Chase Freedom Unlimited® Review: Value on Everyday Purchases

The Chase Freedom Unlimited® card gives versatile rewards on everyday spending.

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Updated April 3, 2024

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Key takeaways

  • The Chase Freedom Unlimited® card offers 1.5% cash back on all purchases with no annual fee and a generous welcome offer.
  • It includes valuable benefits such as 0% intro APR for the first 15 months, then a 20.49%-29.24% variable APR, purchase protection, and travel perks.
  • A good to excellent credit score is recommended for approval, making it ideal for those with a solid credit history.

Chase Freedom Unlimited® Credit Card

Chase Freedom Unlimited
Chase Freedom Unlimited® Credit Card

Earn Rewards on Everyday Purchases

Chase Freedom Unlimited
5% cash back on travel booked through Chase Travel℠ 3% cash back on restaurant and drugstore purchases 1.5% cash back on everything else
Annual Fee
$0
Intro APR
0% intro APR on purchases and Balance transfers for 15 months
Regular APR
20.49%-29.24%, Variable APR
Credit Score Range
Good to Excellent

The Chase Freedom Unlimited®card offers useful bonus categories and flexible rewards without an annual fee. It’s a top cash back card for good reason.

  • APR: 20.49%-29.24% (Variable)
  • Annual Fee: $0
  • Late Payment Fee: Up to $40
  • Returned Payment Fee: Up to $40
  • Foreign Transaction Fee: 3%
  • Optimal credit score range: 690-850 (Good-Excellent)
  • Enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠
  • Get 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants
  • Earn an unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases
  • After your first year or $20,000 spent is when these percentages are available
  • No minimum amount required to redeem cash back
  • Enjoy 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 20.49% – 29.24%. Balance transfer fees apply.
  • No annual fee
  • Monitor your credit, get access to your latest credit score, alerts, and more with Chase Credit Journey®
  • Use your card anywhere Visa is accepted

We like Chase Freedom Unlimited® for its straightforward 1.5% cash back on all purchases and unlimited 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining. The ability to transfer points to the Chase Ultimate Rewards® program enhances the value of your rewards, making it a good addition to your wallet, especially if you have other Chase cards. 

“Essential for the Chase Trifecta. This is your catch all 1.5X card that you use for any category that doesn’t fall into any other category. Also the 3X on drugstore purchases makes this a quality card to throw on your local pharmacies fast pay and let it ride.”

Hampton, WalletHub Review

The Chase Freedom Unlimited® card is a good option for virtually anyone. Its excellent cash back rate in several key categories, valuable perks, and $0 annual fee have made it a long-time favorite. You earn an unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase – no categories to track or activate – and up to 5% on select categories. Additionally, cardholders can benefit from a range of perks, including purchase protection and access to valuable travel benefits.

Whether you’re looking to maximize everyday spending or take advantage of valuable rewards, the Chase Freedom Unlimited card provides a flexible solution for both casual and frequent spenders.

Quick facts

  • Earn an unlimited 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, and 1.5% cash back on all other purchases. After your first year or $20,000 spent is these percentages are available.
  • No minimum to redeem for cash back. You can choose to receive a statement credit or direct deposit into most U.S. checking and savings accounts. Cash Back rewards do not expire as long as your account is open!
  • Enjoy 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 20.49% – 29.24%. A balance transfer fee applies. See pricing and terms for more details.
  • No annual fee – You won’t have to pay an annual fee for all the great features that come with your Freedom Unlimited® card
  • Keep tabs on your credit health, Chase Credit Journey helps you monitor your credit with free access to your latest score, alerts, and more.
  • Member FDIC

Why get the Chase Freedom Unlimited®

The Chase Freedom Unlimited card is a top choice for those seeking a reliable and rewarding credit card with no annual fee. One of its key attractions is the simplicity of its rewards structure, offering 1.5% cash back on all purchases without the need to track spending categories. This makes it an ideal card for everyday use, ensuring you earn rewards on every dollar spent.

Additionally, cardholders receive 3% cash back on drugstore and restaurants (including takeout and eligible delivery services) 5% back on travel booked through Chase Travel, and 5% back on Lyft for a limited time.

For those who already have other Chase cards, the ability to transfer points to the Chase Ultimate Rewards program makes the Chase Freedom Unlimited even more valuable. This feature allows you to maximize the value of your rewards, especially if you travel frequently and want to leverage the points for flights or hotel stays.

Overall, the Chase Freedom Unlimited card is a versatile and user-friendly option, making it an excellent addition to any wallet.

Chase Freedom Unlimited® rewards

The Chase Freedom Unlimited card is renowned for its straightforward yet rewarding cash back program. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:

Bonus categories

Chase Freedom Unlimited gives you 3% cash back on drugstores and dining including eligible take out and delivery. While it’s common to find cards that offer 3% cash back on restaurants, it’s rare to find drugstores in this rewards range.

It also offers 5% cash back on travel purchases made through Chase Travel and Lyft purchases via the app through March 2025. These are more travel related rewards than you’ll find on most flat-rate rewards cards.

1.5% cash back on everything else

For all other purchases, the Chase Freedom Unlimited card offers a straightforward 1.5% cash back on every dollar spent. Unlike some cards that require you to track and activate specific categories, this card provides a hassle-free way to earn rewards on every purchase. Whether it’s your daily coffee, online shopping, or monthly bills, you’ll be earning cash back with every swipe.

Point transfers to maximize value

For those looking to maximize the value of their rewards, the Chase Freedom Unlimited card offers the ability to transfer your cash back points to other Chase cards, such as the Chase Sapphire Preferred or Chase Sapphire Reserve. This option is particularly appealing if you travel frequently, as it allows you to convert your cash back into Chase Ultimate Rewards points. These points can then be redeemed for travel at a higher value or transferred to various airline and hotel loyalty programs, stretching the value of your rewards even further.

Chase Freedom Unlimited® benefits and perks

The Chase Freedom Unlimited card comes with a variety of benefits and perks that add significant value to your everyday spending and travel experiences. 

Introductory APR offer

One of the standout features of the Chase Freedom Unlimited card is its 0% introductory APR offer. New cardholders can make purchases or transfer balances without accruing interest for 15 months, though there are fees involved. This can be particularly beneficial if you’re planning a large purchase or looking to consolidate high-interest debt. After the introductory period, the regular variable APR of 20.49%-29.24% applies, so it’s wise to pay off your balance within the first 15 months to avoid interest charges.

Purchase protection

The Chase Freedom Unlimited card offers robust purchase protection and extended warranty protection to help you save and protect your money. If an eligible item you’ve bought is damaged or stolen within 120 days of purchase, you can be reimbursed up to $500 per claim and $50,000 per account. The warranty protection extends U.S. manufacturer’s warranties of three years or less by an additional year. Both protections can save you money and hassle, especially for expensive or valuable items.

DoorDash

You can get a complimentary subscription to DashPass for three months when you enroll. This grants you unlimited deliveries with a $0 delivery fee and lower service fees on eligible DoorDash and Caviar orders. After three months, if you don’t cancel beforehand, you will automatically be enrolled in DashPass for nine months at 50% off the monthly rate. This offer is only valid if you activate it before January 31, 2025. This benefit is perfect for those who frequently order food delivery, adding convenience and savings to your dining experience.

Lyft

Chase Freedom Unlimited is offering 5% cash back on Lyft rides now through March 31, 2025. This is a great extra perk if you find yourself taking cabs frequently.

Travel perks

Although the Chase Freedom Unlimited is primarily a cash back card, it also includes several travel-related perks. You get trip cancelation and interruption insurance – perks usually only found on cards with hefty annual fees. Should your trip be canceled or shortened due to sickness, severe weather, or other eligible circumstances, Chase may reimburse up to $1,500 per person and $6,000 per trip for prepaid and non-refundable tickets and fares. You also get auto rental collision damage waiver and travel emergency assistance in case you run into problems. These perks can provide significant savings and protection when you’re on the go.

Overall, the Chase Freedom Unlimited card offers a comprehensive package of benefits and perks that enhance its value beyond just cash back rewards. 

Pros and cons of the Chase Freedom Unlimited®

Pros

  • No Annual Fee: Enjoy all the benefits and rewards without having to pay an annual fee.
  • Simple Rewards Structure: Earn 1.5% cash back on every purchase, with no categories to track or activate.
  • 0% Intro APR: Benefit from 0% APR on purchases and balance transfers for the first 15 months. After the introductory period, the 20.49%-29.24% variable APR applies.
  • No Minimum Redemption Amount: Redeem your cash back any time you want. There’s no minimum and they don’t expire.
  • Point Transfers: Transfer your cash back to Chase Ultimate Rewards for a potentially higher value when redeemed for travel.
  • Good Benefits for a No Annual Fee Card: Enjoy purchase protection, various travel-related benefits, and a free DoorDash DashPass.

Cons

  • Foreign Transaction Fees: A 3% fee on purchases made abroad can add up for frequent travelers.
  • Limited Bonus Categories: The bonus categories may not align with your spending habits.
  • Low Cash Back Rate: Other flat-rate reward cards offer a higher cash back rate on general purchases. 
  • High Credit Score: The best terms and approval odds are reserved for those with good to excellent credit scores.

Why you might want a different cash back card

While the Chase Freedom Unlimited card offers a straightforward and versatile rewards program, it may not be the best fit for everyone. Here are a couple of reasons why you might consider a different cash back card:

Rewards can be complicated 

The flat 1.5% cash back is easy enough to understand. The mix of reward rates in other categories and how to maximize your reward’s value are where it gets complicated. Chase lets you redeem your points for more than the standard 1:1 ratio when you visit the Chase Travel portal or access the Chase Offers program. Exploring how to get more from your cash back is where it gets complicated.

If you prefer a simple cash back card with one flat rate, then there are other rewards cards on the market that have higher rates -think 2% –  giving you more bang for your buck. These cards though do not have bonus categories where you can earn more.

Get better rates on specific categories 

If your spending is concentrated in specific areas, such as groceries, dining, or gas, there are other cash back cards that offer higher rewards rates in those categories. For instance, some cards offer 3% to 6% cash back on groceries or dining, which can significantly boost your rewards if those are your primary expenses. The Chase Freedom Unlimited card’s 1.5% cash back on all purchases might not be as appealing if you’re looking to maximize rewards in particular spending categories.

Ultimately, if you prefer a more tailored rewards experience or want to earn higher rates in specific areas, exploring other cash back card options could be a better fit for your financial goals.

Is the Chase Freedom Unlimited® right for you?

The Chase Freedom Unlimited card is a strong contender if you’re a credit card minimalist looking for a reliable, no-annual-fee cash back card that offers a simple yet rewarding experience on everyday purchases. The flat 1.5% cash back is ideal for anyone who prefers a hassle-free approach to earning rewards without the need to track spending categories. This can be particularly valuable if you’re new to credit.

Additionally, if you’re looking to consolidate debt or make a large purchase, the 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for the first 15 months makes the Chase Freedom Unlimited an attractive choice. After the 15 month introductory period, the regular 20.49%-29.24% variable APR applies.

The card also shines for those who already have other Chase cards, as the ability to transfer points to the Chase Ultimate Rewards program can significantly enhance the value of your rewards, especially if you travel frequently.

However, if your spending is heavily focused on specific categories like groceries or gas, you may be better off finding a cash back card that offers maximum rewards in those areas. Cards with rotating bonus categories let you select the categories monthly or quarterly that align best with your spending. It’s more work, but you may earn more rewards.

Ultimately, the Chase Freedom Unlimited card is best for those who want a versatile, easy-to-use card that offers solid rewards on everyday purchases.

Frequently asked questions

1. What credit score is recommended for the Chase Freedom Unlimited®

Generally, you’ll ideally have a good or excellent credit score of 690 or higher, but there is no set requirement. While having a higher score improves your chances of approval, other factors like your credit history, income, and existing debts are also considered during the application process. One other factor is Chase’s 5/24 rule that states if you’ve opened five or more cards in the past 24 months you won’t qualify.

2. Is the Chase Freedom Unlimited® a good card for travel?

The Chase Freedom Unlimited is a good option for booking your travel as you’ll earn 5% cash back when you book through Chase Travel. You can also transfer points to the Chase Ultimate Rewards program to get even more value on flights and hotels. Additionally, Chase Freedom Unlimited has trip cancelation and interruption insurance, rental car insurance, and a travel emergency hotline. The only issue is if you travel abroad, you will be charged a 3% foreign transaction fee on your purchases.

3. Which card is better, the Chase Freedom Unlimited® or Freedom Flex®?

The Chase Freedom Unlimited is ideal if you prefer a straightforward 1.5% cash back on all purchases, with no need to track categories. The Chase Freedom Flex, on the other hand, offers 5% cash back on rotating categories but requires activation each quarter. If you want simple, consistent rewards, Unlimited is better. If you don’t mind activating bonus categories and tend to spend a lot on them, then Flex may offer more value.

Bottom line

The Chase Freedom Unlimited card is a versatile and user-friendly option for those looking to earn consistent cash back on every purchase without the hassle of tracking spending categories. With its straightforward 1.5% cash back on all purchases and a range of valuable benefits, it appeals to a wide audience.

Before you apply, it’s important to consider whether the cash back rewards align with your specific spending habits. If you spend heavily in certain categories or prefer a card with higher reward rates in targeted areas, you might want to explore other options.

Overall, the Chase Freedom Unlimited is an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable cash back card with no annual fee, easy-to-earn rewards, and a host of added perks.

MoneyFor has partnered with CardRatings for our coverage of credit card products. MoneyFor and CardRatings may receive a commission from card issuers.

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About the author

Rachel Alulis

Rachel Alulis has been the lead editor for Moneyfor’s credit cards team since 2015 and for the financial rewards team since 2023. Before joining Moneyfor, Rachel worked at USA Today and the Des Moines Register. She then established a successful freelance writing and editing business specializing in personal finance. Rachel holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism and an MBA.