When a small business needs money, they need to weigh the benefits of borrowing against the needs of the business by figuring the overall cost and its impact. Their options are to invest personally, secure a line of credit or term loan from a third party or use a business credit card.

Recent media coverage of the credit card industry has been heavy on the negative, leading some small business owners to wonder if they should use credit cards for the quick cash they sometimes need to run their companies. The answer is a resounding yes. When you consider the risks that come from using a credit card in comparison to other available options, anyone contemplating launching a new business would be well served with a business credit card to fund, track and reward their business activities.

Investing their own personal funds, essentially making an equity investment, may be cheaper for small business owners, but there is serious risk of draining available cash reserves, making them vulnerable to tough times. Small businesses looking to acquire high-end assets would be better served by taking out a loan from a third party. The interest paid on both credit cards and small business loans is a business tax deduction.

Credit cards are suited to situations where immediate payment is due and there will be short-term gaps between earnings and expenditures that every small business will face at one time or another. Although lines of credit may carry higher interest rates, the assurance that you’re covered in case of an emergency is priceless. In addition, businesses that are able to pay off the balance each month have the opportunity to earn miles or cash back rewards.

Startup capital for a small business can be leveraged by using a business credit card. And once the initial operations are up and running, credit cards can help sustain it. Revenue from operations can be used to repay the balance. Beyond mere financing, credit cards offer a host of benefits that can help a small business succeed. Small business credit card agreements often include expense and revenue tracking and the ability to download statements into business software applications like Quicken.

Compare a complete list of business credit cards at ASAP Credit Card. Apply for credit card offers for numerous benefits including: 0% APR, low interest, cash back, travel miles and other rewards.