Chase Sapphire Reserve Approval Guide: Credit Score & Requirements
The Chase Sapphire Reserve from Chase is one of the most competitive credit cards in the travel rewards cards category. With a rating of 9/10, it offers a $550 annual fee and impressive rewards including 10x travel, 10x dining, 3x all other.
In this comprehensive review, we break down everything you need to know about the Chase Sapphire Reserve: rewards structure, fees, APR, welcome bonus, and how it compares to competitors. Whether you are looking for your first rewards card or adding to your wallet, this guide covers it all.
Chase Sapphire Reserve Overview
The Chase Sapphire Reserve is issued by Chase and is designed for consumers with Excellent (740+). It carries a rating of 9/10 from our experts. For those with good to excellent credit, this card can be a valuable addition to your wallet.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Issuer | Chase |
| Annual Fee | $550 |
| Intro APR | N/A |
| Regular APR | 21.24% - 28.24% Variable |
| Rewards | 10x travel, 10x dining, 3x all other |
| Welcome Bonus | 60,000 points after $4,000 in first 3 months |
| Credit Score | Excellent (740+) |
| Foreign Tx Fee | 0% |
Rewards & Benefits Breakdown
The Chase Sapphire Reserve earns 10x travel, 10x dining, 3x all other. Here is the detailed breakdown of earning rates:
| Category | Reward Rate |
|---|---|
| All Purchases | 10x travel, 10x dining, 3x all other |
| Welcome Bonus | 60,000 points after $4,000 in first 3 months |
| Intro APR | N/A |
| Credit Score | Excellent (740+) |
To offset the $550 annual fee, make sure you earn at least $27500 in rewards annually through travel and dining spending.
Fees & APR Analysis
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Annual Fee | $550 |
| Purchase APR | 21.24% - 28.24% Variable |
| Balance Transfer APR | 21.24% - 28.24% Variable |
| Foreign Transaction Fee | 0% |
Chase Sapphire Reserve vs Competitors
See how Chase Sapphire Reserve stacks up against similar cards.
| Card | Fee | Rewards | Bonus | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Delta SkyMiles Gold | $0 | 2x Delta/restaurants, 1x else | 50,000 miles after $2,000 in first 3 ... | 7/10 |
| United Explorer | $0 | 2x United/dining, 1x else | 50,000 miles after $3,000 in first 3 ... | 7/10 |
| JetBlue Plus | $99 | 3x JetBlue, 2x dining/grocery, 1x else | 50,000 points after $1,000 in first 3... | 7/10 |
| Capital One Venture Rewards | $95 | 5x hotels/rental cars, 2x all else | 75,000 miles after $4,000 in first 3 ... | 8/10 |
| Capital One Venture X | $395 | 10x hotels/rental cars, 5x flights, 2x else | 75,000 miles after $4,000 in first 3 ... | 9/10 |
Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Competitive rewards rate: 10x travel, 10x dining, 3x all other
- Welcome bonus: 60,000 points after $4,000 in first 3 months
- No foreign transaction fees
- Issued by reputable Chase
- High expert rating of 9/10
❌ Cons
- Annual fee of $550
- Higher than average APR
The Chase Sapphire Reserve is best for consumers who spend heavily in bonus categories and can justify the annual fee. If you have Excellent (740+) credit and spend $894/month on average, this card could earn you significant value.
How to Apply for Chase Sapphire Reserve
Applying for the Chase Sapphire Reserve is straightforward. Here is the step-by-step process:
- 1
Check Your Credit Score
Before applying, check your credit score. You need Excellent (740+) for the best approval odds.
- 2
Compare Your Options
Compare the Chase Sapphire Reserve with similar cards from other issuers to ensure it is the right fit.
- 3
Gather Required Information
You will need your Social Security number, income information, and address to apply.
- 4
Complete the Online Application
Visit Chase.com or the Chase mobile app. The application takes about 5-10 minutes.
- 5
Await Approval Decision
Most applicants receive an instant decision. If approved, your card will arrive in 7-10 business days.
Frequently Asked Questions
You need Excellent (740+) credit to be approved for the Chase Sapphire Reserve. Approval is not guaranteed and depends on your overall credit profile.
The $550 annual fee can be easily offset if you earn the welcome bonus and use the card for travel and dining.
The purchase APR is 21.24% - 28.24% Variable.
No, the Chase Sapphire Reserve does not charge foreign transaction fees, making it great for international travel.
Rewards can be redeemed through your Chase online account. Options typically include statement credits, gift cards, travel bookings, and direct deposits.
Conclusion
The Chase Sapphire Reserve is a solid choice in the travel rewards cards category. With a $550 annual fee and competitive rewards, it offers good value for the right consumer.
We recommend this card for anyone with Excellent (740+) credit looking for travel rewards on their everyday spending. Compare it with other cards in our list to find the best fit for your wallet.
The Chase Sapphire Reserve earns 10x travel, 10x dining, 3x all other. With a rating of 9/10, it is one of the better options in the travel rewards cards space. Recommended for consumers with Excellent (740+) credit.