What changed
2026-08-06 20:27 UTC → 2026-08-11 16:01 UTC ·
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removed
US credit card bonus and reward policy changes
In late July, Chase announced a new restriction on Following the late July announcement regarding Sapphire-branded card restrictions, further details have emerged regarding Chase’s lifetime welcome bonus for its Sapphire‑branded cards, limiting eligibility policy. The rule may block bonuses for applicants who currently hold, or have previously held or received bonuses on held, any Sapphire product. Implementation has shown inconsistent results; while some cardholders secured new bonuses after a seven-to-ten-year gap, others were denied eligibility despite waiting four to seven years. The policy does not treat the “lifetime” bonus as a permanent entitlement and considers factors such as the number of cards opened and closed. Chase has also introduced expanded its business offerings with the Sapphire Reserve for Business, a premium card with a 200,000‑point sign‑up bonus and which features a $795 annual fee. A few days later, Chase expanded its promotional lineup with the United Explorer Card, offering fee and a $500 statement credit, 25,000 MileagePlus miles 200,000-point welcome bonus after $3,000 spend, and additional perks such as free checked bags and Global Entry credits. At $30,000 in spending within the same time, Capital One promoted its Savor Card, first six months. This card includes a no‑annual‑fee cash‑back product that provides 3% back 3-point-per-dollar rate on groceries, dining internet and entertainment, plus social-media advertising and provides access to Sapphire Lounges. In August, Chase introduced “Points Boost,” a limited‑time $250 bonus. Together, the snapshots show U.S. banks actively revising bonus eligibility rules while rolling out new incentive packages across multiple credit‑card lines feature allowing eligible cardholders to attract redeem Ultimate Rewards points for select flights and retain customers. hotels through Chase Travel at enhanced values. Redemption rates can reach between 1.5 and 2 cents per point for Sapphire Reserve and Sapphire Reserve for Business holders, while Sapphire Preferred and Ink Business Preferred holders typically see values between 1.5 and 1.75 cents per point. Additionally, the public 100,000-point bonus for the Sapphire Preferred has been replaced by a 75,000-point offer, though higher bonuses may still be available via certain personal referral links.