How to Maximize Value with Chase Ultimate Rewards

Danielle Aug 20, 2024

18 People Read

Chase Ultimate Rewards (UR) should be on the radar of any travel hacker. This versatile rewards program offers significant value through a range of redemption options, especially for those who hold premium Chase credit cards such as the Chase Sapphire Preferred card and Chase Sapphire Reserve Card. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or just starting to explore the world of credit card rewards, this guide will help you understand how to maximize the benefits of Chase Ultimate Rewards.

What is Chase Ultimate Rewards?

Chase Ultimate Rewards is the rewards program linked to several Chase credit cards, including popular options like the Chase Sapphire Preferred, Chase Sapphire Reserve, and the Chase Ink Business Preferred. The program allows cardholders to earn points on every purchase, which can then be redeemed for a variety of travel rewards. Chase offers a variety of personal and business credit cards that earn Chase Ultimate Rewards. Make sure the card you are applying to is a part of the Chase Ultimate Rewards program. Not every Chase card is a part of the rewards program, such as the Chase Freedom Unlimited and the Chase Freedom Flex.

Earning Chase Ultimate Rewards Points

One of the key advantages of Chase Ultimate Rewards is the ability to earn points across a wide range of spending categories. Here are some ways you can rack up UR points:

Bonus Categories: Cards like the Chase Sapphire Preferred and Reserve offer bonus points for purchases in categories like travel and dining. For example, the Sapphire Preferred earns 3x points on online groceries and dining. The Sapphire Reserve offers 5x points on flights purchased through the Chase Travel Portal (after the first $300 in travel purchases). The card also offers 10x points on hotels and cars booked through the Chase Travel Portal.
Shopping Portal: The Chase Ultimate Rewards shopping portal allows you to earn extra points when you shop with participating retailers online.

Redeeming Chase Ultimate Rewards Points

Once you've accumulated points, the real fun begins. Chase offers several redemption options, but not all are created equal. Here’s how you can get the most out of your points:

Travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards Portal: Points can be redeemed for travel through the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal. This includes flights, hotels, car rentals, and even experiences.
Transfer to Travel Partners: For those who want even more value, Chase Ultimate Rewards points can be transferred at a 1:1 transfer ratio to several airline and hotel loyalty programs. This is often the redemption option where you can find the highest value for your points, particularly if you have elite status with hotel partners or airlines. For a full list of Chase Ultimate Rewards hotel transfer partners check out 2024 Complete list of Travel Cards Transfer Partners. Transferring from Chase Ultimate Rewards to travel partners usually offers the most value for UR points. However, make sure to always check the points needed for your hotel or airline both in the Chase travel portal and through the travel partner's reward program. Transfering points to a travel partner can also offer flexibility with airline miles. For example, British Airways is a transfer partner, where you can turn Chase points into British Airways Avios. Avios can be used to book flights on a variety of airlines that are not travel partners with Chase. To learn more about British Airways Avios check out Navigating the Skies: Unlocking the Perks of the British Airways Visa Signature Card.
Cash Back or Gift Cards: If travel isn’t your priority, you can redeem points for cash back at a rate of 1 cent per point or for gift cards at the same rate. While this offers flexibility, it’s generally not the best way to use UR points if you’re looking for the best value. Point transfers to partners are a better value. However, there are times you may want to use this, to cover parts of your travel that you cannot usually book with points. For example, my goal on our last Disney World trip was to use the least amount of cash possible. This is an option to cover Disney tickets if you do not want to outlay cash.
Pay with Points at Checkout: You can also use your points to pay for purchases at Amazon or through PayPal. However, points are typically worth less than 1 cent each when used this way, making it a less desirable option.

Current Chase Travel Partners:

Travel partners generally transfer on a 1:1 ratio, however, be sure to verify in the Chase portal. Chase does sometimes run specials where you can get a better transfer ratio for certain airlines or hotel partners. If you have a trip in mind using a travel partner, be on the lookout for any transfer bonuses.

Hotel Transfer Partners

Hyatt- World of Hyatt
Marriott Hotels - Marriott Bonvoy
IHG One Rewards Club

Tips for Maximizing Chase Ultimate Rewards

Leverage Transfer Partners: Transferring points to travel partners can often yield the highest value, especially when booking premium travel experiences or taking advantage of partner promotions.
Monitor Point Promotions: Keep an eye out for special promotions and offers in the Ultimate Rewards shopping portal or through the Pay Yourself Back feature to maximize your earnings and redemptions.
Use the Right Card for the Right Purchase: Understanding which card offers the best rewards for different spending categories can help you maximize your points.
Remember not to add an authorized user on your account in order to take advantage of welcome offers. Let your person 2 open their own Chase credit card accounts to get another welcome bonus. You can always combine points with your person 2 when you transfer to a travel partner.

Chase Ultimate Rewards is one of the most valuable and flexible rewards programs available, especially for those who travel frequently. By understanding how to earn and redeem points strategically, you can unlock significant value and enjoy a wide range of rewards, from luxury travel experiences to everyday savings. Whether you're new to the program or a seasoned pro, taking the time to explore your options can lead to unforgettable experiences.