Overview
In the world of credit card rewards programs in the United States, Chase Ultimate Rewards stands out from the competition.
It’s one of the most flexible and advantageous reward systems, offering a multitude of ways to collect and use your points. Whether you’re a frequent traveler, an avid shopper or simply looking for a way to maximize your daily spending, Chase Ultimate Rewards has something for everyone.
Earn Chase Ultimate Rewards points
There are several ways to earn Chase Ultimate Rewards points.
First, you earn points by making purchases with your eligible Chase credit cards:
- Chase Sapphire Preferred
- Chase Sapphire Reserve
- Chase Freedom Flex℠
- Chase Freedom Unlimited®
- Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card
- Ink Business Cash® Credit Card
- Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card
You earn at least 1 point per dollar spent on all purchases, and some cards offer additional rewards for purchases in specific categories.
What’s more, Chase regularly offers targeted deals that allow you to earn extra points. For example, you could earn 5 points per dollar spent at a particular merchant for a limited period of time.
Sign-up bonuses and incentives, such as bonuses for referring friends, co-workers or family members, can also help you increase your Chase Ultimate Rewards points balance.
Using Chase Ultimate Rewards points
One of the biggest advantages of Chase Ultimate Rewards is the diversity of redemption options. You can use your points to earn cashback, book travel, buy gift cards, shop on Amazon and even purchase Apple products.
The value of a Chase Ultimate Rewards point varies according to how you use it.
When redeemed for cashback, one Chase Ultimate Rewards point is worth 1 cent. For gift cards, most cost the equivalent of 1 cent per point, although Chase often sells specific gift cards at a reduced rate. Purchases on Amazon and Apple can be made at a rate of 0.8 and 1 cent per point, respectively.
However, one of the best ways to maximize the value of your points is to use them for travel.
By booking your trip via Chase and paying with your points, you can earn a value of 1 to 1.5 cents per point, depending on the card you have. Plus, you can transfer your points to Chase airline and hotel partner programs, which can offer even greater value.
Here is the list of 11 Chase Ultimate Rewards transfer partners to airline loyalty programs:
- Aer Lingus AerClub
- Air Canada Aeroplan
- Air France-KLM Flying Blue
- British Airways Executive Club
- Emirates Skywards
- Iberia Plus
- JetBlue TrueBlue
- Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer
- Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards
- United MileagePlus
- Virgin Atlantic Flying Club
You can also transfer your Chase Ultimate Rewards points to 3 hotel partners:
Frequently asked questions about Chase Ultimate Rewards
What are the benefits of Chase Ultimate Rewards?
Chase Ultimate Rewards stands out for its flexibility: points can be redeemed for cash back, gift cards, Amazon or Apple purchases, or transferred to 14 airline and hotel partners (Aeroplan, British Airways, Marriott Bonvoy, World of Hyatt, and more). Booked through the Chase travel portal, points are worth up to 1.5¢ each depending on the card you hold, with even higher value possible on strategic partner transfers.
How do I earn Chase Ultimate Rewards points?
You earn points when you make purchases with eligible Chase credit cards. Some offer bonus points in specific purchase categories.
How can I use my Chase Ultimate Rewards points?
Points can be used for travel, online purchases, gift cards, statement credit and even exclusive experiences.
Can I transfer my Chase Ultimate Rewards points?
Yes, you can transfer your points to partner airline and hotel loyalty programs at a 1:1 ratio.
Do Chase Ultimate Rewards points expire?
No, your points do not expire as long as your Chase Ultimate Rewards account is open and in good standing.
How much is a Chase Ultimate Rewards point worth?
The value of a Chase Ultimate Rewards point depends on redemption method and card. The Chase Sapphire Preferred multiplies every point by 1.25x when booking travel through the Chase portal, while the Chase Sapphire Reserve provides up to 2x via the new Edit by Chase portal. Transfers to the 14 airline and hotel partners (Aeroplan, British Airways, Hyatt, United, Southwest, Air France-KLM Flying Blue, etc.) can push value to 2¢ per point or higher on strategic redemptions. For Canadians who hold a US-issued Chase card, the 1:1 transfer ratio to Aeroplan makes the program particularly attractive for Star Alliance redemptions out of Canada.
Can a Canadian get a Chase Ultimate Rewards card?
Not directly. Chase Ultimate Rewards is a US-only program, and obtaining a Chase Sapphire Preferred or Reserve generally requires a US address, a Social Security Number (SSN) or ITIN, and a US credit history. Canadians who maintain a US residence, hold a green card or a work visa can access the cards through standard channels. For travellers without a US presence, the closest Canadian alternative is the American Express Membership Rewards ecosystem via the American Express Cobalt® Card, which shares several transfer partners with Chase (Aeroplan, British Airways, Flying Blue) and gives Canadians similar award flight flexibility.
Point values
| Redemption type | ¢ / point | Confidence |
|---|---|---|
| otherdefault | 2.00 | medium |
