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How to activate Chase Freedom Flex Rewards categories

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    Quick insights

    • Chase Freedom FlexⓇ cardholders can activate quarterly bonus categories by navigating to the Chase bonus activation page, email, phone or visiting a branch location.
    • By mapping out upcoming purchases for the quarter, you can strategically use the Chase Freedom cashback calendar to give your rewards earnings a major boost.
    • The 5% rewards categories make it easier to maximize your bonus earnings on everyday items such as routine trips to the grocery store and filling up your tank at the gas station.

    Cash back credit cards are relatively easy to use and can earn you rewards on everyday purchases. Chase cardmembers can boost their rewards earnings by taking advantage of Chase Freedom Flex bonus categories. Once you’ve reached a certain threshold, here comes the fun part: redeeming your points! With Chase Ultimate RewardsⓇ, you can redeem points for unique travel experiences, cash back, gift cards and more.

    What are the 5% rewards categories for Chase Freedom Flex?

    The Chase Freedom cashback calendar makes it easier to map out spending for the quarter. Chase Freedom Flex 5% rewards categories are quarterly bonuses where you can accumulate extra points for qualifying purchases. The categories change every three months, often in spending areas like grocery stores and gas stations. Chase releases the bonus categories shortly before the quarter begins.

    Q1 2024 rewards categories (Jan 1-Mar 31):

    • Grocery stores (excluding WalmartⓇ and TargetⓇ)
    • Fitness clubs and gym memberships
    • Self-care or spa services 

    Q2 2024 rewards categories (Apr 1-Jun 30):

    • Select hotel bookings
    • Restaurants
    • Amazon (including Amazon Fresh and Whole Foods)

    How do I activate Freedom Flex rewards categories each quarter?

    There are several ways to activate Chase Freedom rewards. Please keep in mind that Chase Freedom Flex bonus categories must be activated each quarter. We recommend setting up recurring reminders on your smartphone and/or laptop calendar. Here are a few options to activate your quarterly bonus:

    • Chase Bonus activation page: Register for the bonus by the date listed on the Chase Freedom cashback calendar.
    • Email notifications: Sign up to receive an email reminder when it’s time to activate your quarterly bonus categories. From there, simply click on the link in the email.
    • Phone: Call the number on the back of your card or Chase Customer Service at (800) 432-3117.
    • Visit a designated Chase location: A personal banker at any Chase location can assist you.

    Cardmembers can activate rotating bonus categories until the 14th day of the third month in the quarter. For example, to qualify for the July – September rewards period, you must activate the bonus category no later than September 14th.

    How much cash back can I earn from rotating rewards categories each quarter?

    There is a cash back limit of $1,500 on the Chase Freedom Flex rotating rewards categories. You can earn up to $75 in cash back rewards quarterly. That adds up over time, totaling up to $300 per year. There are additional ways to earn cash back and rack up Chase Ultimate Rewards points including:

    • Earn 5% on travel purchased through Chase Travel
    • Earn 3% on dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery services
    • Earn 3% on drugstore purchases
    • Earn 1% on all other purchases

    In summary

    Strategic shoppers can maximize bonus points by using their cash back credit card on everyday purchases or big-ticket items to meet the quarterly spending cap. When used correctly, you could earn a nice chunk of cash back rewards or bonus points during each three-month period.

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