The Chase Freedom Unlimited is a solid entry-level credit card, offering at least 1.5% cash back on all purchases. However, its true potential is unlocked when combined with the right partner card. This guide outlines the most effective pairings to maximize rewards and value.
Why Pairing Matters
The Freedom Unlimited is valuable on its own, but pairing it with a higher-tier card expands your earning potential. Chase’s rewards system is built around transferring points to airline and hotel partners, boosting redemption value significantly. Without this transfer ability, you’re leaving money on the table. The key is to combine the Freedom Unlimited’s flat-rate rewards with bonus categories offered by other cards.
Chase Cards: The Power of the Trifecta
The most impactful pairings involve other Chase cards, creating what many call the “Chase Trifecta.” These include:
- Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card: A popular choice due to its $95 annual fee being easily offset by benefits like DoorDash DashPass and bonus rewards on dining, select travel, and online groceries. This card complements the Freedom Unlimited by covering categories it doesn’t.
- Chase Sapphire Reserve®: A premium option with a hefty $795 annual fee, justified by perks like airport lounge access, luxury hotel credits, and statement credits for dining and travel. It’s ideal if you frequently leverage these benefits.
- Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card & Chase Sapphire Reserve for Business℠: These business cards unlock similar transfer benefits and rewards opportunities for entrepreneurs.
The key benefit : Combining Freedom Unlimited earnings with these cards allows you to transfer points to Chase’s 13 airline and hotel partners for increased redemption value.
Beyond Chase: Expanding Your Wallet
Diversifying your credit card portfolio is smart. The Freedom Unlimited works well with cards from other issuers:
- American Express® Gold Card: The Amex Gold offers 4x points on dining and U.S. supermarkets, surpassing the Freedom Unlimited’s 3% cash back. The $325 annual fee is offset by statement credits for Resy-affiliated restaurants.
- Capital One Venture Rewards: This card earns at least 2x miles per dollar, outperforming the Freedom Unlimited’s flat rate. The $95 annual fee is competitive. However, remember that transferring Freedom Unlimited rewards requires a Chase card like the Sapphire Preferred.
Freedom Flex: A Lower-Cost Alternative
The Chase Freedom Flex® is a good stepping stone if you’re hesitant to pay an annual fee. Its rotating quarterly categories (like gas stations, gyms, and PayPal) offer 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in spending. Like the Freedom Unlimited, you still need a Chase card to transfer rewards.
Bottom Line
Pairing the Freedom Unlimited with a complementary card is a strategic way to maximize rewards. Whether you choose a premium Chase card, an Amex, or Capital One option, diversification and transfer potential are key. By strategically using each card for its strengths, you can accelerate your progress towards your financial goals.
