points after spending $3,000 in the first 3 months.
- Rewards:
- 2x points on all eligible purchases, up to $50,000/year.
- 1x point on everything after that.
- Points can be redeemed for loyalty programs at hotels and airlines.
- Top Benefits:
- 0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months.
- Includes Expanded Buying Power and tools to manage employee spending.
- Good for travel lovers who want flexible rewards and no annual fee.
Co-Branded Business Cards (Hilton, Marriott, Amazon)
If you’re loyal to specific brands like Hilton, Marriott, or Amazon, AmEx offers co-branded business cards that deliver tailored perks, including hotel status upgrades and bonus rewards where you spend most.
Hilton Honors Business Card
If you frequently travel for work and stay at Hilton hotels, the Hilton Honors American Express Business Card offers generous rewards and elite hotel perks that make every trip more rewarding.
- Annual Fee: $195
- Earn 12x Hilton points on Hilton stays, and 5× points on most other purchases (first $100K/year).
- Comes with Hilton Gold status, free breakfast, room upgrades, and up to $240 in Hilton credits annually.
Marriott Bonvoy American Express Business Card
For small business owners loyal to Marriott, this card delivers great value through free night awards, status benefits, and strong point-earning potential on travel and everyday business expenses.
- Annual Fee: $125
- Earn 6× points on Marriott stays and 3x points in common business categories.
- Includes 3 free night awards, Gold Elite status, and elite night credits toward higher tiers.
Amazon Business Prime Card
Finally, designed for companies that rely heavily on Amazon and AWS, the Amazon Business Prime Card makes it easy to earn big rewards on purchases and manage spending with powerful tracking tools.
- Annual Fee: $0
- Receive up to $120,000 annually in 5% back on Amazon Business and AWS purchases (if you have a Prime one).
- Earn 2% back at restaurants, gas stations, and on wireless phone bills.
- Access to enhanced order data and spend tracking.
Other American Express Business Cards
Besides the top models, American Express also offers several other business credit cards designed for specific needs, like frequent flyers, flexible payment planners, or Amazon business shoppers. Here’s a closer look:
Delta SkyMiles Reserve Business Card
If your business travel regularly includes flying with Delta, the Delta SkyMiles Reserve Business Card is a premium option that delivers top-tier travel perks and lounge access.
- Annual Fee: $550
- Top Features:
- Earn 3x SkyMiles on Delta purchases, 1.5x on purchases over $5,000, and 1x on other spending.
- Free admission to the Centurion Lounge and Delta Sky Club when traveling with Delta.
- Priority boarding in Main Cabin 1 and free first checked baggage.
- Status Boost: Spend $30,000 (up to four times per year) and earn 15,000 Medallion Qualification Miles (MQMs).
- Companion certificate each year on renewal (for domestic flights).
The Plum Card from American Express
Next, for businesses that value flexible payment options over rewards, the Plum Card offers unmatched control, allowing you to either pay early for a discount or take extra time without interest.
- Annual Fee: $250
- Top Features:
- Take up to 60 days to pay with no interest (if you pay the minimum due).
- Or, pay early and get a 1.5% early pay discount.
- No preset spending limit, spending adapts to your business.
- Great for businesses with unpredictable cash flow or vendor payments.
Business Green Rewards Card
Looking for a simple entry into travel rewards without a high fee? The Business Green Rewards Card offers basic points-earning with access to flexible AmEx travel benefits.
- Annual Fee: $95
- Top Features:
- Earn 2x points on AmexTravel bookings and 1x on everything else.
- Additionally, no international transaction fees and the ability to pay over time.
- Membership Rewards points can be transferred to travel partners.
- A basic, easy-to-use card for earning travel rewards without a high annual fee.
Amazon Business Card (Non-Prime Version)
For businesses that shop often at Amazon, AWS, or Whole Foods, the Amazon American Express business card makes purchasing easier with solid cash back and enhanced tracking, no Prime membership required.
- Annual Fee: $0
- Top Features:
- 3% back on Amazon Business, AWS, and Whole Foods purchases (or choose 60-day terms instead of rewards).
- 2% back at restaurants, gas stations, and wireless phone services.
- Access to expense tracking, enhanced order details, and vendor management tools.
- Strong option for businesses that manage supplies or tech through Amazon.
Delta SkyMiles Platinum Business Card
Ideal for frequent Delta flyers who want valuable perks like companion tickets and status boosts, the Delta SkyMiles Platinum Business Card strikes a balance between cost and travel rewards.
- Annual Fee: $250
- Top Features:
- 3x SkyMiles on Delta purchases, hotels, and 1.5x on large purchases ($5K+).
- Annual companion certificate for a domestic main cabin ticket.
- First checked bag free and priority boarding.
- Status Boost to help earn Medallion Status faster.
- Ideal for regular Delta travelers who want added perks without the premium Reserve fee.
Delta SkyMiles Gold Business Card
And if you’re new to airline cards or travel occasionally with Delta, the Delta SkyMiles Gold Business Card is a budget-friendly way to unlock essential perks like free checked bags and bonus miles.
- Annual Fee: $0 intro for the first year, then $150
- Top Features:
- 2x SkyMiles on Delta, restaurants, and U.S. advertising/gas purchases.
- 1x on all other eligible purchases.
- First checked bag free and Main Cabin 1 priority boarding.
- Great entry-level airline card for small businesses with moderate travel needs.
American Express Business Card Benefits
American Express (AmEx) business cards are popular because they offer strong rewards, helpful tools, and spending flexibility. Here’s why so many business owners choose them:
- Big Welcome Bonuses: Many AmEx business cards come with generous sign-up offers. You could earn between 100,000 to 150,000 Membership Rewards points if you spend a certain amount in your first few months. These points can be used for travel, gift cards, or even paying down your statement. For businesses with regular expenses, this bonus can be a big boost.
- Flexible Spending Limits: Some American Express business cards don’t have a traditional preset spending limit. Instead, your purchasing power adjusts based on your payment history, spending patterns, and financial profile. This makes it easier for growing businesses to manage larger purchases without worrying about being capped by a strict credit line.
- Useful Business Tools: AmEx business cards include a wide range of tools to make business management easier. These features help simplify your day-to-day operations and improve how you manage expenses. You can:
- Connect your card with QuickBooks or Bill.com for easy accounting.
- Track employee spending by issuing free additional cards.
- Set spending limits on employee cards.
- Monitor activity in real time through the AmEx mobile app.
- “Pay Over Time” Flexibility: This lets you carry certain balances and pay them off gradually, with interest. It’s a useful option during tight months or when you need to make large purchases upfront.
- Minimal Impact on Personal Credit: Applying for an American Express business card won’t hurt your personal credit score if you’re just checking your pre-approval status. And once you have the card, it won’t appear on your personal credit report, unless you miss payments or default. That means you can keep your business spending separate from your personal credit profile.
Annual Fee for American Express Business Cards
American Express business credit cards come with a wide range of annual fees, depending on the type of card and the benefits it offers:
| American Express Business Card | Annual Fee | Key Benefits Summary |
|---|---|---|
| Business Platinum Card | $695 | Airport lounge access, 5× on flights, 1.5× on large purchases, $1,000+ in travel credits |
| Business Gold Card | $375 | 4× points in top business categories, $240 in statement credits |
| Blue Business Cash Card | $0 | 2% cash back on up to $50K/year, 1% after; simple rewards, no fee |
| Blue Business Plus Credit Card | $0 | 2× points on up to $50K/year, then 1×; points transferable to travel partners |
| Hilton Honors Business Card | $195 | 12× Hilton points, free night credits, Gold status, $240 Hilton credit |
| Marriott Bonvoy Business Card | $125 | 6× Marriott points, 3 free nights/year, Gold Elite status |
| Amazon Business Prime Card | $0 | 5% back on Amazon/AWS with Prime; tools for vendor tracking |
| Amazon Business Card (non-Prime) | $0 | 3% back at Amazon, AWS, Whole Foods, or choose 60-day payment terms |
| Delta SkyMiles Reserve Business Card | $550 | Delta Sky Club access, 3× Delta, 1.5× on $5K+ spend, companion certificate |
| Delta SkyMiles Platinum Business Card | $250 | 3× on Delta/hotels, Medallion Status boost, free checked bag |
| Delta SkyMiles Gold Business Card | $0 intro (1yr), then $150 | 2× on Delta/restaurants/gas, free bag, priority boarding |
| Business Green Rewards Card | $95 | 2× on AmexTravel, Pay Over Time, travel point transfers |
| The Plum Card | $250 | Up to 60 days to pay with no interest or 1.5% early pay discount |
Some AmEx business cards like the Business Platinum ($695) and Business Gold ($375) come with steep annual fees. These cards work best for business owners who will use the included perks like airport lounges, airline credits, and hotel benefits. If you won’t take advantage of those features, a lower- or no-fee card might be a smarter choice.
American Express Business Card Requirements
American Express business cards are designed for a broad range of business owners. They are not just for large companies or corporations. Whether you run a corporation, a limited liability company (LLC), or a small partnership, you may be eligible to apply.
But before you apply for an American Express business credit card, you still need to know and meet some basic requirements:
- You must be at least 18 years old. In some states, the minimum age could be higher.
- You should have good to excellent personal credit. A FICO score of 670 or above gives you the best chance of approval.
- You must run or manage a business. You can be a sole proprietor, a small business owner, a partner, or a company officer. Even freelancers or people with side businesses may qualify for a American Express business card.
- You need a valid U.S. address. A physical street address is required, P.O. boxes may not be accepted.
- You must have a Social Security Number (SSN) or an Employer Identification Number (EIN) or an international tax ID, depending on how your business is set up.
- You’ll be asked to provide basic business information, like your industry, annual revenue, years in operation, and number of employees.
- You should not have any major credit issues, such as recent bankruptcies, loan defaults, or large unpaid debts.
- Card limits apply. American Express typically allows you to carry up to 4 AmEx credit cards and 10 charge cards at a time.
- Approval isn’t guaranteed. American Express will also look at your relationship with them, your history of other credit card applications, and recent balance transfers.
Meeting these criteria doesn’t automatically mean you’ll be approved, but it gives you a solid starting point.
How to Get an American Express Business Card
Applying for an American Express business card is quick and straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Pick the right card. First, look through the different American Express business cards and choose one that fits your needs.
- Check if you pre-qualify. Use tools like CardMatch to see if you’re pre-approved. This step doesn’t affect your credit score, and it gives you a better idea of your chances.
- Prepare your information. You’ll need to enter:
- Your full legal name and contact details.
- Your business name, address, and phone number.
- Details about your business: industry, structure (LLC, sole proprietor, etc.), annual income, number of employees, and years in operation.
- Your SSN or EIN, depending on your business type.
- Fill out the online application. Go to the American Express website and complete the form. Most applications take less than 10 minutes.
- Get a decision. Many applicants receive an instant response. If your American Express business card application is approved, your card will be mailed to you. If AmEx needs more information, they’ll contact you.
After submitting, many applicants receive an approval or denial decision within minutes. However, in some cases, the application might need manual review, which can take a few days.
How to Activate Your American Express Business Card
Once you receive your new card, you’ll need to activate it before you can use it. You have several options:
- Online: Visit americanexpress.com/confirmcard. Log into your AmEx account, enter your card details, and follow the steps.
- Mobile App: Download the American Express mobile app, sign in, and tap on the card shown on the dashboard. The app will guide you through the American Express business card activation.
- Text Message: Text “MEMBER” to 86509 from your registered mobile number and follow the prompts.
- By Phone: Call the number shown on the sticker attached to your new card (usually 1‑800‑528‑4800) and follow the automated steps or speak with a representative.
After activation, your American Express business card is ready to use right away.
American Express Business Card Customer Service
American Express is known for excellent customer support, especially for business cardholders. If you need help, here’s how to reach them:
Ways to contact the American Express business card customer service:
- Phone: Call 1‑800‑528‑2122 (available 24/7) for business card help, activation, Amex account questions, billing, or disputes.
- Mobile App or Website: Log in to your AmEx account to use the Help Center, message a support agent, or start a live chat.
- Program Administrator Support: If your company uses AmEx corporate cards, contact your assigned program admin or log in to the American Express Work portal to manage employee cards or company expenses.
With these support channels, AmEx can assist you with:
- Activating or replacing a lost/stolen card
- Managing payments and resolving billing errors
- Checking or redeeming points and credits
- Disputing fraudulent charges or transaction errors
- Setting account alerts or updating business details
- Helping with login or password issues
Whether you’re running a one-person shop or managing multiple employees, AmEx support is available 24/7 to keep your business moving smoothly.
Pros and Cons of American Express Business Cards
Like any financial product, American Express business cards come with strengths that appeal to many business owners and a few limitations that are worth considering before you apply:
Pros
- Generous rewards on business purchases.
- Access to the Membership Rewards program, which offers flexible redemption options for travel, gift cards, and more.
- Furthermore, AmEx has a strong customer service reputation.
- Premium travel benefits for high-tier cards.
- Expense tracking and management tools built into the platform.
Cons
- However, annual fees can be high on premium cards
- Rewards are only most valuable for those who use travel partners or are comfortable transferring points.
American Express Business Card FAQs
Do American Express business cards affect your personal credit?
- AmEx business cards typically don’t impact your personal credit score unless you miss payments. However, AmEx may check your personal credit during the application.
Can I get an AmEx business card without an LLC?
- Yes, sole proprietors and freelancers can apply using their legal name and Social Security Number instead of a business name and EIN.
What is the easiest American Express business card to get approved for?
- The Blue Business Cash and Blue Business Plus cards are generally easier to qualify for due to no annual fee and lower credit requirements.
Can I use an AmEx business credit card for personal purchases?
- While technically possible, it’s not recommended. Mixing business and personal spending can cause issues with taxes and cardholder agreements.
How long does AmEx take to approve a business card?
- Most applicants receive a decision within minutes online. In some cases, additional verification may take a few business days.
AmEx business cards offer a wide range of benefits for different types of businesses, from startups to frequent travelers. Whether you prefer travel rewards, cash back, or flexible payment options, there’s a card that fits your needs. Just make sure you understand the fees, rewards structure, and spending requirements before applying. Used wisely, an American Express business card can help manage expenses and grow your business. Choose the right one and make every dollar work harder for you.
