chase unlimited travel insurance

Chase Freedom Unlimited ® Credit Card

or more on all


purchases *

annual fee †

NEW CARDMEMBER OFFER

Earn a $200 bonus.

Earn a $200 bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. *

AT A GLANCE

Unlimited 1.5% cash back is just the beginning.

Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back or more on all purchases, like 3% on dining and drugstores and 5% on travel purchased through Chase Travel SM . *

0% intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers. †  After the intro period, a variable APR of 19.99 Min. of (8.00+11.99) and 29.99 %– 28.74 Min. of (8.00+20.74) and 29.99 %. †  Balance transfer fee applies, see pricing and terms for more details. †

Cash Back Rewards & Benefits

Earn a $200 bonus, earn rewards, intro offers, low intro apr, no annual fee, no expiration, cash back rewards do not expire.

Chase Freedom Unlimited ® credit card                                                              

Offer Details

Offers may vary depending on where you apply, for example online or in a branch, and can change over time. To take advantage of this particular offer now, apply through the method provided in this advertisement. Review offer details before you apply.

$200 Cash Back After You Spend $500 On Purchases In The First 3 Months From Account Opening: This product is not available to either (i) current cardmembers of this credit card, or (ii) previous cardmembers of this credit card who received a new cardmember bonus for this credit card within the last 24 months. You will receive 20,000 bonus points with this bonus offer, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back. To qualify and receive your bonus, you must make Purchases totaling $500 or more during the first 3 months from account opening. (“Purchases” do not include balance transfers, cash advances, travelers checks, foreign currency, money orders, wire transfers or similar cash-like transactions, lottery tickets, casino gaming chips, race track wagers or similar betting transactions, any checks that access your account, interest, unauthorized or fraudulent charges, and fees of any kind, including an annual fee, if applicable.) After qualifying, please allow 6 to 8 weeks for bonus points to post to your account. To be eligible for this bonus offer, account must be open and not in default at the time of fulfillment.  Cash Back And Points: Rewards Program Agreement: For more information about the Chase Freedom Unlimited rewards program, view the latest Rewards Program Agreement (PDF) Opens in a new window . We will mail your Rewards Program Agreement once your account is established. If you become a Chase Online customer, your Rewards Program Agreement will also be available after logging in to chase.com/ultimaterewards Opens in a new window . Cash Back and Points: “Cash Back rewards” are the rewards you earn under the program. Cash Back rewards are tracked as points and each $1 in Cash Back rewards earned is equal to 100 points. You may simply see “Cash Back” in marketing materials when referring to the rewards you earn. You may also see, “points” or “Ultimate Rewards points” when referring to the points you can use. How you can earn points: You’ll earn points on purchases of products and services, minus returns or refunds, made with a Chase Freedom Unlimited credit card by you or an authorized user of the account. Buying products and services with your card, in most cases, will count as a purchase; however, the following types of transactions won’t count and won’t earn points: balance transfers, cash advances and other cash-like transactions, lottery tickets, casino gaming chips, race track wagers or similar betting transactions, any checks that access your account, interest, unauthorized or fraudulent charges, and fees of any kind, including an annual fee, if applicable. 1.5% Cash Back: You’ll earn 1.5% Cash Back rewards for each $1 spent. 3% Cash Back rewards total for each $1 spent on purchases in the following rewards categories: drugstores and dining at restaurants including takeout and eligible delivery services (1.5% additional Cash Back rewards on top of the 1.5% Cash Back rewards earned on each purchase). 5% Cash Back rewards total for each $1 spent on purchases made using your card through Chase Travel (3.5% additional Cash Back rewards on top of the 1.5% Cash Back rewards earned on each purchase). 5% total Cash Back on qualifying Lyft rides through 03/2025: You’ll earn an additional 3.5% Cash Back for each $1 spent when your card is used for qualifying Lyft products and services purchased through the Lyft mobile application through 03/31/2025. Qualifying Lyft products and services include rides taken in Classic, Shared, Lux, or XL modes; bike and scooter rides; and subscription and membership products. Purchase of gift cards, car rentals, vehicle service centers, miscellaneous fees, and other Lyft products and services are excluded from this promotion. Future Lyft products or services may not be eligible for additional Cash Back. You may see “5% Cash Back rewards” in marketing materials to refer to the 3.5% Cash Back rewards earned in addition to the 1.5% Cash Back rewards earned on all purchases. The additional 3.5% Cash Back rewards will appear on your billing statement in a separate line from the 1.5% Cash Back rewards. Lyft is not responsible for the provision of, or the failure to provide, Chase benefits or services. How you can use your points: You can use your points to redeem for any available reward options, including cash, gift cards, travel, and pay with points for products or services made available through the program or directly from third parties. Redemption values for reward options vary. Points expiration/losing points: Your points don’t expire as long as your account remains open, however, you will immediately lose all your points if your account status changes, or your account is closed for program misuse, fraudulent activities, failure to pay, bankruptcy, or other reasons described in the terms of the Rewards Program Agreement. Rewards Categories: Merchants who accept Visa/Mastercard credit cards are assigned a merchant code, which is determined by the merchant or its processor in accordance with Visa/Mastercard procedures based on the kinds of products and services they primarily sell. We group similar merchant codes into categories for purposes of making rewards offers to you. Please note: We make every effort to include all relevant merchant codes in our rewards categories. However, even though a merchant or some of the items that it sells may appear to fit within a rewards category, the merchant may not have a merchant code in that category. When this occurs, purchases with that merchant won’t qualify for rewards offers on purchases in that category. Purchases submitted by you, an authorized user, or the merchant through third-party payment accounts, mobile or wireless card readers, online or mobile digital wallets, or similar technology will not qualify in a rewards category if the technology is not set up to process the purchase in that rewards category. For more information about Chase rewards categories, see
 chase.com/RewardsCategoryFAQs Opens in a new window . Amazon Shop With Points: When using points at checkout, each point is worth $0.008, which means that 100 points equals $0.80 in redemption value. Amazon.com Shop with Points service terms apply Opens Overlay .  Amazon, the Amazon.com logo, the smile logo, and all related logos are trademarks of Amazon.com Opens Overlay , Inc. or its affiliates.  Zero Liability: Zero Liability Protection does not apply to use of an account by an authorized user without the approval of the primary cardmember. If you think someone used your account without permission, tell us immediately by calling the Cardmember Services number on your card or billing statement. Account Alerts: Delivery of alerts may be delayed for various reasons including technology failures and capacity limitations. There is no charge from Chase, but message and data rates may apply. Complimentary 3 months of DashPass/50% Discounted DashPass for 9 months: When the membership is activated for the first time by 01/31/2025 your Chase Freedom Unlimited account will receive 3 months of complimentary DashPass for use on both the DoorDash and Caviar applications during the same membership period based on the first activation date. After your complimentary period ends, you’ll be automatically enrolled for 9 months at 50% off the then current monthly DashPass rate until you cancel. After the DashPass discounted period ends, you will continue to be enrolled and charged the then current monthly DashPass rate until you cancel. You can cancel anytime on DoorDash or Caviar. Membership will be registered in the name of the primary cardmember or an authorized user, whoever activates the benefit first. Membership period for the user on the Chase credit card account referenced above will begin and end based on when the first user activates the membership on DoorDash or Caviar. The same log in credentials must be used on DoorDash and Caviar in order for the DashPass benefit to be used on both applications. To receive the membership benefits, the primary cardmember and authorized user(s) must first add their applicable Chase credit card as a default payment method on DoorDash or Caviar, and then click the activation button. Once enrolled in DashPass, you must use your Chase Freedom Unlimited card for payment at checkout for DashPass-eligible orders to receive DashPass benefits. Benefits of DashPass include no delivery fee on orders above the minimum subtotal (as stated in the DoorDash and Caviar apps and sites) from DashPass-eligible merchants (amounts subject to change). However, other fees (including service fee), taxes, and gratuity on orders may apply. Current value of the DashPass membership is as of 06/01/2024. Membership must be activated with a United States address. Payment through third-party payment accounts, or online or mobile digital wallets (like Apple Pay and Google Pay), or memberships purchased through third parties are excluded from this offer. Mobile applications, websites and other information provided by DoorDash or Caviar are not within Chase’s control and may or may not be available in Spanish. Chase is not responsible for the provision of, or the failure to provide, DoorDash or Caviar benefits and services. If you product change to another Chase credit card during the promotional period, your benefits may change. You may experience a delay in updating your applicable benefits in the DoorDash application; please note, once you product trade, the benefits from your previous credit card are no longer available for your use. Your applicable Chase credit card account must be open and not in default to maintain membership benefits. See full DoorDash terms and conditions available at:  https://help.doordash.com/consumers/s/article/offer-terms-conditions?language=en_US Opens Overlay . Earn $10 Off Quarterly on DoorDash Non-Restaurant Orders:  Once you have activated your Chase Freedom, Chase Freedom Unlimited, Chase Freedom Student, Chase Freedom Flex, or Chase Freedom Rise DashPass membership, you will receive a $10 off discount each calendar quarter at checkout on one eligible non-restaurant order on DoorDash. Discount applies to subtotal only; does not apply to fees, taxes, and gratuity. Fees, taxes, and gratuity still apply. To claim, select the discount from the promotion wallet at checkout, or claim the discount when prompted in the DoorDash app or website. If the full $10 value is not used on a single order, the remaining value will be forfeited. You must use the card used to enroll in your Chase Freedom, Chase Freedom Unlimited, Chase Freedom Student, Chase Freedom Flex, or Chase Freedom Rise DashPass membership as your payment method to receive this discount. Discount is not combinable with other promotions, discounts, or deals. The quarterly discount will be made available to you in your DoorDash account at the beginning of each month and will only be available on that platform for the remainder of that calendar quarter; the quarterly discount will not roll over into a subsequent quarter. Once redeemed, the discount will not be refunded to the user regardless of whether the user otherwise receives a refund or credits back on their order. Not valid for the purchase of gift cards. Not valid on alcohol in some states. Limit one redemption per quarter per person. Valid in the U.S. only. Discount has no cash value and is non-transferable. Chase is not responsible for the provision of, or the failure to provide, DoorDash benefits and services. Credit card product changes during the promotional period will forfeit this offer. Additional DoorDash promotional terms and conditions available at:  https://help.doordash.com/consumers/s/article/offer-terms-conditions?language=en_US Opens Overlay .

Cardmembers Eligible for Chase Pay Over Time: Eligible cardmembers are those with access to Chase Pay Over Time who use a participating Chase credit card for eligible purchases. Access to Chase Pay Over Time is not guaranteed, is based on a variety of factors such as creditworthiness, credit limit and account behavior, and may change from time to time. Participating Chase credit cards are consumer credit cards issued by Chase, small business cards are excluded at this time. For Chase Pay Over Time at checkout on Amazon.com, Amazon Visa and Prime Visa cards and Chase Mastercard credit cards are also excluded. Purchases Eligible for Chase Pay Over Time Set Up After Purchase: Purchases of at least $100 are eligible, excluding certain transactions such as (a) cash-like transactions, (b) any fees owed to us, including Annual Membership Fees, and (c) purchases made under a separate promotion or special finance program. Eligible purchases will be identified within your transaction history on chase.com Opens in a new window or the Chase Mobile App. Purchases Eligible for Chase Pay Over Time at Checkout on Amazon.com: Orders totaling at least $50 of eligible items on Amazon.com are eligible. Amazon may designate any item as ineligible, such as Amazon Fresh, Whole Foods, Amazon Prime Now, 1-Click Purchases and Subscribe & Save. If your order includes a recurring subscription, then only the first month’s subscription fee will be eligible. If available for your account, the option to choose “financing offers available” will appear at checkout.
 The Contactless Symbol and Contactless Indicator are trademarks owned by and used with the permission of EMVCo, LLC. Chase Freedom Unlimited credit cards are issued by JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. Accounts subject to credit approval. Restrictions and limitations apply. Offer subject to change.

Explore Additional Card Rewards & Benefits

Redeem cash back rewards opens drawer that reveals additional content, redeem for cash back.

There is 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.

Shop with points at Amazon

Link your Chase Freedom Unlimited card to your Amazon.com account and instantly redeem your Cash Back rewards to pay for all or part of your eligible Amazon.com orders at checkout, including tax and shipping. * Opens offer details overlay

Redeem for a variety of gift cards and certificates for shopping, dining and entertainment, and more.

Book your travel with Chase Travel SM  for competitive rates and flexible ways to pay.

Service & protection Opens drawer that reveals additional content

Zero liability protection.

Means you won't be held responsible for unauthorized charges made with your card or account information. * Opens offer details overlay

Purchase Protection

Covers your new purchases for 120 days against damage or theft up to $500 per claim and $50,000 per account. ** Same page link to disclaimer

Extended Warranty Protection

Extends the time period of the U.S. manufacturer's warranty by an additional year, on eligible warranties of three years or less. ** Same page link to disclaimer

Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance

You can be reimbursed up to $1,500 per person and $6,000 per trip for your pre-paid, non-refundable passenger fares, if your trip is canceled or cut short by sickness, severe weather and other covered situations. ** Same page link to disclaimer

24/7 Fraud Monitoring

We help safeguard your credit card purchases using sophisticated fraud monitoring. We monitor for fraud 24/7 and can text, email or call you * Opens offer details overlay if there are unusual purchases on your credit card.

Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver

Decline the rental company's collision insurance and charge the entire rental cost to your card. Coverage is provided for theft and collision damage for most cars in the U.S. and abroad. In the U.S., coverage is secondary to your personal insurance. ** Same page link to disclaimer

Travel and Emergency Assistance Services

If you run into a problem away from home, call the Benefit Administrator for legal and medical referrals or other travel and emergency assistance. (You will be responsible for the cost of any goods or services obtained.) ** Same page link to disclaimer

** Same page link to disclaimer These benefits are available when you use your card. Restrictions, limitations and exclusions apply. Most benefits are underwritten by unaffiliated insurance companies who are solely responsible for the administration and claims. There are specific time limits and documentation requirements. Once your account is opened we will send you a Guide to Benefits, which includes a full explanation of coverages.

Contactless - Just Tap To Pay Opens drawer that reveals additional content

For fast, easy and secure checkout simply tap to pay where you see the Contactless symbol. For more information, please see  www.chase.com/contactless Opens in a new window .

Partner benefits Opens drawer that reveals additional content

The best of your neighborhood. $0 delivery fee.

Get a complimentary 3 months of DashPass, DoorDash's membership that provides unlimited deliveries with $0 delivery fee and lower service fees on eligible orders on DoorDash and Caviar. After that, you are automatically enrolled in DashPass at 50% off for the next 9 months. Activate by  January 31, 2025 . *

Plus, Dashpass members get up to $10 off quarterly on non-restaurant DoorDash orders. *

5% Cash Back on Lyft Rides

Earn 5% cash back on Lyft rides through March 31, 2025. *  That's 3.5% cash back in addition to the 1.5% cash back you already earn.

Spend Instantly Opens drawer that reveals additional content

Apply for a card, use it the same day.

Receive instant access to your card by adding it to a digital wallet, like Apple Pay ® , Google Pay ™  or Samsung Pay. Find out how at  chase.com/digital/spend-instantly opens in a new window .

Credit Journey Opens drawer that reveals additional content

Credit Journey ® is so much more than a credit score. We provide you with resources to help you build and monitor your credit and credit score to improve your credit. You can access your regularly updated score for free anytime with no impact. Credit Journey ® also has other tools like our score improvement feature which can provide you with a personalized action plan, provided by Experian TM , to help improve your credit score. You can review your score and the factors that change it, giving you a breakdown of what may have caused your score to change. With credit and identity monitoring, you receive alerts if changes to your accounts are seen and if your personal info is found in a data breach or on the dark web. We're here for you around the clock if you ever need support.

Chase Pay Over Time SM Opens drawer that reveals additional content

Chase Pay Over Time * Opens offer details overlay  lets eligible Chase customers break up credit card purchases into budget friendly payments. There are two potential ways to pay over time:

After purchase (formerly My Chase Plan ® ):  Pay off an eligible purchase you've already made of $100 or more * Opens offer details overlay  in smaller, equal monthly payments. No interest - just a fixed monthly fee † with plan durations that range from 3-24 months. Start a plan by selecting an eligible purchase with the "Pay Over Time" option next to the transaction amount in your credit card account activity.

At checkout:  Chase credit card members may have the option to create a payment plan at checkout on Amazon.com. Orders totaling $50 or more * Opens offer details overlay  using your eligible Chase credit card at Amazon.com could be eligible for Chase Pay Over Time. You will be able to view Chase Pay Over Time plan options (including the fixed APR and durations) at checkout.

Keep in mind: Even though you may have an eligible card, access to Chase Pay Over Time is not guaranteed. Your ability to create a Chase Pay Over Time plan is based on a variety of factors, such as your creditworthiness, credit limit and account behavior, and may change from time to time.

For more information on Chase Pay Over Time features, please visit  chase.com/chasepayovertime. opens in a new window

Refer Friends if you already have a Chase Freedom Unlimited ®  Card!

Earn up to $500 cash back per year.  You can earn $50 cash back for each friend who gets any participating Chase Freedom ®  credit card. Click the button below to start referring.

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UNDERSTAND YOUR BENEFITS

Your Guide to Benefits has what you need to know about the travel and purchase protection benefits that come with your card* – what's covered, not covered, and how to file a claim.

* Certain restrictions, limitations, and exclusions apply.    Please see your Guide to Benefits for details.

Chase Freedom Unlimited® Review

If you want to travel cheaper, better, and longer, one of the best tools in your arsenal is a solid rewards credit card.

Still, despite how often I talk about the topic , many travelers (or would-be travelers) are reluctant to get one. They think it’s a scam , don’t want to pay an annual fee, or just are generally wary of the whole thing.

If you’re in that camp, today I want to discuss a credit card that may be the perfect introduction to the world of points and miles: the Chase Freedom Unlimited® .

This card offers great value, with no annual fee and solid earning potential. It’s excellent as a standalone card with tons of potential for leveling up your game if and when you’re ready. It’s a favorite for newbies and seasoned travelers alike.

So, in this post, I’m going to break down why the Chase Freedom Unlimited deserves a spot in your wallet and how you can use it to turn everyday purchases into free travel.

Table of Contents

What is the Chase Freedom Unlimited?

Perks and benefits of the chase freedom unlimited, combining with a chase sapphire card, pros of the cfu, cons of the cfu, who is this card for.

The Chase Freedom Unlimited (sometimes referred to as CFU) is a credit card issued by Chase. What I love about it is that it has a $0 annual fee and offers 1.5% cash back on all purchases. It’s great for points and miles beginners who don’t want to worry about earning at different rates across various categories.

Plus, if you do want to level up your game, you can combine it with a Chase Sapphire card to supercharge your rewards earning capabilities (more on that below).

This card earns you the following:

• 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel SM
• 5% cash back on Lyft rides (through March 2025)
• 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery services
• 1.5% cash back on all other purchases
• Current welcome offer: an extra 1.5% cash back on everything you buy on up to $20,000 spent in the first year

You can redeem this cash back against your next statement or choose to get it directly deposited into your bank account.

But you can get even more out of this card when you combine it with one of Chase’s Sapphire cards (more on this soon).

In addition to these excellent earning rates, you’ll get access to a number of perks and benefits. Again, since it has a $0 annual fee, these are all just bonuses.

• Access to Chase Offers, an ever-changing selection of deals for various merchants , including online shopping, gas stations, delivery services, clothing brands, and hotels, among many other sectors (you could really see anything here)
• Complimentary three months of DashPass when you activate by January 31, 2025 (through which members get up to $10 off quarterly on non-restaurant DoorDash orders)
• Secondary Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver
• Trip cancellation/interruption insurance (up to $1,500 per person and $6,000 per trip for your prepaid, nonrefundable passenger fares, if your trip is canceled or cut short by sickness, severe weather, or other covered situations)
• Purchase protection (covers your new purchases for 120 days against damage or theft up to $500 per claim and $50,000 per account)
• Extended warranty protection

While this card is a great cash-back card in its own right, it’s best when paired with a more premium Chase card that earns transferable points. The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card (CSP) or the Chase Sapphire Reserve® are the two most popular, though you could also do this with my favorite business card, the Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card. (Note that these cards do have fees.)

That’s because, when you also hold one of these cards, you can convert the cash back earned on the CFU to valuable Chase Ultimate Rewards points. (The Freedom Unlimited on its own only earns cash back.) That means you can pool points earned on either card together and have access to Chase’s great airline and hotel transfer partners.

While getting cash back is easier (and certainly enticing), I consider points to be much more valuable. That’s because you can typically get at least 2 cents per point when transferring to travel partners (sometimes much more).

So why not just have one of the Chase Sapphire Cards and no Freedom Unlimited?

While this is an excellent option (and what many people do), having two cards within the same “family” ensures that you maximize earning categories while earning the same type of points. (You don’t want to spread yourself too thin across too many different cards earning different types of points that you can’t combine.)

By holding both a Chase Sapphire card and the Chase Freedom Unlimited, you can be sure that you’re earning at least 1.5x points on all purchases, a rarity in a travel card (both Sapphires only earn 1x points on all purchases).

If you hold the Chase Sapphire Preferred and the Chase Freedom Unlimited, for example, you’d earn:

• 1.5x on all purchases (CFU)
• 2x on all travel (CSP)
• 3x on drugstores (CFU)
• 3x on dining, including takeout and eligible delivery services (both cards)
• 5x on Lyft (until March 2025, both cards)
• 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel (both cards)

Lastly, since the CFU does have a foreign transaction fee, you won’t want to use this card when traveling. Think of the CSP as your travel card and the CFU as your everyday card with a higher earning rate on all purchases. Using the two together is an excellent combination.

• No annual fee
• Solid rewards structure, with at least 1.5% back on everything
• Easy to redeem cash back as statement credit or direct deposit
• Great value when paired with a Chase Sapphire card
• 3% foreign transaction fee
• Not a ton of travel benefits

The Chase Freedom Unlimited is ideal for those who want an easy-to-use card that gets a better-than-average earning rate on all purchases. It also leaves room to grow into the points-and-miles world when combined with a higher-level card from Chase. And, if you already have a Sapphire card, adding the CFU to your wallet allows you to continue to level up your game, maximizing your rewards on all purchases.

As with any credit card, you should not get it if you’re already carrying a balance or plan to carry one. Interest rates for travel credit cards are notoriously high, and this one is no different. The points just aren’t worth it if you’re paying interest each month.

This card is also not for anyone with poor credit, as you need good or excellent credit to qualify. (If that’s you, check out the best credit cards for bad credit so you can start improving your score today.)

Lastly, this card does count toward Chase’s 5/24 rule (you can’t open more than five cards within 24 months). If you’ve already opened five credit cards (any cards, not just Chase cards) within the past two years (or want to open more soon), you either won’t be able to get this card or might want to skip it for now.

Whether you’re just dipping your toes into the points-and-miles game or looking to complement your current lineup, the Chase Freedom Unlimited is a fantastic card. With no annual fee and impressive earning rates, it’s the perfect gateway to the world of points and miles if you’re just starting out.

And, if and when you want to take things up a notch, you can pair it with a premium Chase card down the road to really maximize your points. It’s a no-brainer choice that can kickstart your journey to mastering points and miles.

Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner . It’s my favorite search engine because it searches websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is being left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld . If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• SafetyWing (best for everyone)
• InsureMyTrip (for those 70 and over)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Want to Travel for Free? Travel credit cards allow you to earn points that can be redeemed for free flights and accommodation — all without any extra spending. Check out my guide to picking the right card and my current favorites to get started and see the latest best deals.

Need Help Finding Activities for Your Trip? Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace where you can find cool walking tours, fun excursions, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more.

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I may earn a commission if you make a purchase. I only recommend products and companies I use. Opinions, reviews, analyses & recommendations are mine alone and have not been reviewed, endorsed, or approved by any of these entities. This page does not include all card companies or all available card offers.

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Your guide to Chase's trip insurance coverage

Update : Some offers mentioned below are no longer available. View the current offers here .

Chase credit cards are often top of mind when travelers are booking trips because of their superior protections. Chase is one of very few major U.S. credit card issuers that offers a full suite of travel protections across its premium credit cards, including trip delay reimbursement and trip cancellation/interruption insurance.

Trip delay reimbursement covers reasonable out-of-pocket expenses due to a lengthy trip delay that is not covered by the common carrier. Trip cancellation/interruption insurance provides reimbursement for covered travel expenses when you have to cancel a trip or end it early.

Now that more people are getting vaccinated and destinations are reopening borders to tourists, you may be planning trips for later this year or into next. This guide will walk through which Chase credit cards have these benefits, what is currently covered and how you can file a successful claim.

Chase cards offering trip delay and trip cancellation/interruption insurance

Here is an overview of the Chase cards that offer trip delay reimbursement, trip cancellation/interruption insurance or both:

The information for the United TravelBank Card has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Related: Best credit cards for trip cancellation and interruption insurance

What is covered by trip cancellation/interruption insurance?

You can find the full terms and conditions of what is generally covered on your specific card in your Guide to Benefits, which can be found through your Chase account online. I'll use the Chase Sapphire Reserve Guide to Benefits as an example.

Here is a rundown of the circumstances covered by Chase's trip cancellation/interruption insurance:

• Accidental bodily injury, loss of life or sickness experienced by you or a traveling companion that prevents you or a travel companion from traveling on the trip.
• Accidental bodily injury, loss of life or sickness experienced by an immediate family member of you or your traveling companion when it's considered life-threatening, requires hospitalization or requires care by you or your traveling companion.
• Severe weather that prevents a "reasonable and prudent person" from beginning or continuing a trip (terms about what constitutes as qualifying severe weather can be found in your Guide to Benefits).
• Named storm warning.
• Change in military orders for you or your spouse.
• Jury duty or a court subpoena, neither of which can be waived.
• You or your traveling companion's place of permanent residence being made uninhabitable, being burglarized or damaged by fire or flood.
• You or your traveling companion's lodging accommodations at the destination of the trip being made uninhabitable.
• Death or hospitalization of you or your traveling companion's host at destination.
• Quarantine of you or your traveling companion imposed by a physician or by a competent governmental authority having jurisdiction, due to health reasons.
• An organized strike affected public transportation which causes you or your traveling companion to either miss 20% or more of your scheduled trip or miss the departure of a prepaid cruise or scheduled tour (booked through a tour operator).
• Terrorism (there are exceptions here; exact terms on what types of terrorist incidents are covered for trip cancellation and interruption insurance are listed in your Guide to Benefits).

Chase does provide an extensive list of things that are not covered by trip cancellation/interruption insurance as well:

• Change in plans, financial circumstances and business obligations.
• Preexisting conditions.
• Any loss due to the voluntary surrender of unused vouchers, tickets, credits, coupons or travel privileges available prior to their expiration date.
• Travel arrangements scheduled to take place after the 26th week of pregnancy, or when a multiple pregnancy (such as twins or triplets) or pregnancy associated with an assisted reproductive program (such as in vitro fertilization) occurs prior to the initial deposit date or booking date of the trip.
• Any loss for a trip booked while on a waiting list for a specified medical treatment.
• Medical travel.
• Disinclination to travel due to civil unrest.
• Failure of you or your travel companion to obtain necessary visas, passports or requisite travel documents.
• Illegal activity.
• Suicide, attempted suicide or intentional self-inflicted injury.
• Drug use at the time of the loss (except if the drug is taken and used as prescribed by a physician).
• Disinclination to travel due to an epidemic or pandemic.
• Financial insolvency of a common carrier, travel agency, tour operator or travel supplier.
• War (not including terrorism).
• For trip cancellation only: Trips booked to any area known to be associated with terrorist activity.
• For trip interruption only: Travel arrangements canceled or changed by a travel supplier unless it's the result of severe weather or an organized strike that affects public transportation.

You'll note that "disinclination to travel due to an epidemic or pandemic" is specifically listed as not covered. At the time of writing, Chase had given no update that would change this, which means canceling a trip you can go on but just don't want to is not covered by your Chase travel insurance .

If you do find yourself canceling or cutting a covered trip short, here are the basic guidelines provided by Chase on what types of expenses are covered for trip cancellation/interruption:

Non-Refundable prepaid travel expenses charged by a Travel Supplier (Travel Agency, Tour Operator, Provider of Lodging, rental car agency, Rented Recreational Vehicle Provider, commercial recreational excursion provider, Cruise Line, airline, railroad, and other Common Carriers). Eligible Travel Expenses also means redeposit fees imposed by a Rewards program administrator. Eligible Travel Expenses does not include Event Tickets or prepaid fees to theme parks, museums, golf courses, or other points of interest (unless such expenses are included as part of a travel package).

What is covered by trip delay insurance?

Trip delay insurance provides reimbursement for expenses incurred when your trip is delayed due to a covered hazard for more than six hours, or if a delay requires an overnight stay. It does not include expenses that are covered by the airline or other common carrier responsible for the delay. You and your family members are covered when you put at least part of a trip on your eligible Chase card.

Covered expenses include meals, lodging, toiletries and medication, but do not include any prepaid expenses related to a trip such as a tour or activity fees.

Chase defines covered hazards as equipment failure, inclement weather, strike and hijacking/skyjacking. The Guide to Benefits specifically exempts any delay due to a covered hazard that was made public or made known to you prior to your departure.

Filing a claim

When you have a delay or trip cancellation/interruption that you think qualifies for coverage, you can file a claim through Chase's online claims center.

Trip delay reimbursement requires the following documentation:

• Expense receipts – Keep receipts from all of the expenses incurred due to the delay. Meal expenses more than $50 per covered traveler must be itemized.
• Fare receipt – You'll need a receipt that proves you purchased at least some of the common carrier fare on your card.
• Multiple payment methods – If you used more than one method of payment for your fare, you must provide documentation outlining any additional currency, voucher, points or other payment method used. For example, if you used points to pay for your flight and just used your card for taxes and fees, you'd need to show documentation to that effect.
• Common carrier statement – This is proof that the trip was delayed, along with the reason for the delay.
• Original itinerary – You'll have to submit a copy of your original ticket.
• Settlement from carrier – You are required to file a claim with the common carrier before submitting a claim with Chase. You'll need a copy of the settlement from the carrier, your insurance and any other reimbursement you'll receive from another party.

Trip cancellation/interruption insurance requires slightly different documentation:

• Completed and signed claim form — You can get a claim form by calling your benefit administrator, or by visiting Chase's online filing application.
• Original itinerary – You'll have to submit a copy of your original travel itinerary, including any prepaid activities that you are including in your claim.
• Confirmation of cancellation/interruption – You have to provide documentation that gives the reason for the cancellation/interruption, such as an official doctor's note, death certificate, official military orders or other supporting documentation.
• Attending physician's statement – This a document provided by a physician or medical facility that essentially acts as proof that you were treated by them.
• Carrier cancellation/refund policy – You'll have to submit a copy of the cancellation or refund policies of the common carrier, tour operator or travel supplier.
• Expense receipts – Keep the receipts of expenses incurred due to your trip interruption.
• Monthly billing statement – Rather than a fare receipt, you are required to submit a monthly billing statement showing the last four digits of the account number as proof of prepaid travel.
• Any unused vouchers, tickets or coupons — You can add these expenses to your claim, but you'll need to be able to provide proof of purchase.

When you fill out the claims form online, you will be asked to upload these documents. You can scan in paper receipts when needed. Typically, you have up to 90 days to file a claim after a delay or cancellation.

Proof of flight delay or cancellation

One of the documents required to file for trip delay reimbursement is a verification form that outlines the reason for the delay or cancellation by the carrier. You can typically get this at the airport when the delay or cancellation is announced, but keep in mind that it may require a supervisor. Each major U.S. airline also has a process for requesting this information after the fact.

Here is an overview of the process different U.S. airlines require in order for you to receive a delay or cancellation verification form:

Bottom line

Having a card with trip insurance can save you hundreds of dollars when unexpected hiccups happen in your travel plans, but it can be confusing to know what exactly is covered and the right documentation you need to file a claim.

Nothing is worse than getting through an entire claims process only to be denied or have to start over because you don't have the required documentation for the insurance provider. Before you start filing a claim, make sure you have the documents listed above. Keep in mind that a provider may ask for additional documentation related to the incident, so you may have to collect receipts and other forms to help your case.

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Chase Freedom Unlimited vs. Sapphire Preferred: Sapphire Travels Better

Many or all of the products on this page are from partners who compensate us when you click to or take an action on their website, but this does not influence our evaluations or ratings. Our opinions are our own.

When you're left to choose between the Chase Freedom Unlimited® and Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card , your goals and lifestyle will determine the better option.

The Chase Freedom Unlimited® is a well-suited candidate for those looking to pile up cash-back rewards for a $0 annual fee. It earns a modest 1.5% cash-back rate on all purchases and elevated rewards in categories like drugstores, restaurants and select travel.

But if you want to redeem your rewards toward travel, the $95 -annual-fee Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is a better choice. Its travel perks and protections, lack of foreign transaction fees and strong sign-up bonus can take your vacation further. It offers 25% more value for your points when you book travel through Chase, and it unlocks the ability to transfer points to travel partners for potential outsized value.

Here’s how to decide whether to choose the Chase Freedom Unlimited® , the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card — or both. (Spoiler alert: These cards make a perfect pair. )

» MORE: See NerdWallet’s best credit cards for travel 

At a glance

Why travelers will prefer the chase sapphire preferred® card  .

More perks and rewards toward travel 

The sign-up bonus on the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card can offer more value toward a vacation than the sign-up bonus on the Chase Freedom Unlimited® . Points are also worth 25% more with the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card when you redeem them for travel through the Chase portal. Plus, holding this card can unlock the ability to transfer your points to travel partners , which can yield even higher value. If you travel enough to make the most of the card’s perks, you’ll also be able to offset the cost of the $95 annual fee. 

The $50 annual credit on hotel stays purchased through Chase will get you more than halfway there and the ongoing rewards and bonus points on every account anniversary can potentially take care of the rest. If you're a frequent globe-trotter, you’ll also appreciate the savings that come with not having to pay foreign transaction fees on purchases made abroad. 

» SEE: How to tell if a sign-up bonus is worth it

Travel benefits and protections 

You’ll want to make sure that your trip is protected if the unexpected derails your plans. With the Chase Freedom Unlimited® , you’ll only get trip cancellation and interruption insurance, and secondary rental car coverage . 

But the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card takes protections to the next level by offering trip cancellation and interruption insurance, primary rental car coverage, baggage delay insurance and trip delay reimbursement. 

» MORE: Trip cancellation insurance explained  

Though it's billed as a cash-back card, the Chase Freedom Unlimited® actually earns Chase Ultimate Rewards® points, which can be redeemed for cash, gift cards or travel booked through Chase at a value of 1 cent per point.

Why the Chase Freedom Unlimited® could be more appealing for some

Travel perks at no cost 

The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card offers plenty of perks for travel, but you’ll have to pay a $95 annual fee to get them. The Chase Freedom Unlimited® can offer an elevated rewards rate on travel booked through Chase and travel protections for a $0 annual fee. If you’re a less frequent traveler, you may appreciate the flexibility to earn rewards and protections for travel along with everyday spending categories.

A decent base rate on all purchases

When you’re not earning rewards in specific categories with the Chase Freedom Unlimited® , you’ll earn a decent 1.5x base rate on all other purchases. Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card , on the other hand, earns just 1x points on all purchases that aren't in boosted categories.

» MORE: See NerdWallet's best cash-back credit cards

Which card (or cards) should you get? 

If you appreciate having some travel perks for the occasional vacation, the duality of the Chase Freedom Unlimited® can offer some of the benefits of a travel credit card and an everyday credit card for a $0 annual fee. But, if you often travel internationally, you can’t beat the value you’ll get from the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card . The card’s long list of perks, travel protections and features easily make up for the $95 annual fee.

For even more value toward travel, consider adding both cards to your wallet. Use the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card for the categories that are more rewarding with that card, and use the Chase Freedom Unlimited® for a base rate of 1.5 points per dollar spent for all other purchases.

Plus, you can move points earned from the Chase Freedom Unlimited® to your Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card and make them more valuable: Either transfer those points to Sapphire travel partners or redeem them for travel through Chase at a 25% higher value. By pairing these cards, you'll earn more on your purchases and your points will be more valuable when you redeem them for travel.

» MORE: What is the "Chase trifecta"?

on Chase's website

1.5%-5% Enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.

Up to $300 Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

60,000 Points + $300 Travel Credit Get up to $1,050 in Chase Travel℠ value. Earn 60,000 bonus points after $4,000 in purchases in your first 3 months from account opening. That’s worth $750 when redeemed through Chase Travel. Plus, get up to $300 in statement credits on Chase Travel purchases within your first year.

1%-5% Earn 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined purchases in bonus categories each quarter you activate. Earn 5% on Chase travel purchased through Chase Travel®, 3% on dining and drugstores, and 1% on all other purchases.

$200 Earn a $200 Bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening.

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Whether you want to pay less interest or earn more rewards, the right card's out there. Just answer a few questions and we'll narrow the search for you.

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UponArriving

Chase Freedom Travel Insurance Coverage Explained [2019]

The Chase Freedom and Chase Freedom Unlimited are two very popular cash back credit cards that offer great rewards and come with no annual fee. The Freedom earns a respectable 5% back on rotating quarterly categories and the Chase Freedom Unlimited earns a solid 1.5% back on all purchases. 

But beyond the rewards, these cards also offer some decent travel insurance benefits and coverage that many don’t know about. In this article, I will break down the Visa Platinum and Visa Signature benefits for these cards and also show you some alternative options you might want to think about for getting better protections for things like rental car insurance and baggage delay protection. 

Table of Contents

Does the Chase Freedom come with travel insurance?

The Chase Freedom cards (both the Chase Freedom and Chase Freedom Unlimited) come with different types of travel insurance benefits depending on the type of Visa credit card that you are issued. I’ll go into detail below about these different types of travel insurances and tell you everything you need to know about them. 

Different types of Freedom cards

The Chase Freedom cards (Freedom and Freedom Unlimited) come in two forms: the standard (Visa Platinum) version and the upgraded Visa Signature version. You can’t apply for one version and instead you will be approved for one or the other when you apply based on Chase’s standards. If you are approved for a Visa Signature version, you’re usually given a minimum credit line of $5,000. 

These different versions of Visa cards come with different types of benefits and travel insurance and I’ll go into detail below. 

Rental car insurance (Collision damage waiver)

Both the Freedom cards come with rental car insurance (also known as Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver). The Auto Rental CDW benefit provides reimbursement for damage due to collision or theft up to the actual cash value of most rental vehicles

This is secondary coverage in your country of residence which means it supplements, and applies in excess of, any valid insurance. In other words, Auto Rental CDW will not pay for theft or damage reimbursable by your own insurer, employer, employer’s insurance, or any other valid and collectible reimbursement. But you can get coverage for deductibles and other charges such as administration fees. 

Outside your country of residence or if you do not have automobile insurance, you do not have to claim payment from any other source of insurance before receiving coverage under this benefit. This essentially turns the coverage into primary rental car coverage but only outside your country of residence.

If you want primary rental car coverage everywhere you go, you’re much better off to go with a card like the Chase Sapphire Preferred ( full review here ). 

The cards offer coverage for you (the cardholder) and any additional drivers permitted to operate the vehicle under the terms of the rental agreement (basically other people who have signed the contract). 

It’s also worth noting that there are some exceptions to the coverage such as renting certain vehicles. Excluded worldwide are:

• antique automobiles
• certain vans
• vehicles that have an open cargo bed
• motorcycles
• recreational vehicles.

Also, the benefit only covers vehicle rental periods that do not exceed or are not intended to exceed 31 consecutive days within or outside of your country of residence.

Trip cancellation and interruption

When people talk about travel insurance, they are often thinking mostly about trip cancellation and interruption. These protections are very valuable because they reimburse you for pre-paid, non-refundable costs in the event that certain circumstances prevent you from traveling.

For example, you might book a trip with pre-paid airfare and hotel stays that are all non-refundable (the non-refundable rates are usually always the cheapest). But then you get sick and can’t travel. If you have trip cancellation, you can get reimbursed for all of those expenses (with certain cards). I’ve used this perk when I’ve had to cancel big trips before and it has saved me thousands of dollars before. 

But the amount that you can get covered depends on the type of Freedom card that you have (Platinum versus Signature). 

Chase Freedom Visa Platinum travel insurance 

The standard Visa Platinum offers protection up to $1,500 for each covered person per trip.  Here are what its terms state:

Trip Cancellation and Interruption benefits reimburse non-refundable passenger fares charged by an airline, cruise line, railroad, or any other Common Carrier up to one thousand five hundred ($1,500.00) dollars for each Covered Person per Trip to a maximum of six thousand ($6,000.00) for all Covered Persons traveling together on the same Trip, if a Loss results in cancellation or interruption of the travel arrangements.

Chase Freedom Visa Signature travel insurance 

The Visa Signature offers protection up to $5,000 for each covered person per trip.  Here are what its terms state:  

If a Trip Interruption occurs, the Company will reimburse you for up to the maximum Benefit Amount of five thousand ($5,000.00) dollars for: the forfeited, non-refundable pre-paid land, air and/or sea transportation arrangements that were missed

Chase Sapphire Reserve travel insurance 

If you really want better travel insurance coverage you should look into the Chase Sapphire Reserve, a Visa Infinite Card. That’s because you can get coverage up to $10,000 . Here are what its terms state : 

Trip Interruption insurance reimburses you or your Immediate Family Members for up to ten thousand ($10,000.00) dollars for each Covered Trip if a Covered Loss causes interruption of the Covered Trip on the way to the point of departure or after the departure of the Covered Trip. Covered Trip means any pre-paid tour, trip or vacation[…]

One major difference between the two types of Freedom cards is the type of expenses covered by trip cancellation. Compare all of the expenses covered by the Freedom Platinum versus the Freedom Visa Signature. 

Chase Freedom Visa Platinum

What types of expenses are eligible for reimbursement? Airline, cruise line, railroad and other Common Carrier fares. 

Chase Freedom Visa Signature

Some of the prepaid travel arrangements that are eligible for reimbursement include, but are not limited to, airline tickets, train tickets, bus tickets, prepaid tours, hotels, and rental cars.

Thus, based on the terms and conditions, it appears like the Chase Freedom Visa Signature version offers much more expansive coverage (though you may want to inquire to see if the Visa Platinum list is exhaustive). 

You’ll need to pay special attention to the terms to make sure that your specific type of loss is covered. The following types of reasons for cancelling your trip may be honored: 

• Accidental Bodily Injury, Loss of Life, or Sickness experienced by You or a Traveling Companion
• Accidental Bodily Injury, Loss of Life, or Sickness experienced by an Immediate Family Member of You or a Traveling Companion when the Accidental Bodily Injury or Sickness is considered life threatening, requires hospitalization, or such Immediate Family Member requires the care of the Covered Person or Traveling Companion
• Change in military orders 
• An organized strike
• Severe Weather

Some types of situations where you won’t get coverage include times when you’re dealing with a pre-existing condition and other scenarios so make you’re aware of those. 

You will need to supply documentation for these protections to kick in. For example, if you got sick and couldn’t travel you should expect to supply a doctor’s note. You will also need to keep all of the documents related to all of your travel expenses because they will likely request you to show them everything you can. 

Lost luggage with the Chase Freedom

With the Chase Freedom Visa Signature card you can also get coverage for costs you incur to repair or replace Checked Baggage and/or Carry-On Baggage and personal property contained within due to physical loss or damage, if the loss (including theft) or damage occurs during a Common Carrier Covered Trip. 

You, the Primary Insured Person and your Immediate Family Members are covered  $3,000.00 for each Insured Person for each Common Carrier Covered Trip but only up to $500 for each Insured Person for each Common Carrier Covered Trip for jewelry, watches, cameras, video recorders, and other electronic equipment.

If you want more luggage protections such as baggage delay protection then you’ll want to consider the Chase Sapphire Preferred and the Chase Sapphire Reserve. Both of those cards will allow you to go out on the town and purchase things like clothes and toiletries while you await for your luggage to be returned. Baggage delay for the Sapphire Reserve kicks in after only six hours which is one of the best policies. 

Chase Freedom roadside assistance 

With the Chase Freedom Visa Signature card you can get roadside assistance. Help is available by calling Cross Country Motor Club at 1-866-860-7978, toll-free, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.  You are covered up to a maximum of $50 for each service event, up to four events each year.

Coverage is provided while traveling in the U.S. and Canada and includes:

• Battery Boost – If your vehicle won’t start due to a dead or weak battery.
• Flat Tire Service – If you have a flat tire, we’ll install your inflated spare.
• Fuel Delivery – If you run out of gas, an emergency supply will be delivered to you. The cost of fuel is covered for up to 2 gallons
• 24 Hour Towing Assistance – In the event of a vehicle breakdown that requires a tow, a call to the toll-free assistance line will put you in contact with a customer service representative who will arrange to transport the vehicle to the nearest repair facility or location of the motorist’s choice.
• 24 Hour Lockout Assistance – Should you accidentally lock yourself out of your vehicle, a qualified locksmith will be dispatched to remedy the situation. 

Travel accident insurance 

The Chase Freedom Visa Signature cards come with travel accident insurance which is basically a way to get coverage when some seriously tragic events take place like a loss of life or some type of permanent disfigurement.

Travel and Emergency Assistance Services

With both of the Freedom cards you also get Travel and Emergency Assistance Services. If you call the benefit administrator you can get referrals for certain emergency services.

For example, if you’re in a foreign country and you need to locate a physician or even something like a lawyer they can help. They can also assist with replacing lost tickets, lost luggage, translations, and other requests. The key to know here is that you are 100% responsible for all of the services that they refer you to. 

Emergency Medical and Dental Benefit

If you were looking for coverage for certain health-related, the Chase Freedom Visa Signature version allows you to be eligible to receive up to a maximum of $2,500.00 (subject to a $50.00 deductible) for medical expenses not paid or payable by your medical insurance or other reimbursement incurred as a result of Emergency Treatment of a sickness or accidental injury occurring during the course of Your Trip.

Certain terms apply to the treatment but you can get coverage for things like: 

• The services of a legally qualified physician, surgeon, graduate nurse, dentist, or osteopath.
• Charges for hospital confinement and use of operating rooms.
• Charges for anesthetics (including administration), x-ray examinations or treatments, and laboratory tests.
• Ambulance services.
• Drugs, medicines, and therapeutic services and supplies.

If you need to be evacuated in the event of an emergency you can also get Emergency Evacuation and Transportation benefits up to $100,000.00.

Final word 

Overall, the Chase Freedom cards do offer some level of decent travel protections. But if you really want more comprehensive travel benefits and higher limits, I’d highly suggest that you look into a card like the Chase Sapphire Preferred or the Chase Sapphire Reserve. You’ll feel a lot better about the comprehensive nature of those travel protections. 

Daniel Gillaspia is the Founder of UponArriving.com and the credit card app, WalletFlo . He is a former attorney turned travel expert covering destinations along with TSA, airline, and hotel policies. Since 2014, his content has been featured in publications such as National Geographic, Smithsonian Magazine, and CNBC. Read my bio .

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Chase Freedom Unlimited® Review

Discover the Chase Freedom Unlimited® card, which offers 1.5% cash back on everyday purchases, higher rates in select categories, an attractive sign-up bonus and flexible redemption options.

Updated: October 23, 2024

Advertising & Editorial Disclosure

• Card Overview

Freedom Unlimited Cash Back Estimator

• Important Details
• How It Compares

MoneyGeek partners with leading industry experts and advertisers to help you get to your financial happy place. Our content is accurate when posted but offers may change over time. We may receive compensation for partner advertisements, but our editorial team independently reviews and ranks products. Learn more about our editorial policies .

Moneygeek.com credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.

• No annual fee
• Intro offer allows you to earn 1.5% cash back on up to $20,000
• Enjoy the intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months
• Potentially high cash back for certain categories
• Cash back doesn’t expire and is redeemable at any amount
• Requires Good to Excellent credit score

Introductory Offers

• Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on all purchases up to $20,000 in the first year.
• Earn 6.5% cash back on travel throughChase Travel℠, 4.5% on drugstore purchases and dining, and 3% on all other purchases for the first year or up to $20,000 spent.
• After the first year or $20,000 spent, earn 5% on travel, 3% on drugstores and dining, and 1.5% on all other purchases.

APRS, Fees, and Penalties

• Enjoy 0% Intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 19.99% - 28.74% after that.
• No annual fee.

Perks & Benefits

• No minimum redemption for cash back.
• Cash back rewards do not expire as long as the account is open.
• Free access to credit score monitoring through Chase Credit Journey.

The Chase Freedom Unlimited® card expertly blends cost-efficiency with a rich rewards program, making it a standout choice for savvy spenders. Ideal for frequent travelers, diners and everyday shoppers, this card turns routine expenses into valuable cash back opportunities. Its no-annual-fee structure and generous welcome offer enhance its appeal. The card facilitates significant purchases or balance transfers thanks to its initial zero-interest phase. Additionally, its adaptable cash back system allows for freedom in redemption, appealing to those who value flexibility in their financial tools. However, maximizing its benefits is particularly fitting for individuals with robust credit histories.

Chase Freedom Unlimited® Overview

It's helpful to carefully assess a card's features when selecting a new credit card. These attributes can significantly impact your financial habits and rewards – a reality underscored by the diverse offerings of the Chase Freedom Unlimited® card, highlighted below:

• Rewards rate: Earn 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more; 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 1.5% on all other purchases
• Welcome offer: Earn an extra 1.5% on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) — worth up to $300 cash back. That’s 6.5% on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 4.5% on dining and drugstores, and 3% on all other purchases.
• Regular APR: 19.99% - 28.74% variable
• Annual fee: $0
• Intro APR offer: 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers, then a 19.99% - 28.74% variable APR after that.

Consider how these features complement your spending and fit into your financial profile.

Estimate the value of the cash back rewards you could earn with the Chase Freedom Unlimited card. Enter your spending in the categories below to see how much cash back you can earn.

Important Disclaimers:

• This calculator is for planning and evaluation purposes and not sponsored or endorsed by Chase.
• Some of your purchases may not be eligible for earning points.
• The value of points at redemption will vary.

How much do you spend on dining (including takeout and eligible delivery services) per MONTH? (4.5% cash back)

How much do you spend on drugstore purchases per MONTH? (4.5% cash back)

How much do you spend on travel through Chase Travel per YEAR? (6.5% cash back in the first year, 5% thereafter)

How much do you spend on other purchases per MONTH? (3% cash back in the first year up to $20,000, 1.5% thereafter)

Important Card Details

Exploring the multifaceted features of the Chase Freedom Unlimited® card reveals a blend of convenience and strategic value for diverse spending habits. This analysis delves into how its cash back options, sign-up bonus and redemption flexibility cater to various consumer needs, highlighting the advantages and considerations for potential cardholders.

Cash Back Rewards

The Chase Freedom Unlimited is a powerhouse in the rewards landscape. With a generous 6.5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more; 4.5% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 3% on all other purchases (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year).

One of the standout features of this card is the absence of an annual fee, which immediately alleviates a common concern among potential cardholders. However, it's essential to remain aware of the regular variable APR, which can range from 19.99% - 28.74% after the introductory period. As always, paying off balances in full is a good practice to avoid any potential interest charges. By doing so, you can truly benefit from the card's rewards without the burden of additional fees.

0% APR Offer

The 0% introductory APR for the first 15 months, applicable to purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 19.99% - 28.74% after that, is a fantastic boon. If you're planning a significant purchase or considering transferring a high-interest balance from another card, this feature can provide substantial savings. After the initial period, the regular APR kicks in, so it's beneficial to plan repayments within the introductory timeframe to optimize the card's advantages.

Other Features

One of the often overlooked features of credit cards is the longevity of rewards. With Chase Freedom Unlimited, your cash back doesn't expire as long as the account remains active, ensuring you won't feel rushed to redeem rewards. Plus, there's no minimum threshold for cash back redemption. This feature offers flexibility and peace of mind, knowing that rewards aren't slipping away and you can use them whenever you deem fit.

How the Chase Freedom Unlimited® Compares

In this comparison, we place the distinct features and benefits of two popular credit cards side by side, offering a clear perspective on how they cater to different financial needs and preferences.

How This Card Compares

Chase Freedom Unlimited®

• Rewards rate: Enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more; 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 1.5% on all other purchases
• Intro APR offer: 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases, then a 19.99% - 28.74% variable APR after that..
• Best for new cardholders planning significant initial spending and seeking varied cash back rates, with the added advantage of a 0% intro APR on new purchases.

Citi® Double Cash Card

• Rewards rate: Earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases. To earn cash back, pay at least the minimum due on time. Plus, for a limited time, earn 5% total cash back on hotel, car rentals and attractions booked on the Citi Travel℠ portal through 12/31/24.
• Welcome offer: None
• Regular APR: 18.74% - 28.74% (variable)
• Intro APR offer: None
• Best for regular spenders seeking a straightforward rewards program and no annual fee, with added benefits on travel bookings through Citi Travel.

All Chase Freedom Unlimited Card Comparisons

• Chase Freedom Unlimited vs. Wells Fargo Active Cash Card
• Chase Freedom Unlimited vs. Chase Freedom Flex Card
• Chase Freedom Unlimited vs. Citi Custom Cash Card
• Chase Freedom Unlimited vs. Bank of America Customized Cash Rewards Credit Card
• Chase Freedom Unlimited vs. Blue Cash Preferred Card From American Express
• Chase Freedom Unlimited vs. Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card
• Chase Freedom Unlimited vs. US Bank Cash Visa Signature Card
• Chase Freedom Unlimited vs. American Express Cash Magnet Card
• Chase Freedom Unlimited vs. Blue Cash Everyday Card From American Express
• Chase Freedom Unlimited vs. Citi Double Cash Card
• Chase Freedom Unlimited vs. Bank of America Unlimited Cash Rewards Credit Card
• Chase Freedom Unlimited vs. Discover it Cash Back Card

About Grace Pilling

Grace Pilling was the Senior Content Manager for Credit Cards at MoneyGeek. She previously led personal finance teams at Bankrate, CreditCards.com and MoneyUnder30.

Pilling has a bachelor's degree in English from Western Sydney University and a diploma in book editing, proofreading and publishing. She is focused on empowering readers to make informed financial choices that support their best lives, not a company’s bottom line.

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Chase Freedom Unlimited Card: Maximizing Your Car Rental Insurance & Benefits

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Table of Contents

Card snapshot, what is car rental insurance, what sets apart this card for car rental insurance, notable exclusions from car rental insurance, how to use the card’s car rental insurance, how to file an insurance claim, final thoughts.

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If you’re traveling and want to make sure you have insurance on your rental car without having to pay additional fees to purchase a separate insurance policy, having a credit card with car rental insurance can save you hundreds of dollars.

One of the few no-annual-fee credit cards that offers car rental insurance, the Chase Freedom Unlimited ® is at the top of our minds when looking for a personal credit card with rental car insurance.

In this case, we’ll highlight the features of the Freedom Unlimited card’s car rental insurance, as well as how to use it.

Let’s begin!

This all-purpose cash-back card offers great bonus categories, including bonus points for every purchase you make!

The Chase Freedom Unlimited ® is easily one of the best cash-back credit cards on the market. There aren’t many no-annual-fee credit cards that offer multiple great bonus categories like 5% back on travel purchased through Chase, 3% back on dining and drugstore purchases, and 1.5% back on all other purchases.

When paired with other Chase cards in the Ultimate Rewards family, you can transfer that cash back into points if you wish – making it one of the most lucrative cards in your wallet.

• 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 19.99% - 28.74%.
• 5% back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠
• 3% back on dining and drugstore purchases
• 3% foreign transaction fee
• INTRO OFFER: Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!
• Enjoy 6.5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more; 4.5% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 3% on all other purchases (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year).
• After your first year or $20,000 spent, enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.
• 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 19.99% - 28.74%.
• 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
• APR: 0% Intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 19.99% - 28.74%.
• Foreign Transaction Fees:  3% of each transaction in U.S. dollars

Chase Ultimate Rewards

As we’ve reiterated time and time again, the Freedom Unlimited card is one of the best credit cards available. Indeed, it’s our top no-annual-fee credit card, and it even offers a better value proposition than most credit cards with annual fees — that’s how good this card is.

Beyond that, you should expect to earn up to 5% cash back on your purchases:

• 5% cash-back on travel bought via Chase Travel
• 5% cash back on Lyft through March 31, 2025
• 3% cash-back on dining (including takeout) and at drugstores
• 1.5% cash-back on other purchases

The rewards you earn on this card can actually be converted to the coveted Ultimate Rewards points if you happen to have an Ultimate Rewards credit card such as the Chase Sapphire Reserve ® or Chase Sapphire Preferred ® Card .

If you have an Ultimate Rewards card, your 5%, 3%, and 1.5% cash-back can be converted to 5x, 3x, and 1.5x points, respectively.

By our valuations , you’ll be earning a return on spending of at least 3% on all purchases and a maximum return on spending of 10%. Earning 10% from a no-annual-fee card is almost unheard of.

The Freedom Unlimited card offers a series of unique benefits , such as:

• 3 complimentary months of DoorDash DashPass (activate by January 31, 2025)
• Trip cancellation and trip interruption insurance
• Travel and emergency assistance services
• Roadside dispatch
• Zero liability fraud protection
• Purchase protection
• Extended warranty

Plus, the Freedom Unlimited card offers no-additional-fee authorized user cards and rental car insurance.

Car rental insurance is, well, insurance for your rental car. You have insurance for the car that you drive at home, but what about when you’re traveling?

Car rental insurance covers you in the event that any incidents occur while driving your rental car.

Although you do not need to purchase insurance when renting a car , we always recommend having some form of coverage, even if you’re an excellent driver.

After all, it’s impossible to control how other people drive, so getting yourself car rental insurance can protect you against other drivers’ behaviors, even if you’re a safe driver.

The Freedom Unlimited card offers secondary rental car insurance when renting within the domestic U.S. and primary rental car insurance when renting internationally .

Primary rental car insurance is superior to secondary rental car insurance because primary insurance will pay for damages first. On the other hand, secondary rental car insurance requires you to file a claim with your insurance company first before the secondary insurance kicks in.

The Freedom Unlimited card is one of the only no-annual-fee cards that offer rental car insurance at all. Rental periods of up to 31 consecutive days are covered — longer rentals will not be covered.

The maximum coverage allowed is the total value of the automobile.

Chase outlines a series of vehicles that are not covered under this rental car coverage policy:

• Antique cars, defined as cars over 20 years old or that haven’t been manufactured for 10 years or longer
• High-value motor vehicles or exotic cars
• Motorcycles, mopeds, motorbikes
• Passenger vans with seating for more than 9 people, including the driver
• Recreational vehicles

Examples of high-value motor vehicles or exotic car brands are Alfa Romeo, Aston Martin, Bentley, Corvette, Ferrari, Jaguar, Lamborghini, Lotus, Maserati, Maybach, McLaren, Porsche, Rolls Royce, and Tesla.

Selected models of Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Cadillac, Infiniti, Land Rover, Lexus, Lincoln, and Range Rover are eligible for coverage.

In addition, there are a series of events or incidents that would not be covered under this car rental insurance policy:

• Rental car periods of longer than 31 days
• Loss or theft of personal belongings
• Personal liability
• Injury of anyone or damage to anything inside or outside the vehicle
• Any violation of the auto rental agreement or this benefit
• Depreciation of the rental vehicle caused by the incident
• Reimbursable expenses from your insurer, employer, or employer’s insurance
• Theft or damage due to intentional acts or due to the driver(s) being under the influence of alcohol, intoxicants, drugs, contraband, or illegal activities
• Wear and tear, gradual deterioration, or mechanical breakdown

The list of exclusions goes on, but if you’re not performing any shady activities, you’re probably covered.

So now that you have an idea of what types of car rentals and incidents are covered under the Freedom Unlimited card’s car rental insurance coverage, let’s take a gander at how to use the perk.

First, you’ll need to pay for the entire rental car reservation using your Freedom Unlimited card.

You’ll also need to decline the car rental company’s collision damage waiver/loss damage waiver (CDW/LDW). If you accept the car rental agency’s waiver, you will not have any coverage from your Freedom Unlimited card.

Once these 2 steps are completed, you’ll have car rental insurance.

If an incident occurs while you’re traveling with your rental car, you’ll first need to report the incident to the local authorities and collect as much documentation as possible.

This includes reaching out to the rental car company to retrieve police reports (if obtainable), photographs of the damaged vehicle, an accident report form, and a copy of the repair estimate and itemized repair bill.

Hot Tip: It’s always best to collect as much of your own documentation as you can. Relying on the car rental company to furnish these documents can result in frustration and long waits. Take your own pictures!

After this is completed, decide whether you want to file a claim online or over the phone.

Filing a Claim Online

• Visit eclaimsline.com and click the button that says  New Claim
• Enter your card number, first name, and last name. Click  Get Started .
• Read through the consent form, scroll down, type in your name and email address, and click Accept .
• Select  Collision Damage Waiver for the claim type and click  Next .
• Fill out the personal information form and click  Continue .
• Fill out the claim form and include a brief description of the incident. Click Continue .
• Upload supporting documents on the next page and click  Submit Claim .

Filing a Claim Over the Phone

• Call the Benefits Administrator at 888-320-9656 (or call collect outside the U.S. at 804-673-1691) no later than 60 days after the incident.
• Begin the claims process over the phone and submit the documents required by the Benefit Administrator.
• Sign and complete your claim form with all of the documentation required within 100 days of the incident occurrence, even if you don’t yet have all of the supporting documentation.
• Continue sending all supporting documentation. All documents must be postmarked within 365 days after the theft or damage or your claim may be denied.

Examples of supporting documentation you may be asked to provide include:

• Auto insurance declaration page
• Credit card statement showing the rental car transaction and the last 4 digits of your card number
• Damaged vehicle photos
• Final bill for loss
• Finalized rental agreement
• Insurance settlement
• Initial auto rental agreement
• Itemized repair estimate
• Monthly billing statement
• Police/rental agency incident report

Bottom Line: The process is fairly straightforward for using your Freedom Unlimited card’s car rental insurance. Decline the rental car company’s CDW/LDW, pay for the entire rental using your Freedom Unlimited card, and follow the step-by-step process to file a claim if an incident occurs.

The Freedom Unlimited card offers its cardholders secondary rental car insurance on domestic U.S. rentals and primary rental car insurance on international rentals.

Although high-value vehicles and exotic vehicles are excluded from coverage, cars that are eligible for coverage can be reimbursed up to the entire value of the vehicle. Rentals for up to 31 days are covered — any rentals that are longer than 31 days will receive no coverage whatsoever.

Filing a claim can be done 100% online, as well as over the phone. Be sure to collect all of the necessary documentation as soon as possible to make the claims process as easy as possible.

The information regarding the United Club℠ Business Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.

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Is travel insurance worth it.

Quick insights

• Travel insurance can cover a variety of unforeseen events and may protect you from certain financial loss while traveling.
• If you're traveling, you might want to consider travel insurance.
• Travel insurance covers a lot of travel-related issues, but don't assume everything will be covered.

In 2023, more than 16 million flights departing from the US were cancelled according to the U.S. Department of Transportation . If you were one of the unlucky travelers whose flight was cancelled, had your baggage lost or damaged or had a medical emergency, you may have taken some comfort if you had travel insurance.

What travel insurance covers

Travel insurance may cover unforeseen events that can happen to you and your belongings while travelling. It may also reimburse you should your trip get cancelled or interrupted for several reasons.

Travel insurance can include coverage for:

• Delayed flights or flight cancellations
• Rental car use
• Accidents, serious illness or injury and even death
• Lost or damaged baggage
• 24-hour emergency assistance services

You can seek reimbursement for purchases related to qualifying events, but don't assume every travel hiccup you encounter will be covered. Different policies cover different qualifying events. It can be important to consider the coverage you want and do your research when purchasing a travel insurance policy.

What travel insurance does not cover

For as much as travel insurance may cover, it's important to know some things will likely not be reimbursed under most policies. They include:

• Fear of travel: You would likely not be reimbursed if you cancel a trip because you become afraid to travel, if for example you develop anxiety about stepping on a plane.
• Natural disasters and severe weather already underway: If you purchased a ticket to a location knowing that it was actively experiencing a natural disaster or sever weather, you likely will not qualify for reimbursement should you cancel your trip.
• Bad Weather: If your beach vacation has a 90% chance of rain every day in the forecast that would not be a covered reason to cancel.
• Pre-existing medical conditions: Some policies won't cover medical issues that are related to a pre-existing condition while traveling. You can sometimes get pre-existing condition coverage as an add on to comprehensive travel insurance.
• Extreme sports: Accidents or injury from your participation in extreme sports while traveling would likely not be considered a qualifying expense.

Some comprehensive insurance policies will allow you to add-on Cancel For Any Reason coverage. As the name implies, this policy can partially reimburse you if you choose to cancel your trip for any reason.

When travel insurance may be needed

You might not feel like every trip may call for travel insurance, but there are a few scenarios where it may be a good idea to consider it:

• If you're a frequent traveler, taking several trips each year.
• If you're travelling to a place with extreme weather.
• If your non-refundable trip costs more than you are willing to lose.

When travel insurance may be unnecessary

The cost of your trip can be a big factor in determining how much, if any, coverage you need. If you're planning a nearby weekend getaway, you'll probably need less protection than if you're booking the trip of a lifetime. It's one thing to lose money over a $100 sightseeing tour. It can be far more costly and painful to cancel a Kenyan safari that has been years in the making.

You'll want to consider the terms of the travel and excursions you purchased too. Some travel companies may have flexible terms when it comes to cancelling or rescheduling. If all the reservations you've made can be cancelled or moved without penalty, travel insurance may look less tempting.

Also, consider your credit card coverage. Several credit cards offer travel insurance as a cardmember benefit. You may consider that your credit card's insurance coverage is sufficient for the trip you're taking. Just make sure you use the card to book your trip.

How to get travel insurance

As mentioned above, many credit cards, like the Chase Sapphire cards , include travel insurance for eligible claims. Research the terms and conditions of your credit card's travel insurance policy to be completely aware of what it covers.  For example, Chase Sapphire travel insurance includes trip cancellation and interruption that covers the following:

• As of October 2024, if your trip is canceled or cut short by sickness, severe weather and other covered situations, you can be reimbursed up to $10,000 per person and $20,000 per trip for certain eligible pre-paid, non-refundable travel expenses. Be sure to fully read the Guide to Benefits before using the card to book your trip.

If you don't have coverage through your credit card or find your coverage lacking, you can purchase a travel insurance through an insurance carrier. You likely will be required to answer a few questions when you apply, like where you are going, the cost of your trip, your age and where you live.

You can get coverage for a single trip or a set time, like a year. The cost will likely be tied to the price of the trip and age of the traveler. Rates and coverage vary by carrier, so be sure to do your research and find the policy that is right for you.

Having travel insurance can provide peace of mind to any traveler. However, not every trip may call for it. Whether it does will likely depend on several factors including whether you have insurance through your credit card, the cost of your trip, and the likelihood that it may be interrupted or outright cancelled. As with any policy, carefully consider the coverage you need, research your options and find the right policy and carrier should travel insurance be something you need or want.

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