18 Best Business Credit Cards In Canada for 2023

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 which ones provide the most value across multiple categories.

• The best business credit cards in Canada
• The best business credit cards from Canada’s Big Banks
• Why you should trust us
• Summary of our selections
• What to know about business credit cards in Canada

American Express® Aeroplan®* Business Reserve Card

Our pick for the best Aeroplan travel rewards. Take advantage of the Aeroplan®* Business Reserve Card’s strong earn rates, extensive travel benefits and overall convenience.

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Best business credit cards in Canada

Best overall business rewards card

American Express® Business Edge™ Card

• Annual Fee
  $99
• Interest Rates
  19.99% / 21.99%

  19.99% on purchases, 21.99% on cash advances.
• Rewards Rate
  1x-10x Points

  10x 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.
• Intro Offer
  Up to 67,000 Points

  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.

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Our Take

Why we like it

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.

Product Details

• 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 flat-rate rewards on business expenses

Business Platinum Card® from American Express

• Annual Fee
  $499
• Interest Rates
  Varies

  This card also has a Flexible Payment Option (FPO), which lets you carry a portion of your balance with interest on eligible purchases. Card members must pay all charges not included in their FPO balance in full.
• Rewards Rate
  1.25x Points

  Earn 1.25 Membership Rewards points for virtually every $1 in purchases and get the most out of your business expenses.
• Intro Offer
  80,000 Points

  Earn a welcome bonus of 80,000 Membership Rewards® points when you spend $6,000 in purchases within the first three months of Cardmembership. That’s $800 in statement credits that can be reinvested in your business.

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Our Take

Why we like it

Some smaller businesses might balk at the high annual fee, but you get what you pay for with the Business Platinum Card from American Express: a large welcome bonus, flexibility in how you cash in rewards and a bevy of exclusive travel perks.

Pros

• Make the most of your cash flow with no pre-set spending limit, flexible payment options, up to 55 interest-free days, and plenty of account management tools.
• A full suite of insurance and premium travel perks, including airport lounge access, premium airport transfer services.
• A referral program that could score cardmembers up to 225,000 bonus Membership Rewards points a year.

Cons

• A high annual fee for both the primary card and any additional cards.
• No introductory earn rate to help maximize rewards.
• American Express may not be accepted by the suppliers and service providers your business works with.

Product Details

• Earn 80,000 welcome bonus Membership Rewards® points.
• Earn a welcome bonus of 80,000 Membership Rewards® points when you spend $6,000 in purchases within the first three months of Cardmembership. That’s $800 in statement credits that can be reinvested in your business.
• Earn points that you can redeem in a variety of ways.
• Earn 1.25 Membership Rewards points for virtually every $1 in purchases and get the most out of your business expenses.
• Enjoy an exceptional line-up of rewards redemption options for you and your business, including travel, dining, entertainment, gift cards, merchandise, and more with Membership Rewards program.
• Transfer points to frequent flyer and hotel programs, including one-to-one to Aeroplan®* and Avios.
• Unlock business possibilities with a full suite of business management tools that give you more control over your business – anytime and anywhere.
• Enjoy financial flexibility with no pre-set spending limit on purchases. With this Card, your purchasing power adjusts dynamically with your Card usage, and can grow over time, as long as you make your payments on time and maintain a good credit history.
• Maximize your cash flow with up to 55 interest free days so you can keep more cash on hand when you need it most.
• Pay for business expenses over time with Flexible Payment Option.
• This charge card has both Due in Full and Flexible Payment Option balances. All Due in Full balances must be paid each month. Interest rate of 30% applies to each delinquent Due in Full charge. This rate is effective from the day account is opened. Interest rate of 19.99% applies to your Flexible Payment Option balance. This rate is effective from the day the Flexible Payment Option is first available on your account.
• Enjoy exclusive benefits for you and your business.
• Take full advantage of the American Express Global Lounge Collection which unlocks access to over 1300 airport lounges worldwide. This includes The Centurion® Lounge network, Plaza Premium Lounges, and hundreds of other domestic and international lounges designed to enhance your travel experience.
• Enjoy premium benefits at the Toronto Pearson Airport, including access to the Pearson Priority Security Lane and discount on parking.
• Get access to discounted base fares for you and your travel companions when you book through the International Airline Program.
• Enjoy access to specialty services and events, preferential treatment, and a dedicated Concierge team.
• 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 business card for hotel rewards

Marriott Bonvoy® Business American Express®* Card

• Annual Fee
  $150
• Interest Rates
  19.99% / 21.99%

  19.99% on purchases, 21.99% on cash advances.
• Rewards Rate
  2x-5x Points

  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.
• Intro Offer
  50,000 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.

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Our Take

Why we like it

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.

Product Details

• 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.
• 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.
• Upgrade to Gold Elite status after you charge $30,000 in net purchases to your Card each year, or when you combine 10 qualifying paid nights within one calendar year with the 15 Elite Night Credits from your card.
• 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 business card for Aeroplan rewards on travel purchases

American Express® Aeroplan®* Business Reserve Card

• Annual Fee
  $599
• Interest Rates
  16.99% / 21.99%

  16.99% on purchases, 21.99% on cash advances.
• Rewards Rate
  1.25x-3x Points

  Earn 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.
• Intro Offer
  Up to 85,000 Points

  Earn up to 85,000 Welcome Bonus Aeroplan®* points: Earn 25,000 Aeroplan points after spending $3,000 in net purchases on your Card within the first three months of Cardmembership. Plus, earn 5,000 Aeroplan points for each monthly billing period in which you spend $2,000 in purchases on your Card for the first twelve months of Cardmembership. That could add up to 60,000 Aeroplan points.

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Our Take

Why we like it

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 23.99% if you miss a payment.

Product Details

• Earn up to 85,000 Welcome Bonus Aeroplan®* points:
• Earn 25,000 Aeroplan points after spending $3,000 in net purchases on your Card within the first three months of Cardmembership.
• Plus, earn 5,000 Aeroplan points for each monthly billing period in which you spend $2,000 in purchases on your Card for the first twelve months of Cardmembership. That could add up to 60,000 Aeroplan points.
• Earn up to $2,600 or more in value within your first year.
• 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 Supplementary 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.
• 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.
• 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 no-fee business travel card

BMO® AIR MILES®† No-Fee Business® Mastercard®*

• Annual Fee
  $0
• Interest Rates
  19.99% / 22.99%

  19.99% on purchases, 22.99% on cash advances.
• Rewards Rate
  0.05x-0.06x Miles

  Earn 1 Mile for every $20 spent. Earn 1.25x Miles for every $20 spent at participating Shell stations.
• Intro Offer
  1,000 Miles

  Earn 1,000 Bonus Miles when you spend $3,000 in net card purchases in the first three months from account open date. Offer expires December 31, 2023.

Our Take

Why we like it

Not many no-fee cards allow users to earn AIR MILES, which makes the BMO AIR MILES No-Fee Business Mastercard a unique and rewarding option.

Pros

• Get up to 22 additional cards, and enjoy protection against misuse with the Liability Waiver Program.
• Enjoy automatic rebates of up to 25% when shopping at qualifying merchants with Mastercard Easy Savings.
• Flexibility in how AIR MILES can be redeemed, and the ability to earn extra Miles when shopping at Shell gas stations

Cons

• Few additional perks.
• No travel insurance offered.
• The earn rates may not impress experienced AIR MILES collectors.

Product Details

• Intro offer: earn 1,000 AIR MILES by spending $3,000 in net card purchases during the first three months.
• Earn 1 AIR MILE for every $20 spent.
• Earn 1.25x AIR MILES for every $20 spent at participating Shell stations.
• No annual fee.
• Get up to 22 additional cards to earn points faster.
• AIR MILES can be redeemed for travel, office supplies, events, attractions or cash rewards.
• Mastercard Easy Savings: Automatic rebates of up to 25% when shopping at qualifying merchants.
• 90-day purchase protection and extended warranty protection of up to one additional year on items charged to the card.
• Liability Waiver program: get protection against employee card abuse.
• Preferred rates: 19.99% on purchases, 22.99% on cash advances.

Best overall business travel card

TD Business Travel Visa* Card

• Annual Fee
  $149

  Waived first year
• Interest Rates
  19.99% / 22.99%

  19.99% on purchases, 22.99% on cash advances.
• Rewards Rate
  2x-9x Points

  9x 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.
• Intro Offer
  Up to 150,000 Points

  30,000 TD Rewards Points when the first purchase is made. 60,000 TD Rewards points when $2,500 or more is spent in the first three months of account opening. 60,000 TD Rewards points (5,000 per month) if $5,000 is spent in each of the first 12 months of account opening. Plus, an annual fee rebate for the first year for the primary cardholder and 2 additional cardholders. Offer expires May 28, 2023.

Our Take

Why we like it

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.

Product Details

• Intro offer: 150,000 TD Rewards points. Earn 30,000 points when the first purchase is made. Earn 60,000 points by spending $2,500 or more during the first three months of account opening. Earn 60,000 points (5,000 per month) by spending $5,000 each of the first 12 months of account opening. Plus, an annual fee rebate for the first year for the primary cardholder and 2 additional cardholders. Offer expires May 28, 2023.
• 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 USD credit card for Canadian business

Desjardins Visa US Business card

• Annual Fee
  $30 USD
• Interest Rates
  19.4%

  19.4% on purchases and cash advances.
• Rewards Rate
  N/A
• Intro Offer
  N/A

Our Take

Why we like it

With no currency conversion fees to worry about, the Desjardins Visa US Business card can help cut costs for Canadian businesses who spend a significant amount of money south of the border.

Pros

• Make purchases, pay bills and settle expenses directly in US dollars and pay no currency conversion fees.
• Low annual fee.
• Free enrollment in Desjardins’ Corporate Insurance Program.

Cons

• A 2.5% fee is charged on transactions made in currencies other than US dollars.
• Not as many perks as there are with other Desjardins business credit cards.

Product Details

• Annual fee: $30 USD.
• No currency conversion fees when making purchases directly in US dollars.
• If purchases are made using a currency other than US dollars, a 2.5% fee is applied to the transaction amount after the conversion to USD.
• Zero liability in the event of unauthorized card use.
• Desjardins Travel Assistance: a 24/7 information service to help travelers deal with medical, legal or other emergencies.
• Desjardins Business Assistance: telephone-based advice about customs, entertainment and services at upcoming business destinations.
• Corporate Insurance Program: up to $500 in stolen or damaged luggage, delayed luggage, missed connection and delayed/overbooked flight coverage; auto rental collision/loss damage insurance for vehicles worth less than $85,000; up to $100,000 in common carrier accident insurance.
• New payWave contactless payment technology.
• Preferred rates: 19.4% on purchases and cash advances.

Best business card for air travel perks + our pick for the best TD business card

TD® Aeroplan® Visa* Business Card

• Annual Fee
  $149

  Waived first year
• Interest Rates
  14.99% / 22.99%

  14.99% on purchases, 22.99% on cash advances.
• Rewards Rate
  1x-2x Points

  2x 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.
• Intro Offer
  Up to 60,000 Points

  Earn 10,000 points once you make your first purchase. Earn 20,000 points by spending $5,000 in the first three months. Earn 30,000 points (2,500 per month) by spending $5,000 each month during the first year. Plus, g​​et an annual fee rebate for the first year for the primary cardholder and 2 additional cardholders. Offer expires May 28, 2023.

Our Take

Why we like it

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.

Product Details

• Intro offer: Earn 10,000 points once you make your first purchase. Then, earn 20,000 points by spending $5,000 in the first three months, and earn 30,000 points (2,500 per month) by spending $5,000 each month during the first year. Plus, g​​et an annual fee rebate for the first year for the primary cardholder and 2 additional cardholders. Offer expires May 28, 2023.
• 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.

Best for Aeroplan rewards on business expenses + our pick for the best CIBC business card

CIBC Aeroplan® Visa* Business Plus Card

• Annual Fee
  $120

  Waived first year
• Interest Rates
  19.99% / 22.99%

  19.99% on purchases, 22.99% on cash advances.
• Rewards Rate
  1x-2x Points

  2x 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.
• Intro Offer
  Up to 60,000 Points

  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. 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.

Our Take

Why we like it

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.

Product Details

• 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 Aventura rewards

CIBC Aventura® Visa* Card for Business Plus

• Annual Fee
  $120

  Waived first year
• Interest Rates
  19.99% / 22.99%

  19.99% on purchases, 22.99% on cash advances.
• Rewards Rate
  1x-2x Points

  2x 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.
• Intro Offer
  Up to 60,000 Points

  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.

Our Take

Why we like it

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.

Product Details

• 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 Avion rewards

RBC Avion Visa Infinite Business

• Annual Fee
  $175
• Interest Rates
  19.99% / 22.99%

  19.99% on purchases, 22.99% on cash advances.
• Rewards Rate
  1x-1.25x Points

  1.25x on every dollar spent up to $75,000 in spending every year, then unlimited 1x on purchases.
• Intro Offer
  25,000 Points

  Earn 25,000 Avion Rewards points upon enrollment.

Our Take

Why we like it

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.

Product Details

• 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.

Best overall cash back business card + our pick for the best credit union business card

Meridian Visa Infinite Business Cash Back Plus Card

• Annual Fee
  $110

  Waived first year
• Interest Rates
  19.50%

  19.50% on purchases, 19.50% on cash advances.
• Rewards Rate
  1.5%-3%

  3% cash back on net purchases in foreign currencies and 1.5% cash back on all purchases with no limits.
• Intro Offer
  N/A

Our Take

Why we like it

It may be short on perks, but by offering 1.5% cash back on all purchases, the Meridian Visa Infinite Business Cash Back Plus Card provides a reliable way for businesses to take a bite out of their expenses.

Pros

• The earn rates will be there no matter how much you spend.
• No annual fee in the first year.
• Internationally-minded businesses will love the extensive range of travel insurance offerings and 3% cash back on foreign currency purchases.

Cons

• No welcome bonus or introductory earn rates.
• The income and earnings threshold required for approval may be too high for newer or smaller businesses.
• The 3% earn rate won’t benefit businesses who deal solely in Canadian currency.

Product Details

• Earn 1.5% unlimited cash back on all purchases.
• Earn 3% unlimited cash back on net purchases in foreign currencies.
• Cash back earnings can be redeemed at any time for account credits, travel, event tickets, gift cards and other merchandise.
• Annual fee: $110, but free for the first year.
• Additional card fee: $49.
• Access to Visa expense management tools.
• Visa Infinite Benefits, which include concierge services and exclusive access to luxury hotels, dining events and wine tastings.
• Full suite of travel insurance and services, including: trip cancellation and interruption insurance (up to $2,000 per person), baggage insurance (up to $1,000 per person), common carrier accident protection (up to $1,000,000), auto rental collision/loss insurance, mobile device insurance, purchase protection, extended warranty coverage and 24/7 travel assistance.
• Preferred rates: 19.50% on purchases, 19.50% on cash advances.
• Eligibility requirements: either $60,000 annual personal income, $100,000 annual household income, minimum annual spend of $30,000 on current issuer’s card, assets under management of $250,000, or minimum business annual sales revenue of $500,000.

Best for AIR MILES + our pick for best BMO business card

BMO AIR MILES®† World Elite®* Business Mastercard®*

• Annual Fee
  $149

  Waived first year
• Interest Rates
  19.99% / 22.99%

  19.99% on purchases, 22.99% on cash advances.
• Rewards Rate
  0.08x-0.33x Miles

  1x AIR MILE for every $12 spent and get 4x AIR MILES when you use your card at participating AIR MILES Partners.
• Intro Offer
  3,000 Miles

  Get 3,000 AIR MILES Bonus Miles when you spend at least $5,000 in the first three months. Plus, an annual fee rebate for the first year. Offer ends December 31, 2023.

Our Take

Why we like it

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.

Product Details

• Intro offer: 3,000 AIR MILES Bonus Miles when you spend at least $5,000 in the first three months. Plus, the $149 annual fee is waived for the first year. Offer ends December 31, 2023. Earn 1 AIR MILE for every $12 spent.
• Get 4x the AIR MILE when you use your card at participating AIR MILES partners.
• $149 annual fee, waived in the first year.
• Redeem Miles for travel, office supplies, events, attractions or AIR MILES cash rewards.
• Get up to 22 additional cards so employees can easily make purchases on behalf of your business and help you earn Miles faster.
• Get protection against employee card abuse with Liability Waiver Program.
• Enjoy Airport Lounge Access with complimentary membership in Mastercard Travel Pass provided by DragonPass. As a member enjoy lounge access for a fee of just US$32 per person, per visit. Registration is required.
• Get automatic rebates of 1%-25% when you shop at qualifying merchants with Mastercard Easy Savings.
• Enjoy Travel Protection when you use your Mastercard to book travel arrangements. Coverage includes car rental collision damage waiver, trip cancellation / trip interruption, baggage delay, and more.
• Enjoy 90-day purchase protection and extended warranty protection of up to one additional year on items you charge to the card.
• Comes with five free virtual care visits on Maple, shared by you and your family members. Maple provides access on-demand health care with Canadian-licensed general practitioners 24-hours a day, seven days a week.
• Preferred rates: 20.99% on purchases, 23.99% on cash advances (21.99% for Quebec residents).

Best no-fee business card

BMO CashBack Business Mastercard

• Annual Fee
  $0
• Interest Rates
  19.99% / 22.99%

  19.99% on purchases, and 22.99% on cash advances.
• Rewards Rate
  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.

  0.75%-10%
• Intro Offer
  Up to $150

  Earn 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.

Our Take

Why we like it

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.

Product Details

• Get 10% cash back on gas, office supplies and cellphone and internet bill payments for 3 months!
• $0 annual fee.
• 19.99% interest on purchases, and 22.99% interest on cash advances.
• Earn more cash back on your most common expenses:
• 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.
• Enjoy 90-day purchase protection and extended warranty protection of up to one additional year on items you charge to the card.
• Get protection against employee card abuse with BMO’s Liability Waiver Program.

Best low-interest business card

CIBC bizline® Visa* Card for Business

• Annual Fee
  $0
• Interest Rates
  As low as 7.45%

  Current CIBC Prime Rate + 1.5%
• Rewards Rate
  N/A
• Intro Offer
  N/A

Our Take

Why we like it

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.

Product Details

• 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 business card for balance transfers

Scotia Momentum® for Business Visa* Card

• Annual Fee
  $79
• Interest Rates
  19.99% / 22.99%

  19.99% on purchases, 22.99% on cash advances.
• Intro Interest Rates
  2.99% intro on balance transfers for 6 months

  2.99% introductory interest rate on balance transfers for the first six months of card use (22.99% after that). Offer ends January 3, 2023.
• Balance Transfer Fee
  No fee during promotional period

  There is no balance transfer fee on balances transferred during the Promotional Period. Standard: 5$

Our Take

Why we like it

Growing companies should look at the Scotia Momentum for Business Visa card for its low annual fee, impressive introductory rate for balance transfers, and strong cash back earn rate on common business purchases.

Pros

• A low introductory interest rate on balance transfers, plus 25-day interest-free grace periods on new purchases.
• Plenty of opportunities to earn cash back.
• Potential credit limits range from $500 to $100,000.

Cons

• No reward bonuses upon card approval.
• Few perks beyond relatively limited insurance options.
• The 3% cash back only applies to the first $50,000 in eligible purchases.

Product Details

• Intro offer: 2.99% interest rate on balance transfers, Scotia® Credit Card Cheques and cash-like transactions for the first six months (22.99% after that). This rate cannot be used to transfer a balance from another Scotiabank Account, or to make a payment or deposit to another Scotiabank Account. Offer ends January 3, 2023.
• Earn 3% cash back on recurring bill payments and eligible gas station, restaurant and office supply store purchases — up to a maximum spend of $50,000. 1% cash back after that.
• 1% cash back on all other eligible purchases.
• Cash back rewards can be redeemed as deposits into eligible Scotiabank Canadian Dollar bank accounts or as credits against credit card balances.
• Annual fee: $79 for the primary card and $29 for each supplementary card.
• Credit limit of up to $100,000.
• Insurance offered: out-of province/territory travel emergency medical insurance (up to $1 million each for cardmembers, spouses and dependent children), rental car collision loss/damage insurance (eligible only for rental vehicles valued at less than $65,000), purchase security and extended warranty protection.
• Optional Scotia Business Loan Protection coverage up to $2,000,000.
• Save up to 25% off base rates on car rentals at participating Avis and Budget locations in Canada or the U.S.
• Visa SavingsEdge: receive discounts on business purchases at participating stores.
• Preferred rates: 19.99% on purchases, 22.99% on cash advances, including balance transfers and Scotia Credit Card Cheques.

Best no-foreign-transaction-fee business card

Scotiabank Passport™ Visa Infinite Business* Card

• Annual Fee
  $199
• Interest Rates
  19.99% / 22.99%

  19.99% on purchases, 22.99% on cash advances
• Rewards Rate
  1.5x Points

  Earn 1.5X the Scene+TM* points for every $1 spent on purchases for your business.
• Intro Offer
  Up to 40,000 Points

  Earn up to 40,000 Bonus Scene+ Points: Earn 30,000 bonus Scene+ points when you open a new account by April 30, 2023 and spend $5,000 in the first three months. Earn an additional 10,000 bonus Scene+ points when you spend $60,000 in the first year.

Our Take

Why we like it

Enjoy complimentary access to airport lounges, pay no foreign transaction fees, and earn Scene+ points on every business purchases with the Scotiabank Passport™ Visa Infinite Business* Card.

Pros

• Pay no foreign transaction fees when shopping online or outside of Canada.
• Complimentary Visa Airport Companion Program membership with six airport lounge visits per year.
• Plenty of travel perks and insurance coverage.

Cons

• No accelerated earn rates in specific spending categories.

Product Details

• $199 annual fee.
• Earn 1.5X the Scene+™* points for every $1 spent on purchases for your business.
• Enjoy no Foreign Transaction Fees whether you make purchases online or outside of Canada.
• Get access to airport lounges with your complimentary Visa Airport Companion Program membership when you fly for your business.
• Use your points for travel, merchandise, gift cards for your business and more.
• $10,000 credit limit minimum, up to $150,000 unsecured.
• Most items purchased with your Card are insured against theft, loss or damage for 90 days from the purchase date and the manufacturer’s warranty is doubled for up to one year.
• Turn business purchases into business savings with Visa SavingsEdge.
• Visa Infinite Benefits with your Card which include Visa Infinite Concierge and the Luxury Hotel Collection.
• Travel Emergency Medical Insurance – Breathe easy with comprehensive coverage Coverage is provided for eligible persons under age 65 for up to 25 consecutive days and for eligible persons age 65 and older for up to 10 consecutive days.

Best RBC business card

RBC® Business Cash Back Mastercard‡

• Annual Fee
  $0
• Interest Rates
  19.99% / 22.99%

  19.99% on purchases, 22.99% on cash advances.
• Rewards Rate
  1%-2%

  2% cash back on purchases made in the first three months, and 1% on purchases after that period. $650 annual cash-back cap.
• Intro Offer
  N/A

Our Take

Why we like it

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.

Product Details

• 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.

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Summary of the best business credit cards in Canada

The best business cards from Canada’s big banks

If you prefer to bank with one of Canada’s Big 6 banks, consider these top choices.

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.

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