How to maximize Chase credit cards?

To maximize your Chase credit cards, there are several strategies based on Brad Barrett's expertise:

1. The Chase Gauntlet: This involves opening up five Chase credit cards over a two-year period to stay within the 5/24 rule, which restricts you to five new credit cards in 24 months. Focus on cards that offer top-tier rewards and alternate applications between you and your spouse to maximize points accumulation without hitting the limit too quickly1.

2. Strategic Spending: Use everyday spending to meet the minimum spend requirements for bonuses without excessive effort. For example, Brad uses a rolling cycle of alternating between personal and partner cards every few months 1.

3. Choose the Right Cards:

   • Chase Sapphire Preferred: Great for beginners with a current bonus of 60,000 points after spending $4,000 in three months. Though it has a $95 annual fee, it is waived the first year2
   • Chase Sapphire Reserve: This has a higher fee but offers robust perks, including a 1.5 cents per point valuation through the Ultimate Rewards portal1.

4. Business Cards: Consider the Ink Business Cash card. It has no annual fee and provides a substantial sign-up bonus of $500 (or 50,000 Ultimate Rewards points) after $3,000 spent. It's particularly valuable because it doesn't count toward the 5/24 rule3.

   • 

     1

     Chase Gauntlet Strategy

     00:06:20
     
   • 

     2

     Maximizing Credit Card Rewards

     00:08:58
     
   • 

     3

     Ink Business Cash Benefits

     00:32:18
     
   • 

     4

     Chase 524 Strategy

     00:58:24
     

5. Points Transfer Strategy: Combine points from different Chase cards to leverage higher value through transfer partners like Hyatt, Southwest, and United. This strategy can effectively double the value of your points3.

6. Avoiding Common Pitfalls:

   • Authorized Users: Adding authorized users can count against your 5/24 limit, so avoid it unless necessary4.
   • Annual Fees: Be cautious about annual fees, especially with cards like the Chase Sapphire Reserve ($450 fee upfront). Ensure the benefits outweigh the costs3.

Following these strategies can help you maximize the benefits and rewards of your Chase credit cards effectively.