Freedom Rise℠ from Chase Review

When it comes to credit cards, the Freedom Rise℠ from Chase offers a unique blend of benefits and features that cater to a broad spectrum of consumers, especially those who are building or improving their credit. This card stands out for its simplicity and straightforward rewards program, making it a compelling choice for individuals who seek value without the complexity. In this comprehensive review, we will delve into the various facets of the Freedom Rise℠ from Chase, exploring its key takeaways, pros and cons, benefits, and more.

Freedom Rise℠ from Chase Key Takeaways

The Freedom Rise℠ from Chase is designed with the everyday consumer in mind. Here are some of the key takeaways that make this card noteworthy:
– Flat 1.5% Cash Back: Earn 1.5% cash back on all purchases, with no limit to the amount you can earn.
– $25 Statement Credit: Get a $25 statement credit after signing up for automatic payments within the first three months of opening your account.
– No Annual Fee: Enjoy all the benefits without the burden of an annual fee.
– Travel Protection: Includes Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, reimbursing up to $1,500 per person and $6,000 per trip for pre-paid, non-refundable fares.
– Variable APR: 26.99% variable APR on purchases and balance transfers, and 29.99% variable APR on cash advances.
– Flexible Approval: Suitable for individuals with no credit history up to a good credit score (0-739).

Freedom Rise℠ from Chase Pros and Cons

Pros:

– No Annual Fee: Save money annually, as there is no fee to maintain the card.
– Simple Rewards: A straightforward 1.5% cash back on all purchases makes it easy to understand and accrue rewards.
– Travel Protection: Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance offers peace of mind for travelers.
– $25 Statement Credit: A small but useful bonus for setting up automatic payments.
– Fraud Protection: Robust security features to protect against unauthorized transactions.

Cons:

– High APR: The 26.99% variable APR on purchases and balance transfers can be costly if you carry a balance.
– Foreign Transaction Fee: Charges a fee for purchases made outside the U.S.
– Limited Introductory Offers: Lacks introductory APR offers for purchases or balance transfers.
– Fees for Cash Advances and Balance Transfers: Although standard, the fees for these transactions can add up.

Freedom Rise℠ from Chase Benefits

The Freedom Rise℠ from Chase offers a variety of benefits that appeal to different user needs, from rewards to protection features. Here’s a closer look:

Cash Back Rewards

One of the standout features of this card is the flat-rate 1.5% cash back on all purchases. This makes it an excellent choice for individuals who want to earn rewards without the hassle of tracking bonus categories or rotating offers. Whether you’re buying groceries, filling up your gas tank, or shopping online, you’ll consistently earn 1.5% back.

$25 Statement Credit

As a welcome gesture, Chase offers a $25 statement credit for cardholders who sign up for automatic payments within the first three months. While it may not be a huge amount, it’s a nice perk that encourages responsible financial habits.

No Annual Fee

The absence of an annual fee is a significant advantage, particularly for those who are just starting their credit journey or prefer not to add an extra expense to their budget. You can enjoy the card’s benefits without worrying about an annual cost.

Travel Protection

Travelers will appreciate the Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, which reimburses up to $1,500 per person and $6,000 per trip for pre-paid, non-refundable fares if your trip is canceled or shortened due to sickness, severe weather, or other covered situations. This benefit can provide substantial savings and peace of mind, especially for frequent travelers.

Fraud Protection

The Freedom Rise℠ from Chase includes robust fraud protection features, helping to safeguard your account against unauthorized transactions. This includes real-time fraud monitoring and zero liability protection for unauthorized purchases.

Purchase and Extended Warranty Protection

This card also offers purchase protection against damage or theft within a certain period after purchase, and extended warranty protection that extends the manufacturer’s warranty on eligible items.

Flexible Approval Criteria

This card caters to a wide range of credit profiles, from individuals with no credit history to those with a good credit score (0-739). This makes it an accessible option for many consumers looking to build or improve their credit.

Free Credit Score

Cardholders can access their credit score for free, which is a valuable tool for monitoring and managing your credit health.

Conclusion

The Freedom Rise℠ from Chase is a well-rounded credit card that offers a straightforward rewards program, valuable benefits, and no annual fee, making it an attractive option for a broad range of consumers. Its 1.5% cash back on all purchases simplifies the rewards process, while the $25 statement credit and travel protection add extra value. Although the high APR and foreign transaction fees are drawbacks, the card’s benefits and simplicity make it a strong contender for those looking to build or improve their credit without the complexity of more advanced rewards cards.
Overall, if you’re seeking a no-frills, reliable credit card with a solid rewards program and essential protection features, the Freedom Rise℠ from Chase is worth considering. Its ease of use, combined with Chase’s reputable customer service and financial tools, provides a dependable financial product to help you manage your expenses and earn rewards in the process.