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Flexible cash back on your everyday purchases
Earn 5% cash back on rotating quarterly bonus categories (with activation) and 5X points on Chase Travel portal purchases, plus 3% on dining and drugstores—all with no annual fee
$0
Annual Fee
200
Ultimate Rewards points · Welcome Bonus
5X
Top Rate
Annual Fee
$0
Authorized User Fee
$0
Foreign Transaction Fee
3%
Network
Mastercard World Elite
Rewards Currency
Cash
Point Valuation
1.5–2 cpp (mid: 1.8)
Credit Required
Good to Excellent
Bonus: 200 Ultimate Rewards points
Spend: $500
Period: 3 months
| Category | Rate | Type | Booking Method | Cap | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rotating Quarterly | 5X | Core | any | $1,500/quarterly | |
| Travel | 5X | Core | portal | None | |
| Drugstores | 3X | Core | any | None | |
| American Heart Association | 5X | Promo | any | $1,500/quarterly | |
| Norwegian Cruise Line | 5X | Promo | any | $1,500/quarterly | |
| Dining | 3X | Promo | any | $1,500/quarterly | |
| All Other | 1X | Base | any | None |
Each quarter, Chase announces which categories are bonus categories. Log into your account to activate the category and start earning 5% cash back—no automatic enrollment.
Q1 example: groceries. Spend $1,200 on groceries in Q1 = $60 in bonus cash back. Remaining $300 in groceries = $3 cash back (1%)
Unlike rotating categories, dining and drugstore purchases always earn 3% cash back, making it reliable for your frequent food and pharmacy purchases.
Spend $200 on dining and $100 at a drugstore monthly = $9 in cash back per month (~$108 per year)
By booking travel through Chase's portal instead of third-party sites, you unlock 5X points on the full purchase, giving you superior value compared to earning 1% elsewhere.
$2,000 flight booked through Chase Travel = 10,000 points (worth ~$100-125 in travel value)
Benefits & Perks
Program & Transfers
Transfer to 14 partners at 1:1 with 1.5-2.0cpp portal floor
Chase Ultimate Rewards stands as the most versatile transferable points program, combining best-in-class hotel transfers, strong airline coverage, and valuable portal redemptions. The crown jewel is the 1:1 World of Hyatt transfer, widely considered the best hotel transfer value in the industry. With 14 transfer partners spanning all three major alliances, Ultimate Rewards offers flexibility for both domestic and international travel. The program uniquely includes Southwest Rapid Rewards as a transfer partner - the only way to earn Southwest points through transfers, making it essential for Companion Pass strategies. The Sapphire Reserve's 1.5cpp portal value provides a reliable redemption floor, while Pay Yourself Back offers 1.5cpp for statement credits in select categories. This combination of transfer flexibility and fixed-value options makes Ultimate Rewards ideal for both beginners and optimization experts.
Reviews & Analysis
Details & Terms
| Rule | Details |
|---|---|
| 24 from Bonus | If you've received a bonus from this card within the last 24 month, you are not eligible for another bonus. |
| 5/24 | Chase applications will be declined if 5 new cards have been added to your personal credit report in the past 24 months. |
| Chase 2/30 | You'll be declined if you apply for a third Chase card of any kind within 30 days |
| Chase 4/6 | Chase will decline your application you apply for a 5th Chase card (personal or BUSINESS) in 6 months |
| Purchase APR | 18.24%–27.74% (Variable) |
| Cash Advance APR | 29.99% (Variable) |
| Foreign Transaction Fee | 3% |
| Authorized User Fee | $0 |
Flexible cash back on your everyday purchases
Earn 5% cash back on rotating quarterly bonus categories (with activation) and 5X points on Chase Travel portal purchases, plus 3% on dining and drugstores—all with no annual fee
$0
Annual Fee
200
Ultimate Rewards points · Welcome Bonus
5X
Top Rate
Annual Fee
$0
Authorized User Fee
$0
Foreign Transaction Fee
3%
Network
Mastercard World Elite
Rewards Currency
Cash
Point Valuation
1.5–2 cpp (mid: 1.8)
Credit Required
Good to Excellent
Bonus: 200 Ultimate Rewards points
Spend: $500
Period: 3 months
| Category | Rate | Type | Booking Method | Cap | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rotating Quarterly | 5X | Core | any | $1,500/quarterly | |
| Travel | 5X | Core | portal | None | |
| Drugstores | 3X | Core | any | None | |
| American Heart Association | 5X | Promo | any | $1,500/quarterly | |
| Norwegian Cruise Line | 5X | Promo | any | $1,500/quarterly | |
| Dining | 3X | Promo | any | $1,500/quarterly | |
| All Other | 1X | Base | any | None |
Each quarter, Chase announces which categories are bonus categories. Log into your account to activate the category and start earning 5% cash back—no automatic enrollment.
Q1 example: groceries. Spend $1,200 on groceries in Q1 = $60 in bonus cash back. Remaining $300 in groceries = $3 cash back (1%)
Unlike rotating categories, dining and drugstore purchases always earn 3% cash back, making it reliable for your frequent food and pharmacy purchases.
Spend $200 on dining and $100 at a drugstore monthly = $9 in cash back per month (~$108 per year)
By booking travel through Chase's portal instead of third-party sites, you unlock 5X points on the full purchase, giving you superior value compared to earning 1% elsewhere.
$2,000 flight booked through Chase Travel = 10,000 points (worth ~$100-125 in travel value)
Benefits & Perks
Program & Transfers
Transfer to 14 partners at 1:1 with 1.5-2.0cpp portal floor
Chase Ultimate Rewards stands as the most versatile transferable points program, combining best-in-class hotel transfers, strong airline coverage, and valuable portal redemptions. The crown jewel is the 1:1 World of Hyatt transfer, widely considered the best hotel transfer value in the industry. With 14 transfer partners spanning all three major alliances, Ultimate Rewards offers flexibility for both domestic and international travel. The program uniquely includes Southwest Rapid Rewards as a transfer partner - the only way to earn Southwest points through transfers, making it essential for Companion Pass strategies. The Sapphire Reserve's 1.5cpp portal value provides a reliable redemption floor, while Pay Yourself Back offers 1.5cpp for statement credits in select categories. This combination of transfer flexibility and fixed-value options makes Ultimate Rewards ideal for both beginners and optimization experts.
Reviews & Analysis
Details & Terms
| Rule | Details |
|---|---|
| 24 from Bonus | If you've received a bonus from this card within the last 24 month, you are not eligible for another bonus. |
| 5/24 | Chase applications will be declined if 5 new cards have been added to your personal credit report in the past 24 months. |
| Chase 2/30 | You'll be declined if you apply for a third Chase card of any kind within 30 days |
| Chase 4/6 | Chase will decline your application you apply for a 5th Chase card (personal or BUSINESS) in 6 months |
| Purchase APR | 18.24%–27.74% (Variable) |
| Cash Advance APR | 29.99% (Variable) |
| Foreign Transaction Fee | 3% |
| Authorized User Fee | $0 |
Flexible cash back on your everyday purchases
Earn 5% cash back on rotating quarterly bonus categories (with activation) and 5X points on Chase Travel portal purchases, plus 3% on dining and drugstores—all with no annual fee
$0
Annual Fee
200
Ultimate Rewards points · Welcome Bonus
5X
Top Rate
Annual Fee
$0
Authorized User Fee
$0
Foreign Transaction Fee
3%
Network
Mastercard World Elite
Rewards Currency
Cash
Point Valuation
1.5–2 cpp (mid: 1.8)
Credit Required
Good to Excellent
Bonus: 200 Ultimate Rewards points
Spend: $500
Period: 3 months
| Category | Rate | Type | Booking Method | Cap | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rotating Quarterly | 5X | Core | any | $1,500/quarterly | |
| Travel | 5X | Core | portal | None | |
| Drugstores | 3X | Core | any | None | |
| American Heart Association | 5X | Promo | any | $1,500/quarterly | |
| Norwegian Cruise Line | 5X | Promo | any | $1,500/quarterly | |
| Dining | 3X | Promo | any | $1,500/quarterly | |
| All Other | 1X | Base | any | None |
Each quarter, Chase announces which categories are bonus categories. Log into your account to activate the category and start earning 5% cash back—no automatic enrollment.
Q1 example: groceries. Spend $1,200 on groceries in Q1 = $60 in bonus cash back. Remaining $300 in groceries = $3 cash back (1%)
Unlike rotating categories, dining and drugstore purchases always earn 3% cash back, making it reliable for your frequent food and pharmacy purchases.
Spend $200 on dining and $100 at a drugstore monthly = $9 in cash back per month (~$108 per year)
By booking travel through Chase's portal instead of third-party sites, you unlock 5X points on the full purchase, giving you superior value compared to earning 1% elsewhere.
$2,000 flight booked through Chase Travel = 10,000 points (worth ~$100-125 in travel value)
Benefits & Perks
Program & Transfers
Transfer to 14 partners at 1:1 with 1.5-2.0cpp portal floor
Chase Ultimate Rewards stands as the most versatile transferable points program, combining best-in-class hotel transfers, strong airline coverage, and valuable portal redemptions. The crown jewel is the 1:1 World of Hyatt transfer, widely considered the best hotel transfer value in the industry. With 14 transfer partners spanning all three major alliances, Ultimate Rewards offers flexibility for both domestic and international travel. The program uniquely includes Southwest Rapid Rewards as a transfer partner - the only way to earn Southwest points through transfers, making it essential for Companion Pass strategies. The Sapphire Reserve's 1.5cpp portal value provides a reliable redemption floor, while Pay Yourself Back offers 1.5cpp for statement credits in select categories. This combination of transfer flexibility and fixed-value options makes Ultimate Rewards ideal for both beginners and optimization experts.
Reviews & Analysis
Details & Terms
| Rule | Details |
|---|---|
| 24 from Bonus | If you've received a bonus from this card within the last 24 month, you are not eligible for another bonus. |
| 5/24 | Chase applications will be declined if 5 new cards have been added to your personal credit report in the past 24 months. |
| Chase 2/30 | You'll be declined if you apply for a third Chase card of any kind within 30 days |
| Chase 4/6 | Chase will decline your application you apply for a 5th Chase card (personal or BUSINESS) in 6 months |
| Purchase APR | 18.24%–27.74% (Variable) |
| Cash Advance APR | 29.99% (Variable) |
| Foreign Transaction Fee | 3% |
| Authorized User Fee | $0 |
Up to
$40
in annual credits
$10/mo Instacart+
—
Annual
Get 3 free months of Instacart+ plus $10 off monthly orders when paid with card.
$5 Lyft + airport savings
—
Annual
Earn $5 monthly with 3 Lyft rides + save 10% on airport rides nationwide.
$3/mo Peacock
—
Annual
Save $3/month on Peacock Premium or Premium Plus with automatic statement credit.
$2.50/mo transit
—
Annual
Earn $2.50/month when spending $10+ on contactless transit in select U.S. cities.
DoorDash DashPass
—
Monthly
Get 6 months of complimentary access to DashPass– a membership for both DoorDash and Caviar – which unlocks $0 delivery fees and lower service fees
DoorDash DashPass
$60
One-time
Get 6 months of DashPass with $0 delivery fees on eligible DoorDash and Caviar orders over $12.
Combined Protection Value
$800
Get up to $800 per claim when your phone is damaged or stolen and you pay your wireless bill with this card.
We help safeguard your credit card purchases using sophisticated fraud monitoring. We monitor for fraud 24/7 and can text, email or call you if there
Credit Journey provides you with personalized insights to help you build, monitor and protect your credit health. Access your weekly score for free
Complimentary HealthLock membership monitors for medical identity fraud, prescription fraud, and unauthorized insurance claims.
Monitor surface and dark web for compromised credentials with real-time alerts and resolution services included.
Secondary coverage for theft and collision damage when you pay with this card and skip the rental company's insurance.
Points Boost replaces fixed portal multipliers for new Sapphire cardholders, changing CSR from guaranteed 1.5cpp to variable 1.0-2.0cpp
Chase Sapphire Reserve Business card launched with 150,000 point welcome bonus and $120K annual spend threshold
Air Canada Aeroplan added as 14th transfer partner with instant transfers and 10% bonus for Chase Aeroplan cardholders on 50K+ transfers
The Edit luxury hotel collection launched for Sapphire Reserve holders with breakfast, $100 credit, and room upgrades
Transfer your Ultimate Rewards points to 14 leading loyalty programs for maximum value.
Most partners accept Ultimate Rewards points at a 1:1 ratio with instant or near-instant transfers.
| Partner | Ratio | Transfer Time | Value Retained | Point Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1:1 | instant | — | — | |
| 1:1 | instant | — | — | |
| 1:1 | instant | 91% | — | |
| 1:1 | instant | 85% | 1.5 cpp | |
| 1:1 | instant | 79% | — | |
| Route / Property | Points | Book With | Cabin/Type | Value / Region |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Intra-Europe in Economy on a Partner | 3,500 | British Airways Avios | economy | europe |
| Intra-Europe in Economy | 3,500 | Iberia Plus | economy | europe |
| Short Haul Intra-Europe | 4,000 | British Airways Avios | economy | europe |
| Intra-Europe in Economy on a Partner | 4,000 | Virgin Atlantic Flying Club | economy | europe |
| Intra-Europe in Economy | 7,500 | Air France Klm Flying Blue | economy | europe |
| Intra-Europe on Star Alliance | 8,000 | United Mileageplus | economy | europe |
| Domestic US in Economy | 4,600 | Jetblue Trueblue | economy | united_states |
| Domestic US in Economy on a Partner | 6,300 | United Mileageplus | economy | united_states |
| Domestic US and Canada in Economy | 7,100 | Air Canada Aeroplan | economy | united_states |
| Domestic US in Economy on a Partner | 7,500 | Virgin Atlantic Flying Club | economy | united_states |
| Domestic US in Economy on a Partner | 13,500 | British Airways Avios | economy | united_states |
| Domestic US in Economy on a Partner | 15,000 | Singapore Krisflyer | economy | united_states |
| US to Europe in Economy | 6,000 | Virgin Atlantic Flying Club | economy | europe |
| US to Europe in Economy | 13,000 | Aer Lingus Avios | economy | europe |
| US to Europe in Economy | 16,000 | Iberia Plus | economy | europe |
| US to Iceland in Economy on a Partner | 17,000 | Jetblue Trueblue | economy | europe |
| US to Europe in Economy | 25,000 | Air France Klm Flying Blue | economy | europe |
| US to Europe in Economy | 26,700 | United Mileageplus | economy | europe |
| US to Europe in Economy | 35,000 | Air Canada Aeroplan | economy | europe |
| US to Hawaii in Economy | 8,000 | Southwest Rapid Rewards | economy | united_states |
Showing top 20 of 57 sweet spots
Best for flexible cash back earners who want to maximize rotating bonuses without an annual fee. The rotating 5% categories and dining/drugstore bonuses make it ideal for everyday spending.
For newcomers to points and miles, the Freedom Flex offers basic cash rewards without an annual fee, but lacks meaningful travel benefits. Consider a Sapphire card instead for true value and excitement in the rewards hobby.
If you're new to the points and miles hobby, you might be considering this card as a starting point. While the Chase Freedom Flex provides some value with no annual fee, we recommend investing in one of the Chase Sapphire cards instead, especially for beginners. The Freedom Flex offers a modest cash back sign-up bonus, but limited additional benefits to excite you about rewards travel. Taking a chance on a Sapphire card will access significantly better travel opportunities, discounts, and perks.
The Chase Freedom Flex offers several compelling benefits that make it worth considering:
- **Attractive Sign-up Bonus**: Earn a $200 sign-up bonus after spending just $500 on purchases within your first three months — an excellent 40% return with no annual fee.
- **Rotating Bonus Categories**: Take advantage of 5% cash back on quarterly rotating categories (up to $1,500 in combined purchases after activation). These categories typically include popular merchants and spending categories such as grocery stores, fitness clubs, Amazon, and streaming services.
Beyond these headline features, the card provides consistent rewards on everyday spending. You'll earn 3% cash back on dining (including takeout and delivery services) and drugstore purchases, with 1% cash back on all other purchases.
The card also comes with impressive protections not typically found on no-annual-fee cards, including:
- Purchase protection
- Extended warranty protection
- Cell phone protection
- Trip cancellation and interruption insurance
- Auto rental coverage
Your cash back rewards never expire as long as your account remains open. Also, if you later add a Chase Sapphire card to your wallet, you can transfer your Freedom Flex rewards and convert them to Chase Ultimate Rewards points — significantly increasing their potential value for travel redemptions.
This card might not be right for you if:
- You want to earn points specifically for free travel redemptions
- You're willing to pay an annual fee for a higher sign-up bonus and premium benefits
**Chase Ultimate Rewards is our most valued point system.**
- These points are the most flexible of any credit card points. You can transfer points to their partners (the most valuable way to redeem)
- Or you can book travel directly through the Chase portal, including cruise, car rental, or specialty hotels.
- The quality of their transfer partners (Hyatt, United & Southwest) is unmatched. As is the value you can get when you transfer.
- You can get a “multiplier effect” on your Chase Ultimate Rewards points when you have either of Chase’s Sapphire cards by taking advantage of Points Boost.
- We view Ultimate Rewards as the points “savings account” to top off a partner reward system for a flight or hotel. Or to book travel items directly through the Chase travel portal.
If you're considering the Chase Freedom Flex, you're likely at the beginning of your points and miles journey. Understanding where this card fits within Chase's ecosystem helps you make a more strategic decision:
Credit Utilization (60%)
Excludes earning value, lounge access, insurance, and elite status
Total Value Captured
$24
Annual Fee
-$0
Net Annual Value
+$24
Freedom family
| Card | Tier | Annual Fee | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chase Freedom Unlimited | entry | $0 |
Product changes available between family members without a new credit inquiry.
Cash back redemptions return only 1 cent per point. Booking travel through the Chase Travel Portal can be worth up to 2 cents per point with the Chase Sapphire Reserve for Points Boost redemptions. Transferring points to airline or hotel partners can deliver even higher value, up to 7-10 cents per point.
The most efficient way to redeem Chase points is to transfer them to travel partners. Transfers deliver outsized value, often well more than 2 cents per point. Booking through the Chase Travel Portal is easier, but learning partner awards maximizes long-term value and flexibility.
The two Chase Sapphire Reserve cards, personal and business, offer the biggest signup bonuses and most perks, but they also carry higher annual fees. The Chase Sapphire Preferred is an excellent alternative for travelers who want strong value and transferable points with a lower fee.
You cannot book Airbnb through Chase Travel, as Airbnb is not a direct transfer partner. Chase does offer vacation rentals in its portal for select cardholders. Log in to Chase Travel, and if your card is eligible you will see options to search hotels or vacation homes.
American Express provides access to more lounges than Chase through the Global Lounge Collection, which includes Centurion Lounges, Delta Sky Clubs, and other partner lounges. The premium cards from both reward systems offer access to the most lounges.
The Points Guy's comprehensive review of the Chase Freedom Flex, including earning structure, bonus redemption strategies, and how it compares to other Chase cards in the rewards ecosystem.
Doctor of Credit's detailed review covering the Freedom Flex's benefit structure, bonus category activation requirements, potential for earning optimization, and application strategy insights.
The Points Guy's quarterly category tracker and activation guide, helping cardmembers identify which categories are bonus categories each quarter and maximize the 5% cash back potential.
Deep-dive guide covering optimal category activation strategies, quarterly bonus category analysis, and how to maximize rewards when combined with Chase Sapphire cards for transfer options.
NerdWallet's detailed assessment of the Freedom Flex's earning rates, bonus structure, and fees, including a side-by-side comparison with the Chase Freedom Unlimited and other rotating-category cards.
Bankrate's expert review analyzing the card's 5% rotating categories, 3% dining/drugstore benefits, and intro APR offer, with guidance on whether it's worth activating each quarter.
Forbes Advisor's evaluation of the Freedom Flex as a no-fee alternative for cash back seekers, highlighting the quarterly category advantage and DoorDash DashPass benefit.
CNBC Select's take on the Freedom Flex's value proposition for everyday spenders, including analysis of how the rotating categories compare to fixed-rate alternatives and the intro APR benefit.
CNN Underscored's consumer-focused review of the Freedom Flex, emphasizing the zero annual fee, straightforward cash back structure, and best-use scenarios for various spending profiles.
U.S. News & World Report's analysis of the card's earning potential across categories, welcome offer value, and how it fits into a rewards card portfolio for different spending patterns.
Upgraded Points' comprehensive breakdown of the Freedom Flex's earning rates, comparison with other Chase cards, redemption options when paired with Sapphire cards, and ideal cardholder profiles.
| Source | Date | URL |
|---|---|---|
| — | — | View source |
| — | — | View source |
| — | — | View source |
Up to
$40
in annual credits
$10/mo Instacart+
—
Annual
Get 3 free months of Instacart+ plus $10 off monthly orders when paid with card.
$5 Lyft + airport savings
—
Annual
Earn $5 monthly with 3 Lyft rides + save 10% on airport rides nationwide.
$3/mo Peacock
—
Annual
Save $3/month on Peacock Premium or Premium Plus with automatic statement credit.
$2.50/mo transit
—
Annual
Earn $2.50/month when spending $10+ on contactless transit in select U.S. cities.
DoorDash DashPass
—
Monthly
Get 6 months of complimentary access to DashPass– a membership for both DoorDash and Caviar – which unlocks $0 delivery fees and lower service fees
DoorDash DashPass
$60
One-time
Get 6 months of DashPass with $0 delivery fees on eligible DoorDash and Caviar orders over $12.
Combined Protection Value
$800
Get up to $800 per claim when your phone is damaged or stolen and you pay your wireless bill with this card.
We help safeguard your credit card purchases using sophisticated fraud monitoring. We monitor for fraud 24/7 and can text, email or call you if there
Credit Journey provides you with personalized insights to help you build, monitor and protect your credit health. Access your weekly score for free
Complimentary HealthLock membership monitors for medical identity fraud, prescription fraud, and unauthorized insurance claims.
Monitor surface and dark web for compromised credentials with real-time alerts and resolution services included.
Secondary coverage for theft and collision damage when you pay with this card and skip the rental company's insurance.
Points Boost replaces fixed portal multipliers for new Sapphire cardholders, changing CSR from guaranteed 1.5cpp to variable 1.0-2.0cpp
Chase Sapphire Reserve Business card launched with 150,000 point welcome bonus and $120K annual spend threshold
Air Canada Aeroplan added as 14th transfer partner with instant transfers and 10% bonus for Chase Aeroplan cardholders on 50K+ transfers
The Edit luxury hotel collection launched for Sapphire Reserve holders with breakfast, $100 credit, and room upgrades
Transfer your Ultimate Rewards points to 14 leading loyalty programs for maximum value.
Most partners accept Ultimate Rewards points at a 1:1 ratio with instant or near-instant transfers.
| Partner | Ratio | Transfer Time | Value Retained | Point Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1:1 | instant | — | — | |
| 1:1 | instant | — | — | |
| 1:1 | instant | 91% | — | |
| 1:1 | instant | 85% | 1.5 cpp | |
| 1:1 | instant | 79% | — | |
| Route / Property | Points | Book With | Cabin/Type | Value / Region |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Intra-Europe in Economy on a Partner | 3,500 | British Airways Avios | economy | europe |
| Intra-Europe in Economy | 3,500 | Iberia Plus | economy | europe |
| Short Haul Intra-Europe | 4,000 | British Airways Avios | economy | europe |
| Intra-Europe in Economy on a Partner | 4,000 | Virgin Atlantic Flying Club | economy | europe |
| Intra-Europe in Economy | 7,500 | Air France Klm Flying Blue | economy | europe |
| Intra-Europe on Star Alliance | 8,000 | United Mileageplus | economy | europe |
| Domestic US in Economy | 4,600 | Jetblue Trueblue | economy | united_states |
| Domestic US in Economy on a Partner | 6,300 | United Mileageplus | economy | united_states |
| Domestic US and Canada in Economy | 7,100 | Air Canada Aeroplan | economy | united_states |
| Domestic US in Economy on a Partner | 7,500 | Virgin Atlantic Flying Club | economy | united_states |
| Domestic US in Economy on a Partner | 13,500 | British Airways Avios | economy | united_states |
| Domestic US in Economy on a Partner | 15,000 | Singapore Krisflyer | economy | united_states |
| US to Europe in Economy | 6,000 | Virgin Atlantic Flying Club | economy | europe |
| US to Europe in Economy | 13,000 | Aer Lingus Avios | economy | europe |
| US to Europe in Economy | 16,000 | Iberia Plus | economy | europe |
| US to Iceland in Economy on a Partner | 17,000 | Jetblue Trueblue | economy | europe |
| US to Europe in Economy | 25,000 | Air France Klm Flying Blue | economy | europe |
| US to Europe in Economy | 26,700 | United Mileageplus | economy | europe |
| US to Europe in Economy | 35,000 | Air Canada Aeroplan | economy | europe |
| US to Hawaii in Economy | 8,000 | Southwest Rapid Rewards | economy | united_states |
Showing top 20 of 57 sweet spots
Best for flexible cash back earners who want to maximize rotating bonuses without an annual fee. The rotating 5% categories and dining/drugstore bonuses make it ideal for everyday spending.
For newcomers to points and miles, the Freedom Flex offers basic cash rewards without an annual fee, but lacks meaningful travel benefits. Consider a Sapphire card instead for true value and excitement in the rewards hobby.
If you're new to the points and miles hobby, you might be considering this card as a starting point. While the Chase Freedom Flex provides some value with no annual fee, we recommend investing in one of the Chase Sapphire cards instead, especially for beginners. The Freedom Flex offers a modest cash back sign-up bonus, but limited additional benefits to excite you about rewards travel. Taking a chance on a Sapphire card will access significantly better travel opportunities, discounts, and perks.
The Chase Freedom Flex offers several compelling benefits that make it worth considering:
- **Attractive Sign-up Bonus**: Earn a $200 sign-up bonus after spending just $500 on purchases within your first three months — an excellent 40% return with no annual fee.
- **Rotating Bonus Categories**: Take advantage of 5% cash back on quarterly rotating categories (up to $1,500 in combined purchases after activation). These categories typically include popular merchants and spending categories such as grocery stores, fitness clubs, Amazon, and streaming services.
Beyond these headline features, the card provides consistent rewards on everyday spending. You'll earn 3% cash back on dining (including takeout and delivery services) and drugstore purchases, with 1% cash back on all other purchases.
The card also comes with impressive protections not typically found on no-annual-fee cards, including:
- Purchase protection
- Extended warranty protection
- Cell phone protection
- Trip cancellation and interruption insurance
- Auto rental coverage
Your cash back rewards never expire as long as your account remains open. Also, if you later add a Chase Sapphire card to your wallet, you can transfer your Freedom Flex rewards and convert them to Chase Ultimate Rewards points — significantly increasing their potential value for travel redemptions.
This card might not be right for you if:
- You want to earn points specifically for free travel redemptions
- You're willing to pay an annual fee for a higher sign-up bonus and premium benefits
**Chase Ultimate Rewards is our most valued point system.**
- These points are the most flexible of any credit card points. You can transfer points to their partners (the most valuable way to redeem)
- Or you can book travel directly through the Chase portal, including cruise, car rental, or specialty hotels.
- The quality of their transfer partners (Hyatt, United & Southwest) is unmatched. As is the value you can get when you transfer.
- You can get a “multiplier effect” on your Chase Ultimate Rewards points when you have either of Chase’s Sapphire cards by taking advantage of Points Boost.
- We view Ultimate Rewards as the points “savings account” to top off a partner reward system for a flight or hotel. Or to book travel items directly through the Chase travel portal.
If you're considering the Chase Freedom Flex, you're likely at the beginning of your points and miles journey. Understanding where this card fits within Chase's ecosystem helps you make a more strategic decision:
Credit Utilization (60%)
Excludes earning value, lounge access, insurance, and elite status
Total Value Captured
$24
Annual Fee
-$0
Net Annual Value
+$24
Freedom family
| Card | Tier | Annual Fee | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chase Freedom Unlimited | entry | $0 |
Product changes available between family members without a new credit inquiry.
Cash back redemptions return only 1 cent per point. Booking travel through the Chase Travel Portal can be worth up to 2 cents per point with the Chase Sapphire Reserve for Points Boost redemptions. Transferring points to airline or hotel partners can deliver even higher value, up to 7-10 cents per point.
The most efficient way to redeem Chase points is to transfer them to travel partners. Transfers deliver outsized value, often well more than 2 cents per point. Booking through the Chase Travel Portal is easier, but learning partner awards maximizes long-term value and flexibility.
The two Chase Sapphire Reserve cards, personal and business, offer the biggest signup bonuses and most perks, but they also carry higher annual fees. The Chase Sapphire Preferred is an excellent alternative for travelers who want strong value and transferable points with a lower fee.
You cannot book Airbnb through Chase Travel, as Airbnb is not a direct transfer partner. Chase does offer vacation rentals in its portal for select cardholders. Log in to Chase Travel, and if your card is eligible you will see options to search hotels or vacation homes.
American Express provides access to more lounges than Chase through the Global Lounge Collection, which includes Centurion Lounges, Delta Sky Clubs, and other partner lounges. The premium cards from both reward systems offer access to the most lounges.
The Points Guy's comprehensive review of the Chase Freedom Flex, including earning structure, bonus redemption strategies, and how it compares to other Chase cards in the rewards ecosystem.
Doctor of Credit's detailed review covering the Freedom Flex's benefit structure, bonus category activation requirements, potential for earning optimization, and application strategy insights.
The Points Guy's quarterly category tracker and activation guide, helping cardmembers identify which categories are bonus categories each quarter and maximize the 5% cash back potential.
Deep-dive guide covering optimal category activation strategies, quarterly bonus category analysis, and how to maximize rewards when combined with Chase Sapphire cards for transfer options.
NerdWallet's detailed assessment of the Freedom Flex's earning rates, bonus structure, and fees, including a side-by-side comparison with the Chase Freedom Unlimited and other rotating-category cards.
Bankrate's expert review analyzing the card's 5% rotating categories, 3% dining/drugstore benefits, and intro APR offer, with guidance on whether it's worth activating each quarter.
Forbes Advisor's evaluation of the Freedom Flex as a no-fee alternative for cash back seekers, highlighting the quarterly category advantage and DoorDash DashPass benefit.
CNBC Select's take on the Freedom Flex's value proposition for everyday spenders, including analysis of how the rotating categories compare to fixed-rate alternatives and the intro APR benefit.
CNN Underscored's consumer-focused review of the Freedom Flex, emphasizing the zero annual fee, straightforward cash back structure, and best-use scenarios for various spending profiles.
U.S. News & World Report's analysis of the card's earning potential across categories, welcome offer value, and how it fits into a rewards card portfolio for different spending patterns.
Upgraded Points' comprehensive breakdown of the Freedom Flex's earning rates, comparison with other Chase cards, redemption options when paired with Sapphire cards, and ideal cardholder profiles.
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|---|---|---|
| — | — | View source |
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Up to
$40
in annual credits
$10/mo Instacart+
—
Annual
Get 3 free months of Instacart+ plus $10 off monthly orders when paid with card.
$5 Lyft + airport savings
—
Annual
Earn $5 monthly with 3 Lyft rides + save 10% on airport rides nationwide.
$3/mo Peacock
—
Annual
Save $3/month on Peacock Premium or Premium Plus with automatic statement credit.
$2.50/mo transit
—
Annual
Earn $2.50/month when spending $10+ on contactless transit in select U.S. cities.
DoorDash DashPass
—
Monthly
Get 6 months of complimentary access to DashPass– a membership for both DoorDash and Caviar – which unlocks $0 delivery fees and lower service fees
DoorDash DashPass
$60
One-time
Get 6 months of DashPass with $0 delivery fees on eligible DoorDash and Caviar orders over $12.
Combined Protection Value
$800
Get up to $800 per claim when your phone is damaged or stolen and you pay your wireless bill with this card.
We help safeguard your credit card purchases using sophisticated fraud monitoring. We monitor for fraud 24/7 and can text, email or call you if there
Credit Journey provides you with personalized insights to help you build, monitor and protect your credit health. Access your weekly score for free
Complimentary HealthLock membership monitors for medical identity fraud, prescription fraud, and unauthorized insurance claims.
Monitor surface and dark web for compromised credentials with real-time alerts and resolution services included.
Secondary coverage for theft and collision damage when you pay with this card and skip the rental company's insurance.
Points Boost replaces fixed portal multipliers for new Sapphire cardholders, changing CSR from guaranteed 1.5cpp to variable 1.0-2.0cpp
Chase Sapphire Reserve Business card launched with 150,000 point welcome bonus and $120K annual spend threshold
Air Canada Aeroplan added as 14th transfer partner with instant transfers and 10% bonus for Chase Aeroplan cardholders on 50K+ transfers
The Edit luxury hotel collection launched for Sapphire Reserve holders with breakfast, $100 credit, and room upgrades
Transfer your Ultimate Rewards points to 14 leading loyalty programs for maximum value.
Most partners accept Ultimate Rewards points at a 1:1 ratio with instant or near-instant transfers.
| Partner | Ratio | Transfer Time | Value Retained | Point Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1:1 | instant | — | — | |
| 1:1 | instant | — | — | |
| 1:1 | instant | 91% | — | |
| 1:1 | instant | 85% | 1.5 cpp | |
| 1:1 | instant | 79% | — | |
| Route / Property | Points | Book With | Cabin/Type | Value / Region |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Intra-Europe in Economy on a Partner | 3,500 | British Airways Avios | economy | europe |
| Intra-Europe in Economy | 3,500 | Iberia Plus | economy | europe |
| Short Haul Intra-Europe | 4,000 | British Airways Avios | economy | europe |
| Intra-Europe in Economy on a Partner | 4,000 | Virgin Atlantic Flying Club | economy | europe |
| Intra-Europe in Economy | 7,500 | Air France Klm Flying Blue | economy | europe |
| Intra-Europe on Star Alliance | 8,000 | United Mileageplus | economy | europe |
| Domestic US in Economy | 4,600 | Jetblue Trueblue | economy | united_states |
| Domestic US in Economy on a Partner | 6,300 | United Mileageplus | economy | united_states |
| Domestic US and Canada in Economy | 7,100 | Air Canada Aeroplan | economy | united_states |
| Domestic US in Economy on a Partner | 7,500 | Virgin Atlantic Flying Club | economy | united_states |
| Domestic US in Economy on a Partner | 13,500 | British Airways Avios | economy | united_states |
| Domestic US in Economy on a Partner | 15,000 | Singapore Krisflyer | economy | united_states |
| US to Europe in Economy | 6,000 | Virgin Atlantic Flying Club | economy | europe |
| US to Europe in Economy | 13,000 | Aer Lingus Avios | economy | europe |
| US to Europe in Economy | 16,000 | Iberia Plus | economy | europe |
| US to Iceland in Economy on a Partner | 17,000 | Jetblue Trueblue | economy | europe |
| US to Europe in Economy | 25,000 | Air France Klm Flying Blue | economy | europe |
| US to Europe in Economy | 26,700 | United Mileageplus | economy | europe |
| US to Europe in Economy | 35,000 | Air Canada Aeroplan | economy | europe |
| US to Hawaii in Economy | 8,000 | Southwest Rapid Rewards | economy | united_states |
Showing top 20 of 57 sweet spots
Best for flexible cash back earners who want to maximize rotating bonuses without an annual fee. The rotating 5% categories and dining/drugstore bonuses make it ideal for everyday spending.
For newcomers to points and miles, the Freedom Flex offers basic cash rewards without an annual fee, but lacks meaningful travel benefits. Consider a Sapphire card instead for true value and excitement in the rewards hobby.
If you're new to the points and miles hobby, you might be considering this card as a starting point. While the Chase Freedom Flex provides some value with no annual fee, we recommend investing in one of the Chase Sapphire cards instead, especially for beginners. The Freedom Flex offers a modest cash back sign-up bonus, but limited additional benefits to excite you about rewards travel. Taking a chance on a Sapphire card will access significantly better travel opportunities, discounts, and perks.
The Chase Freedom Flex offers several compelling benefits that make it worth considering:
- **Attractive Sign-up Bonus**: Earn a $200 sign-up bonus after spending just $500 on purchases within your first three months — an excellent 40% return with no annual fee.
- **Rotating Bonus Categories**: Take advantage of 5% cash back on quarterly rotating categories (up to $1,500 in combined purchases after activation). These categories typically include popular merchants and spending categories such as grocery stores, fitness clubs, Amazon, and streaming services.
Beyond these headline features, the card provides consistent rewards on everyday spending. You'll earn 3% cash back on dining (including takeout and delivery services) and drugstore purchases, with 1% cash back on all other purchases.
The card also comes with impressive protections not typically found on no-annual-fee cards, including:
- Purchase protection
- Extended warranty protection
- Cell phone protection
- Trip cancellation and interruption insurance
- Auto rental coverage
Your cash back rewards never expire as long as your account remains open. Also, if you later add a Chase Sapphire card to your wallet, you can transfer your Freedom Flex rewards and convert them to Chase Ultimate Rewards points — significantly increasing their potential value for travel redemptions.
This card might not be right for you if:
- You want to earn points specifically for free travel redemptions
- You're willing to pay an annual fee for a higher sign-up bonus and premium benefits
**Chase Ultimate Rewards is our most valued point system.**
- These points are the most flexible of any credit card points. You can transfer points to their partners (the most valuable way to redeem)
- Or you can book travel directly through the Chase portal, including cruise, car rental, or specialty hotels.
- The quality of their transfer partners (Hyatt, United & Southwest) is unmatched. As is the value you can get when you transfer.
- You can get a “multiplier effect” on your Chase Ultimate Rewards points when you have either of Chase’s Sapphire cards by taking advantage of Points Boost.
- We view Ultimate Rewards as the points “savings account” to top off a partner reward system for a flight or hotel. Or to book travel items directly through the Chase travel portal.
If you're considering the Chase Freedom Flex, you're likely at the beginning of your points and miles journey. Understanding where this card fits within Chase's ecosystem helps you make a more strategic decision:
Credit Utilization (60%)
Excludes earning value, lounge access, insurance, and elite status
Total Value Captured
$24
Annual Fee
-$0
Net Annual Value
+$24
Freedom family
| Card | Tier | Annual Fee | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chase Freedom Unlimited | entry | $0 |
Product changes available between family members without a new credit inquiry.
Cash back redemptions return only 1 cent per point. Booking travel through the Chase Travel Portal can be worth up to 2 cents per point with the Chase Sapphire Reserve for Points Boost redemptions. Transferring points to airline or hotel partners can deliver even higher value, up to 7-10 cents per point.
The most efficient way to redeem Chase points is to transfer them to travel partners. Transfers deliver outsized value, often well more than 2 cents per point. Booking through the Chase Travel Portal is easier, but learning partner awards maximizes long-term value and flexibility.
The two Chase Sapphire Reserve cards, personal and business, offer the biggest signup bonuses and most perks, but they also carry higher annual fees. The Chase Sapphire Preferred is an excellent alternative for travelers who want strong value and transferable points with a lower fee.
You cannot book Airbnb through Chase Travel, as Airbnb is not a direct transfer partner. Chase does offer vacation rentals in its portal for select cardholders. Log in to Chase Travel, and if your card is eligible you will see options to search hotels or vacation homes.
American Express provides access to more lounges than Chase through the Global Lounge Collection, which includes Centurion Lounges, Delta Sky Clubs, and other partner lounges. The premium cards from both reward systems offer access to the most lounges.
The Points Guy's comprehensive review of the Chase Freedom Flex, including earning structure, bonus redemption strategies, and how it compares to other Chase cards in the rewards ecosystem.
Doctor of Credit's detailed review covering the Freedom Flex's benefit structure, bonus category activation requirements, potential for earning optimization, and application strategy insights.
The Points Guy's quarterly category tracker and activation guide, helping cardmembers identify which categories are bonus categories each quarter and maximize the 5% cash back potential.
Deep-dive guide covering optimal category activation strategies, quarterly bonus category analysis, and how to maximize rewards when combined with Chase Sapphire cards for transfer options.
NerdWallet's detailed assessment of the Freedom Flex's earning rates, bonus structure, and fees, including a side-by-side comparison with the Chase Freedom Unlimited and other rotating-category cards.
Bankrate's expert review analyzing the card's 5% rotating categories, 3% dining/drugstore benefits, and intro APR offer, with guidance on whether it's worth activating each quarter.
Forbes Advisor's evaluation of the Freedom Flex as a no-fee alternative for cash back seekers, highlighting the quarterly category advantage and DoorDash DashPass benefit.
CNBC Select's take on the Freedom Flex's value proposition for everyday spenders, including analysis of how the rotating categories compare to fixed-rate alternatives and the intro APR benefit.
CNN Underscored's consumer-focused review of the Freedom Flex, emphasizing the zero annual fee, straightforward cash back structure, and best-use scenarios for various spending profiles.
U.S. News & World Report's analysis of the card's earning potential across categories, welcome offer value, and how it fits into a rewards card portfolio for different spending patterns.
Upgraded Points' comprehensive breakdown of the Freedom Flex's earning rates, comparison with other Chase cards, redemption options when paired with Sapphire cards, and ideal cardholder profiles.
| Source | Date | URL |
|---|---|---|
| — | — | View source |
| — | — | View source |
| — | — | View source |
Extends warranties by one year on purchases with 3-year or shorter original warranties, up to 4 years total coverage.
Covers new purchases against damage or theft for 120 days, up to $500 per item.
Get reimbursed up to $1,500 per person for prepaid fares when sickness, weather, or emergencies cancel your trip.
You won't pay for fraudulent purchases when you report them promptly, with 24/7 fraud monitoring included.
Report lost or stolen cards 24/7 and get emergency card replacement and cash advance assistance worldwide.
| 1:1 |
| instant |
| 79% |
| 1.35 cpp |
| 1:1 | instant | 79% | 1.35 cpp |
| 1:1 | instant | 79% | 1.35 cpp |
| 1:1 | instant | 73% | — |
| 1:1 | instant | 67% | — |
| Partner | Ratio | Transfer Time | Value Retained | Point Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1:1 | instant | 103% | 1.7 cpp | |
| 1:1 | instant | 42% | 0.7 cpp | |
| 1:1 | instant | 36% | 0.6 cpp |
| Partner | Ratio | Transfer Time | Value Retained | Point Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
air_france_klm_flying_blue | 1:1 | instant | 79% | — |
- The Freedom Flex belongs to Chase's entry-level cash back card family, which includes:
- **Freedom Rise**(flat 1.5% cash back on all purchases)
- **Freedom Unlimited**(5% on Chase travel portal bookings, 3% on restaurants/drugstores, 1.5% on everything else)
While these no-annual-fee cards provide a starting point, they function best as complementary cards rather than your primary rewards card. The real value emerges when you pair a Freedom card with a premium Chase Sapphire product.
For beginners, we recommend starting with a Sapphire card instead of a Freedom card for these reasons:
- Sapphire cards earn transferable Ultimate Rewards points (more valuable than cash back)
- They provide access to valuable travel transfer partners like Hyatt, United, and Southwest
- The **Sapphire Preferred** ($95 annual fee) includes benefits that offset its cost:
- $50 annual hotel credit
- 3x points on dining
- 2x points on travel
- 25% more value when booking through the Chase portal
For those ready for premium benefits, the **Sapphire Reserve** delivers exceptional value despite its $795 annual fee, largely offset by its $300 travel credit and other statement benefits.
Remember that Chase's "5/24 rule" limits approvals if you've opened 5+ cards in 24 months, so prioritizing which Chase cards to get first is crucial for maximizing your rewards potential.
Extends warranties by one year on purchases with 3-year or shorter original warranties, up to 4 years total coverage.
Covers new purchases against damage or theft for 120 days, up to $500 per item.
Get reimbursed up to $1,500 per person for prepaid fares when sickness, weather, or emergencies cancel your trip.
You won't pay for fraudulent purchases when you report them promptly, with 24/7 fraud monitoring included.
Report lost or stolen cards 24/7 and get emergency card replacement and cash advance assistance worldwide.
| 1:1 |
| instant |
| 79% |
| 1.35 cpp |
| 1:1 | instant | 79% | 1.35 cpp |
| 1:1 | instant | 79% | 1.35 cpp |
| 1:1 | instant | 73% | — |
| 1:1 | instant | 67% | — |
| Partner | Ratio | Transfer Time | Value Retained | Point Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1:1 | instant | 103% | 1.7 cpp | |
| 1:1 | instant | 42% | 0.7 cpp | |
| 1:1 | instant | 36% | 0.6 cpp |
| Partner | Ratio | Transfer Time | Value Retained | Point Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
air_france_klm_flying_blue | 1:1 | instant | 79% | — |
- The Freedom Flex belongs to Chase's entry-level cash back card family, which includes:
- **Freedom Rise**(flat 1.5% cash back on all purchases)
- **Freedom Unlimited**(5% on Chase travel portal bookings, 3% on restaurants/drugstores, 1.5% on everything else)
While these no-annual-fee cards provide a starting point, they function best as complementary cards rather than your primary rewards card. The real value emerges when you pair a Freedom card with a premium Chase Sapphire product.
For beginners, we recommend starting with a Sapphire card instead of a Freedom card for these reasons:
- Sapphire cards earn transferable Ultimate Rewards points (more valuable than cash back)
- They provide access to valuable travel transfer partners like Hyatt, United, and Southwest
- The **Sapphire Preferred** ($95 annual fee) includes benefits that offset its cost:
- $50 annual hotel credit
- 3x points on dining
- 2x points on travel
- 25% more value when booking through the Chase portal
For those ready for premium benefits, the **Sapphire Reserve** delivers exceptional value despite its $795 annual fee, largely offset by its $300 travel credit and other statement benefits.
Remember that Chase's "5/24 rule" limits approvals if you've opened 5+ cards in 24 months, so prioritizing which Chase cards to get first is crucial for maximizing your rewards potential.
Extends warranties by one year on purchases with 3-year or shorter original warranties, up to 4 years total coverage.
Covers new purchases against damage or theft for 120 days, up to $500 per item.
Get reimbursed up to $1,500 per person for prepaid fares when sickness, weather, or emergencies cancel your trip.
You won't pay for fraudulent purchases when you report them promptly, with 24/7 fraud monitoring included.
Report lost or stolen cards 24/7 and get emergency card replacement and cash advance assistance worldwide.
| 1:1 |
| instant |
| 79% |
| 1.35 cpp |
| 1:1 | instant | 79% | 1.35 cpp |
| 1:1 | instant | 79% | 1.35 cpp |
| 1:1 | instant | 73% | — |
| 1:1 | instant | 67% | — |
| Partner | Ratio | Transfer Time | Value Retained | Point Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1:1 | instant | 103% | 1.7 cpp | |
| 1:1 | instant | 42% | 0.7 cpp | |
| 1:1 | instant | 36% | 0.6 cpp |
| Partner | Ratio | Transfer Time | Value Retained | Point Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
air_france_klm_flying_blue | 1:1 | instant | 79% | — |
- The Freedom Flex belongs to Chase's entry-level cash back card family, which includes:
- **Freedom Rise**(flat 1.5% cash back on all purchases)
- **Freedom Unlimited**(5% on Chase travel portal bookings, 3% on restaurants/drugstores, 1.5% on everything else)
While these no-annual-fee cards provide a starting point, they function best as complementary cards rather than your primary rewards card. The real value emerges when you pair a Freedom card with a premium Chase Sapphire product.
For beginners, we recommend starting with a Sapphire card instead of a Freedom card for these reasons:
- Sapphire cards earn transferable Ultimate Rewards points (more valuable than cash back)
- They provide access to valuable travel transfer partners like Hyatt, United, and Southwest
- The **Sapphire Preferred** ($95 annual fee) includes benefits that offset its cost:
- $50 annual hotel credit
- 3x points on dining
- 2x points on travel
- 25% more value when booking through the Chase portal
For those ready for premium benefits, the **Sapphire Reserve** delivers exceptional value despite its $795 annual fee, largely offset by its $300 travel credit and other statement benefits.
Remember that Chase's "5/24 rule" limits approvals if you've opened 5+ cards in 24 months, so prioritizing which Chase cards to get first is crucial for maximizing your rewards potential.
