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The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is among the top choices you’ll find when looking at travel credit cards. Not only can you transfer points on a 1:1 ratio with leading travel brands, but these points also hold 25% extra value when used via the Chase Ultimate Rewards® platform.
Additionally, this metal card offers several ways to earn points, provides a yearly $50 hotel credit, and great travel insurance that can actually save you money.
There’s also the signup bonus. New Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card cardholders can earn 60,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That’s $750 when redeemed through Chase Ultimate Rewards®. Member FDIC
The Chase Sapphire Preferred credit score needed will depend on a variety of things, but we’ll break them down in the post below.
Chase Sapphire Preferred Credit Score Needed for Approval
If you are interested in knowing the credit score needed for the best travel cards as well as knowing how hard it is to get the Chase Sapphire Preferred, this article will tackle both to give you the best information on what is the purpose of a travel credit card, and how to check your Chase card application status.
Sapphire Preferred Rewards Categories
Before we get into the credit score needed and how hard it is to get the Sapphire Preferred, let’s do a quick run-through of the Chase Sapphire Preferred benefits. It’s good to review these to know why this card might be worth it for you. Checking out credit card reviews can also help narrow down your options if you aren’t completely sure what you want.
The Chase Sapphire Preferred earns unlimited:
- 5x points on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards® (excluding hotel purchases that qualify for the $50 Anniversary Hotel Credit)
- 3x points on dining (including eligible delivery services, takeout, and dining out)
- 3x points on online grocery purchases (excluding Target®, Walmart®, and wholesale clubs)
- Also 3x points on select streaming services
- 2x points on all other travel purchases
- 1x point per $1 spent on all non-bonus purchases
This card has a $95 annual fee but no foreign transaction fee.
Hotel Credit
There is a $50 annual Ultimate Rewards Hotel Credit. It comes in the form of a statement credit that will automatically be applied to your account when your card is used for hotel accommodation purchases made through the Ultimate Rewards program, up to an annual maximum accumulation of $50.
Anniversary Points Bonus
Plus, on each account anniversary, you’ll earn bonus points equal to 10% of your total purchases made the previous year. So, if you spend $25,000 on purchases, you’ll get 2,500 bonus points.
Plus, Chase has added several new ways to earn rewards (more on that below). You may also want to visit our post on the best perks of the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card for a deeper look into the ways this card works for you.
How Hard Is It to Get the Chase Sapphire Preferred?
The Sapphire Preferred is a valuable travel credit card, and you have to have good credit to be approved. But, there are also Chase Sapphire application rules that one should also be aware of. This can make it somewhat tricky to be approved for the Sapphire Preferred or its premium sister card, the Chase Sapphire Reserve® (which requires an excellent credit score). Don’t worry, though.
As long as you have a good credit score and meet Chase’s eligibility rules, it shouldn’t be hard to get approval for the Sapphire Preferred.
Approval Factors for Chase Sapphire Preferred
There are a few factors that Chase looks at before approving the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card. One of the most important factors is your credit score. You also need to be under Chase’s 5/24 rule. If you’ve applied for 5+ credit cards in the last 24 months, you will not be approved.
That’s why it’s important to understand the rules surrounding the Chase Sapphire Preferred first if you’re just getting started in travel rewards. It can be hard to be approved for the Sapphire Preferred, but it’s not impossible if you have a good credit score and are under Chase’s 5/24 rule. My wife and I were both instantly approved for the Sapphire Preferred when we applied.
The Chase Sapphire Preferred Sign-Up Bonus
New Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card cardholders can earn 60,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That’s $750 when redeemed through Chase Ultimate Rewards®. Member FDIC
Read the full solo Chase Sapphire Preferred card review to learn more about the advantages of this bonus. Just know the Chase Sapphire Preferred is still worth it.
Credit Score Factors for Chase Sapphire Preferred Approval
We’ve scoured the internet and done some research on just what credit score you need to be approved. There are three major factors that Chase will look at before approving or rejecting your application for the Chase Sapphire Preferred. While each factor plays a role in the decision process, not perfectly meeting one of the factors does not mean you’ll be automatically rejected.
The three factors looked at are credit reports, the total number of open credit cards, and credit utilization.
Related: Best Places To Get A Free Credit Score
Is It Worth Getting the Chase Sapphire Preferred?
Yes, the Sapphire Preferred is definitely worth the annual fee, but your credit report is obviously a very important factor when applying for a new credit card. This is especially true with the Chase Sapphire Preferred card. There are three major companies that assess your spending and credit card history to create a credit report. Banks do not rely on just one of those companies’ reports but usually two or all three.
This rotates from time to time, so there’s no way of knowing which of the credit reports will be used to evaluate your credit score when you try for the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card.
Total Open Credit Cards
Chase will also look at the total number of credit cards that you have open when you apply for the Chase Sapphire Preferred card. There are a few reasons that Chase might not approve your application if you have too many credit cards open. Lots of credit cards could indicate poor financial decisions, but it can also be the sign of someone who is only signing up for credit cards for the bonus points and closing them a year later. Chase looks to avoid this situation. Also, if you’ve never had a credit card or just got your first one a few months ago, Chase may deem your credit history too short to take a risk on.
Chase is also known for being strict on their rule, which has become known as the Chase 5/24 rule. If you’ve applied for more than 5 cards (easy to do when you’re building up points) in the last 24 months, you’re likely to be declined for this and any other Chase card.
If you’re looking into this card, be sure to double-check how many cards you’ve not only been approved for but how many you’ve also applied for. Also, take note of when you were approved for or applied for those cards. Chase may even deny those who’ve applied for a card in the last 90 days.
Utilization of Credit
The third factor that Chase will look at is your credit utilization. This can consist of a lot of small factors but basically means how you’re using the credit cards you have. They’ll look at factors such as:
- How many credit cards do you have?
- What is the credit limit on your current credit cards?
- How much credit are you currently using?
- Do you pay your monthly balance in full?
- Do you pay on time most of the time?
It is also important that your other cards have a mid to high credit limit, which is another factor that is looked at.
This brings up an important point for those who are applying for this credit card but may also be in a transitional stage in life. If you’ve recently bought a home, car, or other large purchase and are carrying around some debt, this may not be the right time to apply for any new credit card, let alone the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card.
This also applies if you’ve recently moved and therefore your rent will look a lot higher than your income. Maybe you moved into a nice, new neighborhood but haven’t gotten your annual raise at your company. Even this could affect your ability to be approved.
Related: Chase Sapphire Preferred & Ink Business Preferred: Can You Have Both?
Can I get Chase Sapphire with a 700 credit score?
Firstly, a credit score is not the only deciding factor, so don’t panic if yours isn’t quite where you’d like it to be. The average credit score of people who were approved for the Chase Sapphire Preferred is 700+, which sits squarely in the “excellent” rating category. Just because that’s the average doesn’t mean that you must have a credit score that high. Consider this story:
“I just got approved for a 15k CL, with credit score 708 on both Tu&Ex. I got declined 6 months ago when I only had a 1-year credit history and a 2k CL on Discover. Now I have an Amex account with CL of 10k, and Chase Amazon CL 4k, absolutely no late payment for all accounts and utilization under 7%. I got approved instantly. A credit score is definitely not the single deciding factor.”
—Le0n
Or, this story:
“Great sign up bonus! I was declined today with an 810 score because I opened too many cards in the last 24 months. Later I was approved for the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card. I got approved for $30K right away even though I think it’s not the best financial institution. I plan to make some travel plans so I want to take advantage of the bonus they offer.”
Related: Chase Sapphire Preferred vs. Capital One Venture Rewards
Credit Score of 700+
If you’re thinking of applying, we suggest looking at all of the above-listed factors and how you fit into those checkpoints. Unless the rest of your report is stellar, we recommend not applying unless your credit score is 700 or above. We think you have a much better chance if your score is above 720.
If you’re unsure, take a look at your credit score and find ways to improve it and your spending habits. Work to build a great financial portfolio. Then, when you’ve done that, you’ll have a higher chance of approval. Just don’t forget about the 5/24 rule.
60,000 Point Bonus Offer: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
How Hard Is It To Get The Chase Sapphire Preferred? If You’re Rejected, Try Again
As we mentioned above, a rejection is not the end-all, be-all decision on your Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card. If you do get the dreaded rejection letter, it will also include a phone number to contact a representative. This can be important for learning more about why you weren’t approved, but also to ask if you can be reconsidered. Just check out this story:
“Applied for the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card with Credit Karma Trans Union score 691, Equifax 693. Received message thanks for applying, need to review application will notify by mail decision in 30 days. Called verification department, text sent to my cell with a verification code. Code verified with a customer service representative, approved for $5,000 Cl. Will receive the card in 7-10 days…”
What To Do If You’re Rejected
Since the Chase Sapphire Preferred is one of the best Chase credit cards, asking for reconsideration can be worthwhile. If you do decide to call and ask to be reconsidered, there are a few things to keep in mind. Call promptly, preferably within 30 days of receiving your rejection. It’s important to get all of your financial information handy when you call in. The representative may have some questions.
One of the questions that we’ve heard some chatter about and that has stumped a few people is “Why do you want this card?” For many of you, the answer is obvious, “I want points!” But that’s not quite what Chase is looking for.
Chase wants to build loyal customers and followers, not just point grubbers. They’re less likely to approve you if you seem like someone who will get the card, spend the money for the sign-up bonus, and then cancel the card before having to pay the annual membership fee in the second year. With that in mind, review the Chase credit card benefits and find one that’s important to you. Have a few sentences in your mind as to why that benefit is important to you.
You may also try and go for a no-annual-fee Chase card to help build your relationship with the bank.
Related: Can You Transfer Freedom Unlimited Points to Sapphire Preferred?
Be Pleasant
We shouldn’t have to remind you of this, but as with all employees, do be nice. When you call, be sure to ask how their day is going. Be kind and try not to be demanding or highly emotional, questioning angrily about why you were rejected. That’s no way to get a second chance at approval.
Let’s Earn Points!
Once you’re approved for your Chase Sapphire Preferred card, I’m sure you’ll be wondering how best to earn and spend your Chase Ultimate Rewards. It’s simple to earn and spend points with the Chase Sapphire Preferred card.
Some of the best perks that you’ll get with the Chase Sapphire Preferred are the travel benefits, including travel insurance protections. Of course, there’s also the ability to earn points while you travel.
On top of all that, there are no foreign transaction fees on the Chase Sapphire Preferred. This makes it one of the best credit cards for international travel.
Is Chase Sapphire Preferred Worth it if You Don’t Travel a Lot?
In my expert opinion, the Chase Sapphire Preferred is worth it if you do travel a lot, but hard to justify if you’re don’t travel at least 1-2x a year.
Summary of Credit Score Needed for Chase Sapphire Preferred
So you’ve earned tons of points and gotten the sign-up bonus. Now what? Spending points is almost as easy as earning points. You can get a great deal by spending your points through the Chase portal. You will get 1.25 cents per point bonus on Chase’s site. Through the portal, you can find flights that are well-priced for redeeming your points.
Overall, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is a fantastic addition to any card that you’re already carrying. It’s important to know what Chase is looking for before applying. With our tips, we hope you have a better idea of what to expect.
60,000 Point Bonus Offer: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
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Any insight as to why, with a credit score of 804, 3 credit cards, a total CL of $30k (with 2% utilized), and a 16 year credit history, I was rejected?
Hi Sam, have you applied for 5+ credit cards in the last 24 months?
Last year I was rejected from Chase for having a bankruptcy in my history. My bankruptcy is 7 years old but won’t fall off for another 3 years. I have a 720 CS, under 10% utilization with 35K CL. I never called the number to talk to a rep to reconsider and read online that Chase definitely doesn’t except anyone with bankruptcy. Is this true, do I need to wait 3 years for my credit report to drop the bankruptcy or should I just apply for another travel reward card? I know I can get a Venture card.
Sorry, I can’t say for sure, but I would definitely call the reconsideration line and talk to a Chase rep. I’ve used the reconsideration line many times for an approval.
I had a chapter 13 in 2010, we paid it off in 5 years. I applied with Chase last year and we denied. I then applied again this past March as was accepted. The one thing I am ticked off about is I applied on March 8th through Credit Karma with the advertisement of the 60,000 mile bonus and I received a bonus of 50,000 miles which I am trying to get corrected.
hello all i don’t know if any of my input helps but I’m low 800’s across the board with 2% utilization and 79k salary and i was approved for 17.5k i don’t have a high home payment which i believe helped i was a 580 exactly a year ago and thanks to lexlaw and good CC practices i finally got my first high limit card
Thanks for your experience! The Sapphire Preferred is a great card, congrats.
My wife was denied the Sapphire Preferred in November of 2018 due to a thin credit file. She opened a card with US bank and has been using for the past 8 months. Her credit score has rocketed up to excellent. Do you think she would be approved for the Preferred card now that she was waiting 8 months?
Yes, she should be in a very good position to apply again, but there’s no way to guarantee 100%. As long as her score is over 720 I think she has a high likely hood of being approved.
Great! Her score is 800.
Hi there.
My CS is 820, total CL 50K (3 accounts in the past 4 years), income 280K. What I lack however, is length of credit history. I have only been working for 5 years now. I received a preapproval for Chase Sapphire Preferred and thought the annual fee of $95 was more than reasonable. And since we are planning a trip next year I thought it was the perfect timing.
But I was only approved for 17.5K
Any insight on why the limit was a bit low?
Hey there, I’m not sure, but it may have to do with your other CL and other debts like house/car if any. $17k isn’t minimal though.
Some incorrect information on here. How many cards you’ve applied for doesn’t really matter, that may hurt your score but has nothing to do with the 5/24 rule. 5/24 ONLY applies to cards you’ve opened. Retail store cards do count so be careful wasting lines of credit in some will no interest for 6 months offer on a product you don’t need !
For the commenter above $10,000 is the minimum. 17 is not low. I got approved for $16,600
Hello,
Any imput on my chances of being approved? 78k salary, 718 credit score but only one credit card which is a chase student credit crd that ive had for 4 months…. I had a student loan account for 3 years but I paid that off before they started collecting payments so im not sure that had the chance to help me.
There’s no way to guarantee 100%. You’re definitely not in a bad situation, and could very well be approved. But you also may want to wait until you have at least 6 months of credit card activity.
I have the chase Sapphire preferred. I have had the card for 1 year. Qualifying with the 760 score and received a 18+ credit line with only 3% credit utilization in the 200+ a year salary
Thanks for the feedback!
Good Morning….ave age of credit is 1 year 3 months. I have 2 credit cards, no late payments, paid in full monthly. experian 741, equifax 725, trans 734. $200K a year. Age: 55 Chances of landing chase sapphire reserved?
There’s no way to guarantee approval, but based on the information above you should be approved. Best of luck!
My credit scores are low 720s (755 according to Wells Fargo FICO score Version 9), one Wells Fargo credit card with $10.5K limit in which I pay off the balance monthly with 13% or so card utilization, no other debt. Have credit history dating back to 2008, including Chase cards paid off on time from 2012. Do have a car loan paid off one year ago with 3 late payments of 30 days over the 5 year term. I’m currently unemployed but previous salary was $100K. I know nothing is guaranteed but any thoughts on my chances on getting approved?
Hi Manny, sorry, there’s no way to know 100%. Everyone’s credit profile is unique and the banks each have their own criteria. Based soley on your credit score you would be fine.
What are my chances of being approved for the CSP? I also want the Freedom Flex. Should I go for the Flex now and wait another 3 months to apply for the CSP. Or do you think I’m well off enough to go for the CSP now and put the Flex off for next card instead?
Credit Score= EXP-781, TU-726, EQ-730
Total CL= $5700
My Chase 5/24= 2/24; 3 cards total:
1. Capital One Platinum Secured – 2yrs, 1 month (Just graduated to unsecured & Deposit refunded) $500 CL
2. Petal 2 Visa – 1 yr, 5 months $2500 CL
3. Chase Freedom – 3.5 months $2700 CL (Denied first time a year earlier)
Hi Eric, there’s no way to 100% guarantee approval, but your chances look good. I’m leaning towards applying for the CSP first, but it’s really up to your personal preference.
I applied and got declined for some reason. My credit score is 830 and I make about $130k/year. I have an AMEX Gold card and a Blue Cash, also a discover card and an Amazon card by chase. So that’s only 4 cards. I also have a revolving credit account with Google (so would that be counted as 5?) I’m going to try calling when I get the letter. Think I will get approved?
There’s no way to guarantee approval, but your information looks worthy. Of course, there are other requirements and criteria that the banks will look at and they vary from bank to bank. I wouldn’t wait on the letter from Chase, but instead, be proactive and give them a call. Best of luck!
I got the letter in my chase account. Called in and they approved me. Not sure what happened initially.
Awesome, congrats!
Hey! I have been rejected twice now for this card. There is not a phone number that I see on the letter to call. It just says that if you have questions to write a letter to the return address. Why would there not be a phone number?
Bummer! Please see this post for help: https://johnnyjet.com/check-chase-credit-card-application-status/
some times its a pain in the ass to read what blog owners wrote but this website is real user genial! .
People put too much emphasis on credit scores. Let me tell you as a credit analyst where you’re going wrong with this. Do not go by score, look at the whole basis of your file. You may have a thin file which means you don’t have a lot of reporting credit for any long length of time. Average age of account is a big deal with Chase. Which means you want to be at least eight years plus. Bankruptcies that’s not true Chase will approve with bankruptcies! You have to call the reconsideration line. So don’t think by having a good score that itAutomatically entitles you to the best offers, because it does not. There’s a whole lot that goes into this. When I applied for my Chase account it was a sapphire. $7500 credit limit 812 FICO, average age of a count was over 10 years, no derogatory! I barely squeaked through, and had to call for approval. Not only that Chase was in and out of my account for the first year several several times adjusting my credit limit. They look at you for the first year like crazy, they’re looking for a bust out and high balance running up, payment balance ratio etc. score means nothing people!