Amazon is shaking up the business credit card landscape with the launch of its new Prime Business Card and Amazon Business Card. Designed specifically for small business owners, these cards promise to enhance the rewards programs that many users have come to value while introducing several new features aimed at maximizing business spending.
The decision to revamp their offerings follows direct feedback from their clientele. “We heard from business customers that they wanted more from their card—more rewards outside of Amazon, more flexibility in how they pay, and more control over how their teams spend,” explained Shelley Salomon, vice president of Amazon Business. The result? Credit cards that adapt to businesses’ needs while maintaining the familiar rewards structure.
One of the standout advantages of the Prime Business Card is its competitive cashback offerings. Prime members enjoy a substantial 5% back on eligible U.S. purchases from Amazon Business, Amazon.com, Amazon Web Services (AWS), and Whole Foods Market, applicable to up to $150,000 annually. Meanwhile, customers opting for the Amazon Business Card without Prime still benefit from a respectable 3% back on the same purchases up to $150,000 annually.
The new cards also break traditional barriers by offering enhanced rewards on business purchases outside of Amazon. For the first time, both cards allow users to earn 2% back on non-Amazon purchases in their top three spending categories—up to $150,000 annually—coupled with 1% on all other purchases. This added flexibility means business owners can maximize their rewards based on their specific expenditures. Additionally, travel expenses are catered for as well: Prime cardholders earn 5% back when booking through the U.S. Bank Travel Center, while their Amazon Business counterparts receive 3%.
Managing cash flow is another critical area where the new cards shine. Business owners can convert eligible Amazon purchases into equal monthly installments at 0% APR for up to 12 months. This feature is particularly crucial for small businesses that may need to manage tight cash flow while taking advantage of immediate business needs without incurring interest.
Additionally, the spend management tools embedded within these cards provide real-time visibility over expenditures, which can help streamline financial operations. Companies can enable controls around spending limits and approvals, issue unlimited virtual cards, and gain insights from itemized reports enriched with Amazon transaction details. Courtney Kelso, senior executive vice president at U.S. Bank, commented, “We’re not just offering a credit card—we’re delivering a comprehensive financial toolkit that helps business owners manage cash flow, maximize rewards, and access credit when they need it.”
Security and ease of use are also top priorities, with these cards having global acceptance at over 100 million locations thanks to their backing by Mastercard. The advanced security features include AI-powered fraud monitoring and Zero Liability protection, allowing businesses to operate without concern. Alongside this, cardholders will enjoy automatic rebates on everyday expenses through Mastercard’s Easy Savings program, providing further financial relief.
Small business owners, however, should weigh their options carefully. While the benefits are significant, the shift from other cards, particularly for current Amazon Business American Express users, will require planning. Transitioning to the new cards involves receiving a replacement card that starts operating on August 14, while previous rewards will carry over—something existing customers will need to keep in mind.
Moreover, while Amazon’s increased flexibility is a boon, businesses must stay mindful of their purchasing habits to fully exploit the new reward structures. It’s crucial to outline spending categories and predict areas where the 2% rewards can be maximized.
As Amazon continues to expand its reach within the business sector, the launch of the Prime Business Card and Amazon Business Card presents small business owners with powerful tools designed to enhance their financial operations. With no annual fees and valuable rewards, these cards have the potential to deliver not just savings, but also the resources that business owners need to thrive in an increasingly competitive marketplace.
For more insights on these new offerings and their impact, visit the original press release here.
