Finding the right business credit card can give your company a real advantage, helping you manage spending, improve cash flow, and earn valuable rewards. Whether you want to track expenses, build credit, or take pressure off your cash reserves, the right card can make business finances easier.
But with so many options available, each with different fees, interest rates, and perks, it can be hard to know which one is best for your business.
In this guide, we’ll break down how business credit cards work, which features to look for, and compare some of the top business credit cards available in Canada.
We’ll also show how pairing a traditional business credit card with a modern smart corporate card, like the OFX Corporate Card, can give you added flexibility while keeping your everyday spending under control.
Jump to:
• What is a business credit card?
• How business credit cards work
• What to look for in a business credit card
• Comparing the best business credit cards in Canada
• Which business credit card should you choose?
• The benefits of business credit cards
• Business credit cards vs business debit cards
• Should you use a business credit card or a debit card?
• Learn more about the OFX Corporate Card
What is a business credit card?
A business credit card is a tool that helps companies manage everyday expenses, control cash flow, and keep track of spending. It works like a personal credit card, but it’s designed to keep personal and business expenses separate, making it easier to track spending, manage budgets, and stay organised.
Business credit cards often come with higher credit limits, options for multiple users, and rewards like cashback or travel points. These features are designed to support business operations.
When used wisely, a business credit card can:
- Cover short-term business costs
- Earn rewards such as cashback or travel points
- Build your company’s credit score over time
- Offer a buffer during tight cash flow periods
The best cards make it easier to manage spending, simplify expense reporting, and unlock extra value on your purchases.
How business credit cards work.
When you use a business credit card, your card provider pays the merchant and extends a line of credit to your business. You could have an interest-free period, usually between 44 and 55 days, to repay the balance. If you don’t repay the full amount by the due date, interest is charged on the remaining balance.
Business credit cards often include helpful features to simplify spending, reporting, and access to expense management tools, such as:
- Spending limits for individual employees or departments
- Detailed statements to support reconciliation
- Integration with accounting software for easier expense tracking
However, it’s essential to manage repayments carefully to avoid unnecessary debt. This can help to ensure your company maintains a good credit history and avoids business credit card liability.
Keep in mind that business credit cards may require an individual, often the business owner, to be personally responsible if payments aren’t made, even if the charges were made by employees.
OFX Corporate Card
Access to 30+ currencies directly linked to your business account, reducing unnecessary exchange conversions when you spend in those currencies.

What to look for in a business credit card.
Finding the right card means knowing which features work best for your business needs. Here are some key factors to consider when comparing your options:
Interest Rates and Annual Fees
If you think you might carry a balance, look for a card with a low or competitive interest rate. Some providers offer low introductory rates on new cards and balance transfers, which can be useful when managing large early expenses.
Annual fees can range widely. Some cards waive the fee in the first year, while premium cards may charge $300 or more. Higher fees often come with better rewards, travel perks, or extra services, so it’s worth weighing the cost against the benefits.
Credit Limit
Choose a card with a credit limit that fits your business purchases and typical monthly needs. Some cards increase your limit over time, based on your payment history and business credit score. A higher limit can help if you have big recurring expenses or multiple team members using the card.
Rewards and Frequent Flyer Programs
Select a rewards program that aligns with your everyday business spending. Many cards offer:
- Points for travel or everyday purchases
- Cashback on fuel, office supplies, or food delivery
- Discounts with partner merchants
If you or your staff travel often, look for cards that let you earn travel points across multiple cardholders and redeem them for flights, hotels, or upgrades.
Expense Tracking Tools
Cards that connect with accounting software can help save time and reduce admin. Look for features like:
- Real-time spend alerts
- Automatic transaction categorisation
- Downloadable statements
- Integration with software like Xero, QuickBooks, or Wave
These tools make it easier to manage cash flow and prepare for tax time.
Multi-User Access
If you have more than one person making purchases, choose a card that allows additional cardholders. Many providers let you issue separate credit cards to multiple users under one account, with tools to:
- Set spending limits by user
- Get alerts for each transaction
- Track and report on individual card usage
This kind of control helps keep business spending organised and under control.
Comparing the best business credit cards in Canada.
Now that we’ve covered the key features to look for, let’s take a closer look at some of the most popular and highly rated business credit cards currently available in Canada. Each card offers something unique, from low interest rates to premium perks or valuable rewards.
1. American Express Business Edge Card 1
This card is ideal for small business owners seeking strong rewards on business purchases and other everyday spending. It offers high earn rates on common business expenses and flexible redemption options.
Features & Rewards:
- Earn 3 Membership Rewards points per $1 spent on eligible office supplies, electronics, gas, and food and drinks
- Earn 1 point per $1 on all other purchases
- Up to 67,000 welcome bonus points
- Points can be redeemed for travel, gift cards, merchandise, or statement credits
- Free supplementary cards for employees
Interest Rates & Fees:
- 19.99% interest rate on purchases
- No cash advance facility
- Up to 55 interest-free days
- $99 annual fee
This card suits small businesses looking to maximize rewards on everyday business expenses while keeping annual fees low.
2. BMO Ascend World Elite Business Mastercard 2
Designed for businesses that want to earn flexible rewards and enjoy travel perks, this card offers high earn rates on key business categories.
Features & Rewards:
- Earn 4 BMO Rewards points per $1 spent on gas, office supplies, and recurring internet/phone payments
- Earn 1.5 points per $1 on all other purchases
- Up to 100,000 welcome bonus pointsPoints can be redeemed for travel, merchandise, or cash deposits into BMO investment accounts
- Points can be redeemed for travel, merchandise, or cash deposits into BMO investment accounts
- 2 complimentary airport lounge visits per year
- Liability Waiver Program for employee card misuse
Interest Rates & Fees:
- 17.99% interest rate on purchases
- Up to 22 additional cards for employees
- $149 annual fee (waived in the first year)
This card is appealing for businesses with significant spending on gas, office supplies, and telecommunications, offering strong rewards and travel benefits.
3. RBC Avion Visa Infinite Business 3
For businesses seeking premium travel rewards and comprehensive insurance coverage, this card provides valuable Avion points and exclusive perks.
Features & Rewards:
- Earn 1.25 Avion points per $1 spent on net purchases, up to $75,000 per year
- 35,000 welcome bonus points
- Access to over 1,200 airport lounges worldwide via Visa Airport Companion Program
- Points can be redeemed for flights, hotels, car rentals, or transferred to airline partners
- Comprehensive travel insurance coverage, including baggage delay insurance, flight delay insurance, and complimentary car rental theft insurance
Interest Rates & Fees:
- 19.99% interest rate on purchases
- Up to 55 interest-free days
- $175 annual fee (waived in the first year upon approval)
This card is appealing for Qantas Business Rewards members or companies that want to maximise travel value. With the bonus points offer and built-in travel perks, it adds convenience and potential savings for travelling teams.
4. Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Business Card 4
Ideal for businesses with international expenses, this card offers no foreign transaction fees and robust travel benefits.
Features & Rewards:
- Earn 1.5 Scene+ points per $1 spent on all eligible purchases
- Up to 40,000 welcome bonus points
- Points can be redeemed for travel, merchandise, or statement credits
- No foreign transaction fees
- 6 complimentary airport lounge visits per year
- Visa Spend Clarity for Business expense management tool
Interest Rates & Fees:
- 19.99% interest rate on purchases
- Up to 25 interest-free days
- $199 annual fee (waived in the first year)
- $50 per additional card (first supplementary card is free)
This card is a strong choice for businesses with frequent international transactions and travel needs.
5. CIBC Aventura Visa Card for Business 5
This card offers flexible travel rewards and a comprehensive insurance package, making it suitable for businesses with diverse spending habits.
Features & Rewards:
- Earn 2 Aventura points per $1 spent on travel purchased through the CIBC Rewards Centre
- Earn 1.5 points per $1 on gas, dining, and other eligible purchases
- Earn 1 point per $1 on all other purchases
- Points can be redeemed for flights, hotels, car rentals, or merchandise
- Up to 100,000 welcome bonus points
- Comprehensive travel insurance coverage
Interest Rates & Fees:
- 19.99% interest rate on purchases
- Up to 21 interest-free days
- $120 annual fee (rebated in the first year)
- $50 per additional card
This card is well-suited for businesses seeking a versatile rewards program and comprehensive travel benefits.
6. OFX Corporate Card 6
The OFX Corporate Card is built for businesses managing international expenses. Unlike traditional credit cards, it draws directly from the OFX Global Business Account, helping you stay on budget without interest charges or debt.
Features & Rewards
- Earn 1% unlimited cashback on everyday spend.
- Spend in 30+ currencies at competitive OFX exchange rates
- Issue physical or virtual cards instantly for employees worldwide
- Set individual card limits, freeze cards instantly, track spending in real time
- Automate expense categorisation and integrate with Xero and QuickBooks
- Built-in approvals and spend controls for finance teams
Pricing & Fees:
- No interest charges — every purchase draws from your Global Business Account balance
- $15 per user/month (Standard) or $25 per user/month (Full Suite)
- No hidden foreign transaction fees
- 60-day free trial available
This card is ideal for companies managing employees expenses globally, combining automated spend management, cost savings on international transactions and cashback rewards on everyday business spend.
Which business credit card should you choose?
With so many features, fees, and rewards to consider, the best business credit card for your company will depend on your size, goals, and how you spend.
From low-rate cards with flexible control options to premium cards with travel points and airport lounge access, Canadian banks offer a range of options to suit different business types.
Take the time to weigh up the benefits of each card and choose the one that aligns with your company’s day-to-day needs and long-term plans.
The benefits of business credit cards.
Business credit cards do more than cover purchases. Used wisely, they can support cash flow, simplify expense management, and offer valuable rewards for everyday business expenses.
Whether you’re running a new startup or scaling a growing business, a credit card can offer several practical advantages. Here are some of the key benefits:
1. Strengthen and Smooth Out Cash Flow
Business credit cards give you fast access to funds, which can help maintain purchasing power during cash flow gaps. From supplier payments to equipment purchases or unplanned costs, a credit card can help keep your operations running while you manage your incoming payments.
2. Make Use of Interest-Free Periods
Most business credit cards offer between 44 and 55 days interest-free on purchases. This grace period lets you delay payments without paying interest, giving you more breathing room to reinvest or manage short-term expenses. Just make sure to pay off the balance in full before the due date.
3. Gain Clear Visibility on Spending
Credit card statements give you a full view of your spending each month. This helps you monitor expenses, spot trends, and stay on budget. It also makes tax time and financial reporting easier, especially when paired with accounting software.
4. Set Spending Limits on Business Purchases
Many business credit cards allow you to issue extra cards to team members. You can assign limits, track purchases, and reduce the need for petty cash. This gives staff the freedom to manage costs while keeping spending under control.
5. Earn Rewards That Benefit Your Business
From travel points to cashback or discounts, most cards offer rewards on everyday business expenses and other eligible purchases. These perks can be used to reinvest in the business, fund future trips, or save on recurring costs. The best programs match how and where your business spends.
However, some business credit cards cap the amount you can spend in one transaction, which can make it difficult to cover larger expenses. American Express is often preferred by businesses with heavier costs because of its higher limits.
6. Simplify Accounting and Reconciliation
Business credit cards often connect with platforms like Xero, QuickBooks, or Wave. This means your transactions can sync automatically, saving time and improving accuracy with less manual input.
In short, a business credit card can be more than a payment method. It can become a useful tool for managing day-to-day operations, improving efficiency, and supporting smarter financial decisions.
Business credit cards vs business debit cards.
Business credit cards offer flexibility and rewards, but they aren’t always the best choice in every situation. Business debit cards provide a different kind of control and may suit businesses that want to avoid debt, manage business and personal accounts separately, and stick to strict budgets.
Unlike credit cards, which let you borrow money and repay it later, debit cards draw funds directly from your business account. You can only spend what’s already there, which helps reduce the chance of overspending or carrying a balance with high interest.
Should you use a business credit card or a debit card?
It depends on how your business operates and what your goals are. Both card types have clear advantages.
Use a business credit card when:
- You need short-term access to extra funds
- You want to earn travel points, cashback, or other rewards
- You plan to pay off your balance within the interest-free period
Use a business debit card when:
- You want to avoid debt and only spend what’s in your account
- You want to see live cash flow, without waiting for a credit card statement and reconciliation
- You’re setting strict spending limits for teams or departments
- You manage international payments or work across multiple currencies
Used together, they can help you:
- Balance flexibility with better control over day-to-day spending
- Manage cash flow while keeping your budget in check
- Track spending easily with categorized transactions and reporting tools
Pairing a business credit card with a debit card gives you the best of both: rewards and reach for large purchases, plus control and clarity for everyday operations.
The OFX Corporate Card.
At OFX, our Corporate Card is similar to a corporate credit card in who it’s designed for and features available, however unlike typical credit cards, it draws from available funds in your OFX Global Business Account which helps you stay on budget while avoiding debt.
It’s ideal for managing team expenses, setting clear limits, and tracking spend in real time. Plus, with features like virtual cards, built-in approvals and accounting integrations, it gives finance teams better visibility and oversight on spend.
If your business operates across borders, foreign transaction fees and currency conversion costs can quickly eat into your profits. The OFX Corporate Card helps you manage international spending with more control and fewer fees.
And it gets better. With OFX Corporate Cards get instant cashback rewards. Earn 1% unlimited cashback on everyday spend. So while your team stays productive, your bottom line benefits as well.
With the OFX Corporate Card, you can:
- Spend in 30+ currencies: Pay international suppliers or staff in their local currency using competitive OFX rates, with no hidden fees.
- Control spending in real time: Set individual card limits, freeze cards instantly, and view transactions as they happen with smart spend management software.
- Issue cards globally: Create physical or virtual cards instantly for team members across different locations.
- Reduce international fees: Avoid many of the foreign transaction charges applied by traditional business credit cards.
- Stay on budget: Every payment is backed by available funds, so you avoid carrying debt while maintaining clear cost control.
- Simplify spend management: Use smart tools to automate expense categorisation and improve your reporting.
- Earn cashback rewards: Earn 1% unlimited cashback on everyday spend.
When paired with a traditional business credit card, the OFX Corporate Card gives your business the best of both: flexibility for larger purchases and smarter daily spending control.
To find out how OFX can support your international operations, take a virtual tour and book a free demo today.
Sources:
- https://www.americanexpress.com/ca/en/business/small-business/benefits/business-edge-card/
- https://www.bmo.com/main/business/credit-cards/bmo-rewards-world-elite-business-mastercard/
- https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/business/credit-cards/small-business-credit-cards/avion-visa-infinite-business.html
- https://www.scotiabank.com/ca/en/small-business/business-banking/credit-cards/scotiabank-passport-visa-infinite-business-card.html
- https://www.cibc.com/en/business/credit-cards/aventura-visa.html
- https://www.ofx.com/en-ca/business/corporate-cards/