Chase Freedom Unlimited Calculator
To crunch the numbers, use this Freedom Unlimited Calculator to estimate your annual cash back rewards and your overall reward rate.
The key is to determine whether the Freedom Unlimited can be your everyday card or should it take a backseat to a 2% cash back on all purchases card. If you spending doesn't get you at least an overall 2% cash back rate, a 2% cash back card will be the better deal.
For example, using data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, we assumed monthly spending as follows:
- $200 on travel
- $300 eating out
- $200 at drugstores
- $1,500 on other purchases.
The result was $570 in annual cash back with an overall reward rate of 2.2%. And this doesn't include a first year bonus of $396. With these assumptions, the Freedom Unlimited would be a solid everyday card.
Other Chase Freedom Unlimited Benefits
The Chase Freedom Unlimited comes with several additional features:
The card includes Zero Liability Protection. This means that you won’t be held responsible for any unauthorized charges on your card, or the use of your account information. You also get a physical card with Chip-Enabled Security, for additional protection of your account.
One of my favorite features is Purchase Protection. This means that any purchases made with the card are protected for 120 days from damage or theft. (Note that there is a maximum of $500 per claim, and $50,000 per account.)
The card comes with Extended Warranty Protection. This protection extends for up to one year the time period of the U.S. manufacturer’s warranty on eligible warranties of three years or less.
Lastly, the card is designed for contactless payment. In a world of global pandemics, contactless payment enables you to pay for something without touching the card reader.
FAQ
Is the Chase Freedom Unlimited a good credit card?
Yes. It's considered a competitive cash back card given its signup bonus, no annual fee, and 1.5% cash back on all purchases. There are some cards that pay 2% back on all purchases, but they can be harder to get and come with other limitations, such as an annual fee.
Is it hard to get approved for the Chase Freedom Unlimited?
The card requires a good credit score, generally 690 or higher. If you have a good credit score, steady income and comply with the Chase 5/24 rule, you should have a good chance at approval.