How I’m maxing out Freedom rotating category at Amazon this quarter

By DFB Guy On Apr 14, 2024

As a prolific reader, I’ve loved Amazon since it was just an online bookstore. However, now we can find almost anything we want or need on Amazon, delivered to us within two days with our Amazon Prime subscription.

Today, I turn to Amazon for pretty much everything, including clothes, electronics, household essentials, books and, of course, everything I need for travel. My credit card accounts always show a spike in Amazon transactions in the weeks leading up to a big trip.

So when I saw that Amazon was once again one of the 5% earning categories on Chase Freedom (no longer available to new applicants) and Chase Freedom Flex℠ for this quarter (activation required), I celebrated. For these three months, my Chase Ultimate Rewards points will pile up as fast as the Amazon boxes in my recycle bin.

The information for the Chase Freedom credit card has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Here’s how I’m making the most of the Amazon bonus category this quarter.

Upgrade my travel essentials

I always use Amazon to restock my tiny toiletries before a trip, like my favorite makeup wipes. However, I’m taking advantage of the bonus earnings this quarter to upgrade some of my larger travel items.

I’ve found my favorite packing cubes and headphones at Amazon, so it’s no surprise that Amazon is where I’m turning to find a new portable phone charger, airplane pillow and packable rain jacket.

I also finally got on the bandwagon of AirTags ahead of a trip to Europe.

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Stock up on household and pet items

The spring cleaning and decorating bug gets me every year, so I’m checking Amazon for the cleaning and decor items I need before going to my usual local stores. Amazon almost always comes through with exactly what I’m looking for at a great price, so I’m using the Freedom bonus earnings as an excellent excuse to click “add to cart” on things like fresh linens and new outdoor chairs.

I’m also stocking up on things I know I’ll need soon, even if I haven’t run out of them yet. It’s safe to assume my dog will keep expecting a daily treat, and I’ll keep drinking my favorite cold brew for the next few months, so I’m placing an order for both while I can earn bonus points on them.

Order gifts

The spring gift season is upon us, and for once, I’m going in prepared. I’ll get all my gifts for Mother’s Day, graduations, weddings and birthdays from Amazon.

Also, since creativity can be hard to come by at this busy time of year, I’ll probably go the easy route and send some digital Amazon gift cards. I love that I can choose a holiday-specific graphic, add a message and schedule the date it will arrive in the recipient’s email.

Plus, if (when) I decide to get myself a present or two as I shop for others, I’ll feel less guilty knowing I’m earning bonus points on all of it.

Make a plan

Chase Freedom and Freedom Flex cardholders can earn 5% back on the first $1,500 in total purchases from Amazon through June 30. After the first $1,500, the Freedom and Freedom Flex earn 1% back on Amazon purchases.

Because of this, I’m carefully tracking my progress toward this maximum so I can switch strategies when I reach it. Once I do, I’ll switch back to my Prime Visa as my default card — at least until I’m working on my next juicy welcome bonus.

Even though I can earn 5% back year-round with my Prime Visa, I jump on the opportunity to earn 5 Chase Ultimate Rewards points per dollar on my Amazon purchases when it’s an option. Since I also have the Chase Sapphire Reserve®, I can transfer these rewards to any of Chase’s 14 transfer partners and get more than double the value from my points, according to TPG valuations.