These types of credit cards are issued by the banks or card companies specifically for use by a registered business. They are used by the business for any kind of expense related to the business and make tracking of expenditures easier for the company. Business credit card use has grown substantially in recent years. In 1998 only 37% of small businesses said they had a business credit card but by 2009 over 64% of businesses were using a specialized credit card for their business.

The reason for using a business credit card is that they offer a number of special features that can be invaluable to a small business. Many of these cards offer special rewards or bonuses on items like office supplies, business travel and the purchase of technological items for the business. Most banks or credit card issuing companies use the personal credit score of the business owner and additionally other sources of income may also be used to qualify the card applicant, this does mean that the cards are not generally available for newly established businesses. Additionally the use of a business credit card means that the owner’s personal credit is not affected by the use of the card or the business activities they engage in.

All major card issuers will offer business credit cards. American Express, Visa or MasterCard can offer the service either through their own offices or in conjunction with a bank. The only card issuer that offers a charge card is American Express. The difference between a credit card and a charge card is that a charge card is due in full at the end of a month whereas the credit card issuer will allow you to carry a balance.