The Role of Business Cards in Earning Points and Miles for Travel

Business credit cards are essential for anyone looking to maximize their points and miles earnings. You can enjoy more free or discounted travel by leveraging the higher earning potential with large sign-up bonuses that come with business cards.

My History with Business Credit Cards

During the first few years of my points and miles hobby, I completely ignored business credit cards.  I was intimidated by the high spending threshold for Sign-Up Bonuses and I was under the illusion that I needed a “formal” business. 

My Business

Eventually, when I better understood our spending habits, I knew we could meet the sign-up bonus. More importantly, I learned that I do not need an LLC or a “real” business.  For years I have sold stuff on Facebook marketplace and eBay.  This, my friends, is my business. 

My business is a Sole Proprietorship in the retail resale industry.  I am the owner, operator, and obviously always the employee of the month. My revenue is fairly low and I would blame the management but, well that’s me. 

These cards are designed for business owners but can also be leveraged to significantly boost your travel rewards balance.  Here’s how business credit cards can play a key role for you.

Sign-Up Bonuses

Business credit cards often come with larger sign-up bonuses than personal credit cards which can significantly jump-start your travel rewards balance. Keep in mind those larger sign-up bonuses also require a higher minimum spending amount. 

As long as you know that you can achieve the minimum spend requirement without going over budget, business cards are a no-brainer for your points and miles journey. 

Spending Categories

When we are looking for cards to add to our wallet it is good to consider categories of spending that you have not maximized.  Business cards often reward spending in areas like internet, and phone bills. 

Increased Spending Limits

We had an unfortunate GIANT air conditioner bill last year and needed an equally giant credit limit so that we could pay the bill on a credit card.  Business credit cards often come with higher credit limits than personal cards, which is beneficial when you have larger personal expenses (taxes, home improvements, tuition, etc).

Transferable Points for Flexibility

Many business credit cards earn points in transferable loyalty programs, meaning you can move your points between various airline and hotel partners for more flexible travel redemption options.

Some of My Favorite Business Credit Cards

Chase Ink Business Preferred

• Typical SUB: 90,000 points after spending $8,000 in the first 3 months.
• Bonus Categories: 3x points for Internet, cable, and phone services.
• Other perks: Trip cancellation and interruption insurance, rental car collision coverage
• Annual Fee: $95

American Express Business Platinum

• Typical SUB: 150,000 points after spending $20,000 in the first 3 months.
• Bonus Categories:1.5x points at hardware stores.
• Other perks: Lounge access, hotel status upgrades, Global Entry/TSA PreCheck credit, $400 Dell Credit, $200 Airline Credit, $120 Wireless Phone Credit, cell phone insurance
• Annual Fee: $695

I hope the benefits I’ve mentioned have you thinking about cleaning out those closets and starting your own resale business. While business credit cards are not essential for award travel they can certainly provide a points and miles boost when needed and I hope you consider expanding your credit card inventory to include Business cards.