Membership Rewards Structure
The Blue Business Plus Credit Card from American Express offers a compelling rewards structure. You'll earn 2 Membership Rewards points for every dollar spent, up to $50,000 annually. After that, the rate drops to 1 point per dollar. These points can be transferred to over 20 airline and hotel partners, including Delta, Hilton, and Marriott, potentially yielding high-value travel redemptions.
Compared to similar cards, the Blue Business Plus stands out. While the Capital One Spark Miles for Business offers 2 points per dollar without a cap, it comes with a $95 annual fee after the first year. The Blue Business Plus, on the other hand, has no annual fee.
Savvy users can achieve redemption rates exceeding 1.7 cents per point, especially when transferring to travel partners. This can effectively turn every dollar spent into 3.4 cents worth of travel rewards.
For those unsure about long-term travel rewards, alternatives like the Chase Ink Business Unlimited offer 1.5% cash back on all purchases without a spending threshold, plus an initial cash bonus for new cardholders.
The Amex Offers program linked to the Blue Business Plus provides additional value, offering bonus points and discounts on various purchases.
While the double points reward caps at $50,000, strategic use of this card alongside others can maximize your overall rewards earnings.
Benefits and Perks
Beyond rewards points, the Blue Business Plus Credit Card offers valuable non-reward benefits. These include:
- Extended warranty protection: Adds an extra year to original warranties of up to five years.
- Purchase protection: Covers accidental damage or theft for up to 90 days after purchase.
- Expanded Buying Power: Allows you to exceed your credit limit based on your usage and credit history, providing flexibility for business growth.
- Amex Offers: Provides targeted discounts and bonus points on various purchases, potentially saving hundreds annually.
These perks, combined with no annual fee, create a robust package that stands out among business credit cards. While other cards might offer higher caps or sign-up bonuses, the practical benefits of the Blue Business Plus cater well to real-world business needs.
Comparison with Similar Cards
When comparing the Blue Business Plus to its peers, consider your business's spending habits and reward preferences:
- American Express Blue Business Cash Card: Offers 2% cash back on purchases up to $50,000 annually, then 1%. It's simpler but potentially less rewarding than the Blue Business Plus for those who value travel redemptions.
- Capital One Spark Miles for Business: Provides 2 miles per dollar on all purchases without a cap but charges a $95 annual fee after the first year. It's better for high-spending businesses that prefer simplicity over transfer options.
Welcome bonuses vary: The Blue Business Plus and Blue Business Cash offer 15,000 Membership Rewards points or a $250 statement credit, respectively. The Capital One Spark Miles typically has a larger initial miles bonus for higher spenders.
Your choice depends on whether you prefer the potential value of transferable points, straightforward cash back, or unlimited miles earning. Consider your spending patterns and how you plan to use your rewards when deciding.
Limitations and Drawbacks
Despite its strengths, the Blue Business Plus has some limitations:
- The reward rate drops to 1 point per dollar after $50,000 in annual spending, which may disappoint high-spending businesses.
- A 2.7% foreign transaction fee makes it less ideal for international transactions.
- The lack of specialized bonus categories might not suit businesses looking to maximize rewards in specific spending areas.
These drawbacks may be significant for high-spending businesses, frequent international travelers, or those who prefer targeted bonus categories. However, for smaller businesses or entrepreneurs who value simplicity and no annual fee, the Blue Business Plus remains an attractive option.
Consider how these limitations align with your business needs and spending patterns when deciding if this card is right for you.
The Blue Business Plus Credit Card from American Express offers a balanced mix of rewards and benefits without an annual fee. While it may not be ideal for every business, its flexible reward options make it appealing for many. Evaluate your spending habits and goals to determine if it's the right fit for your financial strategy.
- American Express. The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express.
- NerdWallet. The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express Review.
- The Points Guy. Amex Blue Business Plus Credit Card Review.