Can a sole trader get a UK business rewards card?

Some lenders accept sole traders but options are narrower; Capital on Tap is limited-company focused.

Is Amex worth the annual fee?

Only if you spend heavily in bonus categories and redeem points well — otherwise a no-fee card wins.

Best UK business rewards cards compared 2026

A side-by-side look at the UK business rewards cards small companies actually qualify for, with cashback rates, Avios potential, fees and eligibility.

Last updated: 21 May 2026By Business Reward Toolkit Editorial TeamReviewed for UK small businesses

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Short answer

For most UK SMEs, Capital on Tap is the easiest rewards card to qualify for and earns 1pt per £1 (worth ~1p as cashback or ~1 Avios). Amex Business cards earn more on travel but require higher turnover and a personal guarantee.

Who qualifies for a UK business rewards card

Most rewards cards want a registered limited company, a director with reasonable personal credit, and 6+ months of trading. Sole traders have fewer options.

Capital on Tap vs Amex Business

Capital on Tap is easier to get and has no annual fee on the standard plan. Amex offers higher points multipliers on travel/advertising but charges fees and isn't accepted everywhere.

Comparing the maths

On £3,000/month of spend, 1% cashback returns £360/year. A 1.5x points multiplier on Amex Gold can return more — if you redeem for the right partner.

Fees that erode rewards

Annual fees, FX fees and interest can wipe out reward value. Only chase higher-tier cards if your spend justifies the fee.

Acceptance matters

Suppliers, HMRC and trade counters often reject Amex. A Visa/Mastercard rewards card is a safer everyday choice.

Capital on Tap offer

7,500 free reward points with promo code SETTINGUP

Apply for the Capital on Tap business credit card and make your first card transaction within the qualifying period.

Get the Capital on Tap offer

Terms, eligibility and fees apply. See full offer details.

FAQs

This article is for general information only and is not financial, tax or legal advice. Always check current provider terms and seek professional advice where appropriate.

BRT

Business Reward Toolkit Editorial Team

Editorial

Our editors research UK business banking, credit cards, expense tools and rewards schemes. We test products, read provider terms in full, and update guides as offers change.

10+ years writing about UK small-business finance
Independently funded by clearly labelled affiliate links