Understanding Chase's 5/24 Rule: What Counts and How to Navigate It

Chase's 5/24 rule limits approval for most of its credit cards to applicants who have opened fewer than five personal credit cards from any bank within the past 24 months. The policy applies to many popular Chase rewards cards, including cobranded offerings, though it is not officially published. Applicant data points confirm the rule's existence, and it is a key consideration for points and miles enthusiasts.

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The 5/24 rule applies to a wide range of Chase-issued cards, including airline cobranded cards from United, British Airways, and Aeroplan, as well as hotel cards from IHG and Marriott. Even Chase's popular Freedom and Sapphire lines fall under the restriction. Business cards from the Ink and Southwest portfolios are also included, though only personal cards opened across all banks count toward the five-card threshold.

Chase has never formally published the policy, yet consistent applicant data points confirm its enforcement. For points and miles enthusiasts, this makes strategic card acquisition essential — timing applications carefully