Chase Freedom Flex – How to apply

By Raquel Oliveira • 04/08/2025

This credit card is perfect for those who want many benefits and enjoy all related advantages.

The Chase Freedom Flex credit card is a strong option for individuals who want to maximize their cashback rewards. It offers unlimited 1% cashback on all purchases, along with higher rates in select bonus categories.

A major highlight is the 5% cashback on rotating categories that change each quarter. Cardholders also earn 5% on travel purchases booked through Chase Ultimate Rewards and 3% on dining and drugstore purchases.

New users can benefit from a $200 welcome bonus after spending $500 within the first three months, making it an appealing choice for those seeking valuable and accessible rewards.

In this article, we’ll explain how the card works, outline its key benefits, review potential drawbacks and fees, and guide you through the application process — helping you decide if it aligns with your financial habits and spending goals.

How does the Chase Freedom Flex work?

The Chase Freedom Flex is a cashback credit card designed to reward you for everyday spending. To make the most of it, you need to activate the rotating bonus categories each quarter.

These categories let you earn higher cashback rates on specific spending areas like groceries or gas, up to a set limit.

For other purchases, the card offers standard cashback rates. Your rewards are tracked as points in the Chase Ultimate Rewards program. You can redeem these points for cash back, statement credits, gift cards, or travel through the Chase portal. 

There’s no minimum redemption amount, so you can use your rewards whenever you’re ready. You can also link your card to your Amazon account to use points for purchases.

Main Benefits of the Chase Freedom Flex Credit Card

• Five percent cashback on rotating categories that change quarterly, allowing users to earn more on selected purchases like gas, groceries, or streaming services.
• Five percent cashback on travel purchases made through Chase Ultimate Rewards, making it an attractive option for frequent travelers looking to save on bookings.
• Three percent cashback on dining and drugstore purchases, including restaurants, delivery services, fast food, and in-store or online pharmacy purchases.
• Zero percent introductory APR for fifteen months on purchases and balance transfers, helping cardholders manage large purchases or consolidate existing balances.

Cons for the Chase Freedom Flex

While the Chase Freedom Flex has a lot to offer, it’s not perfect. One downside is that you have to remember to activate the 5% cashback categories each quarter. If you forget, you miss out on those extra rewards. 

There’s also a cap on how much you can earn in these categories—5% cashback is limited to $1,500 in combined purchases per quarter.

Another drawback is that big retailers like Walmart and Target often don’t count for bonus cashback in grocery categories. The rotating categories and restrictions can be a bit complicated if you prefer a simpler rewards system. 

Lastly, the card charges a 3% foreign transaction fee, so it’s not the best choice if you travel internationally. If these limitations don’t bother you, though, the card can still be a great option.

APR and Fees of the Chase Freedom Flex Credit Card

Understanding the fees and interest rates associated with the Chase Freedom Flex credit card is crucial for making informed financial decisions and maximizing cashback rewards.

• Zero percent introductory APR for fifteen months on purchases and balance transfers, allowing users to finance expenses without interest during the initial period.
• After the promotional period, the APR adjusts to a variable rate between twenty point forty-nine percent and twenty-nine point twenty-four percent, depending on the cardholder’s creditworthiness.
• No annual fee, ensuring that users can enjoy cashback rewards without additional yearly costs or maintenance charges.
• Three percent foreign transaction fee, which can increase costs for users who make frequent international purchases or travel outside the United States.

How to Apply for the Chase Freedom Flex Credit Card

Applying for the Chase Freedom Flex credit card is a quick and simple process that can be completed online through the Chase website or through the bank’s mobile application.

• Visit the Chase website and go to the credit card section to find the Chase Freedom Flex application page and begin the process.
• Fill out the application form with required details, including name, address, income, and Social Security number, to allow for a creditworthiness evaluation.
• Submit the form and wait for the approval process, which typically provides an instant decision based on credit history and financial standing.
• If approved, the physical credit card will be mailed within seven to ten business days, after which it can be activated and used for purchases immediately.

Who Should Apply for the Chase Freedom Flex Credit Card?

The Chase Freedom Flex credit card is best suited for individuals who want a flexible cashback system with rotating bonus categories that allow them to earn higher rewards on select purchases.

It is a strong option for users who value a no-annual-fee credit card, ensuring that every cashback dollar earned remains in their pocket rather than being offset by maintenance costs.

Additionally, it benefits frequent travelers who book through Chase Ultimate Rewards, as the five percent cashback on travel purchases increases overall rewards accumulation and savings.

However, individuals who prefer straightforward cashback rewards without category activation may find other credit cards more convenient, as this card requires quarterly enrollment for rotating categories.

Final Considerations

The Chase Freedom Flex credit card provides a strong cashback structure, no annual fee, and a long zero percent APR period, making it an excellent option for users seeking dynamic and customizable rewards.

While the foreign transaction fees and category activation requirements may limit its flexibility, the five percent cashback on travel, dining, and rotating purchases makes it a valuable choice for everyday spending.

Before applying, consider whether this card’s features align with your financial habits, ensuring that it provides the maximum benefits based on your lifestyle and purchasing preferences.