Cashback cards help you get money back when you spend. The Chase Freedom Credit Card gives you 5% back in rotating categories and 1% on everything else.
It has no annual fee, and the process to earn rewards is simple. This guide explains how to use the card wisely and make the most of every purchase.
Understanding How the Cashback System Works
Chase gives you 5% cashback on select categories that change every quarter. These could include Amazon, streaming services, or cable and internet.
All other purchases get 1% cashback automatically. The 5% applies only to the first $1,500 in combined purchases per quarter.
After you reach that cap, the rate drops to 1%. You must activate your 5% categories each quarter to earn the higher rate.
Eligibility and Application Requirements
To apply for the Chase Freedom Credit Card, you must meet specific criteria. You should be at least 18 years old and have a valid U.S. address and Social Security number.
Chase will check your credit score and verify your personal and income details. Meeting these requirements improves your chances of approval.
Comparing Chase Freedom With Other Cashback Cards
The Chase Freedom Credit Card offers rotating 5% categories and access to extra perks.
Citi Custom Cash gives 5% on your top monthly spending category but has a lower cap.
Discover It matches your first-year cashback, while Wells Fargo Active Cash offers a flat 2%. Chase stands out for flexibility, but it suits users who activate and track categories.
Step-by-Step: How to Start Earning Cashback
Starting with the Chase Freedom card is easy if you know what to do. Follow the process step-by-step to earn and redeem your rewards.
- Apply for the Card: You can apply online at chase.com or via the Chase Mobile app. Provide your personal and financial info.
- Activate Quarterly Categories: Go to Chase's activation page and turn on your 5% bonus every three months.
- Spend Within the Bonus Categories: Use the card for purchases in the listed categories to earn 5% cashback.
- Track Your Cashback: Use the Chase app or website to monitor earnings.
- Redeem Your Rewards: You can use cashback as a statement credit, deposit to your bank, or for gift cards.
- Use Ultimate Rewards: Your points can be combined or boosted through Chase Ultimate Rewards if you have another eligible card.
Current 5% Categories (April to June 2025)
Each quarter, Chase chooses categories that give you the 5% cashback bonus. For this period, the selections are useful for both shopping and home use.
- Amazon Purchases: All eligible spending at Amazon.com earns 5% cashback.
- Select Streaming Services: This includes services like Netflix, Spotify, and Hulu.
- Birthday Bonus Category (June Only): Internet, cable, and phone bills earn 5% back if paid during June.
- Spending Cap: The 5% applies to up to $1,500 total for the quarter.
- Category Activation Deadline: Activate by June 14, 2025, to qualify.
- Change Each Quarter: Always check the Chase website for the latest categories.
Additional Card Benefits
Beyond cashback, the Chase Freedom card offers benefits that protect and reward you. These features can save you money and provide extra peace of mind.
- No Expiration on Rewards: Your cashback does not expire as long as your account stays open.
- No Minimum Redemption: Redeem any amount, even just a dollar.
- Zero Liability Protection: You are not held responsible for unauthorized charges.
- Trip Cancellation Insurance: Get up to $1,500 per person, or $6,000 per trip, if canceled due to illness or weather.
- Travel and Emergency Assistance: Includes referrals for medical or legal help abroad.
- DoorDash DashPass Benefit: Free six-month membership if activated by December 31, 2027.
Exclusive Offer: DoorDash DashPass Perk
Cardholders can enjoy added savings through the DashPass benefit. This can be useful if you order food regularly.
- Free 6-Month Membership: Includes free delivery and reduced fees.
- Applies to DoorDash and Caviar Orders: Both platforms are eligible.
- Enrollment Auto-Renews: After 6 months, the membership continues at the regular monthly rate.
- Extra Savings: Get up to $10 off on non-restaurant DoorDash orders.
- Valid Through 2027: This offer runs until December 31, 2027.
- Activate Promptly: Enroll early to enjoy the full benefit.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Some users miss out on cashback by making small errors. Watch out for these mistakes to keep earning at the maximum level.
- Forgetting to Activate Categories: No activation means no 5% reward.
- Spending Over the Cap: Once you hit $1,500 in the bonus categories, your rate drops.
- Closing Account Too Soon: Rewards expire when the account is closed.
- Ignoring Reward Tracking: Always check your balance and transactions.
- Misunderstanding Categories: Only purchases that qualify in listed areas get the 5% rate.
- Overlooking Redemption Options: Don't leave your rewards unused.
Tips to Maximize Your Cashback Earnings
Smart spending helps you make the most out of the Chase Freedom card. These simple tips can boost your earnings each quarter.
- Link Bills to Bonus Categories: Pay your internet or phone with the card if it matches the quarterly list.
- Shop Through Chase Offers: Some merchants give you extra points or cashback.
- Pair With Other Chase Cards: Combine with Chase Sapphire for better redemption.
- Set Category Alerts: Add reminders to activate bonuses each quarter.
- Track Spending to Cap: Know when you're approaching the $1,500 limit.
- Avoid Carrying Balances: Pay in full to avoid interest cutting into rewards.
Interest Rates and Fees
You should understand how much the card can cost you if not used carefully. The rates and fees are standard, but still important.
- APR Range: 20.49% to 29.24% variable, depending on credit.
- Balance Transfer Fee: Either $5 or 3% of the amount transferred.
- No Annual Fee: Keep the card with no yearly cost.
- Late Payment Fee: May apply if you miss the due date.
- Penalty APR: May be higher after a late or returned payment.
- Terms Change: Check chase.com for the most updated details.
How to Contact Chase?
You can contact Chase for any help with your card or cashback rewards. They offer several ways to get in touch, including phone and secure messaging.
Use the Chase app or website to send a message directly. For urgent matters, calling customer service is the fastest option.
Disclaimer: Terms and features may change without notice. Always read the latest information before applying.
Make the Most of Every Dollar You Spend
Using the Chase Freedom Credit Card is a smart way to earn money back while spending. You just need to activate your 5% categories and stay under the cap.
Don’t miss out on other card benefits like DoorDash and travel insurance. Start spending smarter and make the most out of your Chase card today.
