For Canadian small business owners looking for a no-annual-fee entry point into dedicated business credit, the CIBC Business Mastercard provides a straightforward solution. It keeps business and personal expenses separate, offers employee cards, and earns CIBC Rewards points on business spending—all without a yearly fee.
Quick Verdict
Best for: Sole proprietors and small businesses wanting a no-annual-fee business card with basic rewards and employee card capability.
Not ideal for: High-volume business spenders who would benefit more from a premium business card with stronger earn rates and travel perks.
Key Card Details
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Annual Fee | $0 CAD |
| Network | Mastercard |
| Rewards | CIBC Rewards points |
| Purchase Interest Rate | 19.99% |
| Cash Advance Rate | 22.99% |
| Employee Cards | Available |
| Foreign Transaction Fee | 2.5% |
Note: Specific earn rates, welcome bonuses, and features are subject to change. Verify current terms at cibc.com before applying.
Welcome Bonus
Welcome bonus offers vary and are updated periodically by CIBC. Check cibc.com for the current sign-up offer, which may include bonus CIBC Rewards points on qualifying spend within the first few months.
Earn Rates
The CIBC Business Mastercard earns CIBC Rewards points on eligible business purchases. For specific earn rates and any bonus categories, refer to the current product page at cibc.com, as these are updated regularly.
Benefits and Perks
- No annual fee — keeps overhead costs down
- Employee cards — consolidate business expenses
- Online account management — track business spending easily
- Purchase protection — optional coverage on eligible business purchases
- Expense reporting — year-end account summaries to simplify bookkeeping
Fees and Rates
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Annual Fee | $0 |
| Purchase Interest | 19.99% |
| Cash Advance | 22.99% |
| Foreign Transaction | 2.5% |
| Employee Card Fee | Verify at cibc.com |
Who Is This Card Best For?
The CIBC Business Mastercard is a strong fit for:
- Sole proprietors who want to separate business and personal spending
- Small business owners who prefer a no-annual-fee option
- CIBC banking customers who want to consolidate their business accounts
Alternatives
| Card | Annual Fee | Network | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| BMO Business Mastercard | $0 | Mastercard | BMO banking clients |
| TD Business Mastercard | $0 | Visa | TD banking clients |
| CIBC Aeroplan Visa Business | $180 | Visa | Aeroplan-earning business travel |
Bottom Line
The CIBC Business Mastercard is a practical no-annual-fee entry into dedicated business credit for Canadian entrepreneurs. If you’re an existing CIBC customer who wants to keep business spending separate and earn some rewards along the way, it’s worth considering as a starter business card.
Disclaimer: Card terms, earn rates, fees, and benefits are subject to change. Verify all current details at cibc.com before applying.