Chase Freedom Unlimited®

• Cash-back rewards don't expire as long as account is open. No minimum to redeem for cash back. You can use points to redeem for cash through an account statement credit or an electronic deposit into an eligible Chase account located in the United States.

[.dontreco] We don’t recommend: Redeeming your cash back as a statement credit [.dontreco]

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While you can apply your cash back toward your balance, doing so means you miss out on using your rewards for travel or gift cards.

[.sometimesreco] We sometimes recommend: Using the Chase Travel Portal [.sometimesreco]

You can redeem your cash back for travel expenses through Chase Travel at a rate of 1 cent per point. It’s a solid option, but you might get better value elsewhere.

[.alwaysreco] We always recommend: Transferring points to travel partners [.alwaysreco]

By pairing this card with a Sapphire Card, your Freedom Unlimited cash back can be converted into Ultimate Rewards points, which can be transferred to 14 airline and hotel partners. This often provides greater value, especially for flights and hotel stays.

[.favhotels] Our favorite hotels to book with this card [.favhotels]

• Hyatt (World of Hyatt): Known for its great value, Hyatt typically has lower point requirements for free nights. Plus, their range of properties caters to all budgets.
• Marriott Bonvoy: Although redeeming points for Marriott can sometimes cost more, their extensive network means plenty of options worldwide.
• IHG Rewards Club: IHG offers diverse hotels, including budget and luxury choices. Promotions can make transferring points to IHG especially worthwhile.

[.favairlines] Our favorite airlines to fly with this card [.favairlines]

• Air France/KLM Flying Blue: With monthly Promo Awards, it’s a great option for savings on flights to Europe and elsewhere.
• Virgin Atlantic Flying Club: Offers fantastic value for flights on Virgin Atlantic and partners, particularly in premium cabins.

Again, in order for the cash back to convert to points from this card, you need to hold a Chase Sapphire card. In that case, you would have access to these amazing transfer partners:

1. If You Love Chase Cards

If you’re a proud member of the Chase card family (as you should be), then the Chase Freedom Unlimited is a perfect addition to your wallet. This card works beautifully with other Chase Ultimate Rewards cards, like the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card and Chase Freedom Flex. The benefits multiply when you pair them together, allowing you to earn and maximize rewards across different categories. By using the Freedom Unlimited for all your everyday purchases, you can accumulate cash-back rewards that can then be converted into Ultimate Rewards points. Plus, there’s no annual fee to worry about, making it a hassle-free way to dive into the world of rewards without breaking the bank.

2. The Cash-Back Enthusiast

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Are you all about maximizing your cash-back rewards? The Chase Freedom Unlimited is your best friend in the cash-back game. With no annual fee and unlimited cash back on every purchase, it’s the ideal starter card for those looking to utilize their everyday spending without the worry of category restrictions.

3. The Credit Card Beginner

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Cash back is great...yeah. But the Chase Freedom Unlimited is a solid travel companion, especially when you're just getting started. If you enjoy traveling, you’ll love that you can convert your cash back into Ultimate Rewards points, which can then be transferred to an array of travel partners. This card is also a great option for college students or recent grads looking to open their first account. The Freedom Unlimited gives you the flexibility to stretch your travel budget with its earning structure and partnerships, and it’s a smart way to turn those everyday expenses into free (or mostly free) trips.

Here’s a good rule of thumb: You probably shouldn’t own a credit card if you: (1) have a bad credit score, (2) are a non-U.S. resident (for this particular card), and (3) cannot control your spending. If your credit score is low, you'll need to improve it before applying for travel credit cards, as approval for the best ones, like the Freedom Unlimited, is unlikely. But again, some consider this a "beginner card," so it's always worth a shot! Be honest with yourself: if a new credit card will tempt you to overspend, it's best to avoid it. Credit cards are crucial for earning miles and points, but they require responsible use.

The recommended credit score for the Freedom Unlimited is good to excellent. But again, if you’re in a solid place with your credit and feel you are ready for a new card, don’t let the fear of being rejected keep you from applying. We’ve known several people to be rejected on their first application, call Chase to please their case, and be granted the Freedom Unlimited.