The Amazon Business Card, offered by American Express, is a powerful tool for businesses of all sizes looking to optimize their spending on Amazon platforms, including Amazon.com, AWS, and Amazon Business. This card offers unique benefits and rewards that are particularly attractive to frequent Amazon users. In this guide, we will explore the key features, benefits, application process, and strategies to maximize the value of the Amazon Business Card.
Key Features of the Amazon Business Card
- Annual Fee: $0
- APR: Variable APR, depending on creditworthiness and market conditions.
- Rewards: Choose between earning points or getting cash back on all purchases.
- Special Offers: Introductory offers may include gift cards or additional rewards points at the time of approval.
Earning Rewards
The Amazon Business Card allows cardholders to earn rewards in the form of Amazon Reward Points or cash back. The reward structure is tailored for purchases made on Amazon:
- Amazon Purchases: Earn up to 3% back or 3 points per dollar spent on Amazon.com, Amazon Business, and AWS.
- Dining, Gas Stations, and Wireless Telephone Services: Earn 2% back or 2 points per dollar spent.
- Other Purchases: Earn 1% back or 1 point per dollar spent on all other purchases.
Cardholders can switch between earning rewards points and cash back up to twice a year, providing flexibility based on changing business needs.
Redeeming Rewards
Rewards can be redeemed in several ways:
- Pay with Points at Checkout: Directly use points to pay for part or all of your purchase at Amazon.com.
- Statement Credits: Apply points as a credit against your card balance.
- Travel and Gift Cards: Use points for travel expenses or purchase gift cards from a variety of retailers and restaurants.
Additional Card Benefits
- Expense Management Tools: Integrated tools help businesses manage, track, and organize expenses effectively.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees: Ideal for businesses making international purchases or traveling abroad.
- Enhanced Data Views: Simplify bookkeeping with detailed reports on Amazon spending.
- Damage and Theft Protection: Covers purchases against damage or theft for a limited period.
How to Apply for the Amazon Business Card
- Eligibility: Applicants must have a good to excellent credit score and be authorized officers of their business. A valid Employer Identification Number (EIN) is typically required.
- Application Process:
- Visit the American Express website or Amazon’s dedicated card section.
- Complete the application with your business and personal information.
- Submit financial details and relevant documentation that supports your business’s financial stability.
- Approval Process: The application process includes a credit review. Approval can be instantaneous, or it may take a few days if additional information is required.
Tips for Maximizing Rewards
- Use for All Amazon Purchases: To maximize rewards, use the Amazon Business Card for all applicable Amazon purchases to take advantage of the 3% back or 3 points per dollar spent.
- Strategically Choose Reward Type: Depending on your business’s cash flow needs and financial strategy, choose between cash back and points to optimize your benefits.
- Regular Review of Benefits: Periodically review the benefits and rewards structure of your card to ensure it still aligns with your business needs, especially if your spending patterns change.
Conclusion
The Amazon Business Card is a strategic choice for businesses that frequently purchase from Amazon or use AWS services. With no annual fee, flexible reward options, and powerful expense management tools, it can provide significant value and convenience. Businesses can streamline purchasing processes, earn valuable rewards, and manage expenses more effectively, making this card a smart addition to their financial toolkit.
Whether your business is looking for ways to save on everyday expenses or you want to earn rewards for the purchases you are already making, the Amazon Business Card offers a robust set of features that could help enhance your purchasing power. Be sure to consider how the benefits of the card align with your business operations and financial objectives to make the most informed decision.