Key Points
- Unlock
hidden savings and perks with category-specific cards.
- Use
AMEX and Chase offers to gain extra points or cashback on purchases.
- Shop
via rewards portals like Rakuten to maximize earning potential.
- Stack
multiple rewards for maximum value in each transaction.
- Take
advantage of signup bonuses to quickly build up points.
- Stay
informed on upcoming perks and product updates from major card
issuers.
Introduction
Business credit cards are powerful tools for entrepreneurs.
Beyond basic spending, they offer exclusive perks and rewards that can turn
everyday expenses into significant savings, free travel, and more. If you’re
looking to unlock the full potential of your business credit cards, here are
some strategies and secrets to get you started.
6 Secret Power of Business Credit Cards
1. Make the Most of Category-Specific Rewards
Many business credit cards offer higher rewards in specific
spending categories. Using the right card for the right expense can increase
your earnings significantly. Here’s a quick look at some common categories and
their potential reward rates:
|
Spending Category |
Ideal Card to Use |
Potential Reward Rate |
|
Dining |
Dining rewards credit card |
Up to 4 points per dollar |
|
Travel (Flights) |
Travel-specific credit card |
Up to 5 points per dollar |
|
Office Supplies |
Cards with office perks |
Varies by card |
Using a dining rewards card for meals and a travel card for
flights can maximize your points in these categories, letting you redeem
rewards faster.
2. Tap Into Special Offers from AMEX and Chase
American Express and Chase offer exclusive deals for
cardholders, allowing you to earn extra rewards or receive statement credits.
These offers are available in the form of:
- Spend-and-Save
Deals: Spend a certain amount at a specific merchant and receive a
statement credit (like a $100 credit when you spend $500 at a
participating hotel).
- Extra
Points on Purchases: Earn additional points for spending at select
stores.
These special offers can often be added directly to your
card, allowing you to earn or save more on regular expenses.
3. Earn Extra Rewards Through Rakuten and Other Portals
Shopping through online portals like Rakuten is a simple way
to earn even more rewards on purchases. Here’s how it works:
- Visit
Rakuten and select the store where you plan to shop.
- Click
through Rakuten’s link to access the store.
- Earn
cashback, which can be redeemed as AMEX points.
During major sales events, Rakuten offers up to 15% cashback
or 5 AMEX points per dollar. Using portals like Rakuten can help you earn extra
rewards on top of your credit card’s points, stacking even more savings.
4. Stack Rewards and Deals for Maximum Savings
Combining various deals, cashback, and points is one of the
best ways to unlock the hidden power of business credit cards. Here’s a
step-by-step on how to stack rewards effectively:
- Use
a rewards portal like Rakuten to start the purchase.
- Add
an AMEX or Chase offer on your card for extra points or cashback.
- Shop
during a sale for additional discounts.
For example, if you’re purchasing office supplies, you might
start by shopping through Rakuten to get cashback, then apply an AMEX offer on
your card for additional savings. By stacking multiple rewards and offers, you
can maximize your total value per purchase.
5. Maximize Signup Bonuses for Quick Rewards
Signup bonuses are a fast and easy way to build up your
rewards points. Some cards offer bonuses worth tens of thousands of points
after meeting a spending requirement. Here’s how to make the most of signup
bonuses:
- Open
multiple cards with different EINs (Employer Identification Numbers)
if you have multiple businesses. Some issuers, like Chase, allow
entrepreneurs to open the same card with different EINs.
- Time
large purchases to align with the spending requirement. If you’re
planning on buying new equipment, consider using a new card to quickly
reach the minimum spend for a bonus.
Signup bonuses are one of the fastest ways to earn enough
points for significant rewards, like business class flights or hotel stays.
6. Stay Up-to-Date on Product Refreshes and New Perks
Credit card companies frequently update their products to
stay competitive. American Express, for instance, is refreshing several of its
cards this year, which may bring new benefits for business cardholders.
Additionally, banks are expanding airport lounge offerings:
- AMEX
Centurion Lounges: Popular for comfort and amenities, found in major
airports.
- Capital One Lounges: Gaining popularity, offering high-quality spaces for
travelers.
- Chase Sapphire Lounges: New on the scene, these lounges are a part of
Chase’s growing list of perks.
With growing competition among banks to offer better lounge
options, more choices will likely be available for business travelers soon.
7. Follow Credit Card Experts for the Latest Offers and Tips
To keep up with changing offers and make the most of your
rewards, follow credit card experts and bloggers. Top resources include:
- Doctor
of Credit
- The
Points Guy
- One
Mile at a Time
These resources offer news on card updates, tips for
maximizing points, and insights into credit card rewards strategies. Starting
with these sites will help you stay informed and make the most of your business
credit cards.
Conclusion
Business credit cards offer much more than just
convenience—they provide opportunities to save, earn travel rewards, and even
access exclusive experiences. By using the right cards for specific expenses,
taking advantage of special offers, and stacking rewards, you can unlock the
secret power of business credit cards. Follow these strategies, stay updated on
new perks, and watch your rewards grow as you turn everyday spending into
valuable benefits.