Unlocking Value: A Comprehensive Review of the Ink Business Preferred Credit Card
The Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card is a standout option for small business owners seeking a versatile credit card that offers substantial rewards, a generous welcome bonus, and a variety of redeemable options. With a welcoming bonus of 90,000 points after spending $8,000 in the first three months, this card provides an excellent opportunity to maximize your business spending. The points earned can be transferred to 14 airline and hotel partners or redeemed for travel through Chase Travel at a rate of up to 1.75 cents per point. With a reasonable annual fee of $95, the Ink Business Preferred is a compelling choice for many entrepreneurs.
While there are numerous business credit cards on the market, the Ink Business Preferred distinguishes itself with unique perks that cater specifically to the needs of business owners. To qualify for the card, a credit score of at least 670 is recommended, making it accessible for most applicants.
Welcome Bonus and Earning Potential
Upon approval, cardholders can earn a welcome bonus of 90,000 points after spending $8,000 in the first three months. Although this bonus is not the highest we’ve seen for this card, it is still significant, translating to approximately $1,845 in value based on TPG’s August 2025 valuations. The ability to transfer points to travel partners such as British Airways, Southwest Airlines, and United Airlines greatly enhances their worth.
To meet the spending requirement for the welcome bonus, you would need to average around $2,667 a month, a target that may be easily achievable for small businesses but could pose a challenge for freelancers or those using the card for side gigs. However, businesses with multiple employees can request unlimited free employee cards, making it easier to accumulate the necessary spending.
Rewards Structure and Redemption Options
One of the most attractive features of the Ink Business Preferred is its earning structure. Cardholders earn 3 points per dollar spent on the first $150,000 in combined purchases each year across several bonus categories, including travel, shipping, advertising, and telecommunications. This means that if you maximize your spending in these categories, you could earn up to 450,000 Ultimate Rewards points annually, valued at around $9,225 based on current valuations.
Once you surpass the $150,000 threshold, the earning rate drops to 1 point per dollar spent, which still offers a solid return of over 2%. This structure allows small business owners to benefit significantly from their business expenses.
When it comes to redeeming points, the Ink Business Preferred shines through its flexibility. Points can be redeemed for travel through Chase Travel at a rate of up to 1.75 cents per point, especially when utilizing the Points Boost redemption option. Alternatively, if you hold the Chase Sapphire Reserve® or Chase Sapphire Reserve for Business℠, you can transfer your points to these cards and redeem them at a higher rate, maximizing their value.
Additional Perks and Benefits
Beyond earning and redeeming points, the Ink Business Preferred offers several valuable benefits. Cardholders have access to various business tools, including account insights, bookkeeping integration, and account alerts. One of the standout features is the cellphone protection plan, which covers damage or theft of your mobile device. Additionally, you can enjoy primary rental car insurance when using the card for business rentals.
While the Ink Business Preferred does not offer luxury benefits such as travel credits or lounge access like some of its competitors (e.g., The Business Platinum Card® from American Express), it provides excellent value for its low annual fee.
Maximizing Your Rewards
To truly make the most of your Ink Business Preferred card, consider pairing it with other cards in the Chase Ultimate Rewards ecosystem, such as the Chase Sapphire Reserve and Chase Freedom Unlimited®. This strategy allows you to maximize your rewards across a broader range of purchases, giving you the flexibility to earn and redeem points according to your business needs.
Conclusion
With its low annual fee, lucrative earning potential, and valuable benefits, the Ink Business Preferred Credit Card is an ideal choice for many small businesses. Whether you are just starting or looking to enhance your existing rewards strategy, this card can help you leverage everyday spending into valuable travel experiences. If you frequently spend in the bonus categories and are looking for a reliable business credit card, the Ink Business Preferred is worth considering.
For those interested in exploring more options, check out our guide to the best business credit cards to find the perfect fit for your company’s needs.