Even seasoned Chase Freedom Flex℠ users can miss out on rewards by overlooking a few small — but costly — details.
Here’s how to stay on track and maximize your 5% cash back each quarter.
1. Forgetting to Activate Your Categories
The Mistake:
Not activating your quarterly 5% categories at the start of each quarter.
Why It Matters:
Without activation, your purchases only earn 1% — even if they fall in a qualifying category.
How to Avoid It:
- Set calendar reminders for Jan 1, Apr 1, Jul 1, and Oct 1.
- Activate in seconds via the Chase app, website, or email.
- Activation applies retroactively, but only if done before the quarter ends.
✅ Pro Tip: Stay subscribed to Chase emails — they often include activation reminders.
2. Overspending Past the $1,500 Limit
The Mistake:
Losing track and spending beyond the 5% cap.
Why It Matters:
You’ll only earn 5% on the first $1,500 in combined purchases each quarter. Beyond that? Just 1%.
How to Avoid It:
- Track your bonus spending in the Chase app or online dashboard.
- Use a budgeting tool or spreadsheet to monitor your progress.
- Nearing the cap? Switch to a different card that earns more on everyday purchases (like the Freedom Unlimited).
✅ Pro Tip: Spread your purchases across multiple categories to fully leverage the cap.
3. Assuming All Purchases Qualify
The Mistake:
Thinking all merchants in a listed category count automatically.
Why It Matters:
Only purchases from merchants with the correct Merchant Category Code (MCC) qualify.
How to Avoid It:
- Know that stores like Walmart® or Target® typically don’t count as grocery stores.
- Third-party apps (e.g., DoorDash) may not qualify under restaurants.
- Unsure? Make a small test purchase and check how it’s coded on your Chase statement.
✅ Pro Tip: Stick with well-known qualifying merchants like Trader Joe’s, Exxon, or Netflix.
4. Using the Wrong Card
The Mistake:
Swiping a different Chase card instead of your Freedom Flex for eligible purchases.
Why It Matters:
Only the Freedom Flex earns 5% in rotating bonus categories.
How to Avoid It:
- Label your card or set it as the default in mobile wallets like PayPal or Apple Pay.
- Keep the Freedom Flex in a dedicated spot in your wallet for easy access.
- Double-check your card before making purchases in bonus categories.
✅ Pro Tip: Use stickers or card sleeves to help visually distinguish your Flex card.
5. Overlooking Quarterly Changes
The Mistake:
Continuing to spend in outdated bonus categories.
Why It Matters:
Categories change every quarter. After the deadline, old categories stop earning 5%.
How to Avoid It:
- Visit chase.com/calendar at the start of each quarter.
- Enable Chase email or app alerts for category updates.
- Refresh your shopping plan every three months to match new categories.
✅ Pro Tip: Print or save a copy of the year’s bonus calendar and keep it handy.
✅ Final Thoughts: Small Habits = Big Rewards
These simple missteps can quietly chip away at your earnings — but they’re easy to fix. By staying organized and proactive, you can consistently unlock the full $75 per quarter ($300 annually) in bonus cash back with your Chase Freedom Flex.
