Business credit cards are an incredible way to rack up points and miles — and here’s the kicker: you don’t need a formal business to get one! That's right, anyone earning income through side hustles or freelance work can apply for a business credit card. In this article, discover how business cards can be the ultimate travel strategy, even if you're not running a million-dollar company.
You Don’t Need a Business to Apply
When most people hear the word "business," they immediately think of a large corporation with employees, high expenses, and lots of paperwork. But, if you earn income independently (whether from freelance work, selling items online, or even side gigs like dog walking), you can apply for a business credit card. Just use your Social Security number instead of an Employer Identification Number (EIN), and you're in.
This opens up a whole new world of miles and points. For example, even in college, one individual turned side hustles like flipping laptops into major points by using a business credit card to purchase and sell items. Every dollar spent led to more rewards points, and ultimately, free travel! Once you’ve unlocked this secret, it’s time to explore which cards can really work for you.
There are several top picks that make earning points easy, and here are a few standout choices:
Our Top Pick: Capital One Venture X Business
If you want a powerful card that works for just about any type of business spending, the Venture X Business is a really great choice.
Here’s why:
Generous Welcome Offer – Earn 150,000 bonus miles once you spend $30,000 in the first 3 months from account opening.
Flat-Rate Earnings – 2x miles on every purchase, with no complicated categories
Premium Travel Perks – Access to Priority Pass lounges (after enrollment), an annual travel credit, and no preset spending limit
The $395 annual fee is easy to offset if you travel even a few times a year. Whether you’re booking flights, hotel stays, or transferring miles to airline partners, this card offers both flexibility and long-term value.
Chase Ink Business Cards
For those just starting out with business credit cards, the Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card is a fantastic option. With a welcome offer of $750 Bonus Points, this card also offers 1.5% cash back on all purchases.
But here’s the fun part: when paired with a Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card (which earns Chase points), you can turn your cashback into Chase Ultimate Rewards, giving you far more value for your spending.
The Ink Business Preferred is another top contender, offering a massive welcome offer of 90,000 Bonus Points after meeting the spending requirement.
If you can pay your business taxes with this card (a strategy many don’t realize), the rewards can far outweigh the small processing fees, especially when redeeming points for travel. This card is great for those looking to earn points while also benefiting from a relatively low $95.
If you’re ready to step up to a premium option, the Amex Business Platinum could be the one for you. With an $695 (Rates & Fees), it’s a higher investment, but it comes with impressive perks like access to airport lounges, annual credits, and the potential for a 150,000 Bonus Points welcome offer. If your business has high expenses, this card offers a no preset spending limit, meaning you can make big purchases without hitting a credit cap.
This card is perfect for those who travel often and need a card that offers serious benefits. Just keep in mind that it’s a charge card, so it must be paid in full each month, but that’s the price for premium travel rewards.
Which Business Credit Card Is Right for You?
When deciding which business credit card is best for you, the amount you spend is key. Think about your spending habits and travel goals:
Want premium perks and simple, flat-rate rewards? Go with the Venture X Business.
Want to build a flexible points strategy? Pair the Ink Business Preferred with the Ink Business Unlimited.
Spend big and travel often? The Amex Business Platinum could be your top choice.
Again, consider your business expenses and the categories where you spend the most. Some cards offer higher multipliers on specific spending categories, so choose one that matches your spending patterns. Plus, be sure to look at each card’s transfer partners, especially if you plan to use points for travel.
Bottom Line
No matter how small your business is, the right card can transform everyday expenses into free flights, luxury hotel stays, and unforgettable trips. The key is to choose a card that aligns with your spending and to take full advantage of its welcome offer and perks.
