Using credit cards strategically has been one of the most helpful tools in funding and growing both of my businesses—Page's Peaches and ArtVend. But they only work if you know how to use them right. Here’s everything I’ve learned, the cards I personally use, and how you can get the most out of credit card rewards without getting stuck in debt.

Disclaimer: This post is based on my personal experience and not financial advice. Some links may be affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you sign up through them—at no cost to you. I only recommend what I actually use and love. Links may be referral links.

My Favorite Business Credit Cards

1. American Express Business Platinum

• Why I Got It: I needed a card with no preset spending limit to place big inventory orders when launching the ArtVend.

• Perks I Like:

  • No hard limit

  • Strong travel benefits

  • Concierge and protection perks

  • Access to AMEX Lounges in Airports

• Truthfully: You can get almost the same benefits with the Amex Gold, which has a much lower annual fee.

• Downside: Very high annual fee.

2. Chase Ink Business Premier

• Why I Got It: 2% cashback on everything and 2.5% on purchases over $5K.

• How I Use It: I don’t place as many $5K+ orders as I thought, but I love the consistent 2% back.

• Bonus Perk: Great for travel rewards, and we travel a lot for markets and events.

• Downside: High annual fee - not as high as AMEX
  

3. Chase Ink Business Cash

• My First Biz Card: Perfect for beginners.

• Key Perk: 5% back at office supply stores.

• Still in Rotation: I use this when stocking up on booth supplies, packaging, and shipping materials.

The Strategy: How to Use Credit Cards Like a Small Biz Pro

1. Always Pay Your Card in Full

Credit cards are not loans. If you carry a balance, your rewards are wiped out by interest. Always set up autopay for the full statement amount.

2. Only Spend What You Have

Don’t put more on a card than you have in the bank, unless you’re absolutely confident the income will be there before the due date.

3. Pick Cards Based on Your Business Needs

• Travel a lot? Get a travel-heavy rewards card.

• Drive for markets? Get a card with high gas cashback (like the Sam’s Club Mastercard, which gives 5% back on gas).

• Need flexibility? Use a card like the Chase Ink Business Unlimited for 1.5% back on everything.

4. Chase the Bonus

I time opening new cards around big purchases so I can hit the intro bonus, like spending $5K in 3 months to earn 100K points. It’s a great way to earn free travel or cash.

One of my favorite wins? I paid for roundtrip flights to Greece entirely with points just by hitting a welcome bonus. The perks are real when you use them wisely.

5. Use Multiple Cards for Maximum Rewards

It’s not a bad thing to have a few cards. I keep:

• One card for flat-rate cashback (Chase Ink Premier)

• One card for travel and big purchases (Amex Platinum)

• One card for specific categories (Chase Ink Cash)

This combo lets me maximize rewards without overthinking it.

Recommended Cards for Creatives & Small Biz Owners

Final Tips

• Don’t be afraid of credit. Be smart with credit.

• Know your due dates, set up autopay, and track what you charge.

• Choose cards that match your business spending, not just flashy rewards.

• Diversify when it makes sense, but only if you can manage it.

Have questions or want a deeper dive into credit for creative businesses? Drop them in the comments. I’m happy to share what’s worked (and what hasn’t) as I continue growing a self-funded biz from scratch!