American Express has launched a new flexible payment option designed to give small businesses in the UK greater control over cash flow, allowing eligible cardholders to unlock an instant line of credit directly from their business charge card.
The new feature is available to new Business Platinum and Business Gold cardholders and allows them to choose how they want to repay their monthly statement. Cardholders can repay either the full amount, the minimum amount due, or any amount in between, with only the portion carried forward earning interest.
Because the flexible payment option is built into the card itself, businesses can seamlessly manage repayments through their online account or the American Express app. Importantly, no interest will be charged if the entire balance is paid by the statement due date.
In addition, Business Card holders continue to benefit from up to 54 calendar days of interest-free payment, meaning cash stays with the company longer and short-term liquidity is improved.
The move comes as cash flow management remains a pressing concern for UK SMEs. A study conducted last year by American Express found that nearly a third of small businesses view cash flow as a key operational priority, while more than a quarter said repayment flexibility was a critical factor when evaluating financing options.
Ruchi Sharma, vice president of UK commercial at American Express, said the new feature was designed to remove friction at moments when businesses need flexibility most. “We know cash flow is critical for small businesses, and the flexible payment option gives owners immediate access to credit when they need it,” she said. “This means they don’t have to dip into personal savings, take out a separate loan or miss out on growth opportunities when they arise.”
In addition to the new payment flexibility, American Express Business Platinum and Gold cards continue to function without a preset spending limit. Instead, purchasing power adjusts dynamically based on a company’s profile, usage patterns and payment behavior.
Cardholders can also earn Membership Rewards points on everyday business expenses that can be redeemed for travel, experiences or purchases, providing value beyond everyday financing.
With the launch, American Express is targeting a growing segment of SMBs looking for flexible, integrated financial solutions that sit alongside existing payment tools, rather than relying on traditional overdrafts or standalone business loans.
