Best for transferable points
The Chase Freedom Unlimited is a card held by beginners and award traveler pros alike. With no annual fee and no rotating bonus categories this card makes earning rewards simple. (Partner offer)
At a glance
- 5% Enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more;
- 3% 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service
- 1.5% 1.5% on all other purchases
Chase Freedom Unlimited®
Overview
If you’re new to points, then this is the perfect beginner card. Approval is relatively easy and the card helps you build a relationship with Chase so you can eventually get some of the issuer’s more valuable cards, such as the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card or Chase Sapphire Reserve (truthfully, it is even a great card for experts as well). With a bonus of an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) – worth up to $300 cash back! If you already have another Chase card that earns Ultimate rewards, you can transfer your earnings into points.
Pros
- At least 1.5% back on every purchase, with up to 5% or 3% back on select categories.
- There is no annual fee.
- Perfect for everyday, non-bonused spending.
- Has incredible value when paired with a premium Chase card.
Cons
- There is a 3% foreign transaction fee so the card shouldn't be used abroad.
- Limited card perks and benefits.
Who is this card good for?
If you’re just starting out with credit cards and want to build up valuable travel points quickly, the Freedom Unlimited card is a great place to start. The card is a great card for everyday, non-bonus spending and can provide incredible value when paired with a premium Chase card.
Earning Rewards
This card is a great overall cash back option. Plus, 5% back on travel booked through Ultimate Rewards, 3% back on dining, 3% at drugstores, along with 1.5% back on all other purchases. Thanks to Chase’s partnership with Lyft, you can also earn 5% cash back on Lyft rides paid for with the Freedom Unlimited (through March 2025).
Frequently asked questions
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Why pick the Chase Freedom Unlimited card?
The Chase Freedom Unlimited comes with no annual fee was, while it is still able to earn some of the best cashback rates around. If you ever decide you are ready to jump up to a Ultimate Rewards earning card, you can use this card to earn Ultimate Rewards instead of cashback.
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How do you redeem cash back with the Chase Freedom Unlimited card?
You can redeem cash back as a statement credit or through the Ultimate Rewards Portal where you can redeem cash back for travel, shopping at Amazon.com or buying gift cards.