Okay, so I stumbled upon something pretty neat over at The Points Guy about the Chase Freedom Flex and Chase Freedom cards, and I just had to share. It’s all about maximizing those sweet, sweet rewards during the third quarter of the year – July 1st to September 30th.
We’re talking a solid 5% cash back on some categories that are genuinely useful right now: gas/EV charging, Instacart, and live entertainment. Let’s break down why this is a win and how you can make the most of it.
Why This Matters (Especially Now)
Look, gas prices have been a rollercoaster, and while they might be dipping slightly, every little bit of savings helps, right? The Energy Information Administration (EIA) projects that gasoline prices will average around $3.50 per gallon this summer, which means that 5% cashback can add up faster than you think. Plus, with more people leaning into electric vehicles, throwing in EV charging is a smart move by Chase.
Instacart is another big one. We all have those weeks where time is tight, and grocery delivery is a lifesaver. The convenience comes at a cost, but with 5% back, you’re softening the blow a bit. Statista reports that the online grocery market is still booming, with projections showing continued growth in user adoption and revenue.
And finally, live entertainment. Concerts, shows, sporting events – summer is prime time for getting out and experiencing things. After a few years of restrictions, people are ready to spend on experiences, so this is another great category to capitalize on. According to a recent report by Live Nation, concert attendance is up significantly, reflecting a strong consumer desire for live entertainment.
Making the Most of Your 5%
Remember, you need to activate these bonus categories! It’s easy to forget, so set a reminder now.
Also, be strategic about your spending. If you have other credit cards with better rewards on, say, dining, stick to those for restaurants. But for gas, EV charging, Instacart orders, and those concert tickets? The Chase Freedom Flex or Freedom card is your best friend this quarter.
It’s important to note that there’s usually a quarterly spending cap on these bonus categories, typically $1,500. Keep track of your spending to make sure you’re not leaving money on the table.
5 Key Takeaways:
- Activate, Activate, Activate! Seriously, don’t forget to activate the bonus categories through your Chase account.
- Gas and EV Charging Savings: Take advantage of the 5% back on gas and EV charging to offset those high energy costs.
- Convenience with Instacart: Enjoy the ease of grocery delivery while earning bonus rewards.
- Experience More, Spend Less: Use the 5% cash back on live entertainment to enjoy concerts, shows, and events this summer.
- Track Your Spending: Stay within the $1,500 spending cap to maximize your bonus earnings.
FAQ: Chase Freedom Q3 Bonus Categories
- What are the Chase Freedom Q3 bonus categories? Gas/EV charging, Instacart, and live entertainment.
- When do these categories apply? July 1st to September 30th.
- Which cards are eligible? Chase Freedom Flex and Chase Freedom.
- How much cash back do I earn? 5% cash back on purchases within the bonus categories.
- Do I need to activate the bonus categories? Yes, activation is required through your Chase account.
- Is there a spending limit? Yes, there’s a quarterly spending cap, typically $1,500.
- What qualifies as “live entertainment?” Generally includes concerts, theatrical performances, sporting events, and other ticketed live events. Check Chase’s specifics.
- Does Instacart include delivery fees and tips? Yes, the 5% applies to the total purchase, including fees and tips.
- What if I use a gas station inside a grocery store, does that count? Generally, it has to be coded as a gas purchase to qualify. Purchases within a grocery store may not trigger the bonus.
- How long does it take to receive the cash back? Usually, the cash back will be credited to your account within one or two billing cycles.
