BMO Credit Cards: Which One Is Right for You?

BMO credit cards offer a wide range of choices to meet different financial needs. A wide range of credit cards from BMO can help you save and earn more with many flexible features. Due to so many options, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming at first.

On the other hand, by understanding your spending habits and priorities, you can quickly narrow down the best match. In this guide, we’ll explore the top BMO credit cards and highlight their key benefits. Let’s simplify your decision and help you apply with confidence.

Get To Know BMO Financial Corp.

BMO Financial Corp. is also known as the Bank of Montreal. It is one of North America’s most established financial institutions. Founded in 1817, it holds the distinction of being Canada’s first bank. Today, it ranks among the largest and most trusted banks on the continent.

With over $1.4 trillion in total assets, BMO serves more than 13 million customers across Canada, the United States, and select international markets. The company provides a full range of services, including: personal & business banking, commercial lending, wealth management, capital markets and global asset management. This broad scope allows BMO to support individuals, families, and businesses at every financial stage, not only in their day-to-day needs but also in long-term goals like investing.

More importantly, BMO operates with a clear and consistent purpose: to Boldly Grow the Good in business and in life. This mission reflects a deep commitment to positive change, both economically and socially. In practice, BMO invests in sustainable finance, equity initiatives, and local communities. As a result, it doesn’t just deliver financial services but it builds long-term value.

In addition, BMO operates depending on strong values such as integrity, empathy, and responsibility. These principles influence everything from product design to customer service.

Furthermore, BMO’s long-standing presence in both Canada and the U.S. gives it a unique advantage. It combines global strength with local insight, offering financial tools that truly meet the needs of modern customers. Thanks to this foundation, BMO credit cards are not only plastic one but also a part of a larger ecosystem to help you succeed.

General Introduction to BMO Credit Cards

Before exploring specific card types, it’s helpful to understand what a BMO credit card is and how it works, especially within the BMO ecosystem.

Definition of BMO Credit Cards

A BMO credit card is a small, flat card made of plastic or metal, issued by BMO Financial Corp. It allows you to borrow money to pay for goods or services at businesses that accept card payments. However, you’re required to repay the borrowed amount along with any interest and fees either in full by the due date or gradually over time. Therefore, to avoid high interest charges, you should use them responsibly and pay them on time.

General Features of BMO Credit Cards for Personal Customers

Additionally, BMO credit cards offer a competitive mix of rewards, flexibility, and security. In addition to essential features, BMO cards often include welcome bonuses, insurance coverage, and access to exclusive experiences. With options for students, frequent travelers, families, and small business owners, BMO’s credit card lineup meets the demands of modern spending while staying backed by a trusted, long-established bank.

All BMO credit cards come packed with valuable features that go beyond rewards. For added convenience, cardholders can enjoy seamless mobile payments through Apple Pay®, Google Pay™, and Samsung Pay™. Therefore, every transaction becomes fast and secure. Moreover, you’ll also gain access to exclusive travel and lifestyle experiences through the Priceless Cities® program, designed specifically for Mastercard holders. Additionally, to help you stay in control of your finances, BMO provides card monitoring tools that track spending in real-time.

On the security side, BMO cards include Mastercard ID Theft Protection™, offering both identity monitoring and resolution services in case of fraud. With Mastercard Zero Liability, you won’t be held responsible for unauthorized transactions, and Mastercard Identity Check™ adds another layer of protection for online purchases.

Additionally, BMO credit cards come with built-in insurance and warranty benefits. These include cell phone protection up to $400 when you pay your wireless bill with the card. Moreover, you can enjoy benefits from Master RoadAssist® roadside services for emergency support on the road, and an extended warranty that adds up to 12 extra months on eligible purchases.

General Features of BMO Credit Cards for Business Customers

BMO credit cards for business customers offer a wide range of valuable features designed to support everyday operations, protect purchases, and enhance business travel.

Business owners can enjoy shopping benefits such as exclusive discounts on Intuit QuickBooks® and TurboTax®, ideal for streamlining accounting and tax preparation. Cards also include Mastercard ID Theft Protection™, extended warranty coverage that adds up to 12 months to the original manufacturer’s warranty. They also offer purchase assurance to protect eligible items against damage or theft.

Digital payment options like Apple Pay®, Google Pay™, and Samsung Pay™ are supported to enhance convenience. Furthermore, zero liability protection ensures you’re not held responsible for unauthorized transactions.

For those who travel, MasterRental® coverage offers protection for rental vehicle damage, while Mastercard Global Service™ provides 24/7 emergency card replacement and cash advance support worldwide. Together, these features make BMO business credit cards a smart and secure financial tool for companies of all sizes.

Explore Personal BMO Credit Cards

BMO offers a diverse lineup of credit cards. Each card delivers unique benefits to suit your different spending habits, financial goals, and lifestyle. Here’s a breakdown of some main BMO credit card categories:

BMO Cash Back Credit Cards

BMO cash back credit cards offer effortless ways to earn money back on everyday purchases. However, they require no points or no buckets but offer just straight-up cash rewards. Whether you’re filling up the fridge or paying recurring bills, these BMO credit cards reward you for living your life, without annual fees or complicated redemption processes. Here’s why they stand out:

Generous Cash Back Rates: 

• 5% cash back on eligible streaming, cable TV, and satellite services:

Stay entertained and get rewarded every time you binge your favorite shows.

• 3% cash back on gas, EV charging, and grocery purchases:

Whether you’re at the pump, charging your electric car, or stocking the fridge, you can earn more while doing life.
(Note: This 3% rate applies to the first $1,500 in purchases per calendar quarter; after that, it drops to 1%.)

• 1% cash back on all other eligible purchases:

From shopping to dining or even covering unexpected costs tied to checking account fees, you’ll earn on everything else without limits.

• $400 in cellular wireless telephone protection:

When you pay your monthly bill with your BMO Cash Back card, you can earn built-in cellphone protection. This covers damage, theft, or loss at no extra cost.

Rates at a glance:

BMO cash back cards make it easy to earn on daily spending.

BMO Platinum Credit Cards

The BMO Platinum Credit Card is an excellent low-cost option for anyone seeking to manage debt or make large purchases without paying interest upfront. It offers generous introductory APR periods, no annual fee, and access to essential digital tools for better financial control.

Rates at a Glance:

Additionally, this type of BMO credit cards supports your spending with smart digital features like card monitoring, mobile payment compatibility, and online banking tools. With no annual fee and a focus on financial flexibility, the BMO Platinum Credit Card is a solid everyday option for smart money management.

BMO Platinum Rewards Credit Cards

The BMO Platinum Rewards Credit Card offers a simple yet rewarding way to earn Flex Rewards points, with no annual fee and generous earning rates on purchases you make daily.

Generous Earning Rates:

• 2X Points on Essentials:

Earn 2 points per $1 on eligible gas, EV charging, and grocery purchases, up to $1,500 per quarter. After reaching the cap, you’ll continue earning 1 point per $1 in these categories.

• 1X Points on All Other Purchases:

For every other eligible purchase, such as: dining, subscriptions, or online shopping, you’ll earn 1 point per $1 with no limits or rotating categories. This flexible structure allows consistent earning, whether you’re managing everyday expenses or reducing reliance on payday loans.

• 15% Anniversary Bonus:

Spend $15,000 or more in a year, and you’ll receive a 15% bonus on the total points earned annually. This benefit starts April 1, 2025 and rewards consistent card usage with extra value.

Rates at a glance: 

The BMO Platinum Rewards Credit Card provides an easy way to earn valuable Flex Rewards points.

BMO Premium Rewards Credit Cards

The BMO Premium Rewards Credit Card combines generous rewards on daily essentials with elevated travel and lifestyle benefits. Consequently, it’s ideal for those who want a rich rewards experience. With a strategic welcome offer, tiered earn rates, and premium protections, this BMO credit card stands out as a top-tier card. Here’s what makes it exceptional:

Earning Rates:

• 4X Points on Essentials:

Earn 4 points per $1 spent on gas, EV charging, groceries, and dining, up to $2,000 in combined purchases each quarter.

• 2X Points on Travel:

Gain 2 points per $1 on eligible hotels and airfare, up to $2,000 per calendar quarter.

• 1X Points on Everything Else:

Earn 1 point per $1 on all other eligible purchases, with no expiration on points as long as your account remains open.

• Welcome Bonus:

Get a generous sign-up offer, typically 60,000 points after spending $5,000 within the first 3 months.

• 10% Anniversary Bonus:

Receive a 10% bonus on all points earned annually, rewarding consistent spending year after year.

Travel & Lifestyle Perks:

BMO Premium Rewards cardholders also benefit from premium Mastercard privileges like Priority Pass™ lounge access, travel insurance, rental car coverage, and exclusive offers on dining, streaming, and ride-sharing services. Even better, the card charges no foreign transaction fees, making it an excellent companion for international travel and online purchases in foreign currencies to explore business opportunities and property tied to home loans.

Rates at a glance: 

Note: All rates are variable and based on your creditworthiness.

BMO Boost Secured Credit Cards

The BMO Boost Secured Credit Card is designed specifically for individuals looking to establish or rebuild their credit, even for future personal loans. Unlike traditional BMO credit cards, it requires a security deposit that becomes your spending limit. You deposit at least $300 into a secured savings account, and use the linked credit card responsibly to build positive payment history.

You can receive real-time alerts on your transactions. Digital management tools, like: online banking and the BMO app. Therefore, it’s easy to track and control your account. Furthermore, it also includes valuable coverage benefits:

• Up to $400 in cell phone protection
• Extended warranty for purchases
• MasterRental® rental car coverage, and MasterTrip® travel assistance when you’re 50 miles or more from home

Rates at a glance:

On the other hand, the BMO Boost Secured Credit Card comes packed with valuable features that go beyond the basics. Unlike other unsecured BMO credit cards, its benefits are tailored to support financial growth while offering strong protection. Cardholders enjoy Tap & Go® contactless payments, access to BMO Card Monitor, and full online account management through a single app. For added peace of mind, Mastercard Zero Liability protects against unauthorized purchases.

In terms of insurance and warranties, the card provides up to $400 in cell phone protection, an extended warranty of up to 12 additional months on most new purchases, MasterRental® coverage for rental car damage, and MasterTrip® travel assistance when traveling 50 miles or more from home. These features make the BMO Boost Secured Credit Card a rare secured option that combines credit-building power with real-world perks.

Explore Business BMO Credit Cards

For business owners and entrepreneurs, there are two powerful business BMO credit card options tailored to cash flow, rewards, and financial control. Both of them are backed by BMO’s trusted support and digital banking capabilities.

BMO Business Platinum Rewards Credit Card

The BMO Business Platinum Rewards card gives small-business owners an excellent way to earn high-value Flex Rewards points on business spending without an annual fee. This BMO credit card helps optimize your financial tools while leaving more capital available for essentials or even future auto loans for company vehicles.

Generous earning rates:

• 5X Points on Phone & Internet:

Earn 5 points per $1 spent on eligible phone and internet services, up to $750 per quarter per category.

• 4X Points on Office Supplies & Printing:

Gain 4 points per $1 on purchases from office supply stores and printing services, also capped at $750 quarterly.

• 3X Points on Gas:

Collect 3 points per $1 on gas purchases—perfect for businesses with frequent travel or delivery needs.

• 2X Points on Dining:

Earn 2 points per $1 when you dine out or entertain clients at restaurants.

• 1X Point on All Other Purchases:

Receive 1 point per $1 on all other eligible business spending. Points never expire as long as your account stays open.

• Welcome Bonus:

50,000 Bonus Points after you spend $5,000 in the first 3 months. Another 50,000 Bonus Points when you spend a total of $50,000 within the first 12 months

Rates at a glance:

Note: APR applies to purchases made from the date of account opening.
Due to your creditworthiness; rate is variable and subject to change.

Furthermore, you can get more from your BMO Business Platinum Credit Card with perks like up to 25% savings at 40,000+ merchants, discounts on QuickBooks® and TurboTax®, free employee cards. Moreover, you can get $600 in cell phone protection when you pay your wireless bill with the card.

BMO Business Platinum Credit Card

The BMO Business Platinum Credit Card is ideal for businesses seeking straightforward, cost-effective financing. This BMO credit card supports smooth cash flow and efficient spending so it’s perfect for everyday operations and managing large expenses.

Rates at a Glance:

Note: Introductory APR applies from account opening.
APR depends on creditworthiness and may change with the Prime Rate.

You can get even more value with your business BMO credit card through a range of practical perks. Save up to 25% at over 40,000 merchants, including gas stations, restaurants, office supply stores, and hotels via the Mastercard Easy Savings® program.

Additionally, you can enjoy discounts on Intuit QuickBooks® and TurboTax® to simplify bookkeeping and tax preparation. Moreover, you can also request up to 20 additional employee cards to streamline business spending and earn more rewards. Plus, get up to $600 in cell phone protection when you pay your wireless bill with the card.

How to Choose the Right BMO Credit Card

With a wide range of options for both individuals and businesses, choosing the right BMO credit card comes down to knowing your spending habits, financial goals, and preferred benefits. Whether you’re managing household expenses or business operations, these five steps can help guide your decision:

Understand Your Spending Patterns

Start by identifying where most of your money goes. For personal cardholders, this might be groceries, gas, or streaming services. For business owners, think office supplies, client meals, or fuel.

Choose Between Rewards or Cash Back

Do you prefer the flexibility of points you can redeem for travel, merchandise, or gift cards or the simplicity of cash back applied to your balance?

• Choose cash back if you value transparency and immediate returns.

• Choose rewards if you’re looking to accumulate points for big redemptions or business perks.

Weigh Fees Against Benefits

Some BMO credit cards include premium features like airport lounge access, insurance coverage, or purchase protections, which may justify an annual fee. On the other hand, others come with no annual fee and still provide valuable everyday perks. Whether you’re a student looking to start your credit journey, a new homeowner monitoring your mortgage rates, or a small business budgeting carefully, compare the card’s cost with the benefits you’re likely to use.

Consider Your Credit-Building Goals

If you’re new to credit or recovering from past challenges, the secured BMO credit cards can help you build a positive credit history. It’s available to both individuals and business owners and comes with useful features like cell phone protection and extended warranties.

Evaluate Introductory Offers and APR

Some cards come with 0% introductory APRs on purchases or balance transfers so they’re helpful for financing large expenses, managing cash flow, or consolidating debt. Whether you’re making a big personal purchase or equipping your office, take advantage of intro offers but also pay attention to the ongoing APR after the promotion ends.

Make Your Card Work for You

The best BMO credit card should match your unique needs whether that’s earning rewards on business travel, saving on groceries, or building credit for the future. By focusing on what you value most, you can choose a card that supports your goals and adds real value to your everyday spending.

How to Open and Manage BMO Credit Cards

Opening and managing a BMO credit card is a simple and secure process for either an individual or a business owner. BMO offers flexible application options, convenient digital tools, and user-friendly account management to help you stay in control from day one.

Instructions for Personal Customers

For individuals, applying for a BMO credit card is simple and flexible whether you’re already a customer or just getting started.

If you’re already a BMO customer, you can apply online, visit any local branch, or call 1-888-340-2265 to begin your application.

If you’re new to BMO, no worries. Just stop by your nearest branch, and a representative will guide you through the process.

What You’ll Need to Apply:

• Personal details: your full name, address, state of residence, and Social Security Number (SSN)

• Income information: total income and the sources it comes from

• Banking details: name of your current bank and the type of account you hold

Once approved, you can manage your BMO credit card easily online. Use BMO’s digital banking tools to make payments, check your balance, monitor transactions, set up alerts. Moreover, all can be done from your phone or desktop. With secure access and 24/7 availability, staying in control of your credit has never been easier.

Instructions for Business Customers

Applying for a BMO credit card is quick, secure for your business from the start. To get started, you must operate a U.S.-based business entity. For-profit businesses, including: corporations, partnerships, and sole proprietorships require one primary applicant to complete the application. For non-profit entities, the primary applicant acts as an authorized representative but isn’t personally liable for the account.

You can apply online in minutes, and in many cases, receive an instant decision. During the application process, BMO may ask you to verify your ID with a selfie. Therefore, it’s more convenient step because you don’t need to visit a branch.

Once approved, you’ll be able to manage your business credit card entirely online, such as: making payments, viewing transactions, setting alerts, and controlling employee card access through one user-friendly platform.

There is a wide range of BMO credit cards matching both personal and business needs. With flexible features, strong security, and valuable perks, BMO Financial Corp. designed different cards to support your financial goals. Therefore, you need to understand your spending habits and priorities to confidently choose the card that fits you best. A suitable card can work better than ever.