Maximize Your Rewards: Best Times to Apply for Chase Credit Cards

Earning generous welcome bonuses is a fantastic way to maximize the value of credit cards, and Chase offers some of the best options on the market. However, welcome offers can fluctuate, making it crucial to know when to apply to get the most out of your application. In this article, we will explore the welcome offer history of various Chase credit cards, helping you decide the optimal times to apply for cash back or Chase Ultimate Rewards points.

Chase’s credit card lineup includes several popular options, each with unique benefits and varying welcome offers. Below, we’ll highlight some of the most sought-after Chase credit cards, their highest-ever offers, and our recommendations on when to apply for each.

Keep in mind that the offers discussed are publicly available, and individual targeted bonuses may be higher. Additionally, Chase implements its 5/24 rule, which may affect your eligibility for new welcome bonuses. Recent changes in bonus eligibility for the Chase Sapphire Preferred® and Chase Sapphire Reserve® cards mean that your ability to earn bonuses will depend on several factors, including previously earned bonuses and the number of cards you’ve opened or closed.

Chase Freedom Flex

The Chase Freedom Flex is a no-annual-fee cash-back card designed for those who want to maximize their rewards through rotating quarterly bonus categories. New cardholders can earn up to $200 back after spending $500 within the first three months of account opening, plus 5% back on grocery store purchases (excluding Target and Walmart) during the first year (on up to $12,000 spent).

Best Time to Apply: Aim to apply when the bonus is at least $200, with the added benefit of the 5% cash-back category during the first year.

Chase Freedom Unlimited

Similar to the Freedom Flex, the Chase Freedom Unlimited offers a straightforward 1.5% cash back on most purchases with no annual fee. In the past, its bonus offers have matched those of the Freedom Flex, but they can differ.

Recent offers include a $200 bonus after spending $500 in the first three months, alongside the option for unlimited double cash back for the first year.

Best Time to Apply: Consider applying when the bonus is at least $200 or when it offers double cash back for the first year.

Chase Sapphire Preferred

The Chase Sapphire Preferred is an excellent entry-level travel rewards card with a modest $95 annual fee. It provides substantial value, especially for those new to Chase Ultimate Rewards points. The best historical offer allowed new cardholders to earn 100,000 points after spending $5,000 in the first three months.

Best Time to Apply: Look for opportunities when the bonus exceeds 75,000 points, which is its standard offer.

Chase Sapphire Reserve

For those seeking premium travel rewards, the Chase Sapphire Reserve is a top choice. With a $795 annual fee, it offers numerous benefits, including access to Chase Sapphire Lounges and elevated earning rates across various travel categories. The current offer allows new cardholders to earn 125,000 bonus points after spending $6,000 in the first three months.

Best Time to Apply: Apply whenever the bonus exceeds 60,000 points.

Chase Sapphire Reserve for Business

This premium business card option launched in June 2025, offering 200,000 bonus points after spending $30,000 in the first six months. Although this offer has remained unchanged, its value is significant, estimated at around $4,100.

Best Time to Apply: If a limited-time offer appears with a higher bonus, it’s worth considering. However, the current offer is already quite strong.

Ink Business Cash

The Ink Business Cash card is designed for business owners, offering bonus cash back in popular categories like office supplies and telecommunications, all with no annual fee. The best bonus recorded was a $900 cash bonus after spending $6,000 in the first three months.

Best Time to Apply: Apply when the bonus is $750 or higher.

Ink Business Preferred

The Ink Business Preferred Credit Card is ideal for small-business owners who want to collect Chase points across various categories for a $95 annual fee. The highest recorded offer was 120,000 bonus points after spending $8,000 in the first three months.

Best Time to Apply: Look for times when the welcome bonus exceeds 100,000 points.

Ink Business Premier

Chase’s Ink Business Premier card offers unlimited 2% cash back on business purchases, with a $195 annual fee. The current offer allows new cardholders to earn a $1,000 cash bonus after spending $10,000 in the first three months.

Best Time to Apply: If a limited-time offer above $1,000 becomes available, consider applying. However, this offer is already strong.

Ink Business Unlimited

For business owners seeking a flat-rate cash-back card, the Ink Business Unlimited is an excellent option with no annual fee. The current offer provides a $900 cash bonus after spending $6,000 in the first three months.

Best Time to Apply: Apply when the bonus is $750 or more.

Other Chase Cards

Chase also issues cobranded cards for Hyatt, IHG, Southwest Airlines, and United Airlines. These cards often feature attractive welcome bonuses, so it’s wise to check their offer histories to determine the best time to apply.

Conclusion

Welcome bonuses for credit cards can fluctuate significantly, making it essential to stay informed about the best times to apply. By timing your application with lucrative limited-time offers, you can maximize your rewards and value. For ongoing updates on credit card offers and comparisons, consider subscribing to newsletters that provide insights into the latest promotions.

Remember, the right credit card can transform your everyday spending into rewarding experiences, whether through cash back or travel rewards. By understanding the offer history and strategies for applying, you can make the most of your credit card choices.