Capital One Spark Cash Cards Now Include a Travel Credit – Here’s What You Need to Know

If you've been eyeing a business credit card with a solid sign-up bonus, Capital One just sweetened the pot. Their Spark Cash and Spark Cash Plus cards are now offering a travel credit in addition to the usual cash bonus. It's a nice bump that makes these already attractive offers even better. Let's break down what's on the table and what you should watch out for.

What's New with the Spark Cash Cards?

Capital One has added a travel credit to both the Spark Cash and Spark Cash Plus business cards. Previously, these cards only offered a cash bonus. Now, you can also get $250 or $500 in travel credit when you meet the spending requirement. This is a limited-time offer, so if you've been on the fence, now might be the time to jump.

The travel credit can be used for flights, hotels, rental cars, and more through Capital One Business Travel. It's a nice perk if you travel for business or even for personal trips.

Which Card Is Right for You?

The Spark Cash is the more accessible option. With a $95 annual fee waived the first year, you only need to spend $10,000 in three months to earn $1,000 cash back plus a $250 travel credit. That's a total value of $1,250 for meeting the spending requirement. The ongoing 2% cash back on all purchases is straightforward and easy to manage.

The Spark Cash Plus is for bigger spenders. The $150 annual fee isn't waived, but it can be refunded if you spend at least $150,000 in a year. You'll need to spend $30,000 in three months to get the $2,000 cash bonus and $500 travel credit. There's also an uncapped bonus: earn an extra $2,000 for every $500,000 you spend in the first year. This card doesn't report to credit bureaus, which might be appealing if you're concerned about your credit utilization.

Things to Watch Out For

First, the travel credit is only valid for bookings made through Capital One Business Travel. Make sure you're comfortable using their platform before counting on that credit. Also, the bonus may not be available if you've had a Capital One business card before, so check the terms carefully.

Capital One pulls all three credit bureaus when you apply, which could temporarily lower your score. And remember, the Spark Cash reports to credit bureaus, while the Spark Cash Plus does not. That could matter if you're trying to build business credit.

Finally, the spending requirements are high. Make sure you have a plan to hit $10,000 or $30,000 in three months without overspending. If you have large business expenses that you can put on the card, these bonuses are easy to earn. But if you're stretching to meet the threshold, it might not be worth it.

Bottom Line

• The Spark Cash offers $1,000 cash + $250 travel credit after $10k spend in 3 months; annual fee waived first year.
• The Spark Cash Plus offers $2,000 cash + $500 travel credit after $30k spend in 3 months; $150 annual fee not waived but can be refunded with high spend.
• Both cards earn unlimited 2% cash back on all purchases, with 5% back on travel booked through Capital One Business Travel.
• The Spark Cash Plus does not report to credit bureaus, which could be a pro or con depending on your goals.
• Capital One pulls all three credit bureaus on applications, so expect a hard inquiry.

Common Questions