“I wish I had applied for the _____ credit card when it had that bonus of _____.” We’ve heard this numerous times.
Knowing when to jump on a credit card’s sign-up bonus and when to wait can be difficult as these offers change frequently. While perspectives vary on offers that include a tangible number of points versus offers that include other perks, having a history of offers can help you know what to look for to separate good and not-so-good bonuses.
Here’s a list of Chase’s best credit card sign-up bonuses, including how these offers have changed over time and a note on when you should run — not walk — to apply for a card based on its best-ever welcome bonus.
Best Chase credit card sign-up bonuses
| Card | Best welcome offer we’ve seen | When to apply |
|---|---|---|
| Chase Freedom Flex | Earn $200 back after spending $500 on purchases in the first three months from account opening, plus earn 5% back on grocery store purchases (not including Target or Walmart) on up to $12,000 spent during the first year. | When the offer has $200 back plus a bonus category for 5% back during your first year from account opening. |
| Chase Freedom Unlimited | Depending on your spending habits, the best offer is either:
Earn unlimited double cash back for the first twelve months of account opening. or Earn a $200 bonus after spending $500 on purchases in the first three months from account opening, plus earn 5% back on grocery store purchases (not including Target or Walmart) during the first year (on up to $12,000 of these purchases). |
When the offer has at least $200 back plus a bonus category for 5% back during your first year from account opening. |
| Chase Sapphire Preferred Card | Earn 100,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 in the first three months of account opening. | When you can get more than 60,000 bonus points, jump on it. |
| Chase Sapphire Reserve | Earn 100,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 in the first three months of account opening. | Anytime the offer is 60,000 bonus points or higher. |
| IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card | Earn 175,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases within 3 months of account opening. | If you can get better than 125,000 points — whether that’s extra points or a free night award added on. |
| IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card | Earn 120,000 bonus points after spending $2,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening. | 80,000 points are standard, and anything above that is excellent. |
| Ink Business Cash Credit Card | Earn a $900 cash bonus after spending $6,000 on purchases within three months of account opening. | If the offer is at or above $750 cash. |
| Ink Business Preferred Credit Card | Earn 100,000 bonus points after you spend $8,000 in the first three months from account opening. | 100,000 points has been the standard offer for a few years now. |
| Ink Business Unlimited Credit Card | Earn a $900 cash bonus after spending $6,000 on purchases within three months from account opening. | If the offer is at or above $750 cash. |
| Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Credit Card | Five free night awards worth up to 50,000 points each. | If you can get more than three free night awards or at least 100,000 bonus points. |
| Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card | Earn up to 100,000 bonus points: 50,000 points after spending $1,000 on eligible purchases in the first six months, plus another 50,000 bonus points after staying six eligible paid nights at Marriott hotels. | If you can get more than 60,000 points. |
| Southwest Rapid Rewards Performance Business Credit Card | Earn up to 100,000 bonus points: Get 70,000 points after spending $5,000 on purchases in the first three months and another 30,000 points after spending $25,000 total in the first six months. | If you can get more than 80,000 points. |
| Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus Credit Card | It depends on your bonus preference: a Companion Pass valid for a year plus 30,000 points or up to 100,000 bonus points after spending $12,000 within 12 months. | When you can earn a Companion Pass valid for a year or can earn upward of 75,000 points. |
| Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Business Credit Card | Earn 60,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases within the first three months from account opening, plus another 60,000 points after spending $15,000 in the first nine months. | If an offer for more than 60,000 points comes out, jump on it — 60,000 points has been the standard for several years. |
| Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Credit Card | It depends on your bonus preference: a Companion Pass valid for a year plus 30,000 points or up to 100,000 bonus points after spending $12,000 within 12 months. | When you can earn a Companion Pass valid for a year or can earn upward of 75,000 points. |
| Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority Credit Card | It depends on your bonus preference: a Companion Pass valid for a year plus 30,000 points or up to 100,000 bonus points after spending $12,000 within 12 months. | When you can earn a Companion Pass valid for a year or can earn upward of 75,000 points. |
| United Business Card | Earn up to 150,000 bonus miles: Get 75,000 bonus miles after spending $5,000 on purchases within three months from account opening. Earn an extra 75,000 bonus miles after spending a total of $20,000 on purchases within six months from account opening. | When you can get 100,000 miles or more. |
| United Club Business Card | Earn 100,000 bonus miles after spending $10,000 on purchases within three months of account opening. | Anything above 75,000 miles. |
| United Club Infinite Card | Earn 100,000 bonus miles after spending $5,000 on purchases within three months of account opening. | When you can get 80,000 miles or more. |
| United Explorer Card | Earn up to 70,000 bonus miles: Get 60,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening, plus receive 10,000 more miles after $6,000 total on purchases in the first six months your account is open. | When you can get 60,000 or more miles — especially if it requires under $10,000 in spending. |
| United Quest Card | Earn up to 100,000 bonus miles: Get 80,000 miles after spending $5,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening. Get another 20,000 bonus miles after spending $10,000 total on your card within six months from account opening. | When you can earn 80,000 miles or more. |
| World of Hyatt Business Credit Card | Earn 75,000 bonus points after spending $7,500 on purchases within three months from account opening. | Whenever you can receive better than 60,000 points from spending $5,000 — whether that means extra points, stay credits or something else. |
| World of Hyatt Credit Card | Earn up to 60,000 bonus points: Get 40,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases within three months from account opening. Receive another 20,000 bonus points after spending $6,000 total on purchases within six months from account opening. | If you can get 50,000 points or more for under $10,000 in spending. |
The information for the United Club Business Card has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
Chase Freedom Flex
The Chase Freedom Flex card comes with no annual fee and a solid earning structure both on common spending categories and also on rotating quarterly categories.
The Freedom Flex launched in September 2020 and has seen several variations of its standard bonus offer. Remember that these cash-back earnings can be turned into Ultimate Rewards points if you have a card that earns Ultimate Rewards, such as the Sapphire Reserve or Sapphire Preferred.
| Approximate date | Offer | Value* |
|---|---|---|
| April 2023 to now | Earn $200 back after spending $500 in the first three months from account opening. | $200 |
| October 2022 to March 2023 | Earn $200 back after spending $500 in the first three months from account opening, plus earn 5% back on grocery purchases (not including Target or Walmart) on up to $12,000 of spending) during the first year | $200 plus up to $300 on gas purchases |
| July 2021 to October 2022 | Earn $200 back after spending $500 on purchases in the first three months from account opening, plus earn 5% back on gas station purchases — up to $6,000 spent during the first year | $200 plus up to $600 on grocery purchases |
| March 2021 to June 2021 | Earn $200 back after spending $500 on purchases in the first three months from account opening | $200 |
| September 2020 to February 2021 | Earn $200 back after spending $500 on purchases in the first three months from account opening, plus earn 5% back on grocery store purchases (not including Target or Walmart) on up to $12,000 spent during the first year | $200 plus up to $600 on grocery purchases |
*Bonus offer value is based on TPG’s valuations and not provided by the credit card issuer.
When to apply for this card: When the bonus offer includes $200 or more in cash back and includes a bonus category for earning 5% back during the first year.
Learn more: Chase Freedom Flex
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Chase Freedom Unlimited
The Chase Freedom Unlimited is a popular card for everyday spending since you don’t have to worry about bonus categories or limits to how many rewards you can earn.
WYATT SMITH/THE POINTS GUY
The bonus offer for the Freedom Unlimited matches the offer on the Freedom Flex many times, but they can be different so it’s worth paying attention.
| Approximate date | Offer | Value* |
|---|---|---|
| October 2023 to now | Earn unlimited double cash back for the first twelve months from account opening | Value depends on the cash back you earn in the twelve-month period |
| December 2022 to October 2023 | Earn an extra 1.5% cash back on all purchases during the first year (on up to $20,000 of purchases) – worth up to $300 cash back | Up to $300 |
| October 2022 to December 2022 | Earn $200 back after spending $500 in the first three months from account opening, plus earn 5% back on grocery purchases (not including Target or Walmart) on up to $12,000 of spending) during the first year | $200 plus up to $300 from gas station purchases |
| July 2021 to October 2022 | Earn $200 back after spending $500 on purchases in the first three months from account opening, plus earn 5% back on gas station purchases — up to $6,000 spent during the first year | $200 plus up to $600 from grocery store purchases |
| February 2021 to June 2021 | Earn a $200 bonus after spending $500 on purchases in the first three months from account opening | $200 |
| September 2020 to January 2021 | Earn a $200 bonus after spending $500 on purchases in the first three months from account opening, plus earn 5% back on grocery store purchases (not including Target or Walmart) during the first year (on up to $12,000 of these purchases) | $200 plus up to $600 from grocery store purchases |
*Bonus offer value is based on TPG’s valuations and not provided by the credit card issuer.
When to apply for this card: When the offer is at least a $200 bonus and a bonus category for extra earnings during the first year, or when double cash back is offered.
Learn more: Chase Freedom Unlimited
Chase Sapphire Preferred Card
The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card is one of the most popular travel rewards cards for three main reasons: affordability, flexibility and value.
THE POINTS GUY
In the summer of 2021, the issuer launched an unprecedented 100,000-point sign-up bonus lasting four months. Since then, the Sapphire Preferred has mainly reverted to a 60,000-point offer worth $1,200, according to TPG’s latest valuations.
| Approximate date | Offer | Value* |
|---|---|---|
| May 2023 to now | Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening | $1,230 |
| April 2023 to May 2023 | Earn 80,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening | $1,640 |
| March 2023 to May 2023 (in-branch only) | In-branch only: Earn 80,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 in the first three months of account opening. Plus, earn an additional 10,000 bonus points after spending $6,000 total on purchases made in the first 6 months | $1,845 |
| June 2022 to March 2023 | Earn 60,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 in the first three months of account opening. | $1,230 |
| April 2022 to May 2022 | Earn 80,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening. | $1,640 |
| October 2021 to April 2022 | Earn 60,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 in the first three months of account opening | $1,230 |
| June 2021 to October 2021 | Earn 100,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 in the first three months of account opening | $2,050 |
| March 2021 to June 2021 | Earn 80,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 in the first three months of account opening. Plus, earn a $50 statement credit on grocery store purchases | $1,690 |
| November 2020 to March 2021 | Earn 60,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 in the first three months of account opening | $1,230 |
| September 2020 to November 2020 | Earn 80,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 in the first three months of account opening | $1,640 |
| March 2019 to September 2020 | Earn 60,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 in the first three months of account opening | $1,230 |
| 2017 to March 2019 | Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 in the first three months of account opening | $1,025 |
*Bonus offer value is based on TPG’s valuations and not provided by the credit card issuer.
When to apply for this card: If you see an offer of 80,000 points on the Sapphire Preferred, you should jump on it. 60,000 points appear to be the standard offer these days.
Learn more: Chase Sapphire Preferred
Chase Sapphire Reserve
While the Chase Sapphire Preferred tends to come with varying offers throughout the calendar year, the Chase Sapphire Reserve has remained much more stable over the years.
ERIC HELGAS/THE POINTS GUY
This premium travel card was launched in August 2016 with a valuable 100,000-point welcome offer. Since then, the best offer we’ve seen has been 80,000 points. Also, it’s worth noting that Chase increased the annual fee on the Sapphire Reserve from $450 to $550 in early 2020.
| Approximate date | Offer | Value* |
|---|---|---|
| February 2023 to now | Earn 60,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 in the first three months of account opening | $1,230 |
| October 2022 to January 2023 | Earn 80,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 in the first three months of account opening | $1,640 |
| June 2022 to October 2022 | Earn 60,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 in the first three months of account opening | $1,230 |
| October 2021 to June 2022 | Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 in the first three months of account opening | $1,025 |
| June 2021 to October 2021 | Earn 60,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 in the first three months of account opening | $1,230 |
| March 2017 to June 2021 | Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 in the first three months of account opening | $1,025 |
| August 2016 to March 2017 | Earn 100,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 in the first three months of account opening | $2,050 |
*Bonus offer value is based on TPG’s valuations and not provided by the credit card issuer.
When to apply for this card: In terms of bonuses, 80,000 points might be the best you can hope for on the Sapphire Reserve these days, while an offer of 50,000-60,000 points is more common.
Learn more: Chase Sapphire Reserve
IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card
The IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card was refreshed in March 2022 and offers perks like a free night award on your account anniversary plus automatic Platinum Elite status.
Here are the offers we’ve seen on the IHG One Premier card over the past years, including before its refresh in early 2022:
| Approximate date | Offer | Value* |
|---|---|---|
| September 2023 to now | Earn 140,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 within the first three months of account opening | $700 |
| June 2023 to September 2023 | Earn 140,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases within three months of account opening. Plus, earn up to $100 in statement credits on purchases at IHG properties during the first 12 months from account opening | $800 (including statement credit) |
| April 2023 to June 2023 | Earn 140,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases within three months of account opening | $700 |
| January 2023 to April 2023 | Earn 175,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases within three months of account opening | $875 |
| April 2022 to January 2023 | Earn 140,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases within three months of account opening | $700 |
| January 2022 to March 2022 | Earn 125,000 bonus points plus a free night award (worth up to 40,000 bonus points) after spending $3,000 on purchases within three months of account opening | $625 for the points and $100-plus for the free night award |
| October 2021 to December 2021 | Earn 150,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases within three months of account opening | $750 |
| May 2021 to October 2021 | Earn 125,000 bonus points plus a free night award (worth up to 40,000 bonus points) after spending $3,000 on purchases within three months of account opening | $625 for the points and $100-plus for the free night award |
| December 2020 to April 2021 | Earn 140,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases within three months of account opening | $700 |
| May 2021 to November 2021 | Earn 125,000 bonus points plus a free night award (worth up to 40,000 bonus points) after spending $3,000 on purchases within three months of account opening | $625 for the points and $100-plus for the free night award |
| October 2020 to April 2021 | Earn 140,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases within three months of account opening | $700 |
| June 2020 to September 2020 | Earn 125,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases within three months of account opening | $625 |
*Bonus offer value is based on TPG’s valuations and not provided by the credit card issuer.
When to apply for this card: If you can get better than 125,000 points — whether that’s extra points or a free night award added on.
Learn more: IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card
IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card
The IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card has no annual fee but offers perks like entry-level elite status and a fourth night free on award stays.
Here are the offers on the IHG One Traveler card from the past few years:
| Approximate date | Offer | Value* |
|---|---|---|
| September 2023 to now | Earn 80,000 bonus points after spending $2,000 within three months of account opening | $400 |
| June to September 2023 | Earn 80,000 bonus points after spending $2,000 on purchases within three months of account opening. Plus, earn up to $50 in statement credits on purchases at IHG properties during the first 12 months from account opening | $450 (including statement credit) |
| April 2023 to June 2023 | Earn 80,000 bonus points after spending $2,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening | $400 |
| January 2023 to April 2023 | Earn 120,000 bonus points after spending $2,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening | $600 |
| July 2022 to January 2023 | Earn 80,000 bonus points after spending $2,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening | $400 |
| March 2022 to June 2022 | Earn 120,000 bonus points after spending $2,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening | $600 |
| December 2021 to February 2022 | Earn 80,000 bonus points after spending $2,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening | $400 |
| January 2021 to December 2021 | Earn 60,000 bonus points after spending $2,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening | $300 |
| October 2020 to December 2020 | Earn 100,000 bonus points after spending $2,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening | $500 |
| July 2020 to September 2020 | Earn 75,000 bonus points after spending $2,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening | $375 |
*Bonus offer value is based on TPG’s valuations and not provided by the credit card issuer.
When to apply for this card: Eighty thousand points seems like the new standard, so anything above that is a great bonus.
Learn more: IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card
Ink Business Cash Credit Card
With no annual fee and the ability to earn up to 5% back on common business expenses, the Ink Business Cash Credit Card is in the wallet of many TPG staffers.
Here’s the offer history on the Ink Cash card:
| Approximate date | Offer | Value* |
|---|---|---|
| September 2023 to now | Earn a $900 cash bonus after spending $6,000 on purchases within three months from account opening | $900 |
| March 2023 to September 2023 | Earn a $750 cash bonus after spending $6,000 on purchases within three months from account opening | $750 |
| October 2022 to March 2023 | Earn a $900 cash bonus after spending $6,000 on purchases within three months of account opening | $900 |
| December 2020 to October 2022 | Earn a $750 cash bonus after spending $7,500 on purchases within three months of account opening | $750 |
| September 2019 to November 2020 | Earn a $500 cash bonus after spending $3,000 on purchases within three months from account opening | $500 |
*Bonus offer value is based on TPG’s valuations and not provided by the credit card issuer.
When to apply for this card: When the bonus is $750 or higher, it’s worth applying; $750 is the standard offer most of the time.
Learn more: Ink Business Cash Credit Card
Ink Business Preferred Credit Card
For just a $95 annual fee, the Ink Business Preferred Credit Card earns Ultimate Rewards with an earning structure that’s popular among small-business owners and freelancers alike.
Here are the offers we’ve seen on the Ink Preferred card in recent years:
| Approximate date | Offer | Value* |
|---|---|---|
| June 2023 to now | Earn 100,000 bonus points after you spend $8,000 in the first three months from account opening | $2,050 |
| April 2020 to June 2023 | Earn 100,000 bonus points after you spend $15,000 in the first three months from account opening | $2,050 |
| January 2020 to March 2020 | Earn 80,000 bonus points after you spend $5,000 in the first three months from account opening | $1,640 |
*Bonus offer value is based on TPG’s valuations and not provided by the credit card issuer.
When to apply for this card: One hundred thousand points has been the standard offer for a few years.
Learn more: Ink Business Preferred Credit Card
Ink Business Unlimited Credit Card
The Ink Business Unlimited Credit Card has no annual fee and earns a flat rate on all purchases, which can be an important part of your credit card strategy.
Here is the offer history on the Ink Unlimited card:
| Approximate date | Offer | Value* |
|---|---|---|
| September 2023 to now | Earn a $900 cash bonus after spending $6,000 on purchases within three months from account opening | $900 |
| March 2023 to September 2023 | Earn a $750 cash bonus after spending $6,000 on purchases within three months from account opening | $750 |
| October 2022 to March 2023 | Earn a $900 cash bonus after spending $6,000 on purchases within three months from account opening | $900 |
| December 2020 to October 2022 | Earn a $750 cash bonus after spending $7,500 on purchases within three months from account opening | $750 |
| September 2019 to November 2020 | Earn a $500 cash bonus after spending $3,000 on purchases within three months from account opening | $500 |
*Bonus offer value is based on TPG’s valuations and not provided by the credit card issuer.
When to apply for this card: If the offer is at or above $750 cash.
Learn more: Ink Business Unlimited Credit Card
Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Credit Card
The bonus on the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Credit Card has wavered between points and free night certificates.
Here are the offers we’ve seen over the past few years:
| Approximate date | Offer | Value* |
|---|---|---|
| August 2023 to now | Earn three free night awards (each night valued up to 50,000 points) after you spend $3,000 on purchases in your first three months from your account opening | $1,260 |
| June 2023 to August 2023 | Earn 75,000 Marriott Bonvoy bonus points after using your card to spend $3,000 on eligible purchases in the first six months; plus, earn 50,000 bonus points after you stay six eligible paid nights at Marriott hotels through Jan. 31, 2024 | $1,050 |
| May 2023 to June 2023 | Earn three free night awards (each night valued up to 50,000 points) after you spend $3,000 on purchases in your first three months from your account opening. Certain hotels have resort fees | $1,260 |
| April 2023 to May 2023 | Earn five free night awards (each night valued up to 50,000 points) after you spend $5,000 on purchases in your first three months from your account opening. Certain hotels have resort fees | $2,100 |
| Oct. 2022 to April 2023 | Earn three free night awards (each night valued up to 50,000 points) after you spend $3,000 on purchases in your first three months from your account opening. Certain hotels have resort fees | $1,260 |
| Sept. 2022 to October 2022 | Earn 100,000 bonus points after you spend $3,000 on purchases within the first three months from account opening | $840 |
| July 2022 to September 2022 | Earn three free night awards (each worth up to 50,000 points) after you spend $3,000 on purchases within the first three months from account opening | $1,260 |
| July 2022 | Earn five free night awards (each worth up to 50,000 points) after you spend $5,000 on purchases within the first three months from account opening | $2,100 |
| May 2019 to July 2022 | Earn 75,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 in the first three months from account opening | $630 |
| February 2019 to May 2019 | Earn 100,000 points after spending $5,000 in the first three months from account opening | $840 |
*Bonus offer value is based on TPG’s valuations and not provided by the credit card issuer.
When to apply for this card: Earning three free night certificates seems like the standard offer, so anything above that is fantastic.
Learn more: Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Credit Card
Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card
The Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card allows cardholders to enjoy Bonvoy perks without paying an annual fee.
Here are the offers we’ve seen on the Bold card:
| Approximate date | Offer | Value* |
|---|---|---|
| August 2023 to now | Earn 30,000 Marriott Bonvoy bonus points after using their card to spend $1,000 on eligible purchases in the first three months | $252 |
| June 2023 to August 2023 | Earn 50,000 bonus points after using your card to spend $1,000 on eligible purchases in the first six months; plus, earn 50,000 bonus points after you stay six eligible paid nights at Marriott hotels through Jan. 31, 2024 | $840 |
| September 2022 to June 2023 | Earn 60,000 bonus points after using your card to spend $1,000 on eligible purchases in the first six months | $504 |
*Bonus offer value is based on TPG’s valuations and not provided by the credit card issuer.
When to apply for this card: Earning 60,000 points seems like the standard offer, so anything above that is great.
Learn more: Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card
Southwest Rapid Rewards Performance Business Credit Card
The Southwest Rapid Rewards Performance Business Credit Card is Southwest’s premium business card and offers perks like anniversary bonus points, status boost, upgraded boarding and credits for inflight Wi-Fi purchases.
Here are the offers we’ve seen on this card since it launched in 2019:
| Approximate date | Offer | Value* |
|---|---|---|
| November 2021 to now | Earn 80,000 bonus points after spending $5,000 on purchases within the first three months from account opening | $1,120 |
| February 2020 to October 2021 | Earn up to 100,000 bonus points: Get 70,000 points after spending $5,000 on purchases in the first three months and another 30,000 points after spending $25,000 total in the first six months | Up to $1,400 |
| June 2019 to January 2020 | Earn 80,000 bonus points after spending $5,000 on purchases within the first three months from account opening | $1,120 |
*Bonus offer value is based on TPG’s valuations and not provided by the credit card issuer.
When to apply for this card: Don’t think twice if an offer for more than 80,000 points comes out.
Learn more: Southwest Rapid Rewards Performance Business Credit Card
Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus Credit Card
As the Southwest credit card with the lowest annual fee, the Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus Credit Card is popular for offering a fair amount of benefits with just a $69 annual fee.
WYATT SMITH/THE POINTS GUY
Here are the past offers on this card:
| Approximate date | Offer | Value* |
|---|---|---|
| July 2023 to now | Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 within the first three months of account opening | $700 |
| May 2023 to July 2023 | Earn 60,000 bonus points plus a 30% off promo code after spending $3,000 on purchases within the first three months of account opening | $840 |
| March 2023 to May 2023 | Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases within three months from account opening | $700 |
| February 2023 to March 2023 | Earn a Companion Pass good through Feb. 28, 2024 (excludes taxes and fees from $5.60 one-way) plus 30,000 points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening | $420 in points plus unquantifiable value for your Companion Pass use |
| November 2022 to February 2023 | Earn 75,000 points after you spend $3,000 in the first three months from account opening | $1,050 |
| July 2022 to November 2022 | Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases within three months from account opening | $700 |
| May 2022 to July 2022 | Earn 75,000 bonus points after spending $5,000 on purchases within three months from account opening | $1,050 |
| April 2022 | Earn 40,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases within three months from account opening | $560 |
| February 2022 to March 2022 | Earn a Companion Pass valid through Feb. 28, 2023, plus earn 30,000 bonus points after spending $5,000 on purchases within three months from account opening | $420 in points plus unquantifiable value for your Companion Pass use |
| January 2022 | Earn 40,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases within three months from account opening | $560 |
| October 2021 to December 2021 | Earn up to 100,000 bonus points: Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $2,000 on purchases within three months from account opening. Get another 50,000 points after spending $12,000 total on purchases in the first 12 months from account opening | $1,400 |
| September 2021 | Earn 40,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases within three months from account opening. Plus, earn 3 points per dollar on dining in the first year | $560 plus unlimited dining earnings |
| June 2021 to August 2021 | Earn 65,000 bonus points after spending $2,000 on purchases within three months from account opening | $910 |
| April 2021 to July 2021 | Earn 40,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases within three months from account opening. Plus, earn 3 points per dollar on dining in the first year | $560 plus unlimited dining earnings |
| February 2021 to March 2021 | Earn a Companion Pass valid through Feb. 28, 2022, plus earn 30,000 bonus points after spending $5,000 on purchases within three months from account opening | $420 in points plus unquantifiable value for your Companion Pass use |
| December 2020 to January 2021 | Earn up to 80,000 bonus points: Get 50,000 points after spending $2,000 on purchases within three months from account opening. Receive another 30,000 bonus points after spending a total of $10,000 on purchases within nine months from account opening. Plus, earn 5 points per dollar on Southwest purchases from Dec. 1, 2020, to March 3, 2021 | Up to $1,120 |
*Bonus offer value is based on TPG’s valuations and not provided by the credit card issuer.
When to apply for this card: When you can earn a Companion Pass valid for a year or can earn upward of 75,000 points.
Learn more: Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus Credit Card
Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Business Credit Card
The Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Business Credit Card offers valuable perks for small-business owners who fly Southwest regularly.
THE POINTS GUY
Here are the offers we’ve seen on this card:
| Approximate date | Offer | Value* |
|---|---|---|
| August 2023 to now | Earn 60,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases within the first three months from account opening | $840 |
| July 2023 to August 2023 | Earn 60,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening. Earn an additional 60,000 points after spending $15,000 in the first 9 months | $1,680 |
| September 2020 to July 2023 | Earn 60,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases within the first three months from account opening | $840 |
*Bonus offer value is based on TPG’s valuations and not provided by the credit card issuer.
When to apply for this card: If you see an offer over 60,000 points, jump on it because 60,000 points have been the standard offer for a couple of years.
Learn more: Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Business Credit Card
Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Credit Card
The Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Credit Card is Southwest’s mid-tier card and offers anniversary bonus points, two EarlyBird check-ins per year and a broad earning structure.
WYATT SMITH/THE POINTS GUY
Here are the offers we’ve seen on this card over the years:
| Approximate date | Offer | Value* |
|---|---|---|
| July 2023 to now | Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 within the first three months of account opening | $700 |
| May 2023 to July 2023 | Earn 60,000 bonus points plus a 30% off promo code after spending $3,000 on purchases within the first three months of account opening | $840 |
| March 2023 to May 2023 | Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases within three months from account opening | $700 |
| February 2023 to March 2023 | Earn a Companion Pass good through Feb. 28, 2024 (excludes taxes and fees from $5.60 one-way) plus 30,000 points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening | $420 in points plus unquantifiable value for your Companion Pass use |
| November 2022 to February 2023 | Earn 75,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first three months of account opening | $1,050 |
| July 2022 to November 2022 | Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases within three months from account opening | $700 |
| May 2022 to July 2022 | Earn 75,000 bonus points after spending $5,000 on purchases within three months from account opening | $1,050 |
| April 2022 | Earn 40,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases within three months from account opening | $560 |
| February 2022 to March 2022 | Earn a Companion Pass valid through Feb. 28, 2023, plus earn 30,000 bonus points after spending $5,000 on purchases within three months from account opening | $420 in points plus unquantifiable value for your Companion Pass use |
| January 2022 | Earn 40,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases within three months from account opening | $560 |
| October 2021 to December 2021 | Earn up to 100,000 bonus points: Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $2,000 on purchases within three months from account opening. Get another 50,000 points after spending $12,000 total on purchases in the first 12 months from account opening | $1,400 |
| September 2021 | Earn 40,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases within three months from account opening. Plus, earn 3 points per dollar on dining in the first year | $560 plus unlimited dining earnings |
| June 2021 to August 2021 | Earn 65,000 bonus points after spending $2,000 on purchases within three months from account opening | $910 |
| April 2021 to July 2021 | Earn 40,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases within three months from account opening. Plus, earn 3 points per dollar on dining in the first year | $560 plus unlimited dining earnings |
| February 2021 to March 2021 | Earn a Companion Pass valid through Feb. 28, 2022, plus earn 30,000 bonus points after spending $5,000 on purchases within three months from account opening | $420 in points plus unquantifiable value for your Companion Pass use |
| December 2020 to January 2021 | Earn up to 80,000 bonus points: Get 50,000 points after spending $2,000 on purchases within three months from account opening. Receive another 30,000 bonus points after spending a total of $10,000 on purchases within nine months from account opening. Plus, earn 5 points per dollar on Southwest purchases from Dec. 1, 2020, to March 3, 2021 | Up to $1,120 |
*Bonus offer value is based on TPG’s valuations and not provided by the credit card issuer.
When to apply for this card: When you can earn a Companion Pass valid for a year or can earn upward of 75,000 points.
Learn more: Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Credit Card
Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority Credit Card
The Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority Credit Card is popular for its anniversary bonus points and broad earning structure.
Here are the offers we’ve seen on the Southwest Priority card over the past few years:
| Approximate date | Offer | Value* |
|---|---|---|
| July 2023 to now | Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 within the first three months of account opening | $700 |
| May 2023 to July 2023 | Earn 60,000 bonus points plus a 30% off promo code after spending $3,000 on purchases within the first three months of account opening | $840 |
| March 2023 to May 2023 | Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases within three months from account opening | $700 |
| February 2023 to March 2023 | Earn a Companion Pass good through Feb. 28, 2024 (excludes taxes and fees from $5.60 one-way) plus 30,000 points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening | $420 in points plus unquantifiable value for your Companion Pass use |
| November 2022 to February 2023 | Earn 75,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases within three months of account opening | $1,050 |
| July 2022 to November 2022 | Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases within three months from account opening | $700 |
| May 2022 to July 2022 | Earn 75,000 bonus points after spending $5,000 on purchases within three months from account opening | $1,050 |
| April 2022 | Earn 40,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases within three months from account opening | $560 |
| February 2022 to March 2022 | Earn a Companion Pass valid through Feb. 28, 2023, plus earn 30,000 bonus points after spending $5,000 on purchases within three months from account opening | $420 in points plus unquantifiable value for your Companion Pass use |
| January 2022 | Earn 40,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases within three months from account opening | $560 |
| October 2021 to December 2021 | Earn up to 100,000 bonus points: Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $2,000 on purchases within three months from account opening. Get another 50,000 points after spending $12,000 total on purchases in the first 12 months from account opening | $1,400 |
| September 2021 | Earn 40,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases within three months from account opening. Plus, earn 3 points per dollar on dining in the first year | $560 plus unlimited dining earnings |
| June 2021 to August 2021 | Earn 65,000 bonus points after spending $2,000 on purchases within three months from account opening | $910 |
| April 2021 to July 2021 | Earn 40,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases within three months from account opening. Plus, earn 3 points per dollar on dining in the first year | $560 plus unlimited dining earnings |
| February 2021 to March 2021 | Earn a Companion Pass valid through Feb. 28, 2022, plus earn 30,000 bonus points after spending $5,000 on purchases within three months from account opening | $420 in points plus unquantifiable value for your Companion Pass use |
| December 2020 to January 2021 | Earn up to 80,000 bonus points: Get 50,000 points after spending $2,000 on purchases within three months from account opening. Receive another 30,000 bonus points after spending a total of $10,000 on purchases within nine months from account opening. Plus, earn 5 points per dollar on Southwest purchases from Dec. 1, 2020, to March 3, 2021 | Up to $1,120 |
*Bonus offer value is based on TPG’s valuations and not provided by the credit card issuer.
When to apply for this card: When you can earn a Companion Pass valid for a year or can earn upward of 75,000 points.
Learn more: Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority Credit Card
United Business Card
Launched in January 2020, the United Business Card has strong bonus categories for earning and offers numerous benefits for United flyers with just a $99 annual fee ($0 intro fee for the first year).
Here are the offers we’ve seen since the launch of the United Business Card:
| Approximate date | Offer | Value* |
|---|---|---|
| October 2023 to now | Earn 75,000 bonus miles after spending $5,000 on purchases within three months from account opening | $1,088 |
| June 2023 to October 2023 | Earn 50,000 bonus miles after spending $5,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening | $725 |
| March 2023 to June 2023 | Earn 75,000 bonus miles after spending $5,000 on purchases within three months from account opening | $1,088 |
| June 2022 to March 2023 | Earn up to 150,000 bonus miles: Get 75,000 bonus miles after spending $5,000 on purchases within three months from account opening. Earn an extra 75,000 bonus miles after spending a total of $20,000 on purchases within six months from account opening | $2,175 |
| March 2022 to May 2022 | Earn 75,000 bonus miles after spending $5,000 on purchases within three months from account opening | $1,088 |
| January 2022 to February 2022 | Earn up to 150,000 bonus miles: Get 75,000 bonus miles after spending $5,000 on purchases within three months from account opening. Earn an extra 75,000 bonus miles after spending a total of $20,000 on purchases within six months from account opening | $1,815 |
| September 2021 to December 2021 | Earn 75,000 bonus miles after spending $5,000 on purchases within three months from account opening | $1,088 |
| May 2021 to August 2021 | Earn up to 150,000 bonus miles: Get 75,000 bonus miles after spending $5,000 on purchases within three months from account opening. Earn an extra 75,000 bonus miles after spending a total of $20,000 on purchases within six months from account opening | $1,815 |
| November 2020 to April 2021 | Earn 75,000 bonus miles after spending $5,000 on purchases within three months from account opening | $1,088 |
| May 2020 to September 2020 | Earn 60,000 bonus miles after spending $3,000 on purchases within three months from account opening | $870 |
| January 2020 to April 2020 | Earn 100,000 bonus miles after spending $10,000 on purchases within three months from account opening | $1,450 |
*Bonus offer value is based on TPG’s valuations and not provided by the credit card issuer.
When to apply for this card: When you can earn 100,000 miles or more.
Learn more: United Business Card
United Club Business Card
The United Club Business card is United’s premium small-business card, offering increased checked baggage allowance and access to United Club lounges even when you’re not flying in business class or don’t have elite status with United Airlines.
The information for the United Club Business Card has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
Here are the various sign-up bonuses Chase has offered:
| Approximate date | Offer | Value* |
|---|---|---|
| October 2023 to now | Earn 75,000 bonus miles after spending $5,000 on purchases within three months of account opening | $1,088 |
| June to October 2023 | Earn 50,000 bonus miles after spending $5,000 on purchases within three months of account opening | $725 |
| November 2022 to June 2023 | Earn 75,000 bonus miles after spending $5,000 on purchases within three months of account opening | $1,088 |
| May 2022 to November 2022 | Earn 100,000 bonus miles after spending $10,000 on purchases within three months of account opening | $1,450 |
| April 2022 to May 2022 | Earn 75,000 bonus miles after spending $5,000 on purchases within three months of account opening | $1,088 |
| February 2022 to March 2022 | Earn 100,000 bonus miles after spending $10,000 on purchases within three months of account opening | $1,450 |
| September 2021 to January 2022 | Earn 75,000 bonus miles after spending $5,000 on purchases within three months of account opening | $1,088 |
| December 2020 to August 2021 | Earn 50,000 bonus miles after spending $3,000 on purchases within three months of account opening | $725 |
| July 2020 to November 2020 | Earn 100,000 bonus miles after spending $10,000 on purchases within three months of account opening | $1,450 |
*Bonus offer value is based on TPG’s valuations and not provided by the credit card issuer.
When to apply for this card: Anything above 75,000 miles is worth an application.
United Club Infinite Card
The United Club Infinite Card is United’s premium credit card, offering increased checked baggage allowance and access to United Club lounges.
Here are the offers we’ve seen on the Club Infinite card over the past few years:
| Approximate date | Offer | Value* |
|---|---|---|
| August 2023 to now | Earn 80,000 bonus miles after spending $5,000 on purchases within three months of account opening | $1,160 |
| January to August 2023 | Earn 80,000 bonus miles and 1,000 Premier qualifying points after spending $5,000 on purchases within three months of account opening | $1,160 |
| November 2022 to January 2023 | Earn 100,000 bonus miles after spending $5,000 on purchases within three months of account opening | $1,450 |
| June 2022 to November 2022 | Earn 80,000 bonus miles after spending $5,000 on purchases within three months of account opening | $1,160 |
| January 2022 to May 2022 | Earn 100,000 bonus miles after spending $5,000 on purchases within three months of account opening | $1,450 |
| April 2021 to December 2021 | Earn 75,000 bonus miles after spending $3,000 on purchases within three months of account opening | $1,088 |
| January 2021 to March 2021 | No annual fee during the first year; the standard annual fee is $525 | $525 |
| August 2020 to December 2020 | Earn 100,000 bonus miles after spending $5,000 on purchases within three months of account opening | $1,450 |
| June 2020 to July 2020 | Earn 75,000 bonus miles after spending $3,000 on purchases within three months of account opening | $1,088 |
| March 2020 to May 2020 | Earn 100,000 bonus miles after spending $5,000 on purchases within three months of account opening | $1,450 |
*Bonus offer value is based on TPG’s valuations and not provided by the credit card issuer.
When to apply for this card: When you can get 80,000 or more miles.
Learn more: United Club Infinite Card
United Explorer Card
The United Explorer Card is a popular option for those looking for a free checked bag on United flights without paying a hefty annual fee.
Here are the offers we’ve seen on the Explorer card:
| Approximate date | Offer | Value* |
|---|---|---|
| October 2023 to now | Earn 50,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening | $725 |
| June 2023 to October 2023 | Earn 60,000 bonus miles after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening | $870 |
| December 2022 to June 2023 | Earn 50,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening | $725 |
| November 2022 to December 2022 | Earn 60,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening | $870 |
| August 2022 to October 2022 | Earn 50,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening | $725 |
| March 2022 to July 2022 | Earn up to 70,000 bonus miles: Get 60,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening, plus receive 10,000 more miles after $6,000 total in purchases in the first six months your account is open | Up to $1,015 |
| September 2021 to February 2022 | Earn 40,000 bonus miles after you spend $2,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening | $580 |
| June 2021 to August 2021 | Earn up to 70,000 bonus miles: Get 60,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening, plus receive 10,000 more miles after $6,000 total in purchases in the first six months your account is open | Up to $1,015 |
| February 2021 to June 2021 | Earn up to 65,000 bonus miles: Get 40,000 bonus miles after you spend $2,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening, plus receive 25,000 more miles after $10,000 total in purchases in the first six months your account is open | Up to $943 |
| December 2020 to January 2021 | Earn 40,000 bonus miles after you spend $2,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening | $580 |
| October 2020 to November 2020 | Earn up to 70,000 bonus miles: Get 60,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening, plus receive 10,000 more miles after $6,000 total in purchases in the first six months your account is open | Up to $1,015 |
| July 2020 to September 2020 | Earn 60,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening | $870 |
*Bonus offer value is based on TPG’s valuations and not provided by the credit card issuer.
When to apply for this card: When you can get 60,000 or more miles.
Learn more: United Explorer Card
United Quest Card
The United Quest Card card launched in April of 2021 and is a mid-tier card popular with United flyers.
Given the relatively short age of this credit card, there aren’t many variations of its welcome offer. Here’s what we’ve seen:
| Approximate date | Offer | Value* |
|---|---|---|
| August 2023 to now | Earn 60,000 bonus miles and 500 Premier qualifying points after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening | $870 |
| June to August 2023 | Earn 70,000 bonus miles and 500 Premier qualifying points after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening | $1,015 |
| January 2023 to June 2023 | Earn 60,000 bonus miles and 500 Premier qualifying points after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening | $870 |
| November 2022 to December 2022 | Earn 80,000 bonus miles after spending $5,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening | $1,160 |
| August 2022 to November 2022 | Earn 70,000 bonus miles after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening | $1,015 |
| June 2022 to July 2022 | Earn 80,000 bonus miles after spending $5,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening | $1,160 |
| February 2022 to May 2022 | Earn 70,000 bonus miles after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening | $1,015 |
| October 2021 to January 2022 | Earn 80,000 bonus miles after spending $5,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening | $1,160 |
| April 2021 to October 2021 | Earn up to 100,000 bonus miles: Get 80,000 miles after spending $5,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening. Get another 20,000 bonus miles after spending $10,000 total on your card within six months from account opening | Up to $1,450 |
*Bonus offer value is based on TPG’s valuations and not provided by the credit card issuer.
When to apply for this card: When you can earn 80,000 miles or more.
Learn more: United Quest Card
World of Hyatt Business Credit Card
The World of Hyatt Business card was originally launched in October 2021 and offers an interesting array of perks for business owners who are able to spend enough to unlock them.
We’ve seen a few welcome bonuses since this card’s launch. Two are worth highlighting: the highest number of points was available at launch, while others may find more value in the offer with double stay credits.
| Approximate date | Offer | Value* |
|---|---|---|
| September 2023 to now | Earn up to 75,000 bonus points. Earn 60,000 bonus points after spending $5,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening and another 15,000 bonus points after spending $12,000 in the first six months from account opening | $1,275 |
| October 2022 to September 2023 | Earn 60,000 bonus points after spending $5,000 on purchases within three months from account opening | $1,020 |
| August 2021 to October 2022 | Earn 60,000 bonus points after spending $5,000 on purchases within three months from account opening, plus earn double stay credits on hotel stays from Aug. 23 to Dec. 31, 2022 | $1,020 plus double stay credits for a limited time |
| May 2022 to August 2022 | Earn 60,000 bonus points after spending $5,000 on purchases within three months from account opening | $1,020 |
| October 2021 to April 2022 | Earn 75,000 bonus points after spending $7,500 on purchases within three months from account opening | $1,275 |
*Bonus offer value is based on TPG’s valuations and not provided by the credit card issuer.
When to apply for this card: Whenever you can receive over 60,000 points from spending $5,000 — whether that means extra points, stay credits or something else.
Learn more: World of Hyatt Business Credit Card
World of Hyatt Credit Card
We’ve called the World of Hyatt Credit Card “one of the most valuable hotel cards” for its strong earnings and benefits that vastly outweigh the $95 annual fee.
The Hyatt credit card wavers between bonuses that offer extra points the more you spend and bonuses that offer a set amount of points after meeting a spending requirement.
| Approximate date | Offer | Value* |
|---|---|---|
| April 2021 to now | Earn up to 60,000 bonus points: Get 30,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening and earn 2 points per dollar on purchases that normally earn just 1 point per dollar — on up to $15,000 of these purchases during the first six months from account opening | Up to $1,020 |
| January 2019 to March 2021 | Earn up to 50,000 bonus points: Get 25,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening. Receive another 25,000 bonus points after making a total of $6,000 in purchases within six months from account opening | Up to $850 |
| June 2018 to January 2019 | Earn up to 60,000 bonus points: Get 40,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases within three months from account opening. Receive another 20,000 bonus points after spending $6,000 total on purchases within six months from account opening | Up to $1,020 |
*Bonus offer value is based on TPG’s valuations and not provided by the credit card issuer.
When to apply for this card: The best offers on this card have included 50,000-60,000 points with lower spending requirements. Anything that includes more than 50,000 points and requires under $10,000 of spending would be worth applying for.
Learn more: World of Hyatt Credit Card
Should you wait for a better welcome offer?
After reviewing these past welcome offers, you may be tempted to wait for something better. There are many good reasons to wait for a higher welcome offer, but it’s not always worth it.
If you’re considering a credit card, here are some reasons why you might want to apply anyway:
A better bonus may not come back
Some bonuses just never come back. The Chase Sapphire Reserve hasn’t repeated the 100,000-point sign-up bonus since its launch in 2016 — and we don’t expect a return.
The card may stop accepting applications
Some cards no longer accept applications. This is the case with Chase’s Ritz-Carlton Rewards Credit Card and the Citi Prestige® Card. Waiting for a better bonus on a credit card could mean missing the chance to get that card altogether.
The information for the Ritz-Carlton card and Citi Prestige has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
You’re missing out on points from everyday spending
If you wait to apply for a card, you’re missing out on thousands of points from your everyday credit card spending. That difference alone might compensate for the better bonus you’re hoping for.
You’re planning an award trip now
If you plan to travel soon, you need to start accruing points and miles now. After you hit a spending minimum, it could take up to a couple of billing cycles for those points to hit your balance.
Some cards allow you to earn the bonus again later
While American Express is famous for its once-in-a-lifetime bonus restrictions, many other banks — Chase included — allow you to earn a bonus on the same credit card again later. If you decide to apply for a credit card, earn the bonus and then see something better a few years later, you may be eligible to receive that bonus again. This can lessen the sting of getting a ho-hum bonus and then seeing it improve afterward.
Related: The ultimate guide to credit card application restrictions
Bottom line
From the data on Chase credit card sign-up bonuses and how they’ve changed over time, you can separate the good offers from the standard offers when applying for a credit card.
Pay attention to the available offers when considering your next credit card and compare them to this information. If you see something above our application threshold, you may have a winner.
For more information on credit card bonus offers over time, see the following:
