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Whether you’re seeking a business credit card for frequent flyers, a basic, no-fee option or something in between, there’s a lot to consider. To speed up the selection process — you do have a business to run, after all — we evaluated more than 40 business credit cards in Canada and chose ones that provide the most value across multiple categories.

Business Platinum Card® from American Express
Earn up to 120,000 bonus Membership Rewards* points.
That’s up to $1,200 in statement credits that can be reinvested in your business. For full details and current product information click the Apply now link. Conditions apply.
Best business credit cards in Canada
Best overall business credit card
American Express® Business Edge™ Card
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Annual Fee$99
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Interest Rates20.99% / 21.99%20.99% on purchases, 21.99% on cash advances.
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Rewards Rate1x-10x Points10x intro offer on eligible business essentials including office supplies & electronics, rides & gas, eats & drinks within the first six months (up to 10,000 points). Earn 3x the points for Card purchases on eligible business essentials including office supplies & electronics, rides & gas, eats & drinks when your Welcome Offer ends. Caps and other conditions may apply. Earn 1x the points on all other purchases charged to the Card.
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Intro OfferUp to 67,000 PointsEarn up to 67,000 welcome bonus Membership Rewards® points: Earn 45,000 Welcome Bonus points when you charge $5,000 in purchases to your Card in your first three months of Cardmembership. Plus, earn 10x the points for every $1 spent on eligible business essentials including office supplies & electronics, rides & gas, eats & drinks within 6 months of Cardmembership, up to a maximum of 10,000. You can earn an extra 1,000 Membership Rewards points for each monthly billing period in which you spend $3,000 in purchases on your Card. This could add up to 12,000 extra points in a year.
There’s a lot of value packed into the American Express Business Edge Card: a manageable annual fee, impressive earn rates on common business purchases, and a wide range of perks and special offers, such as business and expense management tools and payment flexibility.
Pros
- The generous welcome offer and 1,000-point monthly spend bonus should be attainable for many businesses.
- A healthy earn rate on several everyday business purchases, like office supplies, electronics and gas.
- Ability to add up to 99 supplementary cards — and up to $100,000 in coverage in case of employee misuse.
Cons
- Not all retailers accept American Express.
- Because of the relatively low spending limits associated with the 10x and 3x earn rates, the increased rewards may not be in effect for long for some businesses.
- Limited insurance coverage included.
- Earn up to 67,000 welcome bonus Membership Rewards® points.
- Earn 45,000 Welcome Bonus points when you charge $5,000 in purchases to your Card in your first three months of Cardmembership.
- Plus, earn 10x the points for every $1 spent on eligible business essentials including office supplies & electronics, rides & gas, eats & drinks within 6 months of Cardmembership, up to a maximum of 10,000.
- You can earn an extra 1,000 Membership Rewards points for each monthly billing period in which you spend $3,000 in purchases on your Card. This could add up to 12,000 extra points in a year.
- That’s $670 in statement credits that can be reinvested in your business.
- Earn points that you can redeem in a variety of ways.
- Earn 3x the points for Card purchases on eligible business essentials including office supplies & electronics, rides & gas, eats & drinks when your Welcome Offer ends. Caps and other conditions may apply.
- Earn 1x the points on all other purchases charged to the Card.
- Use points to offset business expenses. Membership Rewards® allows you to offset business expenses by covering the cost of purchases made on your Card, in full or in part. Redeem points for statement credits and to book flights, hotels, and car rentals.
- Transfer points to frequent flyer and hotel programs, including one-to-one to Aeroplan®* and Avios.
- Make the most out of a full suite of business management tools that give you more control over your business – anytime and anywhere.
- Leverage your cash flow with the option of carrying a balance or paying in full each month.
- Employee Card Misuse Protection is a benefit created specifically for business owners and it provides coverage of up to $100,000 per Basic Cardmember in the event an employee misuses their Supplementary Card for unauthorized charges.
- Access coverage that can protect your business purchases when you charge the full price of eligible items to your American Express Business Edge™ Card.
- Protect your eligible purchases against accidental physical damage and theft for up to 90 days with Purchase Protection® Plan.
- Double the manufacturer’s original warranty up to one additional year with Buyer’s Assurance® Protection Plan.
- American Express is not responsible for maintaining or monitoring the accuracy of information on this website. For full details and current product information click the Apply now link. Conditions apply.
Best for: Premium perks
American Express® Aeroplan®* Business Reserve Card
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Annual Fee$599
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Interest Rates19.99% / 21.99%19.99% on purchases, 21.99% on cash advances.
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Rewards Rate1.25x-3x PointsEarn 3x points for every $1 spent on eligible purchases made directly with Air Canada and Air Canada Vacations®*. Earn 2x points for every $1 spent on eligible hotels and car rentals. Earn 1.25x points for every $1 spent on everything else.
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Intro OfferUp to 95,000 PointsEarn up to 95,000 Welcome Bonus Aeroplan®* points: Earn 5,000 Aeroplan points for each Employee Aeroplan Business Reserve Card with an annual fee added to your account at time of application, up to a maximum of 2 approved Employee Cards. That could add up to 10,000 Aeroplan points. Earn 7,500 Aeroplan points for each monthly billing period in which you spend $3,000 in net purchases on your Card for the first six months of Cardmembership. That could add up to 45,000 Aeroplan points. Plus, earn an additional 40,000 Aeroplan®* points when you spend $9,000 in net purchases between month 13 and 16 of your Cardmembership.
The annual fee is no joke, but cardmembers have plenty of reasons to smile thanks to the American Express® Aeroplan®* Business Reserve Card’s strong earn rates, extensive travel benefits and overall convenience.
Pros
- Serious bonus point potential in the first six months.
- Relatively low interest rate.
- Strong earn rates on eligible Air Canada travel purchases, hotel bookings and car rentals, even after the 6-month even after the introductory period ends. Plus, premium travel perks and benefits, like airport lounge access and priority upgrades, to make sure your next trip goes smoothly.
Cons
- High annual fee.
- Earning the Annual Worldwide Companion Pass may not be possible for all businesses.
- The purchase interest rate rockets to 24.99% if you miss a payment.
- Earn up to 95,000 Welcome Bonus Aeroplan®* points:
- Earn 5,000 Aeroplan points for each Employee Aeroplan Business Reserve Card with an annual fee added to your account at time of application, up to a maximum of 2 approved Employee Cards. That could add up to 10,000 Aeroplan points.
- Earn 7,500 Aeroplan points for each monthly billing period in which you spend $3,000 in net purchases on your Card for the first six months of Cardmembership. That could add up to 45,000 Aeroplan points.
- Plus, earn an additional 40,000 Aeroplan®* points when you spend $9,000 in net purchases between month 13 and 16 of your Cardmembership.
- Earn Aeroplan points that you can redeem in a variety of ways.
- Earn 3 points for every $1 spent on eligible purchases made directly with Air Canada and Air Canada Vacations®*.
- Earn 2 points for every $1 spent on eligible hotels and car rentals.
- Earn 1.25 points for every $1 spent on everything else.
- Make the most out of a full suite of business management tools that give you more control over your business – anytime and anywhere.
- Leverage your cash flow with the option of carrying a balance or paying in full each month.
- Control employee expenses plus track and accumulate points on your account with Employee Cards, so you have an opportunity to maximize the points you earn.
- Unlock business travel possibilities to make every work trip one to look forward to.
- Access more than 1,200 Priority Pass™ airport lounges around the globe. That means an oasis of comfort before your flight—regardless of your choice of airline or cabin class.
- Enjoy access to select Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounges™ for you and a guest, and Air Canada Café™; in North America, with a same day ticket on a departing Air Canada or Star Alliance®* flight.
- Enjoy Priority Check-In, Priority Boarding, and Priority Baggage Handling when you fly with Air Canada, together with up to eight companions.
- Enjoy your first checked bag free (up to 23kg/50lb) when your travel originates on an Air Canada flight, together with up to eight companions travelling on the same reservation
- Receive one Annual Worldwide Companion Pass when you spend $25,000 in net purchases prior to your Card anniversary date; your Pass entitles you to buy an accompanying Air Canada economy class ticket for a companion at a fixed base fare from $99 to a maximum of $599 CAD (plus taxes, fees, charges, and surcharges).
- Stay focused on getting where you need to go. Receive up to $100 CAD in statement credits every four years when NEXUS application or renewal fees are charged to your Aeroplan Business Reserve Card.
- Pay with your American Express Aeroplan Business Reserve Card and present your Aeroplan Membership Card at over 170 Aeroplan partner brands and 120 online retailers via the Aeroplan eStore to earn points twice.
- If you’re departing from Toronto Pearson International Airport, enjoy the benefits of being an American Express Aeroplan Business Reserve Cardmember. Get more from your travel experience with access to Pearson Priority Security Lane, Complimentary Valet Service, 15% discount on parking rates, and 15% discount on Car Care Services.
- Roll over any unallocated Aeroplan Elite™ Status Qualifying Miles and unused eUpgrade Credits to the following year to enjoy during your travels.
- Enjoy priority access to the standby list and eUpgrades. Get prioritized on the standby waitlist for an Air Canada flight and higher priority when you request an eUpgrade.
- Earn 1,000 Status Qualifying Miles and 1 Status Qualifying Segment for every $5,000 in eligible net purchases charged to your Card.
- Book flight reward tickets for even fewer points with Air Canada. In addition to flights, you can also redeem for hotel stays, car rentals, vacation packages, merchandise and more.
- Unlock two-car-class rental upgrades, expedited service, dedicated phone line, and more with complimentary upgrade to Avis President’s Club
- American Express is not responsible for maintaining or monitoring the accuracy of information on this website. For full details and current product information click the Apply now link. Conditions apply.
Best for: AIR MILES points
BMO AIR MILES®† World Elite®* Business Mastercard®*
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Annual Fee$149Waived first year
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Interest Rates19.99% / 22.99%19.99% on purchases, 22.99% on cash advances.
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Rewards Rate0.08x-0.33x Miles1x AIR MILE for every $12 spent and get 4x AIR MILES when you use your card at participating AIR MILES Partners.
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Intro Offer3,000 MilesGet 3,000 AIR MILES Bonus Miles when you spend a minimum of $5,000 in the first three months.
On-the-move business owners are likely fans of the BMO AIR MILES®† World Elite®* Business Mastercard®* for its healthy earn rates, travel perks, small business support, and round-the-clock access to virtual health care through Maple.
Pros
- Earn up to 4x the AIR MILES at certain retailers and reach your redemption goals faster by getting up to 22 additional cards for employees to use.
- Wide range of travel perks and travel protection coverage.
- Access to on-demand virtual physical and mental health care with Canadian-licensed general practitioners with Maple.
Cons
- Airport lounge access is included with a complimentary membership in Mastercard Travel Pass provided by DragonPass — but it isn’t free. You’ll need to spend US$32 per person, per visit.
- While the interest rates are standard, this card does not come with flexible payment options or an extended interest-free grace period.
- Welcome Offer: Get 3,000 AIR MILES Bonus Miles when you spend a minimum of $5,000 in the first three months. Plus, we’ll waive the $149 annual fee for a year.*
- No annual fee for the first year.*
- Get 1 Mile for every $12 you spend.*
- Get 4x the Miles when you use your card at participating AIR MILES partners.
- 25 payment grace days.*
- Get up to 22 additional cards so employees can easily make purchases on behalf of your business and help you earn points faster* (employee cards have an annual fee of $50).
- Use your card at Costco locations across Canada.*
- Travel Protection.*
- Liability Waiver Program protects your business against employee card abuse.*
- Get cash advances at any BMO Bank of Montreal branch or at more than 1 million ATMs worldwide.*
- Worldwide Acceptance.
- Complimentary membership in Mastercard Travel Pass provided by DragonPass.
- Become A Cardholder & Get Access To Virtual On-Demand Healthcare With Maple.*
- *Terms and conditions apply.
- BMO is not responsible for maintaining the content on this site. Please click on the Apply now link for the most up to date information.
Best for: Cash back rewards
BMO CashBack® Business Mastercard®*
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Annual Fee$0
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Interest Rates19.99% / 22.99%19.99% on purchases, and 22.99% on cash advances.
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Rewards Rate0.75%-10%10% intro offer. Earn 1.75% when you pay at the pump or shop in-store at Shell®. Earn 1.5% on gas, office supplies and cellphone and internet bill payments. Earn 0.75% on all other card purchases.
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Intro OfferUp to $150Earn 10% cash back for each dollar you spend at qualifying gas stations, office supply stores, and on your cell phone/internet (phone) bill payments in the first 3 months from the account open date up to a maximum of $150 cash back. Offer expires December 31, 2023.
The BMO CashBack® Business Mastercard®* offers strong earn rates on gas, office supplies and bill payments, making it a smart no-fee choice for businesses looking to be rewarded for buying daily essentials.
Pros
- No annual fee.
- Rewarding intro offer.
- Automatic rebates through the Mastercard Easy Savings program.
Cons
- If you don’t frequent Shell gas stations you’ll miss out on the most savings.
- Welcome Offer: Get 10% cash back on gas, office supplies and cell phone/internet bills for 3 months.*
- 0.00% introductory interest rate on Balance Transfers for 9 months with a 3% transfer fee.*
- Get 1.5% cash back on eligible gas stations, office supplies purchases and on your cell phone and internet recurring payments.*
- Get 1.75% cash back on purchases at Shell®†† gas stations.
- 0.75% cash back on all other card purchases.*
- 25 payment grace days.*
- Optional Employee Cards – empower employees with delegated purchasing authority.*
- Use your card at Costco locations across Canada.*
- Liability Waiver Program protects your business against employee card abuse.*
- Get cash advances at any BMO Bank of Montreal branch or at more than 1 million ATMs worldwide.*
- Worldwide Acceptance.
- *Terms and conditions apply.
- BMO is not responsible for maintaining the content on this site. Please click on the Apply now link for the most up to date information.
Best for: Hotel stays
Marriott Bonvoy® Business American Express®* Card
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Annual Fee$150
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Interest Rates20.99% / 21.99%20.99% on purchases, 21.99% on cash advances.
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Rewards Rate2x-5x PointsEarn 5 points for every $1 in Card purchases at participating Marriott Bonvoy hotels. Earn 3 points for every $1 spent on eligible gas, dining and travel. Earn 2 points for every $1 spent on everything else.
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Intro Offer50,000 PointsEarn 50,000 welcome bonus Marriott Bonvoy® points: Earn 50,000 Welcome Bonus Marriott Bonvoy® points after you charge $1,500 in purchases to your Card in your first three months of Cardmembership.
The Marriott Bonvoy® Business American Express®* Card gives business owners who are also frequent hotel guests plenty of opportunities to rack up — and cash in — some valuable rewards.
Pros
- A nice introductory bonus that doesn’t require much spending.
- Solid earn rates on purchases, even after the introductory period ends.
- Bonus points are awarded when you refer a friend or transfer 60,000 points to one of many frequent flyer program.
Cons
- Cardmembers can’t maximize rewards if they don’t stay at Marriott Bonvoy properties.
- No travel perks like lounge access or free checked bags, but travel insurance is included.
- Earn 50,000 welcome bonus Marriott Bonvoy® points:
- Earn 50,000 Welcome Bonus Marriott Bonvoy® points after you charge $1,500 in purchases to your Card in your first three months of Cardmembership.
- Earn Marriott Bonvoy points that you can redeem in a variety of ways.
- Earn 5 points for every $1 in Card purchases at participating Marriott Bonvoy hotels.
- Earn 3 points for every $1 spent on eligible gas, dining and travel.
- Earn 2 points for every $1 spent on everything else.
- Redeem points for free nights with no blackout dates at over 7,000 of some of the world’s most extraordinary hotels and resorts around the globe. Use your points for flights on some of the world’s leading airlines.
- Make the most out of a full suite of business management tools that give you more control over your business – anytime and anywhere.
- Leverage your cash flow with the option of carrying a balance or paying in full each month.
- Control employee expenses plus track and accumulate points on your account with Supplementary Cards, so you have an opportunity to maximize the points you earn.
- Experience the exclusive benefits of the Marriott Bonvoy® Business American Express®* Card.
- Receive an Annual Free Night Award automatically each year after your anniversary.
- Enjoy an automatic upgrade to Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite status when you reach $30,000 in purchases on your Card each year
- Receive 15 Elite Night Credits each calendar year with your Marriott Bonvoy Business American Express Card. These can be used towards attaining the next level of Elite status in the Marriott Bonvoy program.
- American Express is not responsible for maintaining or monitoring the accuracy of information on this website. For full details and current product information click the Apply now link. Conditions apply.
Best for: Points on gas
BMO World Elite Business Mastercard
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Annual Fee$149Waived first year
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Interest Rates17.99% / 22.99%17.99% on purchases, 22.99% on cash transactions
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Rewards Rate1.5x-4x PointsEarn 4 reward points for every $1 spent on gas, office supplies, cell phone and internet bill payments (up to a $50,000 annual spending limit), and earn 1.5 reward points on all other purchases.
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Intro OfferUp to 70,000 PointsReceive up to 50,000 points when you spend $5,000 in the first three months. Get an additional 20,000 points when you spend $35,000 in the first twelve months. Plus, get a 0.00% introductory interest rate on balance transfers for nine months with a 3% transfer fee. Offer expires December 31, 2023.
The BMO World Elite Business Mastercard is a solid option for business owners seeking a travel card, as it boasts travel insurance and airport lounge access for a relatively low annual fee. Plus, cardholders can take advantage of a points program that rewards business expenses, like gas, office supplies and cell phone payments.
Pros
- Accelerated rewards rates on everyday business spending, including gas, office supplies, cell phone and internet bill payments.
- Travel insurance coverage that includes trip cancellation, trip interruption, baggage delay, and more.
- Free Maple virtual care visits.
Cons
- Limited airport lounge access.
- $50 price for each employee card.
- Get up to 50,000 points when you spend $5,000 in the first three months and an additional 20,000 points when you spend $35,000 in the first twelve months.
- Take advantage of a 0.00% introductory interest rate on balance transfers for nine months with a 3% transfer fee.
- Earn 4 points for every $1 you spend on gas, office supplies, cell phone and internet bill payments, up to a $50,000 annual spending limit.
- Earn 1.5 points for every $1 you spend on all other card purchases, including category spending in excess of the annual limit.
- Redeem reward points for travel, office supplies and gifts for employees, as well as to pay for recent purchases, make cash deposits into your BMO investment account, and more.
- Get up to 22 additional cards so employees can easily make purchases on behalf of your business and help you earn points faster.
- Get protection against employee card abuse with the Liability Waiver Program.
- Enjoy two free airport lounge passes a year with a complimentary membership to Mastercard Travel Pass provided by DragonPass.
- Get automatic rebates of 1%-25% when you shop at qualifying merchants with Mastercard Easy Savings.
- Receive travel protection when you use your Mastercard to book travel arrangements. Coverage includes trip cancellation/trip interruption insurance, baggage delay insurance, a car rental collision damage waiver and more.
- Get 90-day purchase protection and extended warranty protection of up to one additional year on items you charge to the card.
- Access on-demand health care with five free virtual care visits on Maple shared by you and your family members.
Best for: Low interest rate
CIBC bizline® Visa* Card for Business

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Annual Fee$0
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Intro Interest RatesN/A
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Interest RatesAs low as 8.70%Current CIBC Prime Rate + 1.5%
A low interest rate, no annual fee, a reasonable minimum income requirement, and the potential for a generous credit limit make the CIBC bizline Visa card a viable fit for small but growing businesses.
Pros
- No annual fee for up to ten cards.
- A very low interest rate.
- A credit limit of up to $50,000.
Cons
- The interest rate can fluctuate, which could be an issue for businesses on a tight budget.
- Very few perks.
- No opportunity to earn rewards through business-related purchases.
- No annual fee for the first card and up to nine additional cards.
- Credit limits range from $1,000 to $50,000.
- Manage, track and organize credit activity through CIBC CreditSmart.
- Fraud alerts and zero liability in the event of fraudulent card activity.
- $100,000 in common carrier accident insurance for the cardholder, a spouse and dependent children.
- A $35,000 minimum individual annual income is required for approval.
- Preferred rates: As low as 7.45% — CIBC Prime plus 1.5% on purchases and cash advances.
Best for: International spending
TD Business Travel Visa* Card

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Annual Fee$149Waived first year
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Interest Rates19.99% / 22.99%19.99% on purchases, 22.99% on cash advances.
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Rewards Rate2x-9x Points9x when booking travel online through ExpediaForTD.com, 6x on foreign currency purchases, restaurant purchases and regularly recurring bill payments, and 2x on other eligible business purchases.
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Intro OfferUp to 175,000 PointsEarn up to 175,000 Points: A Welcome Bonus of 30,000 TD Rewards Points when you make your first Purchase. Earn up to 120,000 TD Rewards points when you spend $2,500 in Purchases each month for the first 12 months of Account opening. Plus, earn up to 25,000 TD Rewards points by setting up new regularly recurring bill payments (maximum two). Account must be opened by January 3, 2024.
With its huge welcome offer, high earn rates on travel and foreign currency, and hearty selection of perks and benefits, the TD Business Travel Card is a strong option for businesses of any size.
Pros
- Large intro offer that many established businesses will be able to earn.
- Wide range of travel perks, including a broad selection of insurance, rewards on foreign currency and travel booking, and more.
- Very strong earn rates in certain purchase categories.
Cons
- Smaller businesses may not spend enough to score the full welcome bonus of 150,000 TD Rewards points.
- Lack of flexibility with travel booking, which must be done through ExpediaForTD.com to earn rewards.
- Earn up to 175,000 TD Rewards Points and no Annual Fee in the first year (a value of up to $1, 240). Conditions Apply. Account must be opened by January 3, 2024.
- Earn 9 TD Rewards Points when you book travel online through ExpediaForTD.com using your Card.
- Earn 6 points for every dollar spent on foreign currency purchases, restaurant purchases and regularly recurring bill payments up to a maximum annual spend of $80,000. Earn rate becomes 2 TD Rewards Points per dollar spent after that.
- Earn 2 TD Rewards Points per dollar spent on all other purchases.
- Points can be redeemed for flights, hotels, retail business merchandise, gift cards, while making business purchases at Amazon.ca with Amazon Shop, and more. They can also be used to pay down the card’s balance.
- No travel blackouts, no seat restrictions and no expiry for TD Rewards Points.
- Annual fee: $149 — rebated in the first year.
- Annual fee on additional cards: $49 — rebated for up to three cards in the first year.
- Interest rates: 19.99% on purchases, 22.99% on cash advances.
- Access online reporting, review business expenses, managing existing credit limits and apply spend controls through the TD Card Management Tool.
- Visa SavingsEdge program: save up to 25% on eligible business purchases.
- Travel benefits: travel medical insurance (up to $2 million in coverage for the first 15 days for those under 65; coverage lasts for 4 days for those 65 and older); common carrier travel accident insurance (up to $500,000 for covered losses), trip cancellation insurance (up to $1,500 per insured person; maximum of $5,000), trip interruption insurance (up to $5,000 per insured person; maximum of $25,000), flight/trip delay insurance (up to $500 if a flight or trip is delayed for longer than 4 hours), delayed and lost baggage insurance (up to $1,000 of overall coverage per insured person), auto rental collision/loss damage insurance (covers the full cost of a car rental).
- Toll-free emergency travel assistance services.
- Save a minimum of 10% on the lowest available base rates in Canada and the U.S., and a minimum of 5% on the lowest base rates internationally on qualifying car rentals at participating Avis and Budget locations.
- Visa Zero Liability protection, Verified by Visa and instant alerts to prevent fraudulent card use.
- Access to $5,000 emergency cash advances.
- Linked cards can earn 50% more TD Rewards Points and 50% more Stars at participating Starbucks stores.
- Minimum credit limit of $1,000.
Best for: Low annual fee
TD Business Select Rate™ Visa* Card (Low Rate Option)

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Annual Fee$49$0 annual fee available for a higher interest rate
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Interest Rates8.99%8.99% on purchases and cash advances.
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Rewards RateN/A
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Intro OfferN/A
The TD Business Select Rate Visa Card is a great option for people looking for a low rate (8.99%) and low annual fee ($49). The card also offers free additional cards for employees as well as rental discounts at Avis and Budget.
Pros
- Low interest rate (8.99% for purchases and cash advances).
- Free additional cards.
Cons
- No rewards or cash back.
- No welcome offer.
- $49 annual fee (no annual fee version available with a higher interest rate).
- Discounts of up to 25% off for business purchases made under the Visa SavingsEdge Program.
- Rental car discounts at Avis and Budget, and rental car insurance.
- Purchase protection and extended warranty.
- Earn 50% more Stars at participating Starbucks when you link your card.
- 8.99% for purchases and cash advances.
- Card is made from 90% recycled plastic.
- To be eligible, you must have a Canadian credit file and be a Canadian resident of the age of majority in the province or territory where you live.
Best for: À la carte Rewards
National Bank Platinum Business Mastercard

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Annual Fee$125
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Interest Rates20.99% / 22.99%20.99% on purchases, 22.99% on cash advances and balance transfers.
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Rewards Rate1.5x Points1.5 points on every dollar spent. No purchase limit.
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Intro OfferN/A
The Platinum Business Mastercard is available to all companies, regardless of how big or small your operation is.
Pros
- Range of travel insurance perks, such as flight delay and lost baggage coverage.
Cons
- Only one rewards rate available (1.5x points on all eligible purchases).
- No travel medical insurance.
- $125 annual fee.
- 1.5 À la carte reward points on all eligible purchases per every $1 spent — no spending limits or caps on rewards.
- Earn an additional 1.5 points on eligible purchases with À la carte Travel Agency.
- Use your points to buy gift cards, travel deals, financial products and more.
- Welcome offer worth 30,000 rewards points.
- Anniversary offer worth 30,000 points awarded to cardholders 12 months after opening the account.
- Earn up to 60,000 bonus points by combining the welcome and anniversary offers after the first year.
- Combine your accumulated points with your personal National Bank rewards card.
- Automatically receive discounts on eligible purchases at participating merchants through access to the Mastercard Easy Savings Program.
- Preferred rates: 20.99% for purchases, 22.99% for cash advances.
- Card granted regardless of the size of your company and industry.
Best for: Aventura points
CIBC Aventura® Visa* Card for Business Plus

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Annual Fee$120Waived first year
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Interest Rates19.99% / 22.99%19.99% on purchases, 22.99% on cash advances.
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Rewards Rate1x-2x Points2x Aventura points on travel purchased through the CIBC Rewards Centre, 1.5x Aventura points on gas and travel purchases, and 1x Aventura point on everything else.
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Intro OfferUp to 60,000 PointsEarn 25,000 Aventura points after making your first purchase, then 35,000 Aventura points after spending $35,000 or more during the first year. Plus, get a one-time annual fee rebate ($120) for the first card and ($50 each) for additional cardholders.
There’s plenty to like about the CIBC Aventura Visa Card for Business Plus, including solid earn rates on gas and travel purchases and a generous, highly attainable welcome bonus.
Pros
- Strong earn rates on travel purchases made through the CIBC Rewards Centre.
- The 60,000-point welcome bonus is worth a flight from any location in Canada or U.S. to Mexico, Hawaii, Alaska, Bermuda, Central America or the Caribbean.
- A broad selection of travel insurance is included.
Cons
- Unlike some similar cards, there are few opportunities to earn extra points when making everyday business purchases.
- Smaller businesses may not spend enough to score the full 60,000 welcome bonus, but the 25,000 welcome bonus only requires making one purchase.
- Intro offer: Earn 25,000 Aventura points after making your first purchase, then 35,000 Aventura points after spending $35,000 or more during the first year. Plus, get a one-time annual fee rebate ($120) for the first card and ($50 each) for additional cardholders.
- Earn 2 Aventura points on travel purchased through the CIBC Rewards Centre.
- Earn 1.5 Aventura points for every dollar spent on eligible gas and travel purchases, such as flights, hotels, car rentals and travel agencies, up to a maximum annual spend of $80,000.
- Earn 1 Aventura point for every dollar spent on all other purchases.
- Points can be redeemed for flights, hotel stays, vacation packages, cruises, merchandise, gift cards and activities. Travel on any airline with no blackout periods, no restrictions.
- $120 annual fee — rebated in the first year.
- $50 annual fee for each additional card — rebated in the first year.
- Add up to 15 cardholders to consolidate business expenses and earn points faster.
- Cards registered with Visa SavingsEdge unlock automatic savings on business solutions, travel, electronics and more.
- Savings of up to 25% at participating Avis and Budget rent-a-car locations worldwide.
- Fraud alerts and zero liability protection if a card is stolen or used for fraudulent purchases.
- Travel insurance: trip cancellation insurance (up to $1,000 per trip), trip interruption/trip delay insurance (up to $2,000 per trip), flight delay insurance (up to a maximum of $500), stolen/lost/delayed baggage insurance (up to $500 per insured person to a maximum of $1,000 per occurrence), car rental collision and loss damage insurance (up to the actual cash value of the rental vehicle to a maximum of $65,000), common carrier accident insurance (up to $500,000 per insured person), purchase security and extended warranty protection.
- Free Uber Pass for six months.
- Access to Visa Spend Clarity for Business, a web-based reporting solution for expense management.
- Preferred rates: 19.99% for purchases, 22.99% for cash advances.
Best for: Flat-rate rewards
RBC® Business Cash Back Mastercard‡

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Annual Fee$0
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Interest Rates19.99% / 22.99%19.99% on purchases, 22.99% on cash advances.
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Rewards Rate1%-2%2% cash back on purchases made in the first three months, and 1% on purchases after that period. $650 annual cash-back cap.
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Intro OfferN/A
Like most no-fee cards, the RBC Business Cash Back Mastercard is light on perks, but the savings it provides on gas and other business-related purchases can make a real difference for small businesses.
Pros
- No annual fee.
- Offers savings on gas and other purchases, plus automatic enrolment in Mastercard’s Easy Savings Program.
- 21-day interest free grace periods can be extended to 51-days upon request.
Cons
- The 2% introductory earn rate expires after three months.
- Cash back redemption is capped at $650 a year.
- Limited insurance offerings.
- Earn 2% cash back on purchases made in the first three months.
- Earn 1% cash back on purchases made after three months.
- $650 annual cash back redemption limit.
- Cash back can be redeemed for account credits at any time once the balance reaches $25 or more. Otherwise, the rewards will be automatically credited every January.
- No annual fee for the first card and one additional card.
- Automatic enrolment in Mastercard’s Easy Savings Program, which provides rebates on products and services from participating merchants.
- Linked cards save 3 cents per litre on fuel and 20% more Petro-Points at Petro-Canada locations.
- $0 delivery fees for 3 months from DoorDash.
- Access to the RBC Offers program, which provides cash savings or bonus points on business spending at brands like Apple, ADP and Telus.
- Purchase security and extended warranty protection on eligible business purchases.
- Fraud prevention and zero liability protection.
- Preferred rates: 19.99% on purchases, 22.99% on cash advances.
Best for: No or bad credit
ScotiaLine® for business Visa Credit Card (Secured)

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Annual Fee$0
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Interest RatesPrime + 1%Prime rate refers to the annual rate of interest set by the Royal Bank of Canada. Current prime rate is 7.20%, as of July 13, 2023.
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Rewards RateN/A
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Intro OfferN/A
With no annual fee and up to $500,000 of credit available, the ScotiaLine for Business VISA Credit Card (Secured) is a solid choice for business owners who do not qualify for a traditional credit card.
Pros
- No annual fee.
- Low interest rate.
- Up to $500,000 credit limit.
Cons
- No rewards.
- No welcome offer.
- No annual fee.
- Free supplementary cards and personalized cheques.
- Discounts on car rentals.
- Low interest rate (Prime + 1%).
- Unsecured version available.
- Purchase protection and extended warranty coverage.
Best for: Aeroplan points
CIBC Aeroplan® Visa* Business Plus Card

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Annual Fee$120Waived first year
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Interest Rates19.99% / 22.99%19.99% on purchases, 22.99% on cash advances.
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Rewards Rate1x-2x Points2x points on Air Canada purchases, including through Air Canada Vacations, 1.5x on shipping, internet, cable, phone services, travel and dining, and 1x on everything else.
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Intro OfferUp to 60,000 PointsEarn 10,000 points after making the first purchase, 20,000 points by spending $3,000 during the first four months, and 30,000 points by spending $35,000 during the first year. Plus, an annual fee rebate for the first card and each additional cardholder. Earn an Air Canada Buddy Pass after spending $3,000 during the first four months, and enjoy a free first checked back for two travellers and Maple Leaf Lounge™ access.
In addition to a solid earn rate on Air Canada purchases, the CIBC Aeroplan Visa Plus card helps businesses earn Aeroplan points on items and services they’ll inevitably spend money on, like shipping, internet and phone services.
Pros
- Strong earn rates on Air Canada purchases and when buying common business items.
- Achievable bonuses, like an Air Canada Buddy Pass and 10,000 bonus points earned after your first purchase.
- Broad selection of travel insurance included, plus perks like four complimentary
- Maple Leaf Lounge™ One-Time Guest Passes per year.
Cons
- Smaller businesses may not spend enough to score the full 60,000 welcome bonus.
- Capitalizing on the highest earn rates won’t be possible if you don’t fly with Air Canada frequently.
- Intro offer: Earn 10,000 points after making the first purchase, 20,000 points by spending $3,000 during the first four months, and 30,000 points by spending $35,000 during the first year. Plus, an annual fee rebate for the first card and each additional cardholder.
- Receive an Air Canada Buddy Pass, good for a $0 base fare anywhere Air Canada flies in North America, when $3,000 is charged to the account in the first four monthly statement periods.
- Free first checked bag for two travellers for each flight when a round-trip Air Canada flight is taken in the first year.
- Maple Leaf Lounge access: up to four passes worth $25 each for every $10,000 in eligible spend.
- $120 annual fee — rebated in the first year.
- $50 annual fee for each additional card — first year rebate for up to three cards.
- Add up to 15 cardholders to consolidate business expenses and earn points faster.
- Earn 2 Aeroplan points for every dollar spent directly with Air Canada, including through Air Canada Vacations. After $80,000 in net annual card purchases, Aeroplan points are earned at the regular rate.
- Earn 1.5 Aeroplan points for every dollar spent on shipping, internet, cable, phone services, travel and dining.
- Earn 1 Aeroplan point for every dollar spent on all other purchases.
- Earn points twice at over 150 Aeroplan partners and more than 170 online retailers through the Aeroplan estore.
- Points can be redeemed for flights, hotel stays, car rentals, merchandise, gift cards and more.
- Book flight rewards using fewer points when booking through the Rewards Officer.
- Fraud alerts and zero liability protection if a card is stolen or used for fraudulent purchases.
- Travel insurance: trip cancellation insurance (up to $1,000 per insured person per trip to a maximum of $5,000), trip interruption/trip delay insurance (up to $2,000 per insured person per trip), flight delay insurance (up to $500 per occurrence), stolen/lost/delayed baggage insurance (up to $500 per insured person to a maximum of $1,000 per occurrence), car rental collision and loss damage insurance (on cars with a suggested retail price of less than $65,000), common carrier accident insurance (up to $500,000 per insured person), purchase security and extended warranty protection.
- Free Uber Pass for six months.
- Access to Visa Spend Clarity for Business, a web-based reporting solution for expense management.
- Preferred rates: 19.99% on purchases, 22.99% on cash advances.
Best for: Avion Rewards
RBC Avion Visa Infinite Business

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Annual Fee$175
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Interest Rates19.99% / 22.99%19.99% on purchases, 22.99% on cash advances.
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Rewards Rate1x-1.25x Points1.25x on every dollar spent up to $75,000 in spending every year, then unlimited 1x on purchases.
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Intro Offer25,000 PointsEarn 25,000 Avion Rewards points upon enrollment.
Flexible and convenient, the RBC Avion Visa Infinite Business card offers a sweet enrollment bonus, comprehensive travel insurance and a competitive earn rate on business purchases.
Pros
- A generous and easy enrollment bonus — no hoops to jump through and no purchase necessary.
- Savings on gas and car rentals and business operations perks, like expense management tools and employee card controls
- A suite of insurance coverage that’s tough to beat.
Cons
- No amplified earn rates on relevant purchases to generate more Avion Rewards points.
- Slightly higher fees for additional cards when compared to similar business credit cards.
- Intro offer: receive 25,000 Avion Rewards points upon enrollment.
- Earn 1.25 Avion Rewards Points for every dollar spent in net purchases on up to $75,000 in spending every year.
- Earn 1 Avion Rewards Point for every dollar spent in excess of $75,000.
- Points can be redeemed for flights, hotel stays, vacation packages, cruises, merchandise, gift cards and RBC Financial Rewards vouchers, or used to pay down credit card balances.
- Points earned on employees’ Avion Visa Infinite Business cards can be combined with those earned through a business owner’s business and personal Avion cards.
- $175 annual fee.
- $75 annual fee for each additional card.
- Add up to 9 cardholders to consolidate business expenses and earn points faster.
- The Avion Collection: access to exclusive dining, entertainment and other experiences.
- RBC Offers: special deals from brands like Telus, ADP and Apple that allow cardholders to save money and earn more points.
- Visa Airport Companion: enjoy access to more than 1,300 airport lounges and airport dining and spa offers. Cards linked to a Petro-Points card save three cents per litre on gas and earn 20% more Avion Rewards points and Petro Points.
- Save up to 30% off base rates on car rentals and earn three times the points at Hertz locations.
- $0 delivery fees for 12 months from DoorDash.
- Visa Infinite Business Concierge helps plan business travel by booking event tickets, making restaurant reservations and locating hard-to-find items.
- Fraud alerts and zero liability protection if a card is stolen or used for fraudulent purchases.
- Insurance and protection: out of province/country emergency medical expenses (15 days of coverage for those under 65; three days for those 65 and over), trip cancellation insurance (up to $1,500 per person per trip), trip interruption insurance (up to $5,000 per person per trip), flight delay insurance (up to $500 per trip), stolen/lost baggage insurance (up to $1,000), hotel/motel burglary insurance (up to $2,500), car rental collision and loss damage insurance (up to the actual cash value of the rental vehicle to a maximum of $65,000), travel accident insurance (up to $500,000), emergency purchase insurance (up to $500), mobile device insurance (two years of coverage up to $2,000), purchase security and extended warranty protection.
- Access to Visa Spend Clarity for Business, a web-based reporting solution for expense management, and the Receipt App, for taking photos of receipts and tracking expenses in real time.
- Preferred rates: 19.99% on purchases, 22.99% on cash advances.
Honourable mention for: Aeroplan points
TD® Aeroplan® Visa* Business Card

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Annual Fee$149Waived first year
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Interest Rates14.99% / 22.99%14.99% on purchases, 22.99% on cash advances.
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Rewards Rate1x-2x Points2x on Air Canada purchases, including Air Canada Vacations. 1.5x on travel, dining and select business categories, such as shipping, internet, cable and phone services. 1x on everything else.
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Intro OfferUp to 65,000 PointsEarn up to 65,000 Points: Earn a welcome bonus of 10,000 Aeroplan points when you make your first purchase with your new card. Plus, earn up to 45,000 Aeroplan points when you spend $2,500 in purchases each month for the first 12 months of Account opening. Plus, earn up to 10,000 Aeroplan points by setting up new recurring bill payments (maximum two). Account must be opened by January 3, 2024.
The TD Aeroplan Visa Business Card impresses with its obtainable welcome bonus, low interest rate and increased earn rate on essential business purchases.
Pros
- A 14.99% interest rate on purchases is unusual for a card packing this many benefits, including a healthy earn rate on business purchases like shipping and internet.
- Wide range of insurance provided.
- Travel perks include statement Credits For NEXUS Holders, free checked bags and Maple Leaf Lounge guest pass.
Cons
- Most travel perks require cardholders to hit spending thresholds before they can be claimed.
- Smaller businesses may not spend enough to score the full welcome bonus.
- Earn up to 65,000 Aeroplan points, no Annual Fee in the first year. Conditions Apply. Account must be opened by January 3, 2024.
- Earn 2 Aeroplan points for every dollar spent on eligible purchases made directly with Air Canada, including Air Canada Vacations.
- Earn 1.5 Aeroplan points for every dollar spent on eligible travel, dining and select business categories, such as shipping, internet, cable and phone services.
- Earn 1 Aeroplan point for every dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
- Earn points twice when paying with a TD Aeroplan Visa Business Card and providing an Aeroplan number at over 150 Aeroplan partner brands and more than 170 online retailers via the Aeroplan eStore.
- Points can be redeemed for flights, hotels, merchandise, gift cards and more. They can also be used to pay down the card’s balance.
- Linked cards earn 50% more Aeroplan points and Stars at participating Starbucks stores.
- $149 annual fee — rebated in the first year.
- Free first checked bag for up to 9 people travelling on the same reservation on Air Canada flights.
- One free one-time guest pass to Maple Leaf Lounges for every $10,000 in net purchases. Maximum of 4 passes a year.
- Reach Aeroplan Elite Status more quickly by earning 1,000 Status Qualifying Miles and one Status Qualifying Segment for every $5,000 in net purchases.
- Access online reporting, review business expenses, managing existing credit limits and apply spend controls through the TD Card Management Tool.
- Visa SavingsEdge program: save up to 25% on eligible business purchases.
- Travel benefits: travel medical insurance (up to $2 million in coverage for the first 15 days for those under 65; coverage lasts for 4 days for those 65 and older); common carrier travel accident insurance (up to $500,000 for covered losses), trip cancellation insurance (up to $1,500 per insured person; maximum of $5,000), trip interruption insurance (up to $5,000 per insured person; maximum of $25,000), flight/trip delay insurance (up to $500 if a flight or trip is delayed for longer than 4 hours), delayed and lost baggage insurance (up to $1,000 of overall coverage per insured person), auto rental collision/loss damage insurance (covers the full cost of a car rental for up to 48 days), hotel/motel burglary insurance (up to $2,500), mobile device insurance (up to $1,000 in coverage).
- Toll-free emergency travel assistance services.
- Receive a rebate of up to $100 on NEXUS enrolment application/renewal fee costs once every 48 months.
- Save a minimum of 10% on the lowest available base rates in Canada and the U.S., and a minimum of 5% on the lowest base rates internationally on qualifying car rentals at participating Avis and Budget locations.
- Visa Zero Liability protection, Verified by Visa and instant alerts to prevent fraudulent card use.
- Purchase security and extended warranty protection.
- Minimum credit limit of $1,000.
- Interest rates: 14.99% on purchases, 22.99% on cash advances.
Honourable mention for: Avion points
RBC Avion Visa Business

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Annual Fee$120
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Interest Rates19.99% / 22.99%19.99% on purchases, 22.99% on cash advances and balance transfers.
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Rewards Rate1x PointsEarn 1 RBC Rewards point for every $1 spent in net purchases.
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Intro Offer35,000 pointsReceive 35,000 reward points upon enrollment.
With 20% more Petro-Points at the pump and a 30% discount at Hertz, the RBC Avion Visa Business is a great fit for people who are on the go. Plus, you get 35,000 points just for signing up.
Pros
- 20,000 welcome points when you sign up.
- 30% discount at Hertz.
Cons
- Low rewards rate.
- $50 additional card fee.
- 35,000 welcome points upon enrollment.
- Earn 1 RBC Rewards point for every $1 spent.
- Redeem points for merchandise, travel, gift cards and financial rewards.
- Save money at the pump and earn 20% more Petro-Points when you link your card.
- $120 annual fee ($50 for additional cards).
- 30% discount at Hertz car rental.
- Access to the Avion Collection, a unique catalogue of exclusive experiences.
- Trip cancellation, rental car insurance and purchase protection.
- Preferred rates: 19.99% for purchases, 22.99% for cash advances.

Business Platinum Card® from American Express
Earn up to 120,000 bonus Membership Rewards* points.
That’s up to $1,200 in statement credits that can be reinvested in your business. For full details and current product information click the Apply now link. Conditions apply.
Methodology to identify the best business credit cards
NerdWallet Canada selects the best business credit cards based on overall consumer value and their suitability for specific kinds of businesses. Factors in our evaluation methodology include annual and other fees, rewards rates, the earning structure (for example, flat-rate rewards versus bonus categories), redemption options, bonus offers for new cardholders, introductory and ongoing APRs, and other noteworthy features such as travel perks and business support services.
Summary of the best business credit cards in Canada
The best business cards from Canada’s big banks
Consider these top choices if you prefer to bank with one of Canada’s big banks.
What to know about business credit cards in Canada
As with other types of credit cards, there’s plenty to learn before selecting a business credit card that best suits your needs.
What is a business credit card?
A business credit card is a credit card specifically intended to cover business expenses. Whether you employ others, own a small family business or run a solo freelance operation as a side hustle, a business credit card will help you reach your goals faster.
Business cards vs. personal cards
Business credit cards are similar to personal credit cards in most ways — you use them to make purchases and then pay off the balance, incurring interest charges on what’s left over. However, there are differences related to perks, benefits and features.
Business credit cards often have higher credit limits, which accommodate costly business expenses. Some also help you tap into more financing for your business by including things like longer interest-free grace periods and low introductory interest rates on purchases or balance transfers.
The rewards involved with business credit cards are similarly tailored to meet business needs. For example, some travel rewards cards offer higher earn rates on items like office supplies, internet services and cell phone bills. Other cards provide cash back that can be reinvested in your business. Some come with juicy introductory earn rates and welcome bonuses; others provide useful perks like travel insurance and accounting tools designed to help small businesses.
Finally, credit card providers often let businesses apply for several additional cards, which allows your employees to easily make business-related purchases as supplementary cardholders to help you claim the rewards sooner. Protection from employee misuse may be provided in the form of a liability waiver or insurance.
Who can get a business credit card?
Since business credit cards are designed to suit the needs of business owners and freelancers alike, you don’t need to own a large-scale business in order to apply for one. A business credit card should be within your reach as long as you can provide proper evidence that your business exists.
Many cards don’t even require your business to hit certain revenue thresholds, so if you just started a small business and it isn’t yet turning a profit, you may still get approved.
Why get a business credit card?
A business credit card separates business expenses from your personal spending, which simplifies accounting and record keeping. This can be invaluable when tracking expenditures and budgeting for your company.
Using a card solely for business purchases also makes it easy to deduct the interest and most fees you pay as business expenses. Get your personal and business spending mixed up, though, and tax time could get messy.
A business credit card can also give you access to perks and rewards that are better suited to your company’s needs. Expense tracking tools, higher earn rates on business-related purchases, and discounts on essentials like gas are just a few examples of the goodies that come with some Canadian business credit cards.
Types of business credit cards
Business credit cards and charge cards are tailored for businesses of all sizes, so it’s important to identify the right type of card for your needs.
Small business credit cards
Small business credit cards operate almost identically to personal credit cards. Business owners generally apply for these cards directly and bear the responsibility of paying the fees and charges.
While many small business card applications will be evaluated based on the owner’s personal credit score, some also require minimum income requirements. Applicants will also need to show documentation that proves their company is a real entity.
Small business credit cards are generally the best option for sole proprietors, who can use them to earn rewards not offered by their personal credit cards, and small or mid-sized business owners with multiple employees.
But they’re also a fit for brand new businesses in Canada.
Business credit card options designed for entrepreneurs just getting started include cards with no annual fees or lower interest rates, which can help reduce a new company’s credit burden. Cards with low — or no — income requirements can also help upstart business owners get approved for their first company card so they can start building credit.
Corporate credit cards
Corporate credit cards are designed for larger companies with strong credit scores that generate significant revenues. American Express, for example, recommends its corporate credit cards to Canadian businesses with annual revenues of $10 million or more.
Even though corporate credit cards can be distributed to employees, paying off a corporate card’s fees and charges are the responsibility of the corporation, not an individual worker or owner.
How to compare business credit cards
Business credit cards vary in terms of what they offer cardholders. Comparing them effectively often involves looking at several cards and reviewing the features most important to your needs. This may include:
- Interest rates on purchases, balance transfers and cash advances.
- Annual fees for the primary card and any additional cards
- Credit limit offered.
- Rewards programs — cash back and travel points are two common examples — and the earn rates associated with them.
- Welcome offers, enrollment bonuses and purchase thresholds that can unlock more rewards points.
- Perks like travel insurance and access to exclusive deals.
- Discounts on commonly purchased items.
- Tools for expense tracking and business management.
Pros and cons of business credit cards
Even though business credit cards vary from one to the next, there are some common pros and cons that apply to most.
Pros
- Simplifies accounting and budgeting by separating personal and business expenses.
- Earn rewards at a higher rate than what’s offered by most personal credit cards.
- Travel perks, discounts and insurance offerings can provide real benefits.
- Used responsibly, business credit cards can help you build and strengthen your business’s credit history, which can help secure future financing for your business, like loans or a mortgage.
- The fees and interest paid are often tax-deductible.
- Account management and expense tracking tools are provided by many business cards and can help small businesses stay on top of their finances.
Cons
- Your personal creditworthiness will be negatively impacted if you aren’t able to manage your business’s credit card.
- The interest rate you’ll pay on your credit card balances will likely be higher than what you’d pay on a traditional loan or line of credit.
- High annual fees can add up, especially if a business has been approved for multiple cards.
- The potential for misuse or having a card’s information inadvertently stolen increases if multiple people are using a business’s cards.
How to get a business credit card
Once you’ve chosen the best business credit card for your needs, you’ll need to apply and meet certain qualifications to prove your eligibility.
Applying for a business credit card
Applying for a business credit card is a lot like applying for a personal credit card, but with the added element of providing information about your business.
To prove your identity, you’ll typically need a piece of original, valid and current government-issued photo identification, like a driver’s license or passport. If photo ID isn’t possible, some providers will accept valid and current documents from independent, reliable sources.
If you’re a sole proprietor, you may be asked to provide:
- A trade name registration certificate or copy of your Master Business License. This may not be necessary if your business is operated in your own name.
- Your personal Notice of Assessment and income tax return, including your Statement of Business Activities, for the last two years.
- Business year-end financial statements for the last two years that have been signed by the business owner.
- Investment/deposit statements for accounts at other financial institutions.
- Bank account statements at other financial institutions for the past three months.
- Bill of sale/purchase agreements detailing purchases of business assets.
If you’re operating a new business or a start-up that’s less than two years old, you may also have to provide more information, like a business plan, cash flow statement, balance sheet, or financial statements signed since launch.
If your business is a partnership, you’ll be asked to provide proof that a limited partnership exists and personal information about anyone with a significant interest in your business. The same applies to a corporation, but you’ll have to provide the Articles of Incorporation instead of partnership documents.
How to qualify for a business credit card
In addition to providing relevant legal and tax documents that prove the existence and current state of your business, you’ll need to convince credit card providers that they should do business with you.
Doing that requires a strong personal credit report. If you’re applying for your first business credit card, there’s a good chance your company may not have much of a credit history. That means your personal credit score will be a major factor in whether you get approved for a business card and how high your credit limit will be.
In Canada, a “good” credit score falls between 660 and 724. If your credit score is lower than that, however, you may still get approved for certain business credit cards suited for applicants with bad credit.
Some cards may also have minimum income or revenue requirements. If your personal income or annual business revenue falls short of these thresholds, you’ll have to search for a card with a lower one.
Getting the most out of your business credit card
There are several ways you can maximize the value of your business credit card.
- Choose a card that offers the most relevant rewards. Using a card with rewards tailored to your business’s actual spending will help you collect rewards faster. A card that offers a healthy earn rate on gas purchases, for example, may not be of much use to a bicycle messaging service.
- Get multiple cards. Using multiple cards, also known as “credit card stacking”, can help you earn different kinds of rewards. One card could be for travel points, for example, and another could be for earning cash back. Just make sure you’re staying on top of your balances, or the extra interest could eat away the added benefits.
- Qualify for welcome bonuses. Some business credit cards offer substantial welcome bonuses, which are triggered when certain spending thresholds are hit in the first few months of card use. Getting a card a few months out from when you expect to do an increased amount of spending can help you hit those thresholds.
- Take advantage of promotional interest rates. Making major purchases while low introductory rates are in place can help you save money — so long as you pay the balances off before the offer expires.
- Pay more than the minimum balance. Wiping out your entire credit card balance may not be possible every month, but know that paying only the minimum balance is ultimately quite expensive due to interest charges.
- Take advantage of discounts. Many business cards provide discounts on useful items, like gas, car rentals and various business-related merchandise. Don’t overlook these savings.
- Track the interest and fees paid. Interest and fees related to purchases made for your business are tax deductible. Keeping track of these amounts will make tax time a little easier.
How many credit cards should businesses get?
There is no ideal number of different credit cards for a company to have. But there is a case to be made for businesses having more than one card.
Multiple cards mean multiple lines of credit. Running a business can be both expensive and unpredictable, so having more borrowing power at your disposal can come in handy. Having more than one card can also help you earn more rewards.
There are risks involved with applying for too many business credit cards. Each application for a new card can knock a few points off your credit score, so make sure to wait long enough between applications.
Having balances spread across multiple cards requires a little more diligence in making sure they’re all paid off on time, too. You don’t want your interest payments to eat into your profits or diminish the value of your rewards.
Frequently asked questions about business credit cards
Yes. A personal credit card can be used for business purchases. The credit limit for personal cards, however, is generally lower than what’s offered for business cards.
If you’re charging business purchases to your personal credit card, just be sure to track them carefully for when tax season rolls around.
Yes, it is. You can deduct the credit card interest paid on business-related purchases. If you have a dedicated business credit card, you can often deduct the fees, too.

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