How to Apply for the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card

If you're thinking about taking the next step toward a premium credit card with great travel rewards and solid benefits, this article is for you.

What You Will Learn in This Guide

In this article, you will discover:

Why the Chase Sapphire Preferred is so popular with Americans
What are the real benefits of the card (besides the welcome bonus)
Who qualifies for the card and what Chase requires
How to make your request online or by phone
Tips to maximize your chances of approval
How to use your points for travel, cashback, and more

What is the Chase Sapphire Preferred®?

The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is a credit card designed specifically for consumers who enjoy accumulating rewards through everyday spending, particularly on travel, restaurants, streaming services, and online shopping.

With an annual rate of $95 (in 2025), it stands out for offering:

Generous welcome bonus: typically between 60,000 and 80,000 Ultimate Rewards points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months
2x or more points on categories like travel and restaurants
Travel protections and car rental insurance
Points worth more when used on the Chase Travel portal

Requirements to Apply for the Card

Before you begin your application, it's essential to understand the criteria Chase considers when approving candidates.

Credit Requirements

You will need:

Good to excellent credit score (above 680 points)
On-time payment history
Low credit utilization rate (ideally below 30%)

Chase 5/24 Rule

Chase applies the so-called 5/24 rule: if you've opened five or more credit cards from any bank in the last 24 months, your application will be automatically declined, regardless of your credit score.

How to Apply for the Chase Sapphire Preferred

You can apply for the card online, by phone, or at a Chase branch. The most common and fastest method is online.

Step 1: Access the official website

Visit the website chase.com
Navigate to the credit cards section and select “Chase Sapphire Preferred®”
Click “Apply Now”

Step 2: Fill out the form

You will need to provide:

Full name and address
Social Security Number (SSN)
Date of birth
Annual income
Employment or source of income
Information about residence and monthly expenses

Step 3: Review and Submit

Before finalizing, carefully review all information. Incorrect information may result in automatic rejection.

Tips to Increase Your Chances of Approval

Check your credit score

Use free services like Credit Karma, Credit Sesame, or Experian to check your score and identify areas for improvement.

Reduce existing debts

Pay off as much of your current card balance as possible before applying. This helps improve your utilization rate.

Avoid multiple applications

Apply for one card at a time. Multiple applications in a row can hurt your score.

Consider the time since your last card

If you've opened multiple cards in the last 24 months, it may be best to wait before applying for the Sapphire Preferred.

What to Do After Being Approved

Once your application is accepted, follow these steps to start enjoying the card's benefits.

Activate your card

You'll receive your card within 7 business days. Activation can be done online or through the Chase app.

Create an account on the Chase website

With your account active, you can monitor your spending, check your rewards, set up alerts, and access exclusive promotions.

Start using it strategically

Prioritize using your card in bonus categories like travel, restaurants, and digital services to maximize your points.

How to Use Chase Ultimate Rewards Points

Chase Ultimate Rewards points earned with the Sapphire Preferred can be used in highly flexible and advantageous ways.

Redemption methods include:

Travel through the Chase Travel portal with a 25% bonus
Transfer to partner programs like United Airlines, Southwest, Hyatt, Marriott, and others
Cashback directly on your invoice
Gift cards and purchases through partner platforms such as Amazon

What Can Lead to Application Rejection

Even applicants with good credit can be rejected. Common reasons include:

Score below 680
Multiple recent applications
High credit utilization
Default history
Already have another card from the Sapphire line

How to Proceed in Case of Refusal

If your application is denied, you can contact Chase's reconsideration line:

Number: 1-888-270-2127

Have your protocol number, income information, and credit history ready. Be polite and clear when explaining why you want the card and why you believe you're a good candidate.

Is the Chase Sapphire Preferred Worth Applying For?

Yes. For consumers with solid credit and a spending profile focused on travel and dining, the Chase Sapphire Preferred is an excellent choice. It offers a robust rewards program, exclusive protections, and points that truly add value, especially when used wisely.

The welcome bonus alone can earn you over $750 in travel, easily offsetting the $95 annual fee. Plus, access to the Ultimate Rewards platform allows you to maximize every point you earn.

Apply for Card Now

Credit Cards

Jonathan

July 30, 2025