A new, limited-time offer for the Chase Freedom Unlimited card is now available, providing an opportunity for extra cash this season. New cardholders can earn a $300 cash welcome bonus by spending at least $500 within the first three months. This represents a significant increase from the card's standard $200 bonus.
The offer is valid from now until 9 a.m. EST on January 15, 2026. To qualify, individuals must not already hold a Chase Freedom Unlimited card and must not have received a new cardmember bonus for it in the past 24 months. The spending requirement averages about $167 per month.
This welcome bonus is among the highest currently offered by top cash-back credit cards, particularly those with no annual fee. Many other cash-back cards cap their welcome offers at $200 and often impose higher spending thresholds.
With the holiday shopping period ongoing, a rewards credit card can help maximize increased spending. According to the PwC 2025 Holiday Outlook, Americans anticipate spending an average of approximately $1,552 during the holidays. For example, if $1,100 is spent on non-bonus categories like gifts and groceries, and $452 on dining, the Chase Freedom Unlimited would earn 1.5% cash back on the former and 3% on the latter, yielding about $30 in cash back from holiday expenses alone.
The Chase Freedom Unlimited also features a 0% APR period for 15 months on new purchases and balance transfers, after which a variable APR of 18.49% to 27.99% applies. This can be used to pay down existing debt interest-free or to finance holiday costs such as travel and gifts over several months.
Beyond the introductory offers, the card provides ongoing rewards. All purchases earn 1.5% cash back, with bonus categories offering 3% cash back on dining and drugstore purchases, and 5% cash back on travel booked through Chase Travel. Rewards are earned as points redeemable for statement credits, direct deposits, Amazon.com purchases, gift cards, or travel.
The card can be paired with Chase Sapphire cards, such as the Chase Sapphire Preferred or Chase Sapphire Reserve, to pool points for enhanced redemptions. With a Chase Sapphire Reserve, points are worth up to 2x for eligible hotel stays and flights; with the Chase Sapphire Preferred, points are worth up to 1.5x for hotels and select flights, and up to 1.75x for premium cabin tickets. Points Boost options are accessible only with a Sapphire card.