The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express is a versatile and powerful tool designed specifically for small business owners looking to maximize their everyday purchases. With its array of benefits and features, this card stands out in the crowded marketplace of business credit cards.
Whether you are a startup founder or a seasoned entrepreneur, the Blue Business® Plus Credit Card offers you the financial flexibility and rewards you need to support your business’s growth. From competitive interest rates to valuable rewards points, this card is built to help you manage your business expenses efficiently.
Key information about the credit card
How does the annual fee work?
One of the most attractive features of the Blue Business® Plus Credit Card is its $0 annual fee. This aspect is particularly important for small business owners who are mindful of their expenses. A card with no annual fee means that you can enjoy all the benefits without worrying about an additional cost eating into your business’s budget.
How is the credit limit determined?
The credit limit on the Blue Business® Plus Credit Card is determined through a combination of factors including your credit history, financial resources, and payment history. American Express offers a unique feature called Expanded Buying Power, which allows you to exceed your credit limit when necessary, offering flexibility that adapts to your business’s evolving needs.
Advantages of the credit card
- 2X Membership Rewards® points on everyday purchases: Earn 2X points on the first $50,000 spent annually on eligible purchases, making it easier to rack up rewards quickly. This is especially beneficial for businesses with regular, high-volume expenses.
- 0% introductory APR on purchases for 12 months: Enjoy a 0% introductory APR on purchases for the first 12 months, allowing you to finance large purchases or manage cash flow without accruing interest.
- No annual fee: With no annual fee, you can keep your costs low while enjoying premium benefits.
- Flexible payment options: With Expanded Buying Power, you can exceed your credit limit when necessary, providing extra flexibility for your business.
- Broad acceptance: American Express is accepted at 99% of places in the U.S. that take credit cards, according to the Feb 2023 Nilson Report, ensuring you can use your card almost anywhere.
Standout advantage
The standout advantage of the Blue Business® Plus Credit Card is undoubtedly its 2X Membership Rewards® points on the first $50,000 spent annually on eligible purchases. This rewards structure is particularly advantageous for businesses that have significant everyday expenses.
Whether you are purchasing office supplies, covering travel costs, or paying for advertising, the ability to earn double points on these transactions can translate into substantial rewards over time.
Disadvantages
- Limited 2X points earnings: The 2X points are capped at $50,000 per year, after which you earn 1X points. For businesses with higher spending, this cap could limit the potential rewards.
- Variable APR after introductory period: After the 12-month introductory period, the APR jumps to a variable rate of 18.49% – 26.49%, which could be high depending on your creditworthiness.
- Limited travel perks: Unlike some other business credit cards, this card doesn’t offer extensive travel benefits such as lounge access or travel credits.
A standout disadvantage
A notable disadvantage of the Blue Business® Plus Credit Card is the cap on earning 2X points. After spending $50,000 annually, any additional purchases only earn 1X points. For businesses that have high annual expenditures, this limitation can significantly reduce the potential rewards value. If your business spends well over $50,000 per year, this cap might make other cards with higher or uncapped earning potential more attractive.
Who can apply for this card?
To apply for the Blue Business® Plus Credit Card, applicants must meet certain criteria. You need to be at least 18 years old, and while there is no specific minimum income requirement listed, your income level will likely impact the credit limit that American Express offers you. Applicants should have a good to excellent credit score, typically meaning a score of 670 or higher.
American Express will also consider your business’s financials, including revenue and existing debt, as part of their evaluation process. This card is designed for business owners, so you will need to provide your business details during the application process. It is important to note that the card may not be suitable for those with poor credit or those who are new to credit, as approval is more difficult without a strong credit history.
How to apply for the Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express
For the website
To apply for the Blue Business® Plus Credit Card online, you can visit the American Express website. The process begins by filling out an application form where you will need to provide personal information, such as your name, address, and Social Security number, as well as business information, including your business’s legal name, address, and annual revenue.
This is particularly useful for business owners who want to explore their options without a hard inquiry affecting their credit. Once you’ve submitted your application, you can typically expect a decision within minutes, although in some cases, additional review may be required.
Through the app
Applying through the American Express mobile app is another convenient option. The app is user-friendly and allows you to complete the application process from your smartphone or tablet. After downloading the app, you can log in or create an account, then navigate to the business card section where you can find the Blue Business® Plus Credit Card.
The application process is similar to the online method, where you will provide both personal and business information. The app also allows you to track the status of your application in real-time. Additionally, if you’re an existing American Express customer, the app may pre-fill some of your information, making the process even quicker.
At the branch
If you prefer a more personalized experience, you can apply for the Blue Business® Plus Credit Card at a participating American Express branch or store. This method allows you to speak directly with a representative who can answer any questions you might have about the card or the application process. You will need to bring identification and business documentation to complete the application.
Applying in person can be beneficial if you have complex questions or need clarification on certain aspects of the card’s terms and conditions. However, it’s worth noting that applying in person might take longer than online or app-based applications due to the need for manual processing.
