When talking about business credit cards, you probably often hear that it is better to shop around and compare the different business credit card products. Perhaps you have been wondering what comparing business credit cards really entail. The task of comparing business credit cards involves an examination of all the factors and features and not only the offered rate of interest or the nature of rewards.
The reason that there are so many types of business credit cards on the market ? even from within the stable of the same business credit card issuer ? is that each of these addresses a different set of needs. Your particular business needs will therefore dictate the type of business credit card you should be applying for.
There are a number of established business credit card brands, each with a distinctive package of benefits that may be markedly similar in some ways, yet discernibly different in terms of their features.
Those who do a lot of traveling may be attracted to American express business credit cards. Bear in mind that you must have good credit ratings when applying for this business credit card brand as their standards for business credit card approvals favor only those with good to excellent credit. In exchange, you gain access to a fine range of travel benefits from a company that has catered for the needs of travelers for decades.
The more generally available business credit cards are Visa and MasterCard, because of the fact that these are issued by a plethora of member banks. These banks are seriously competing for your business, so you are likely to benefit from variations in rates and several rewards programs. The other business credit card brands ? Discover and Diners ? may not have as many banks issuing them, but they do have attractive features for business credit card holders.
In studying the particular needs of your business situation, you probably will want to look at zero APR business credit cards for balance transfers if you owe some money on your existing cards. Almost all the business credit cards offer the zero APR for balances transferred from other business credit cards within a specified introductory period. This can range from 6 months to 13 months. Those who want to save on interest would probably be inclined to those business credit cards that offer longer introductory periods. You should take note of the prevailing APR once the introductory period expires. Some business credit card issuers may impose higher APR than others.
Those who need to lower the effective cost of their purchases, especially for everyday items like gasoline, office supplies, courier expenses and the like, will probably prefer those business credit cards with favorable rewards and cash back rates. There are many business credit cards that offer 3 percent cash back on these purchases, but a few others will give as much as 5 percent. This could add up to substantial savings. Remember to compare your estimated savings from these cash back business credit cards against the annual fees charged by the business credit card issuer: some cash back business credit cards may have higher annual fees than others.
Those who are still trying to establish (or in some cases, re-establish) credit for their business should look for business credit cards that cater to those with bad credit. These offer special terms that enable you to rebuild your credit. Remember to try establishing your credit reports with business credit bureaus, like Dun & Bradstreet.
Mastercard Business Credit Cards
Whether a business credit card appeals to you for simplicity and convenience or because it provides good record-keeping, there is still more you need to know. The annual fee for business credit cards can be higher than for personal credit cards.
You might pay as much as $150 a year for cards with more bells and whistles. But if you just need to get credit for basic purchases, look for a card with an introductory 0% APR.
That means you pay no interest for a stated period, which can be 6 months up to a year or more. This is great for a new business when so many expenses occur in the first year. It looks like an interest free loan.
The due date on your billing cycle is the absolute last day your payment must be received by the company, not the next day or the day after. Late fees can run as high as $35 or more for each late payment.
If you have a variable rate APR, you will find that the credit card company will kick up your interest rate as a further penalty for chronic late payments. Some cards, like American Express, expect that you will pay the balance each month or in full. Know the terms before you choose a credit card to fit your situation.
The Annual Percentage Rate is the amount of interest you pay on the credit card balance. Choose a fixed rate - not a variable. Not only can the company hike the rate for late payments, but a variable rate can be changed at any time without warning. That is tough on your budgeting.
If you got stuck with a variable or high rate card that is getting painfully expensive, look for a new card with a free introductory transfer of balance offer. Moving your debt to the lower rate card saves you money.
Late paying clients put every business in a bind. If you need cash to tide the business over, you can get cash advances immediately from some credit cards. Be careful not to overuse this. Save it for real emergencies. The interest rate on cash advances is usually much higher than it is for purchases.
If you have a problem or need information fast, how can you get it? Is your credit cards help system limited to web page FAQs, or can you connect with a live person? In shopping for a business credit card, contact the customer service number and see what kind of response you get. You want a credit card company that makes it easy for you to get support online or by telephone - at least a major portion of the business day.
Do not go overboard applying for a business credit card if you are operating as a small business entity such as a DBA. The credit will be built under your social security number, so you want to make sure you are able to effectively manage the debt.
Both Creditwisdom & Shellaine Enfesta are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
Creditwisdom has sinced written about articles on various topics from Business Credit Cards, Franchise and American Express Card. Devin Gilliland Provides Expert opinions and reviews to help you Compare and - Search. Creditwisdom's top article generates over 14800 views. to your Favourites.
Designer T Shirts Online On the safe side, the money-back guarantee that most products are shipped with will ensure that you get complete quality, or your money back