Understanding Chase Ultimate Rewards Points
Chase Ultimate Rewards is a flexible rewards program offered by Chase Bank that allows cardholders to earn points on purchases made with eligible Chase credit cards. These points can be redeemed for various options, including travel, cash back, gift cards, and more.
Eligible Cards
Some of the popular Chase credit cards that earn Ultimate Rewards points include:
- Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
- Chase Sapphire Reserve®
- Chase Freedom Unlimited®
- Chase Freedom Flex℠
Do Points Expire? 🏦
The good news is that Chase Ultimate Rewards points do not expire as long as your account remains open and in good standing. This means you can accumulate points over time without the pressure of having to use them by a certain date.
Key Factors Affecting Point Validity
Account Status Requirements
- Your credit card account remains open
- You maintain payments on time
- Your account isn't closed due to fraudulent activity
- You don't violate Chase's terms of service
Account Closure Scenarios ⚠️
- Voluntary closure: Points must be used before closing the account
- Involuntary closure: Points are typically forfeited immediately
- Card product change: Points usually transfer to the new card
"Once Ultimate Rewards points are forfeited, they cannot be reinstated to your account." - Chase Ultimate Rewards Terms and Conditions
Transfer Partners and Point Longevity
When transferring points to Chase's travel partners, be aware that partner programs may have their own expiration policies:
| Partner Program | Expiration Policy |
|---|---|
| United MileagePlus | No expiration |
| Southwest Rapid Rewards | No expiration |
| Marriott Bonvoy | 24 months of inactivity |
| World of Hyatt | 24 months of inactivity |
Maximizing Your Points
To make the most of your Chase Ultimate Rewards points, consider these strategies:
- Transfer to Travel Partners: Chase has numerous travel partners, including airlines and hotels, where you can transfer your points for potentially higher value.
- Redeem for Travel: Use the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal to book travel directly. Points are often worth more when redeemed for travel compared to cash back or gift cards.
- Combine Points: If you have multiple Chase cards, you can combine points to maximize their value.
Emergency Point Protection 🚨
If you need to close your Chase card, you have several options to preserve your points:
- Transfer to another Chase Ultimate Rewards card you own
- Redeem for travel through the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal
- Transfer to a household member's Ultimate Rewards account
- Use points for statement credits or gift cards
Managing Your Points
To ensure that you don't lose your points, it's crucial to:
- Log into your account online or through the Chase Mobile app to check your points balance
- Set up account alerts to notify you of any changes
- Keep your account active by making regular purchases or payments
Remember to review Chase's current terms and conditions, as policies can change over time. Keeping informed about your card's benefits and requirements is the best way to protect your valuable rewards points.