What Is the Chase Ink Card?

What Is the Chase Ink Card?

The Chase Ink card is a family of business credit cards issued by Chase, designed for small business owners and sole proprietors. The lineup includes the Ink Business Cash℠, Ink Business Unlimited℠, and Ink Business Preferred℠ cards, each with a different rewards structure and fee profile. These cards are built to earn cash back on common business spending categories like shipping, internet, and office supplies, and they often come with a sign-up bonus after meeting an initial spending threshold.

Types of Chase Ink Cards

Chase currently offers three primary Ink business cards, and the right one depends on how a business spends. The Ink Business Cash℠ earns a competitive flat-rate cash back on all purchases and bonus categories. The Ink Business Unlimited℠ provides unlimited cash back on everything with no rotating categories to track. The Ink Business Preferred℠ focuses its bonus earnings on travel, shipping, internet, cable, and phone services, making it a strong pick for businesses with high overhead in those areas. All three carry a $0 annual fee for the first year, and the preferred version has a higher ongoing annual fee offset by its larger sign-up bonus.

Rewards and Redemption

Rewards on the Chase Ink card are earned as cash back, which can be redeemed as a statement credit, direct deposit, or check. The cash back does not expire as long as the account remains open and in good standing. Bonus categories vary by card and are clearly stated in the terms, so business owners can match the card to their recurring expenses.

Who Should Consider the Chase Ink Card

The Chase Ink card is best suited for small business owners, freelancers, and sole proprietors who want a straightforward way to earn cash back on business expenses without paying an annual fee from day one. The cards do not require a minimum revenue threshold to apply, though approval is based on Chase's standard credit and income evaluation. They are also a practical choice for businesses that already bank with Chase, because linking the card to a Chase business checking account can simplify tracking and payment.

Key Considerations

Before applying, business owners should compare the sign-up bonus amount, the ongoing APR, and the specific bonus categories against their actual spending patterns. The Chase Ink cards do not offer purchase protection or extended warranties the way some premium cards do, and late payments can affect both the rewards rate and the account standing. Checking the most current terms on the Chase website is recommended, as bonus offers and rates are subject to change.