By Sierra When it comes to maximizing rewards and sign-on bonuses, Chase stands out as a top contender with its range of business credit cards. Among them, the Chase Ink cards offer some of the most attractive benefits. This guide will walk you through how to leverage these cards for maximum rewards, focusing on the Chase Ink Preferred, Ink Unlimited, Ink Cash, and Ink Premier.
Why Chase Ink Business Cards Are the Top Choice
Chase’s Ink business credit cards are renowned for their exceptional rewards and sign-on bonuses. Among them, the Chase Ink Preferred stands out with its impressive 100,000 Ultimate Rewards (UR) points sign-on bonus after spending $8,000 within the first three months. Additionally, combining this with the Chase Ink Unlimited and Chase Ink Cash cards, which each offer a substantial 75,000 points bonus, can help you accumulate up to 250,000 UR points. If the Ink Unlimited and Ink Cash offer 90,000 points each, your total could reach up to 280,000 UR points.
These points are highly valuable and can be redeemed for top-tier rewards like business class flights or luxury stays at exotic locations, such as a Maldives overwater villa.
Understanding Business Credit Cards vs. Personal Credit Cards
Key Differences:
Business credit cards differ from personal credit cards in several ways:
- Credit Report Impact: Business credit cards do not appear on your personal credit report, minimizing their impact on your personal credit score.
- Chase 5/24 Rule: When applying for Chase cards, including both personal and business, it’s crucial to consider the Chase 5/24 rule. This rule limits you to five new credit card applications within 24 months.
For a detailed understanding of this rule and how Chase cards can benefit you, check out our comprehensive Chase credit cards guide.
Breakdown of Chase’s Ink Business Credit Cards
1. Chase Ink Preferred
- Sign-On Bonus: 100,000 UR points after spending $8,000 in the first 3 months.
- Annual Fee: $95 (not waived for the first year).
- Rewards: 3x points on travel, shipping, internet, cable, phone services, and advertising purchases. 1x point on all other purchases.
2. Chase Ink Unlimited
- Sign-On Bonus: 90,000 UR points after spending $6,000 in the first 3 months.
- Annual Fee: $0.
- Rewards: 1.5x points on every purchase.
3. Chase Ink Cash
- Sign-On Bonus: 90,000 UR points after spending $6,000 in the first 3 months.
- Annual Fee: $0.
- Rewards: 5x points on office supply stores, and internet, cable, and phone services. 2x points on gas stations and restaurants. 1x point on all other purchases.
4. Chase Ink Premier
- Sign-On Bonus: $1,000 cash back after spending $10,000 in the first 3 months.
- Annual Fee: $195.
- Rewards: Unlimited 2% cash back on all purchases; 2.5% cash back on purchases over $5,000.
Strategies to Maximize Your Chase Ink Rewards
1. Apply for Multiple Cards:
To maximize rewards, consider applying for the Chase Ink Preferred, Ink Unlimited, and Ink Cash. This can lead to earning up to 250,000 UR points, or even 280,000 points if the sign-on bonuses are higher.
2. Optimize Points Redemption:
Redeem your UR points for high-value rewards such as business class flights or luxury hotel stays. These redemptions often provide a better value compared to cash.
3. Track Your Applications:
Maintain a spreadsheet to track your credit card applications, rewards, and application dates to stay organized and avoid potential issues.
Navigating Chase’s Application Rules
1. Chase’s 2/30 Rule:
Chase’s 2/30 rule limits the approval of more than two cards within a 30-day period. To avoid complications, it’s recommended to wait at least two months between applications.
2. Self-Referrals:
You can refer yourself for a second Chase Ink Preferred card and potentially earn an additional 20,000 UR points. However, use this method cautiously, as it has led to account closures for some users.
3. EIN Applications:
If you have an Employer Identification Number (EIN), you can apply for the same card under a different business name. This allows you to receive multiple sign-on bonuses. Use your EIN as the Business Tax ID in the application process.
4. Applying for Multiple Cards with EINs:
If you have multiple EINs, you may apply for more cards, potentially increasing your total rewards significantly. This strategy requires careful management but can yield substantial rewards.
5. Recent Updates:
Recent updates allow for applying for multiple Chase Ink cards using the same details as your first application. Ensure to follow Chase’s guidelines and application rules.
Conclusion
Applying for multiple Chase Ink business cards can be a powerful way to maximize rewards and enjoy significant benefits. By understanding the specific rewards of each card, strategically applying, and adhering to Chase’s application rules, you can make the most of Chase’s generous sign-on bonuses and valuable rewards.
For more insights and tips on credit card rewards, check out these related articles on my blog:
- Ultimate Guide to Churning and Using US Credit Cards as an Expat
- Ritz Carlton Maldives Resort Overwater Villa
- Redeeming My Chase Points for a Stay at the Beautiful Ritz Carlton Maldives
This guide provides a detailed roadmap to help you navigate the Chase Ink card application process and optimize your rewards strategy.
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