How can I maximize Chase Freedom Unlimited?

To maximize Chase Freedom Unlimited, make sure to earn the initial bonus, use the card for everyday spending, and take advantage of the travel, dining, and drugstore bonus categories. You should also pay your statement balance in full every month after the first 15 months, when the 0% purchase APR period expires.

In addition, Chase Freedom Unlimited is a great card to pair with other Chase credit cards that earn Ultimate Rewards points. For instance, Chase Freedom Unlimited rewards can yield maximum value when you transfer them to either Chase Sapphire card.

How to Maximize Chase Freedom Unlimited

• Earn the initial bonus. The Chase Freedom Unlimited card offers an extra 1.5% cash back on everything you buy, up to $20,000 spent in the first year. That could result in up to $300 in additional cash back.
• Take advantage of bonus rewards categories. The Chase Freedom Unlimited card gives 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase, plus 3% cash back on restaurant and drugstore purchases. Those are very good rates of return, so you should use Chase Freedom Unlimited for these types of purchases whenever possible.
• Use Chase Freedom Unlimited for everyday spending. The Chase Freedom Unlimited card’s base rewards rate is one of its best features. This card gives 1.5% cash back on all purchases outside of its bonus categories. The average cash back credit card gives just 1.14%.
• Utilize the promotional purchase APR to finance a big purchase. It’s a smart move to save a big-ticket buy for your Chase Freedom Unlimited. The card’s introductory rate of 0% for 15 months on purchases could save you lots of money in interest charges.
• Pay your statement balance in full and on time every month. After 15 months, the Chase Freedom Unlimited card’s promotional purchase APR will expire, and any balance carried on the card from month to month will be saddled with the card’s regular APR, which could be anywhere from 19.74% to 28.49% (V). Avoid unnecessary interest charges by paying your statement balance in full, on time every month.
• Redeem your Chase Freedom Unlimited rewards often. Chase Ultimate Rewards points don’t expire, but like other card issuers, Chase can change the value of their points at any time, causing rewards devaluation. So avoid risking too many points by redeeming them often.
• Pair Chase Freedom Unlimited with a Chase Sapphire card. The Chase Sapphire Reserve card is one of the best credit cards to use alongside the Chase Freedom Unlimited. Cardholders can transfer their Freedom Unlimited rewards to the Chase Sapphire Reserve card and redeem for 1.5X the value. And if you transfer Freedom Unlimited rewards to Chase Sapphire Preferred instead, you’ll get 1.25X the regular redemption value. Both Sapphire cards charge annual fees.