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The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express Review: A Comprehensive Guide
The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express has gained attention among small-business owners for its straightforward rewards structure and no annual fee. In this detailed review, we'll explore whether this business card deserves a place in your wallet and how it compares to other options in the market.
What Is The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express?
The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card is a flat-rate business rewards card designed for small-business owners seeking simplicity in their credit card rewards strategy. With its 2x earning rate on everyday business purchases and integration with the American Express Membership Rewards program, it offers a compelling value proposition for businesses with moderate spending needs.
Blue Business® Plus Credit Card Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Earn 2X Membership Rewards points on eligible everyday purchases up to $50,000 annually
- $0 annual fee for both primary and employee cards
- Generous intro APR period of 12 months on purchases
- Access to valuable Amex Offers for additional savings
- Expanded Buying Power feature for flexibility beyond your credit limit
- Integration with the American Express travel portal
Cons:
- $50,000 spending cap on 2X rewards earning
- No traditional welcome bonus
- Limited travel benefits compared to premium business cards
- Requires good to excellent credit history for approval
Who Is The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card For?
This card is particularly well-suited for:
- Small-business owners and startups managing their initial expenses
- Freelancers and contractors seeking a primary business card
- Businesses with annual expenses under $50,000
- Entrepreneurs who value a simple flat-rate advantage
- Those who can benefit from the intro APR period for building credit
The card's payment history reporting and online portal make it an excellent tool for business owners focused on building credit while earning rewards.
Comparing The Blue Business® Plus With Other Credit Cards
When evaluating this card against competitors like Chase Ink Business credit cards, several factors stand out:
Chase Ink Business Unlimited®:
- Similar flat-rate structure but offers cash back instead of points
- Includes a welcome bonus
- Different redemption options through Chase Ultimate Rewards
Ink Business Preferred®:
- Higher rewards rates in specific bonus categories
- Stronger welcome offer
- Annual fee applies
- Better for higher budgets and travel rewards
Consider Using Kudos To Maximize Your Rewards
While the Blue Business® Plus offers solid rewards, pairing it with Kudos can enhance your earning potential. Kudos is a free AI-powered browser extension that helps you maximize credit card rewards when shopping online. With features like:
- Automatic card recommendations for each purchase
- Integration with over 15,000 stores
- Potential to multiply rewards up to 5X during Flash Boost events
- Smart spending suggestions based on your card portfolio
Currently, Kudos is offering $20 back after your first eligible purchase — simply sign-up for free with code "GET20" and make a purchase at a Boost merchant.
Our Expert Takeaway
The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express stands out for its straightforward rewards structure and no-annual-fee proposition. Its 2X bonus category on all purchases (up to $50,000 annually) provides approximately a 4% return when maximizing Membership Rewards points through transfer partners or the Amex travel portal.
For small-business owners seeking a foundation for their business rewards strategy, this card offers significant value, especially when combined with tools like Kudos for optimal rewards earning.
Blue Business® Plus Credit Card FAQ
What credit score do I need for the Blue Business® Plus Credit Card?
Generally, a good to excellent credit score (670+) is recommended for approval.
How can I redeem Membership Rewards points?
Points can be redeemed for air travel, prepaid rental cars, gift cards, merchandise, statement credits, or transferred to loyalty program partners.
Does the card offer transfer bonuses?
Yes, American Express occasionally offers transfer bonuses to hotel partners and partner airlines.
Is there a welcome bonus?
The card typically doesn't offer a traditional welcome bonus, but watch for special bonus offers.
Can I get approved with a new business?
Yes, startups and new businesses may be approved based on personal credit history and business documentation.
Supercharge Your Credit Cards
Experience smarter spending with Kudos and unlock more from your credit cards. Earn $20.00 when you sign up for Kudos with "GET20" and make an eligible Kudos Boost purchase.
Editorial Disclosure: Opinions expressed here are those of Kudos alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
