What is the best credit card for attorneys?
The Amex Platinum is the best overall credit card for senior attorneys and partners because it earns 5x points on flights and hotels booked directly, provides Centurion Lounge access for deposition and trial travel, and includes $200 in airline credits plus $200 in hotel credits annually. For attorneys who travel frequently for litigation, depositions, and court appearances in other jurisdictions, the travel benefits justify the $695 annual fee.
Can attorneys use credit cards for trust account expenses?
No. Attorney trust accounts (IOLTA accounts) must never be commingled with personal or operating funds, and using a credit card for trust-related expenses would violate this fundamental ethical rule in every jurisdiction. Trust account disbursements must come directly from the trust account via check or wire transfer. Credit cards should only be used for operating expenses such as Westlaw subscriptions, office supplies, travel, and marketing.
Is a premium card worth the fee for attorneys?
For attorneys who travel for depositions, trials, or court appearances more than four to five times per year, a premium card typically pays for itself through travel credits, lounge access, and enhanced rewards rates. The Amex Platinum effectively costs $295 after credits, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve costs $250 after its $300 travel credit. Solo practitioners and associates who rarely travel should stick with no-fee or low-fee cards.
What is the best card for Westlaw and LexisNexis subscriptions?
Westlaw and LexisNexis subscriptions typically code as internet or information services. The Ink Business Preferred earns 3x on internet services, making it the best choice for these research subscriptions. For firms spending $500 to $1,000 per month on legal research, the 3x rate returns meaningful rewards annually. The Ink Business Cash earns 5% on internet services but has a lower annual cap.
What is the best card for litigation travel?
The Chase Sapphire Reserve is the best card for frequent litigation travel, offering 3x points on travel and dining, a $300 annual travel credit, Priority Pass lounge access, and trip delay insurance. For attorneys flying to depositions and court appearances regularly, the lounge access provides a productive work environment between flights, and the trip delay insurance covers unexpected overnight stays when flights are canceled.
Should solo practitioners get a business credit card?
Yes. Solo practitioners should absolutely use a business credit card to separate firm operating expenses from personal spending. This separation simplifies tax preparation, provides clean documentation for the IRS, and helps build business credit for the firm. Business cards also typically offer higher credit limits, which is important for firms that advance costs on behalf of clients.
What is the best card for client development dinners?
The Chase Sapphire Reserve earns 3x points on all dining, making it ideal for client development meals and entertainment. For partners who regularly take clients and referral sources to dinner, the 3x rate on dining combined with 3x on travel provides excellent value. The Amex Business Gold with 4x on your top two spending categories may earn more if dining is consistently among your highest categories.
Can bar association dues be deducted as a business expense?
Yes. Mandatory bar association dues and voluntary professional organization memberships are generally deductible as ordinary and necessary business expenses for practicing attorneys. Putting these charges on a rewards credit card earns additional value on expenses you are already paying. State bar dues, ABA membership, and specialty bar association fees all qualify.
