What is the Chase 5/24 Rule?

Once you understand how Travel Hacking works, it changes everything! One of the foundational lessons is understanding the Chase 5/24 rule. Whether you're a seasoned travel hacker or a newcomer to the world of rewards points, understanding how this rule shapes your credit card strategy can mean the difference between unlocking Chase's most coveted rewards and facing automatic rejection. Chase credit cards often come with lucrative signup bonuses, generous rewards programs, and valuable perks like travel insurance or airport lounge access. So you want to make sure that you don't miss out on those rewards.

The Chase 5/24 Rule

The Chase 5/24 Rule is a policy implemented by Chase Bank that impacts individuals applying for their credit cards. It means that if you have opened five or more credit cards in the last 24 months, Chase will automatically deny your application for certain credit cards.

This includes any store credit cards (Like Old Navy, Target, Best Buy, etc), as well as credit cards from other companies (Like American Express, Discover, Capital One, etc). The only exception to this is business cards that you have opened in your name. This is why it is really important to be particular and strategic about what cards you do and don't sign up for, as well as the strategic order in which you apply for cards.

Why the Chase 5/24 Rule Matters

When you're beginning in Travel Hacking, you should always need to sign up for Chase Credit Cards first. If you start with Chase Cards, you can always sign up for other great cards from American Express, Capital One, Citi, and others later on. On the flip side, if you sign up for those cards before signing up for Chase Cards, it will affect your 5/24 number, and likely keep you from some great Chase Cards & offers.

Discovering your 5/24 Number?

There are two ways to calculate your 5/24 Number. First, you can simply think back to how many credit cards you've opened in the past 24 months. For some, that's hard to remember or know with certainty though. Second, you could use Credit Karma. This free tool will allow to look at your Credit Score and see the history of each credit card you've opened. 

So calculate your 5/24 Number and dive into Travel Hacking today! Better yet, after you know your 5/24 Number, enroll in my Launch Into Travel Hacking Course. In there, I'll help you learn how to sign up for the right Chase Cards, in the right order, to unlock thousands of dollars in free travel that you'd likely miss out on if you just try to do it on your own.