A few Chase Freedom updates

So as I alluded to in a prior post, one of the newer cards that I have been considering applying for is the Chase Freedom Unlimited card that is set to be available next month. However, it sounds like as of today you can apply for this card either through a secure message on their website or directly at one of their branches.

Here is a copy of one of the secure messages that was received from Chase regarding a customer wanting to product change their current Chase Freedom to the new Unlimited card:

As a reminder, this new card is a no fee card that offers 1.5% cash back on all purchases without any additional bonus categories like the traditional Chase Freedom card. However, if you pair this card with an Ultimate Rewards earning card such as the Sapphire Preferred or Ink Plus Business card then these points become much more valuable as they can then be transferred to one of their many transfer partners. The Chase Freedom Unlimited card is also offering a sign up bonus of $150 after you spend $500 in the first 3 months and offers 0% APR for the first 15 months.

Also as a reminder that today is the last day to activate your 5% cash back for the first quarter (gas stations, local commuter transportation) which you can do by visiting https://creditcards.chase.com/freedom/activate. Then starting tomorrow you can activate for next quarter's bonus category (grocery stores).

Bottom Line

While it appears that it is now possible to apply for the new Chase Freedom Unlimited card, I am probably going to wait until next month when the online application becomes available. I am always hesitant about applying for new cards, partly because I am paranoid about my credit score and the hard inquiries that are involved, and also because of Chase's new "5/24 rule" which limits you to how many credit cards you can obtain in a 24 month period. That is why my wallet tends to be pretty thin, especially compared to many of the other hobbyists out there but I currently need a card for all my non-bonus spend. Are you planning to apply for this new card?