Freelancing gives you freedom, but it also means handling expenses, tracking income, and keeping personal and work finances separate. The right credit card can help you stay organized, earn rewards on everyday purchases, and even build credit for future opportunities.

Not all freelancer credit cards are the same. Some prioritize travel rewards. Others offer high cash-back rates or valuable financing options. With so many options, how do you choose the right one? The answer depends on how you run your business.

Can Freelancers Qualify for a Business Credit Card?

Yes. You don’t need a registered business, a tax ID number, or employees to qualify for a business credit card. Freelancers and side hustlers typically apply as sole proprietors using their Social Security Number (SSN) instead of an Employer Identification Number (EIN). Approval is based on personal credit history, so if you have good credit (usually 670 or higher), you stand a strong chance of qualifying. 

The Benefits of a Freelancer Credit Card

Before applying for a business credit card, ask yourself how you might benefit from having one. What do you need it for today—and how might it help you in the future, as your venture grows? Keep these benefits in mind as you evaluate your need for a freelancing credit card: 

  • Higher credit limits that offer more spending power than personal cards.
  • Rewards for spending on categories like office supplies, marketing, and travel.
  • Expense tracking that integrates with accounting and bookkeeping software.
  • Building business credit can help secure better financing in the future.
  • Separate business and personal expenses to keep your finances organized.

Finding the Best Credit Card for Freelancers

How do you spend—and what rewards matter most to you? As you look for the best credit card for your freelance business, consider these factors:

  • Cash Back Rewards. Look for high cash back rates on common freelancer expenses like office supplies, gas, and dining. These rewards put money back into your business.
  • Travel Points. If you travel frequently for work, a card that offers airline miles or hotel rewards can save you hundreds each year on flights and accommodations.
  • Flexible Rewards. Some cards allow you to redeem points for cash, travel, or gift cards, giving you the freedom to choose how you benefit from your spending.
  • 0% Intro APR. A card with a 0% introductory APR can help if you need to make a large purchase and pay it off over time without interest piling up.
  • Welcome Bonuses. Many business credit cards offer sign-up bonuses if you meet a spending requirement within the first few months, providing extra value upfront.
  • Expense Management Tools. Some cards integrate with software like QuickBooks or offer virtual cards, making it easier to track and manage business spending.
  • Purchase Protection & Extended Warranties. If you’re investing in expensive equipment like laptops or cameras, these features can help cover repairs or replacements.
  • Travel Insurance & Rental Car Coverage. For freelancers who travel for work, a card with built-in travel insurance or rental car coverage can offer financial protection.

The 8 Best Credit Cards for Freelancers in 2025

We’ve done our research to find the best credit card for freelancers. These top options offer something unique for every freelancer based on rewards, fees, borrowing terms, and special perks.

1. The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express

Freelancers wear many hats—one day, you’re booking flights for a gig; the next, you’re buying a new laptop. This card earns 2x points on all purchases (up to $50,000 per year), then 1x after that, making it an easy, no-fuss option for varied spending. Plus, you get access to Amex Membership Rewards transfer partners, adding even more flexibility to your points.

  • Annual Fee: $0
  • Welcome Offer: 15,000 points after spending $3,000 in the first 3 months

2. Bank of America® Business Advantage Customized Cash Rewards Mastercard®

Not all freelancers spend the same way. This card gives you the freedom of choice. You get to pick a 3% cash-back category—gas, office supplies, or travel—so your biggest expenses earn the most rewards. You also get 2% back on dining, making it great if client meetings (or solo coffee shop work sessions) are a regular part of your routine.

  • Annual Fee: $0
  • Welcome Offer: $300 statement credit after spending $3,000 in the first 90 days

3. Ink Business Cash® Credit Card

Spend a lot on office essentials? You’re going to want this card. You’ll earn 5% cash back on office supplies and internet services (up to $25,000 annually), plus 2% on gas and dining, making it perfect for remote workers and road warriors alike.

  • Annual Fee: $0
  • Welcome Offer: Up to $750 bonus cash back after qualifying purchases

4. Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

This card is a must-have for freelancers who travel and advertise heavily online. If your expenses include Facebook ads, shipping, and travel, this card is designed for you. It offers 3x points on travel, internet, shipping, and social media ad spending (up to $150,000 per year)—ideal if you invest in digital marketing or work with clients around the world. It even includes trip cancellation insurance and cellphone protection.

  • Annual Fee: $95
  • Welcome Offer: 90,000 bonus points after spending $8,000 in the first 3 months

5. Capital One Spark Miles for Business

Frequent flyer? Capital One’s Spark Miles for business is perfect if you’re always on the move, delivering unlimited 2x miles on every purchase—no tracking categories, no limits. Plus, it comes with a Global Entry/TSA PreCheck credit, saving you time at airport security, and has no foreign transaction fees, making international work trips a breeze.

  • Annual Fee: $95 (waived first year)
  • Welcome Offer: 50,000 miles after spending $4,500 in the first 3 months

6. The American Express Blue Business Cash™ Card

Freelancers love simplicity, and this card delivers. You earn 2% cash back on all eligible purchases (up to $50,000 per year), then 1% thereafter, making it an excellent choice for everyday business expenses without having to think about bonus categories. It also comes with purchase protection and an extended warranty—great for tech gear and office upgrades.

  • Annual Fee: $0
  • Welcome Offer: $250 statement credit after spending $3,000 in the first 3 months

7. The Business Platinum Card® from American Express

This is the ultimate card for premium travel benefits. If you love luxury and being on the go, this card is stacked with perks: 5x points on airfare and hotels booked via Amex Travel, free VIP airport lounge access, and elite hotel status. It’s ideal for high-spending freelancers who want premium business travel benefits.

  • Annual Fee: $695
  • Welcome Offer: 150,000 points after spending $20,000 in the first 3 months

8. Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card

Looking for a flat-rate cashback option with no annual fee? For freelancers who need straightforward, unlimited cash back, this card delivers 1.5% back on every purchase—no spending caps, no tracking categories. Plus, it comes with purchase protection and extended warranties, perfect for those big business investments.

  • Annual Fee: $0
  • Welcome Offer: $750 cash back after spending $6,000 in the first 3 months

Applying for a Business Credit Card as a Freelancer

So, you’ve decided you need a credit card for your freelancing business. Luckily, the application process is easier than you might think—and if you have good credit, your chances of approval are high. Here’s what to do:

  1. Check Your Credit Score. Most business credit cards require good to excellent credit (typically 670+). Check your credit report through a free service like Credit Karma or directly from the credit bureaus (Experian, Equifax, or TransUnion).
  2. Choose the Right Card. Look for a card that aligns with your spending habits and needs, such as cash-back rewards, travel points, or a 0% intro APR for large purchases. Compare fees, interest rates, and benefits before deciding.
  3. Gather Required Information. Even as a freelancer, you’ll need to provide business details, including:
    1. Business name (use your legal name if you’re a sole proprietor)
    2. Business structure (sole proprietorship, LLC, etc.)
    3. Industry type (e.g., marketing, graphic design, consulting)
    4. Years in business (use the year you started freelancing)
    5. Estimated annual income (combine personal and business income if needed)
    6. Employer Identification Number (EIN) or Social Security Number (SSN)
  4. Apply Online. Most business credit card applications are completed online. Visit the issuer’s website, fill out the application, and double-check your information for accuracy before submitting.
  5. Wait for Approval. Instant decisions are common, but some applications may take a few days if additional verification is needed. If approved, you’ll receive your credit limit and card details.
  6. Activate and Set Up Account Management. Once your card arrives, activate it and set up an online account to track spending, automate payments, and integrate with accounting software if applicable.

Spend Wisely, Save Strategically

The best credit card for freelancers is the one that helps you spend smarter. Want to get even more benefits? Pair it with a high-yield checking account helps you save smarter.

If you’re looking for a business checking account that lets your money work for you, North One offers 1% cash back on fuel, 4% cash back at restaurants and hotels, and up to 3% APY on cash balances—so your money never sits idly. Take the next step toward smarter business banking and open your high-yield business checking account today!