pointstopictures The Capital One Spark Cash Plus is a business charge card built for companies with high monthly expenses. It offers unlimited 2% cash back on every purchase, plus generous bonuses—$2,000 after $30,000 spend in 3 months, and additional $2,000 bonuses for every $500,000 spent in the first year. Add in a $150 annual fee refund for spending $150,000, 5% back on Capital One Travel hotel and rental car bookings, and flexible spend capacity with no preset limit, and it becomes a top-tier pick for scaling businesses.
Note: Capital One report business cards to personal credit bureaus. If you can get your credit limit to over $150K, there are some reports that you can have them stop reporting to personal bureaus.
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Card Details
The Good
- Unlimited 2% cash back simplifies earning.
- Massive first-year bonus of $4,000 for high spenders.
- 5% travel bonus is excellent if booked through Capital One Travel.
- Annual fee can be fully refunded with high enough spend.
- No preset spending limit increases flexibility.
- Foreign transaction fee waiver ideal for international use.
Things to watch out for:
- $30,000 minimum spend to earn welcome bonus may be too high for small businesses.
- Additional $2,000 bonus tiers require very high spending ($500,000+).
- Must pay in full every month (charge card, not a credit card).
- No intro APR or financing options.
- CapitalOne report business cards to personal credit bureaus. If your credit limit is over $150K, you can have them stop reporting to personal bureaus.
Our Take
The Amex Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant is a great pick for travelers who are loyal to Marriott and want a premium hotel experience with strong ongoing value. The combination of the welcome bonus, free night award, dining credits, and elite status benefits easily offset the annual fee for many users. If you’re booking Marriott hotels at least a few times a year, the Brilliant card turns those stays into more comfortable, rewarding experiences.
FAQ
Is the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant Amex Card worth it?
Yes, for frequent Marriott guests who can use the Free Night Award, dining credit, and value Platinum Elite status.
What credit score is needed for approval?
Typically good to excellent credit (750+ FICO) is required.
Does this card charge foreign transaction fees?
No, it does not charge foreign transaction fees.
How does it compare to the Amex Platinum?
The Brilliant card is better for Marriott perks, while the Amex Platinum has broader travel benefits and flexible point redemptions.
Can you upgrade a Free Night Award to a better room?
You can use Marriott Bonvoy points to top off the Free Night Award, but upgrades depend on availability and elite status.
