The Chase Freedom Unlimited® card expertly blends cost-efficiency with a rich rewards program, making it a standout choice for savvy spenders. Ideal for frequent travelers, diners and everyday shoppers, this card turns routine expenses into valuable cash back opportunities. Its no-annual-fee structure and generous welcome offer enhance its appeal. The card facilitates significant purchases or balance transfers thanks to its initial zero-interest phase. Additionally, its adaptable cash back system allows for freedom in redemption, appealing to those who value flexibility in their financial tools. However, maximizing its benefits is particularly fitting for individuals with robust credit histories.
Chase Freedom Unlimited® Review
Updated: September 10, 2024
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Chase Freedom Unlimited®
Rewards Summary
Earn 1.5%–6.5% cash backEarn 6.5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, a premier rewards program that lets you redeem cash rewards back, travel, gift cards and more; 4.5% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 3% on all other purchases (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year).
After your first year or $20,000 spent, enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.
APR
20.49%–29.24% variableAnnual Fee
$0Recommended Credit
670–850 (good to excellent)Moneygeek.com credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.
Chase Freedom Unlimited® Overview
It's helpful to carefully assess a card's features when selecting a new credit card. These attributes can significantly impact your financial habits and rewards – a reality underscored by the diverse offerings of the Chase Freedom Unlimited® card, highlighted below:
- Rewards rate: Earn 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more; 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 1.5% on all other purchases
- Welcome offer: Earn an extra 1.5% on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) — worth up to $300 cash back. That’s 6.5% on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 4.5% on dining and drugstores, and 3% on all other purchases.
- Regular APR: 20.49% – 29.24% variable
- Annual fee: $0
- Intro APR offer: 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers, then a 20.49% to 29.24% variable APR afterward.
Consider how these features complement your spending and fit into your financial profile.
Important Card Details
Exploring the multifaceted features of the Chase Freedom Unlimited® card reveals a blend of convenience and strategic value for diverse spending habits. This analysis delves into how its cash back options, sign-up bonus and redemption flexibility cater to various consumer needs, highlighting the advantages and considerations for potential cardholders.
Cash Back Rewards
The Chase Freedom Unlimited is a powerhouse in the rewards landscape. With a generous 6.5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more; 4.5% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 3% on all other purchases (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year).
Fees
One of the standout features of this card is the absence of an annual fee, which immediately alleviates a common concern among potential cardholders. However, it's essential to remain aware of the regular variable APR, which can range from 20.49% to 29.24% after the introductory period. As always, paying off balances in full is a good practice to avoid any potential interest charges. By doing so, you can truly benefit from the card's rewards without the burden of additional fees.
0% APR Offer
The 0% introductory APR for the first 15 months, applicable to purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 20.49% – 29.24% is a fantastic boon. If you're planning a significant purchase or considering transferring a high-interest balance from another card, this feature can provide substantial savings. After the initial period, the regular APR kicks in, so it's beneficial to plan repayments within the introductory timeframe to optimize the card's advantages.
Other Features
One of the often overlooked features of credit cards is the longevity of rewards. With Chase Freedom Unlimited, your cash back doesn't expire as long as the account remains active, ensuring you won't feel rushed to redeem rewards. Plus, there's no minimum threshold for cash back redemption. This feature offers flexibility and peace of mind, knowing that rewards aren't slipping away and you can use them whenever you deem fit.
How the Chase Freedom Unlimited® Compares
In this comparison, we place the distinct features and benefits of two popular credit cards side by side, offering a clear perspective on how they cater to different financial needs and preferences.
How This Card Compares
Chase Freedom Unlimited®
- Rewards rate: Enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more; 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 1.5% on all other purchases
- Welcome offer: Earn an extra 1.5% on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) — worth up to $300 cash back. That’s 6.5% on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 4.5% on dining and drugstores, and 3% on all other purchases.
- Regular APR: 20.49% – 29.24% variable
- Annual fee: $0
- Intro APR offer: 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases, then a 20.49% to 29.24% variable APR afterward.
- Best for new cardholders planning significant initial spending and seeking varied cash back rates, with the added advantage of a 0% intro APR on new purchases.
Citi® Double Cash Card
- Rewards rate: Earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases. To earn cash back, pay at least the minimum due on time. Plus, for a limited time, earn 5% total cash back on hotel, car rentals and attractions booked on the Citi Travel℠ portal through 12/31/24.
- Welcome offer: None
- Regular APR: 19.24% to 29.24% (variable)
- Annual fee: $0
- Intro APR offer: None
- Best for regular spenders seeking a straightforward rewards program and no annual fee, with added benefits on travel bookings through Citi Travel.
About Grace Pilling
Grace Pilling was the Senior Content Manager for Credit Cards at MoneyGeek. She previously led personal finance teams at Bankrate, CreditCards.com and MoneyUnder30.
Pilling has a bachelor's degree in English from Western Sydney University and a diploma in book editing, proofreading and publishing. She is focused on empowering readers to make informed financial choices that support their best lives, not a company’s bottom line.
*Rates, fees or bonuses may vary or include specific stipulations. The content on this page is accurate as of the posting/last updated date; however, some of the offers mentioned may have expired. We recommend visiting the card issuer’s website for the most up-to-date information available.
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Editorial Disclosure: Opinions, reviews, analyses and recommendations are the author’s alone and have not been reviewed, endorsed or approved by any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. Learn more about our editorial policies and expert editorial team.
Advertiser Disclosure: MoneyGeek has partnered with CardRatings.com and CreditCards.com for our coverage of credit card products. MoneyGeek, CardRatings and CreditCards.com may receive a commission from card issuers. To ensure thorough comparisons and reviews, MoneyGeek features products from both paid partners and unaffiliated card issuers that are not paid partners.