Chase Freedom Unlimited
The Chase Freedom Unlimited is the best no-annual-fee companion to a Chase travel card. On its own it earns 1.5% cash back. Paired with a Sapphire card, those rewards become transferable Ultimate Rewards points worth significantly more.
Pros & cons
- No annual fee
- 1.5% minimum on every purchase with no cap or rotation
- Excellent partner to any Chase Sapphire card -- converts cash back to transferable points
- $200 welcome offer after only $500 spend
- 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers
- 5% on Chase Travel and 3% on dining and drugstores
- 3% foreign transaction fee -- not a card for international use
- As a standalone card, rewards capped at 1 cent per point
- Not ideal as a primary card for travelers who spend heavily in specific bonus categories
Who this card is for
Current Chase cardholders looking for a no-fee companion to their Sapphire card
Beginners who want to start earning Chase points before upgrading to a Sapphire
Everyday spenders who want a flat-rate earner for non-bonus-category purchases
Those with large upcoming purchases who want the 0% intro APR
International travelers -- the 3% FTF makes this a poor choice abroad
Travelers who want maximum point value without a Sapphire card to enable transfers
Those who already have a better no-fee earner in their wallet
Earning rates
Benefits breakdown
The Freedom Unlimited earns at every purchase with no annual fee. Its real value unlocks when paired with a Chase Sapphire card.
What to look out for
3% Foreign Transaction Fee
Do not use this card abroad. The FTF wipes out rewards on international purchases.
Cash-Only Without a Sapphire
Without a Sapphire Preferred or Reserve, points redeem at 1 cent each. You need a Sapphire card to unlock transfers.
Standard Welcome Offer
The $200 offer is the card's base. Historical elevated offers have reached $300. Consider waiting if you see a higher offer.
