What Is the Chase Trifecta?
The Chase Trifecta is a strategic credit card setup designed to maximize points across multiple spending categories using three key Chase credit cards. This method allows cardholders to earn elevated rewards and optimize travel redemptions without breaking the bank. If maximizing points on everyday spending are on the agenda, this setup is a game changer.
The Core Chase Trifecta
The most popular version of the Chase Trifecta features the Chase Freedom Flex®, Chase Freedom Unlimited®, and the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card. Unlike high-fee trifecta setups, like the American Express one that can reach nearly $1,000 annually, the Chase Trifecta comes in at just $95 per year. The Freedom cards earn cash back but can be converted into Chase Ultimate Rewards Points when paired with a Sapphire card, unlocking premium travel redemptions and benefits.
Breaking Down the Cards:
1. Freedom Flex
No annual fee.
Earns 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in quarterly rotating categories (e.g., Amazon, gas stations).
5% back on travel booked through Chase, 3% on dining and drugstore purchases, and 1% on other spending.
Comes with a $200 welcome offer after spending $500 in the first three months, equating to 20,000 points when combined with a Sapphire card.
No annual fee.
Offers 1.5% cash back on all purchases, acting as a reliable card for miscellaneous spending.
Matches all cash back earned in the first year, potentially doubling initial rewards.
Includes the same travel and dining perks as the Freedom Flex.
Also boasts a $200 welcome offer after meeting the same spending threshold as the Flex.
Annual fee of $95.
Provides a $50 annual credit on hotel bookings through Chase, offsetting most of the annual fee.
Earns 5 points per dollar on travel through Chase, 3 points on dining, streaming, and groceries, and 2 points on other travel purchases.
Offers a 25% boost on all points redeemed through Chase Ultimate Rewards, increasing the value of points earned on all three cards.
How the Chase Trifecta Works
Each card in the Trifecta setup plays a strategic role:
Use the Freedom Flex for its high 5% rotating categories and travel bookings.
Lean on the Freedom Unlimited for everyday purchases with its 1.5% back.
Deploy the Sapphire Preferred for grocery, dining, and travel-related purchases, and to convert all cash back into Chase Ultimate Rewards Points with a 25% redemption boost.
Combined, these cards cover a wide range of spending categories, allowing users to earn 2 to 5 points per dollar spent while keeping fees low.
Customizing the Trifecta
For those seeking even more premium perks, consider upgrading the Sapphire Preferred to the Chase Sapphire Reserve®. While the Reserve's annual fee is steep, it comes with a $300 travel credit, access to airport lounges, and a 50% point boost when redeeming through Chase Ultimate Rewards. The Chase Sapphire Reserve® is ideal for frequent travelers who can make use of its higher earning rates and premium benefits. However, it’s important to note that having both the Sapphire Preferred and Chase Sapphire Reserve® isn’t allowed.
Adding Business Cards for Extra Points
For business owners or side hustlers, integrating Chase Ink business cards can significantly elevate point earnings. The Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card pairs well with the personal Chase cards and allows users to transfer cash back into points. With strategic spending and business-related perks, Chase Ink cards are powerful additions to the Trifecta setup.
Key Considerations and Tips
While the Trifecta is effective, remember Chase’s 5/24 rule—approval becomes unlikely if you’ve opened five or more credit cards within the past 24 months. Start building the Trifecta one card at a time to meet each card’s welcome offer requirements and avoid impacting your credit score negatively.
In summary, the Chase Trifecta is an accessible and rewarding setup for beginners and seasoned travelers alike, maximizing points on everyday and travel spending without overwhelming fees.
