RBS offers two business credit cards with up to 3% cashback, interest-free credit, and integrated expense management. Here’s how they compare and how to apply.
0
min read
The RBS business credit card is a straightforward way for UK SMEs to manage business expenses while also earning valuable cashback rewards. The bank offers two main card options.
In this guide, we'll look at both cards' key features, eligibility requirements, cashback rates, and application process to help you decide if an RBS business credit card is right for you.
The RBS business credit card is for UK-registered sole traders, partnerships, and limited companies with a turnover of £2 million or less. This card helps you manage everyday business spend while also offering cashback on purchases across different categories.
To be eligible, you have to either hold an existing RBS business current account or apply for one alongside your credit card application. The bank assesses your eligibility based on several factors, including your business turnover, trading history, and credit checks for you and any partners.
RBS typically requires you to have been trading for a minimum period (but exceptions can be made if your financials are strong).
The standard business credit card RBS offers has several compelling advantages for small businesses. You get up to 56 days of interest-free credit on purchases, provided you pay your balance in full each month.
The card includes fraud protection features and 24/7 customer support. You can also add employee cards with individual spending limits, making it easier to control and monitor team expenses.
Integration with the RBS business credit card online services means you can track spending through the mobile app and online banking platform. This helps with bookkeeping and expense management, as all transactions are automatically categorised for easy record-keeping.
The annual fee for the standard business card is waived for the first two years, and then £30 per card after that. The fee for the Business Plus credit card is £70.
Information correct as of September 2025
Yes, but the amounts offered depend on which card you use. The RBS Business Plus credit card offers cashback on both fuel and travel, at 3% on eligible fuel and EV charging stations and 1% on eligible travel and accommodation, respectively. The standard RBS Business credit card offers 1% cashback on fuel and electric vehicle charging stations, but does not mention cashback on travel.
Information correct as of September 2025
The RBS Business Plus credit card offers 0.5% cashback on all other eligible purchases, 1% on eligible travel and accommodation, 2% on eligible trade/business supplies, and 3% cashback at eligible fuel and EV charging stations (up to £600 cashback per year, per card).
This enhanced rewards structure makes the Plus card particularly attractive for businesses with significant spending in these categories. The card is ideal for companies that regularly purchase fuel, travel frequently, or buy trade supplies, as these higher-earning categories can quickly offset the annual fee.
The annual fee for this card is higher than the standard version, but the enhanced cashback rates often provide better value for businesses with substantial monthly spending.
Like the standard card, you get up to 56 days of interest-free credit when you pay your balance in full each month. The Plus card also includes additional security features and premium customer support options.
Information correct as of September 2025
With the Business Plus card, your cashback is capped at £600 annually per card. The actual amount you earn depends on your spending patterns across different categories, with higher rates for fuel (3%), trade supplies (2%), and travel (1%).
As with all credit cards, the RBS business credit card application form can be completed online through the RBS business banking portal.
You'll need to provide comprehensive documentation, including proof of business registration, recent financial statements showing your turnover, and personal details for all directors or partners. This includes their home addresses for the last two years, business address, trading address, company number, business turnover, net profit before tax, and bank details.
Personal credit checks are standard for sole traders and may apply to directors of limited companies, particularly for newer businesses. The approval process typically takes 5-7 working days once all documentation is received and verified.
RBS may request additional information during the underwriting process, particularly if your business is relatively new or operates in a higher-risk sector. Having your financial records organised and up-to-date can help speed up the approval process.
Once approved, you can access your RBS business credit card online services through the dedicated business banking platform and mobile app. This integrated approach means your credit card management sits alongside your other business banking services, providing a unified view of your finances.
The online platform allows you to view transactions in real-time, download statements, set up payment alerts, and manage any additional employee cards. You can categorise expenses automatically, which is particularly useful for VAT returns and year-end accounting.
Payment options are flexible and include setting up direct debits for minimum payments or full balance clearance, making manual online transfers, or using telephone banking. The mobile app includes features like spending notifications and balance alerts to help you stay on top of your account.
Customer support is available through multiple channels, including phone support, secure messaging through the app, and in-branch assistance at RBS business centres. The support team can help with everything from payment queries to card replacements and credit limit adjustments.
To cancel an RBS business credit card, you can contact RBS customer services directly or visit a local branch. You'll need to clear any outstanding balance before closure and return all cards associated with the account. RBS will provide written confirmation once the account is closed.
While business credit cards (like the RBS business credit card) are excellent for managing day-to-day expenses and earning rewards, they may not always be the most cost-effective solution for larger business investments or longer-term financing needs.
If you're looking for more flexible funding options, our Flexi-Loan could provide the financial cushion you need to manage cash flow or grow your business. Unlike traditional business loans with fixed terms, a Flexi-Loan lets you borrow between £1,000 and £1,000,000 with the flexibility to repay early without penalties.
This can be particularly useful for managing seasonal cash flow variations or funding growth opportunities that require more substantial capital than a credit card limit allows.
You only pay interest on the amount you use and for the time you use it, making it a cost-effective alternative to maintaining large credit card balances.
Ready to explore your business funding options? Speak to iwoca today to see how a Flexi-Loan could complement your existing financial tools and support your business growth plans.
