How to Apply for your Chase Freedom Unlimited Credit Card
The Chase Freedom Unlimited credit card offers a cash back program with no annual fee, allowing cardholders to earn on every purchase. New cardmembers receive a $200 bonus after spending $500 within the first three months. The card offers unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases, 3% on dining and drugstore purchases, and 5% on travel through Chase Travel. It also offers a 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers.
Benefits of the Chase Freedom Unlimited credit card
The Chase Freedom Unlimited credit card is designed to offer a range of benefits tailored to enhance the cardholder’s spending experience. From cash back rewards on every purchase to special financing options, this card aims to provide value in various aspects of spending and financial management. Below are some of the key benefits that stand out for the Chase Freedom Unlimited credit card, each explained in detail to understand their impact on the cardholder’s experience.
Unlimited 1.5% Cash Back on all purchases
One of the hallmark features of the Chase Freedom Unlimited credit card is the ability to earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases. This straightforward rewards structure ensures that every dollar spent earns a return, without the need to track spending categories or sign up for quarterly bonuses. It simplifies earning rewards, making it an appealing choice for those who prefer a no-fuss approach to cash back.
$200 Bonus Offer
New cardmembers have the opportunity to earn a $200 bonus after spending $500 on purchases in the first three months from account opening. This introductory offer is an immediate way to benefit from the card, providing a substantial return on the cardholder’s initial spending. It’s an attractive incentive for new users to start using the card for their everyday purchases.
0% Intro APR on Purchases and Balance Transfers
The card offers a 0% introductory APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers. This benefit is particularly valuable for those planning to make large purchases or looking to manage existing debt by transferring balances from other credit cards. After the introductory period, a variable APR of 20.49% to 29.24% applies, making it important for cardholders to plan their finances accordingly.
No Annual Fee
The absence of an annual fee is a significant benefit, reducing the cost of holding the card and ensuring that cardholders can enjoy the rewards and benefits without worrying about a yearly charge. This feature makes the Chase Freedom Unlimited credit card a cost-effective choice for everyday use.
Cash Back Rewards Do Not Expire
The cash back rewards earned with the Chase Freedom Unlimited credit card do not expire as long as the account remains open. This benefit allows cardholders to accumulate rewards over time without the pressure to redeem them by a certain date, offering flexibility in how and when to use the cash back.
3% Cash Back on Dining and Drugstore Purchases
In addition to the unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases, cardholders earn 3% cash back on dining, including takeout and eligible delivery services, and drugstore purchases. This enhanced rate on common spending categories can significantly increase the rewards earned, especially for those who frequently dine out or have regular drugstore expenses.
Prerequisites to obtain the Chase Freedom Unlimited credit card
To apply for the Chase Freedom Unlimited credit card, potential cardholders must meet certain prerequisites set by Chase. See below:
- Applicants must be at least 18 years old, or the minimum age of majority in their state of residence. Additionally, they must be a legal resident of the United States.
- Proof of residency may be required during the application process.
- A valid Social Security Number (SSN) is required to apply.
- You may need a good to excellent credit score to qualify for.
- Applicants may need to provide information about their income and employment.
- While not a strict requirement, having an existing banking relationship with Chase may facilitate the application process.
- Applicants must agree to the credit card’s terms and conditions, including the interest rates, fees, and credit limit policies.
It’s important for potential applicants to review these prerequisites carefully and ensure they meet the requirements before applying.
About Chase Financial Institution
JPMorgan Chase & Co., a leading global financial services firm, has over 220 years of history in the financial sector. It was formed through the merger of J.P. Morgan & Co. and Chase Manhattan Corporation, along with other financial institutions. JPMorgan serves millions of customers, small businesses, and prominent corporate, institutional, and government clients in over 100 countries. The bank offers a wide range of services, including personal banking, credit cards, mortgages, auto financing, investment advice, small business loans, and payment processing. JPMorgan is committed to technological innovation, customer service, and financial education, investing heavily in digital banking solutions.
Who is this Card for?
The Chase Freedom Unlimited credit card offers a cash back strategy with a simple rewards structure, appealing to everyday shoppers, dining enthusiasts, and travelers. It offers a $0 annual fee, generous introductory offer, and introductory APR on purchases and balance transfers, catering to both new and experienced cardholders with good to excellent credit.
Step by Step to Apply for the Chase Freedom Unlimited credit card
Applying for the Chase Freedom Unlimited credit card is a straightforward process that can be completed online, through the official Chase website or via the Chase mobile app. Here’s a step-by-step guide to request the card:
- Visit the Official Chase Freedom Unlimited credit card Page: start by going to the official Chase Freedom Unlimited credit card page
- Review Card Details: before applying, review all the card details, benefits, and terms and conditions available on the page to ensure it meets your financial needs.
- Click on “Apply Now”: if you decide the card is right for you, press the “Apply Now” button found on the page. This will direct you to the application form.
- Fill Out the Application Form: complete the application form with all required information, including your name, address, income, employment details, and Social Security Number (SSN).
- Review and Submit: Review your application to ensure all information is accurate and complete. Then, submit your application for review.
Pros and Cons of the Card
Exploring the Chase Freedom Unlimited credit card reveals a mix of positives and negatives that potential cardholders should consider. Here’s a summary of the key points:
Pros
- No Annual Fee: The card does not charge an annual fee, making it a cost-effective option for users who want to earn cash back without incurring yearly charges.
- Cash Back Rewards: Offers unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases, with enhanced cash back rates of 3% on dining and drugstore purchases, and 5% on travel purchased through Chase Travel, providing a versatile rewards program.
- Introductory Bonus: New cardmembers can earn a $200 bonus after spending $500 on purchases in the first three months, a relatively low spending threshold to receive a bonus.
- 0% Intro APR: Provides a 0% introductory APR for the first 15 months on purchases and balance transfers, which is beneficial for those looking to make large purchases or transfer balances from other credit cards.
- Rewards Do Not Expire: Cash back rewards do not expire as long as the account remains open, offering flexibility in redemption.
- Various Redemption Options: Rewards can be redeemed for cash back, gift cards, travel, and for shopping with points at Amazon, providing flexibility in how rewards are used.
Cons
- Variable APR After Intro Period: After the introductory 0% APR period ends, the card has a variable APR of 20.49% to 29.24%, that can be relatively high, depending on the cardholder’s creditworthiness. This could lead to significant interest charges if balances are carried month to month.
- Foreign Transaction Fees: The card charges foreign transaction fees, making it less ideal for international travel or purchases made in foreign currencies.
- Credit Requirements: The card requires good to excellent credit for approval, which may not be accessible for individuals with lower credit scores or limited credit history.
- Limited Bonus Categories: While the card offers enhanced cash back rates in certain categories, these are limited compared to some other cards that offer broader or rotating bonus categories for additional rewards.
How to Activate the Card?
Upon receiving your Chase Freedom Unlimited credit card, activating it is a simple process that ensures the card is ready for use. Here’s how to activate your card:
- Online Activation: Visit the Chase website and sign in to your Chase account. If you do not have an account, you will need to create one. Once logged in, you can activate your new card by entering the card details as prompted.
- Mobile App Activation: Download the Chase Mobile app from the App Store or Google Play Store. After logging in or signing up, look for the card activation option within the app. Enter your card details to activate it. The app provides a convenient way to manage your account and activate any new cards.
- Phone Activation: You can also activate your card by calling the phone number provided with your new card. This number is found on a sticker attached to the front of the card or in the accompanying paperwork. Follow the automated prompts or speak to a customer service representative to activate your card.
For more information on how to activate your card you can visit the official Chase Bank card activation webpage.
Fees and Tariffs
Here’s a summary of the main costs associated with the card:
- No Annual Fee
- APR on purchases: the introductory annual percentage rate (APR) for purchases is 0% for the first 15 months after the account is opened. After that, the APR will vary from 20.49% to 29.24%, depending on the state of the market and creditworthiness.
- Balance Transfer APR: there is a 0% intro APR for the first 15 months. Next, a variable APR that ranges from 20.49% to 29.24% and is comparable to the purchase APR.
- Cash Advance APR: 29.99%; subject to change based on market conditions and the Prime Rate.
- Penalty APR: Up to 29.99%, which may be applied forever if you send in a payment that is returned unpaid or don’t make the minimum amount by the deadline.
- Cash Advances: Either $10 or 5% of the amount of each transaction, whichever is greater.
- International Payments: 3% of each transaction’s value in US dollars is allocated to foreign transactions.
- Late Payment fee: up to $40
Customer Service
For assistance or more information regarding the Chase Freedom Unlimited credit card, you can use the following official channels provided by Chase:
- Official Website: For detailed information about the Chase Freedom Unlimited credit card, visit the official page at Chase Freedom Unlimited.
- Customer Service Phone Number: For direct assistance, you can call Chase customer service at 1-800-432-3117.
- Secure Messaging: If you’re already a Chase customer, you can log in to your online account or the Chase Mobile app to send a secure message for assistance.
- Chase Mobile App:
iOS: Download on the App Store
Android: Get it on Google Play
- Branch Visit: For personal assistance, you can visit any Chase branch. To find the nearest branch or ATM, use the locator tool on their website: Chase Branch Locator.
