What Is the Chase Trifecta?

Ever heard whispers about the Chase Trifecta and wondered what all the fuss is about? If you're looking to supercharge your credit card rewards and make every dollar work harder for you, it's time to demystify this powerful strategy.

Key takeaways

• Maximize rewards earnings using three Chase cards for more points across various spending categories
• Enhanced redemption options by pooling points for higher-value redemptions, like travel bookings or transfers to partners
• Ideal for frequent travelers who enjoy extensive travel perks, including lounge access and travel credits

What is the Chase Trifecta?

The Chase Trifecta is a strategic combination of three Chase credit cards designed to maximize your earning and redemption of Chase Ultimate Rewards® points. By leveraging the strengths of each card, you can optimize rewards across different spending categories and pool your points for greater value.

Benefits of the Chase Trifecta

• Increased rewards earnings: Use the strengths of each card to earn more points across a variety of categories, from dining to travel to everyday spending.
• Better redemption options: Pool your points into one account to unlock higher redemption values, whether booking travel through Chase or transferring points to partners.
• Travel protections and benefits: Enjoy added perks like airport lounge access, travel credits, and comprehensive travel insurance with premium cards like the Chase Sapphire Reserve®.

How does the Chase Trifecta work?

Each card in the trifecta offers unique earning rates and benefits:

• Chase Sapphire Reserve®
  • Earn 3X points on dining purchases and up to 5x on travel.
  • 50% more value when redeeming points for travel through Chase Travel℠.
• Chase Freedom Flex®
  • 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined purchases in bonus categories each quarter.
  • 5% cash back on travel booked through Chase Travel℠, 3% cash back on dining and drugstore purchases, and 1% cash back on all other purchases.
• Chase Freedom Unlimited®
  • 1.5% cash back on all purchases.
  • Higher cash back rates in specific categories, like travel booked through Chase.

By using each card where it earns the most, you can maximize your rewards. Then, transfer the points from your Freedom cards to your Sapphire card. This allows you to redeem points at a higher value or transfer them to Chase's airline and hotel partners at a 1:1 ratio.

TuitionHero Tip

Did you know that points redeemed through the Chase Sapphire Reserve® for travel are worth 1.5 cents each? That means 10,000 points can get you $150 in travel instead of the standard $100!

Which cards are part of the Chase Trifecta?

A common setup for personal use includes:

1. Chase Sapphire Preferred® or Chase Sapphire Reserve®
2. Chase Freedom Flex®
3. Chase Freedom Unlimited®

Business owners might opt for:

1. Chase Sapphire Reserve® or Chase Sapphire Preferred®
2. Chase Freedom Unlimited®
3. Ink Business Cash® Credit Card or Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

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Compare Rates

How to get started with the Chase Trifecta

1. Evaluate your spending habits: Look at where you spend the most money—travel, dining, groceries—and see how the trifecta can benefit you.
2. Check your credit score: Ensure your credit score qualifies you for these cards. If your score needs improvement, take steps to boost it before applying.
3. Plan your applications: Due to the 5/24 rule, strategically plan when to apply for each card to avoid denial.
4. Maximize sign-up bonuses: Time your applications to align with large purchases to meet the spending requirements for sign-up bonuses.

To maximize value, transfer points from your Freedom cards to your Sapphire card before redeeming. You'll typically need a good to excellent credit score to qualify for these cards.

Also, be mindful of Chase's 5/24 rule—if you've opened five or more credit cards from any issuer in the past 24 months, you may be denied. You’ll also want to consider annual fees.

While some cards have no fee (like the Freedom Flex ® and the Freedom Unlimited ®), others, like the Chase Sapphire Reserve®, come with a hefty $550 annual fee. Make sure the benefits justify the cost.

TuitionHero Tip

If you're new to credit cards or concerned about managing multiple accounts, start with one card and gradually add others as you become more comfortable.

Dos and don'ts of the Chase Trifecta

Why trust TuitionHero

At TuitionHero, we help you make smart financial decisions with credit cards, offering insights on strategies like the Chase Trifecta to maximize rewards. Learn how to optimize your spending and unlock travel and cashback benefits.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

What is the Chase 5/24 rule?

Chase typically won't approve you for a new credit card if you've opened five or more personal credit cards (from any issuer) in the past 24 months. Plan your applications accordingly.

Can I combine points from my business and personal Chase cards?

Yes! Chase allows you to combine points between business and personal cards, making it easier to maximize your rewards and redemption options.

How do I transfer points between my Chase cards?

Log in to your Chase account, go to the Ultimate Rewards® section, and select "Combine Points." From there, you can transfer points instantly between your eligible cards.

Are the annual fees worth it?

It depends on how you use the card. If you fully use benefits like travel credits, lounge access, and higher point redemptions, cards like the Sapphire Reserve® can offer value that exceeds the annual fee.

What are Chase's travel partners?

Chase partners with several airlines and hotels, including United Airlines, Southwest Airlines, Hyatt, and Marriott. Points transfer at a 1:1 ratio, giving you flexibility in how you redeem.

Final thoughts

The Chase Trifecta is more than just a trio of credit cards—it's a strategy to maximize your rewards and get the most value from your spending. By understanding how each card complements the others, you can tailor your spending to earn more points and enjoy enhanced redemption options.

Whether you're a frequent flyer or just love getting the most bang for your buck, the Chase Trifecta could be your ticket to unlocking unparalleled benefits. Happy earning and safe travels!

Source

• Chase Sapphire Reserve Details
• Chase Freedom Flex Details
• Chase Freedom Unlimited Details
• How Much Are Chase Points Worth?
• The 5/24 Rule