Understanding the Chase 5/24 rule for credit card applications

If you're considering getting a Chase credit card, you need to be aware of the Chase 5/24 rule. This rule can significantly impact your chances of approval.

‍

In this article, you'll learn what the Chase 5/24 rule is, how it works, and how to navigate it to maximize your chances of getting the credit card you want. Understanding this rule lets you plan your applications strategically and avoid unnecessary rejections. Let's dive into the details.

What is the Chase 5/24 rule?

The Chase 5/24 Rule is a credit card application policy implemented by Chase to manage the approval of new credit accounts. Introduced to curb excessive credit seeking, this rule stipulates that if you have opened five or more personal credit cards across any banks within the last 24 months, Chase denies your application for a new card.

‍

This rule reflects Chase's approach to financial responsibility, aiming to limit potential risks associated with extending credit to individuals who frequently acquire new credit cards. It’s important to note that this rule counts all new credit card accounts from all issuers, not just those from Chase.

‍

This means that any new credit cards you’ve acquired, whether from large national banks, smaller regional banks, or credit unions, will contribute to this count. Understanding this can help you plan your credit activities and improve your chances of approval when applying for new Chase cards.

Understanding how the 5/24 rule works

The Chase 5/24 Rule closely monitors your credit card application history across all issuers. When you apply for a new Chase credit card, the bank automatically reviews the number of credit cards you've opened in the past 24 months, regardless of the issuing bank. This comprehensive count includes cards where you are the primary account holder and those where you are an authorized user.

‍

Due to this rule, you might need to prioritize which credit cards you apply for, especially considering multiple cards from different issuers. If obtaining a Chase card is your priority, it's strategic to apply for it before reaching the threshold of five new cards within two years. This approach ensures that your application falls within Chase's acceptance criteria, maximizing your approval chances and effectively managing your credit portfolio.

Why does Chase have this rule?

Chase introduced the 5/24 Rule to manage the financial risks associated with bonus-seekers who sign up for multiple credit cards primarily to earn sign-up bonuses. 

‍

These bonuses, offered to attract new customers, often include significant rewards for meeting a minimum spending requirement. However, if customers earn the bonus and stop using the card or cancel it, the bank incurs a loss.

‍

The 5/24 Rule helps Chase mitigate this issue by limiting the number of new credit cards a person can open within 24 months. This rule aims to prevent "churning," where individuals repeatedly open and close accounts to take advantage of sign-up bonuses. 

‍

While this specific rule applies to Chase, other banks have their own measures to control such practices and protect their financial interests. 

Calculating your 5/24 status

To determine your 5/24 status, check how many personal credit cards you've opened in the last 24 months across all issuers. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you calculate your status:

1. Obtain your credit report from Experian, Equifax, or TransUnion. Use AnnualCreditReport.com to get a free annual report.
2. Review your credit report's "Accounts" section, which lists all your open and closed credit accounts.
3. Focus on credit cards opened in the past 24 months. Note the opening dates of each card.
4. Count the number of personal credit cards opened within the last two years. Include cards from all issuers, not just Chase.
5. Include authorized user accounts in your count, as they may impact your 5/24 status.

Planning credit card applications around the 5/24 rule

Here are some recommendations and tips to guide you:

Limit your credit card applications

When planning your credit card applications, focus on limiting them to only those cards you truly want. If you are close to the 5/24 limit, apply for the credit cards you want most before reaching the threshold of five new cards in 24 months. This way, you can avoid automatic denials and ensure you secure the cards that best meet your needs. This strategic approach helps you make the most of your credit card applications without unnecessarily impacting your approval chances.

Record card opening dates

Keep a detailed record of the opening dates of all your credit cards. This helps you track when each account was opened and when it will age from the 24-month window. Use a simple spreadsheet or a dedicated app to log these dates and set reminders for when certain cards will no longer count towards the 5/24 limit.

Manage authorized user roles

Authorized user accounts also count towards the 5/24 Rule. If you are an authorized user on someone else’s card, it can impact your status. Consider removing yourself as an authorized user if it helps you stay under the limit. Additionally, if you are adding authorized users to your own cards, be aware of how it may affect their ability to apply for Chase cards.

Ramp: The smart alternative for business owners

By knowing how this rule works and how to calculate your status, you can make informed decisions about your credit applications. Limiting your credit card applications and keeping track of your card opening dates can help you stay within the limits and avoid unnecessary denials.

‍

However, if you’re looking for a business credit card instead of a personal one, consider the Ramp Corporate Card.

‍

Unlike personal credit cards subject to the 5/24 rule, Ramp offers a flexible solution for businesses without any personal credit check.

‍

Here’s what you can expect from Ramp:

• Freedom from 5/24 rule: Ramp doesn't employ restrictive policies like the 5/24 rule, allowing business owners to access the credit they need regardless of their personal credit card activities.
• No personal credit impact: Ramp doesn't require personal credit checks or guarantees, enabling a clear separation between personal and business finances.
• Efficient expense management: With preset controls to prevent out-of-policy spending and real-time insights, Ramp helps businesses manage their expenses more effectively than traditional credit cards.
• Time-saving features: Easy expense submissions and automated categorization streamline financial processes, saving you and your teams valuable time.
• Business-focused rewards: Ramp offers competitive rewards and perks designed specifically for businesses, helping you maximize the value of your company's spending.

‍

By choosing Ramp, business owners can sidestep the complexities associated with personal credit card rules like Chase's 5/24 policy. Instead, you’ll gain access to a powerful financial management tool tailored to your business needs.

‍

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article has not been officially confirmed by Chase and is subject to change.