AmEx Blue Business Cash™ Credit Card Review

In the fast-moving world of business, having a reliable credit card that offers robust rewards and practical benefits can make a significant difference. The AmEx Blue Business Cash™ Credit Card is one such contender that promises a blend of valuable features tailored to meet the needs of small business owners and entrepreneurs. From offering a straightforward cashback system to providing essential travel insurance and purchase protection, this card positions itself as a versatile tool for managing expenses and boosting savings.
In this comprehensive review, we will delve into every aspect of the AmEx Blue Business Cash™ Credit Card, including its key takeaways, pros and cons, benefits, and a detailed conclusion to help you decide if it is the right fit for your business needs.

AmEx Blue Business Cash™ Credit Card Review

Overview

The AmEx Blue Business Cash™ Credit Card is designed primarily for small business owners who seek to maximize their cash flow and earn rewards on everyday business expenses. This card stands out with its straightforward rewards structure, offering 2% cash back on all eligible purchases on up to $50,000 per calendar year, then 1%. Additionally, it features a $500 statement credit after you spend $8,000 in purchases on your Card in your first 3 months. The card also boasts a 0% introductory APR for the first 12 months from the date of account opening, making it an attractive option for those looking to finance large purchases or manage their cash flow.

AmEx Blue Business Cash™ Credit Card Key Takeaways

– Cash Back Rewards: Earn 2% cash back on all eligible purchases on up to $50,000 per calendar year, then 1%.
– Welcome Bonus: Earn a $500 statement credit after you spend $8,000 in purchases on your Card in your first 3 months.
– Introductory APR: 0% Introductory APR for the first 12 months from the date of account opening.
– No Annual Fee: Enjoy the benefits without the burden of an annual fee.
– Travel Benefits: Includes Car Rental Loss and Damage Insurance and access to the Global Assist® Hotline.
– Purchase Protection: Offers Purchase Protection and Extended Warranty Protection.
– Credit Requirement: Suitable for those with Good to Excellent credit scores (670-799).

AmEx Blue Business Cash™ Credit Card Pros and Cons

Every credit card comes with its strengths and weaknesses. Here’s a balanced view of the AmEx Blue Business Cash™ Credit Card to help you weigh its benefits against its potential drawbacks.

Pros

1. High Rewards Potential:
– The 2% cash back on eligible purchases up to $50,000 per calendar year is a significant reward rate, especially for businesses with high expenses. This can translate to substantial savings over time.
2. Competitive APR:
– The 0% introductory APR for the first 12 months provides a great opportunity to finance large purchases or manage cash flow without incurring interest.
3. Welcome Bonus:
– The $500 statement credit after spending $8,000 in the first 3 months is a generous incentive that can give your business a financial boost right off the bat.
4. No Annual Fee:
– The absence of an annual fee makes this card a cost-effective option for small businesses looking to maximize value without incurring additional costs.
5. Travel Benefits:
– The inclusion of Car Rental Loss and Damage Insurance and the Global Assist® Hotline adds a layer of security and convenience for business travel.

Cons

1. High Foreign Transaction Fees:
– This card charges foreign transaction fees, which can add up if your business involves significant international travel or purchases.
2. Cash Back Limits:
– The 2% cash back is capped at $50,000 in purchases per calendar year. Any spending beyond that earns only 1%, which might be a limitation for businesses with higher expenditures.
3. Credit Rating Requirements:
– The card requires a Good to Excellent credit score, which might exclude some small business owners with fair or poor credit histories.
4. Limited Balance Transfer and Cash Advance Options:
– This card does not offer balance transfer or cash advance options, which could be a disadvantage for businesses looking to consolidate debt or require quick access to cash.

AmEx Blue Business Cash™ Credit Card Benefits

The AmEx Blue Business Cash™ Credit Card offers a suite of benefits designed to support the financial health and operational efficiency of your business. Below are some of the standout features:

Cash Back Rewards

The primary allure of the AmEx Blue Business Cash™ Credit Card is its cash back rewards program. You earn 2% cash back on all eligible purchases up to $50,000 per calendar year. Once you exceed this threshold, the cash back rate drops to 1%. This rewards structure is particularly beneficial for businesses with moderate to high expenses, as it can result in significant savings over time. The cash back earned is automatically credited to your statement, simplifying the process of reward redemption.

Welcome Bonus

New cardholders can take advantage of a lucrative welcome bonus. By spending $8,000 within the first three months of opening your account, you earn a $500 statement credit. This bonus can provide an immediate financial boost to your business, helping offset initial expenses or investments.

Introductory APR

The card offers a 0% introductory APR for the first 12 months from the date of account opening. This feature is particularly advantageous for businesses planning large purchases or those looking to manage cash flow more effectively. After the introductory period, the APR ranges from 18.49% to 26.49% variable, depending on your creditworthiness.

Travel Benefits

Car Rental Loss and Damage Insurance

For businesses that require frequent travel, the Car Rental Loss and Damage Insurance is a valuable benefit. When you use your AmEx Blue Business Cash™ Credit Card to reserve and pay for the entire rental and decline the collision damage waiver at the rental company counter, you are covered for damage to or theft of the rental vehicle. This coverage can save you money on additional insurance fees and provide peace of mind during your travels.

Global Assist® Hotline

Travel can be unpredictable, and emergencies can arise at any moment. The Global Assist® Hotline offers a range of coordination and assistance services when you are traveling more than 100 miles from home. This includes lost passport replacement assistance, translation services, missing luggage assistance, and emergency legal and medical referrals. While card members are responsible for any costs charged by third-party service providers, the coordination and support provided by the Global Assist® Hotline can be invaluable during unexpected situations.

Purchase Protection

The AmEx Blue Business Cash™ Credit Card offers Purchase Protection, which covers eligible purchases against accidental damage or theft for up to 90 days from the date of purchase. This feature can be particularly beneficial for businesses investing in expensive equipment or technology, providing an added layer of security for your investments.

Extended Warranty Protection

In addition to Purchase Protection, the card also offers Extended Warranty Protection. This benefit extends the original manufacturer’s warranty on eligible purchases by up to one additional year. This can be a significant advantage for businesses purchasing high-value items that come with limited warranties, ensuring that your investments are protected for a longer period.

No Annual Fee

One of the most appealing aspects of the AmEx Blue Business Cash™ Credit Card is the absence of an annual fee. This makes the card an attractive option for small businesses looking to maximize value without incurring additional costs. The no-annual-fee structure allows you to enjoy the card’s benefits and rewards without worrying about an annual expense.

Fraud Protection

Fraud protection is a crucial feature for any credit card, especially for businesses that handle a large volume of transactions. The AmEx Blue Business Cash™ Credit Card includes robust fraud protection measures, ensuring that your business is safeguarded against unauthorized charges and fraudulent activity. American Express employs advanced security measures and monitoring systems to detect and prevent fraud, giving you peace of mind when using your card.

24/7 Customer Service

American Express is known for its exceptional customer service, and the AmEx Blue Business Cash™ Credit Card is no exception. Cardholders have access to 24/7 customer service, ensuring that any issues or inquiries can be addressed promptly and efficiently. Whether you need assistance with a transaction, have questions about your account, or require support during travel, the American Express customer service team is available to help.

Conclusion

The AmEx Blue Business Cash™ Credit Card is a versatile and valuable tool for small business owners looking to maximize their cash flow and earn rewards on everyday expenses. With its straightforward cash back rewards program, generous welcome bonus, and a suite of practical benefits, this card offers a compelling package for businesses with moderate to high expenditures.
The 2% cash back on eligible purchases up to $50,000 per calendar year, followed by 1%, provides a significant opportunity for savings. The $500 statement credit welcome bonus is a lucrative incentive, while the 0% introductory APR for the first 12 months offers flexibility in managing cash flow and financing large purchases.
The card’s travel benefits, including Car Rental Loss and Damage Insurance and the Global Assist® Hotline, add value for businesses that require frequent travel. Purchase Protection and Extended Warranty Protection further enhance the card’s appeal, providing security and peace of mind for your business investments.
However, it’s essential to consider the potential drawbacks, such as high foreign transaction fees, cash back limits, and credit rating requirements. If your business involves significant international transactions or has higher spending needs, these limitations may impact the card’s overall value.
Overall, the AmEx Blue Business Cash™ Credit Card is a robust option for small business owners with Good to Excellent credit scores who seek to maximize rewards and enjoy a range of practical benefits without the burden of an annual fee. By carefully evaluating your business’s spending habits and financial needs, you can determine if this card aligns with your goals and can effectively support your business operations.