Whether you're a freelancer, solopreneur, or running a small startup, keeping your business expenses organized is crucial. One of the smartest financial tools for entrepreneurs is a business credit card, especially one with no annual fee. These cards help separate personal and business expenses, build business credit, and often provide valuable rewards—all without the added cost of yearly fees.
In this guide, we highlight the top 5 business credit cards with no annual fee available in the U.S. for freelancers, startups, and small business owners in 2025.
Why Get a Business Credit Card?
Even if you work solo, having a business credit card offers several benefits:
✔ Keeps business and personal expenses separate
✔ Helps build your business credit profile
✔ Offers rewards on business purchases
✔ Simplifies expense tracking for taxes
✔ Provides access to employee cards and spending controls
The good news is that many excellent business credit cards come with no annual fee, making them ideal for new or small businesses trying to manage costs.
Top 5 No Annual Fee Business Credit Cards for 2025
1. Chase Ink Business Cash® Credit Card
Key Features:
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5% cashback on office supplies, internet, cable, and phone services (up to $25,000 annually)
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2% cashback at gas stations and restaurants (up to $25,000 annually)
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1% cashback on all other purchases
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0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months
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No annual fee
Why It’s Great:
Perfect for freelancers and small business owners who spend heavily on office supplies or utilities. Plus, the cashback structure helps put real money back into your business.
2. American Express Blue Business Cash™ Card
Key Features:
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2% cashback on all eligible purchases up to $50,000 per year
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1% cashback on purchases after $50,000
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Expanded buying power that adjusts to your business needs
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No annual fee
Why It’s Great:
Simple, flat-rate cashback with no complicated categories. Ideal for freelancers or startups with varied monthly expenses.
3. Capital One Spark 1.5% Cash Select for Business
Key Features:
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Unlimited 1.5% cashback on every purchase
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$500 cash bonus after spending $4,500 in the first 3 months
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No annual fee
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Free employee cards
Why It’s Great:
This card provides straightforward rewards with no category restrictions, making it suitable for entrepreneurs who want consistent cashback without complexity.
4. Brex Card for Startups
Key Features:
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No personal guarantee required
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7x points on rideshare, 4x on travel, 3x on dining, 2x on software, 1x on all other purchases
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No annual fee
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Integrated with accounting tools like QuickBooks and Expensify
Why It’s Great:
Tailored for startups and tech entrepreneurs. Unlike many business cards, the Brex Card doesn’t require a personal credit check or guarantee.
5. Bank of America® Business Advantage Customized Cash Rewards Mastercard®
Key Features:
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3% cashback in a category of your choice (gas, office supplies, travel, etc.)
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2% cashback at restaurants
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1% cashback on all other purchases
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No annual fee
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$300 online cash rewards bonus after spending $3,000 in the first 90 days
Why It’s Great:
The customizable cashback category lets freelancers and business owners maximize rewards based on their unique spending habits.
What to Consider Before Applying
While these cards offer excellent perks, make sure to evaluate:
✔ Your Business Structure: Most cards require a business name and Tax ID, but sole proprietors can often use their Social Security number.
✔ Credit Requirements: Many no-annual-fee business cards still require good to excellent personal credit (typically 670+ FICO score).
✔ Spending Categories: Choose a card that aligns with your business expenses to maximize rewards.
✔ Intro Bonuses: Look for signup bonuses that offer extra value if you can meet the spending requirements.
Building Business Credit as a Freelancer or Startup
Even if you’re just starting out, using a business credit card responsibly helps establish your business credit profile. This can lead to:
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Easier approval for future loans or lines of credit
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Higher credit limits over time
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Better financing options for business growth
Final Thoughts: The Right Card Can Boost Your Business
A no-annual-fee business credit card is a simple yet powerful financial tool for freelancers and small business owners. Whether you prioritize cashback, rewards, or building business credit, the options above offer excellent value without cutting into your bottom line.
By choosing the right card and using it wisely, you can simplify expense management, earn valuable rewards, and set your business on the path to financial success—all without paying an annual fee.