I’ve found a strategic blend of benefits that suit my lifestyle and spending habits using Bilt Rewards, Chase Sapphire Reserve, Chase Ink Unlimited, and Chase Freedom Flex. Here’s a breakdown of each card and how I leverage their perks and rewards to maximize my cents per point (CPP) when redeeming points.
CPP = (cash cost – fees/taxes) / # points used
- Chase Sapphire Reserve (referral link) is a powerhouse travel card offering travel credit, access to Priority Pass and Chase Sapphire lounges, Global Entry credit, and perks for dining, hotels, and Lyft.
- Chase Ink Unlimited (referral link) is my “catch-all” card with unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase
- Chase Freedom Flex (referral link) offers 5% cash back in rotating quarterly categories for up to $1,500. I max these out using gift cards, depending on the category.
- Bilt Rewards (referral link) is one of the few cards on the market that allows one to earn points on rent payments without a transaction fee. This feature makes it a standout choice for renters who accumulate points on a significant monthly expense. I need five transactions per statement to accrue the points, so in addition to rent, I use the Bilt on small purchases here and there.
By using each card for its highest-earning categories and taking advantage of transferable points and bonuses, I try to amplify my rewards. For example, paying rent with the Bilt Rewards Mastercard, dining and traveling with the Chase Sapphire Reserve, covering other expenses with the Chase Ink Unlimited, and utilizing the Chase Freedom Flex for its rotating categories ensures I consistently earn the most points possible.
Also, one of the advantages of having multiple Chase cards (a “trifecta” in this case) is the ability to combine Ultimate Rewards points onto the Chase Sapphire Reserve card. This allows me to leverage the 50% bonus on travel redemptions or transfer points to travel partners (my preferred route), maximizing the value of every point earned.
Each card’s balance is auto-paid from my Chase Sapphire checking account every month.
Drop me a comment below with questions!
