Business credit card FAQs

FLD is not a lender or a credit broker and does not arrange credit. This is general information, not advice to borrow. Any representative APR shown is an example, not a personal quote: the rate you are offered depends on your circumstances and may be higher.

Important: This guide provides general information, not personalised financial advice. Financial products, rates and eligibility rules can change, so check the provider’s current terms before applying. You can check a firm’s details on the FCA Register.

Quick answer

Straight answers to the questions business owners ask most about credit cards, with links to the detail.

If you only read one thing: a business card works well when you clear it in full every month. If you won’t, the interest rate matters more than anything else.

Who it’s for

  • Owners considering a first business card
  • Directors asked for a personal guarantee
  • Sole traders checking which cards accept them
  • Anyone comparing business and personal cards

Who should skip it

These are general points to weigh up, not advice. These FAQs may not be what you need if:

  • You want to compare cards side by side — see the comparison table
  • Your question is about bank accounts — see business banking FAQs
  • You’re struggling with card debt — speak to a free debt adviser
  • You need regulated borrowing advice

The catch

Card terms vary a lot. Eligibility, fees and liability differ by provider. Check the card’s own terms before applying.

Full explanation

Where to go next

For costs, see Business credit card fees explained and Business credit card APR and fee comparison. For who can apply, see Business credit card eligibility. For the downsides, read The catch with business credit cards.

FAQs

What’s the difference between a business and a personal credit card?

A business card is for business spending and may offer employee cards, expense tools and business rewards. Consumer protections can be thinner.

Who is liable for business card debt?

Sole traders are personally liable. For companies it depends on the card — some use company liability backed by a personal guarantee.

Does Section 75 apply to business cards?

Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act often doesn’t apply to business cards, especially for limited companies. Sole traders and small partnerships may be covered on a regulated card, for single items priced between £100 and £30,000.

What is chargeback?

A card scheme process for disputing a transaction. It isn’t a legal right like Section 75, but it can help when a supplier doesn’t deliver.

Can I give cards to employees?

Many business cards allow it. Capital on Tap offers unlimited free employee cards with spending controls.

Do business cards charge foreign transaction fees?

Many do. Capital on Tap says it charges no FX fees.

Will applying affect my credit score?

A full application usually involves a hard search. Capital on Tap says applying for its card won’t affect your credit score.

Can I use a business card for personal spending?

You shouldn’t. It muddles your records and may breach the card terms.

Which business cards pay cashback?

Of the cards we checked: Barclaycard Select Cashback (1% in months you spend £2,000+), Capital on Tap (1%) and NatWest (1% at fuel and EV charging).

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Written by Steven — Editor, The Finance Lowdown

Fact checked by Angela — Editorial Reviewer

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