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Whether you’re a frequent shopper, an avid traveler, or someone who wants to maximize rewards on everyday purchases, this card offers a robust combination of perks, rewards, and flexibility.
In this Chase Freedom Unlimited review, we’ll explore what sets the card apart, highlight its key features, and help you determine if it’s the right fit for your financial needs.
Whether you’re new to credit cards or considering an upgrade, the Chase Freedom Unlimited could be the perfect addition to your wallet.
Features of the Chase Freedom Unlimited Credit Card
The Chase Freedom Unlimited credit card provides a host of features designed to offer both protection and convenience.
A standout benefit is the Zero Liability Protection, which means you won’t be held accountable for any unauthorized transactions made with your card. This ensures peace of mind while shopping.
For added security on new purchases, the card includes Purchase Protection that covers items for 120 days against damage or theft, with claims up to $500 per incident and a total limit of $50,000 per account.
The Extended Warranty Protection is another plus, extending the U.S. manufacturer’s warranty by an extra year on eligible warranties of three years or less.
Travelers will appreciate the Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, which provides reimbursement up to $1,500 per person and $6,000 per trip for prepaid, non-refundable passenger fares if a trip is canceled or interrupted due to covered situations.
With 24/7 Fraud Monitoring, Chase actively monitors your account for any unusual activity, and the Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver offers coverage for theft and collision damage when renting a car.
Additionally, Travel and Emergency Assistance Services provide support for legal and medical needs while traveling, though any incurred costs are your responsibility.
Pros and Cons of the Chase Freedom Unlimited Credit Card
The Chase Freedom Unlimited credit card offers many benefits, but it also has some drawbacks. These include:
Benefits
Some advantages of using the Chase Freedom Unlimited credit card include:
- DashPass Membership: Get a complimentary 3-month DashPass membership for $0 delivery fees on DoorDash and Caviar, followed by 50% off for the next nine months.
- 5% Cash Back on Lyft: Earn 5% cash back on Lyft rides through March 31, 2025, which includes an additional 3.5% cash back on top of the standard 1.5%.
- Credit Journey® Benefits: Monitor and improve your credit with free access to your score and personalized action plans from Credit Journey®.
- Chase Pay Over Time: Split eligible purchases into manageable payments, available after purchase or at checkout on Amazon.com.
Cons
Here are potential downsides:
- Application Method Variability: Their offers may vary depending on the application method (online or in-branch) and are subject to change.
- Poor Customer Service: Some reviewers have reported inconsistent and unsatisfactory customer service experiences.
Rates and Fees
The Chase Freedom Unlimited credit card features competitive rates and fees. Initially, it offers a 0% Intro APR on purchases for the first 15 months.
After this period, the APR varies from 20.49% to 29.24%, depending on your creditworthiness and the Prime Rate. For balance transfers, the card provides a 0% Intro APR for the first 15 months, followed by the same variable APR range.
Cash advances carry a higher APR of 29.99%, and a Penalty APR of up to 29.99% may apply for missed payments or returned payments, potentially remaining indefinitely.
To avoid interest on purchases, ensure your full balance is paid by the due date, which is at least 21 days after each billing cycle’s close. Interest starts accruing immediately on balance transfers and cash advances.
Chase Pay Over TimeSM offers flexibility with a 0% fee on eligible purchases during the intro period, and up to 1.72% afterward. Balance transfer fees are either $5 or 3% of the transfer amount for the first 60 days, then $5 or 5% thereafter.
Cash advances incur a fee of $10 or 5% per transaction. There is also a chase freedom unlimited foreign transaction fee of 3%.
Penalty fees include up to $40 for late or returned payments. A good thing is that there is no annual fee, making this card a flexible and cost-effective choice.
Eligibility Criteria and Requirements
To qualify for a credit card, you must be a US resident at least 18 years old (19 in AL and NE, 21 in Puerto Rico). If married, you can apply for a separate account.
They’ll review your credit report and the provided information to ensure you meet their criteria. When you apply, you give them permission to obtain credit reports and account details from other institutions, which will be used for credit decisions and managing your account.
How to Apply for the Chase Freedom Unlimited Credit Card
Applying for the Chase Freedom Unlimited credit card is straightforward. Start by visiting the Chase website. You can either apply as a guest or sign in for a quicker process if you already have an account.
Next, complete the application form with your personal details, such as your name, date of birth, and Social Security number. You’ll need to authorize the verification of this information.
After that, fill in your financial and residence information, agree to the terms and conditions, and then submit your application.
Conclusion
The Chase Freedom Unlimited credit card delivers compelling benefits with cash back on multiple categories, solid protections, and versatile redemption options.
While it has some limitations, its rewards and features make it a great option for getting the most value from your credit card.
