Chase Preapproval: How To Prequalify for Chase Credit Cards

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Chase credit cards are some of the most prized cards on the market. Customers recognize the bank’s generous rewards programs and other perks, like free travel upgrades and more. So, if you’ve received a Chase preapproval, you’re in luck. But what if you haven’t? 

What exactly are Chase preapprovals, and how do they work? Keep reading to learn more. 

How Does Chase Preapproval Work?

When you receive a preapproval from Chase, whether by mail or email, it means that you’ve passed the first step of the approval process. But a preapproval doesn’t mean the bank has approved you for a credit card. You’ll have to apply and provide further information about your identity and income in order to be fully approved for a credit card.

This differs from prequalification. When you’re prequalified, you’ve typically reached out to the credit card issuer to find out whether you qualify for any offers and for which ones. The issuer then presents a list of offers for which you will likely qualify. As is the case with preapprovals, this is no guarantee of approval, but it’s a good first step.   

How Can You See if You’re Preapproved for Chase?

Chase doesn’t offer a preapproval page on its website to let you know if you’re preapproved. If you haven’t gotten a notice in the mail for Chase preapproval, you can walk into any local branch to find out if you’re preapproved. Simply ask to speak to a banker to discuss your options. 

How To Increase Your Chances of Preapproval

As with any other credit card, there are a few things you can do to increase your chances of preapproval and approval for a Chase credit card. Those include:

1. Pay your bills on time: Chase offers premium credit cards, which means you’ll typically need good to excellent credit to qualify. You can build your credit by making sure you pay all of your bills on time as agreed. 
2. Keep your balances low: If you use too much of your available credit, lenders may see it as a red flag. A general rule of thumb is to keep your credit card and other revolving balances below 30% of your credit limit.
3. Don’t pay minimums: Treat minimum payments as a last resort. Instead, make larger than minimum payments to show creditors that you’re a worthy borrower. 
4. Open a checking account: You can increase your chances for approval by opening a Chase checking account. 

Best Chase Credit Cards for Preapproval

Some of the best Chase credit cards you’ll want preapproval for include:

• : The Chase Sapphire Preferred card is a travel rewards credit card. You can earn 60,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 in the first three months. You will be able to earn 3x the points on dining and 5x the points on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards. These great rewards come with a annual fee. 
• : The Chase Freedom Unlimited card is a cash-back card. Users will earn 1.5% or more cash back on all purchase categories and this card has no annual fee.
• : The Chase Freedom Flex is another cash-back credit card. You’ll earn a $200 bonus after spending $500 in the first three months. You will also earn up to 5% cash back in a variety of categories when you use the card. This is another credit card that comes with no annual fee. 

The Benefits of Having a Chase Credit Card

Chase credit cards are most well-known for the rewards they offer. These rewards are typically in two categories:

• Cash back: Cash-back rewards credit cards, like Chase Freedom Flex and Chase Freedom Unlimited, give you a way to earn cash every time you spend money using your credit card. 
• Travel rewards: Travel rewards credit cards, like the Chase Sapphire Preferred and Marriott Bonvoy Boundless credit cards, offer you points each time you swipe your card. Once you have enough points, you can redeem your points for travel rewards like free airfare, car rentals and airline tickets. 

Although these rewards programs are enjoyable, they’re not the only reason to consider getting a Chase credit card. 

Additional Advantages of Chase Credit Cards

Some additional advantages to having a Chase credit card in your wallet include:

• Travel insurance: Most Chase credit cards come with some form of travel insurance. This insurance may cover events like trip interruptions, flight cancellations or rental car accidents. 
• Travel upgrades: Many Chase travel rewards credit cards come with additional travel upgrades. These upgrades often include a free companion ticket each year, a free checked bag or even free in-flight meals. 
• Purchase protection: Chase also offers purchase protection that protects you in the event of theft or damage. For example, if you buy a laptop using your Chase credit card and drop it, damaging it beyond repair, you may be able to file a claim and receive reimbursement for your broken laptop. 
• Fraud protection: Chase never holds you liable for fraudulent purchases. If someone other than you uses your credit card for a purchase, you’re not going to have to foot the bill. 

Final Take

If you’re interested in getting a new credit card, Chase is a great option. Their credit cards come with industry-leading rewards and other perks. Consider applying for a Chase credit card online today. 

Daria Uhlig and Daniela Rivera-Herrera contributed to the reporting for this article.

Data is accurate as of June 30, 2023, and is subject to change.

Editorial Note: This content is not provided by any entity covered in this article. Any opinions, analyses, reviews, ratings or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the author alone and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any entity named in this article.

The information related to Chase Sapphire Preferred, Chase Freedom Unlimited and Chase Freedom Flex was collected by GOBankingRates and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of this product/card. Product details may vary. Please see the issuer’s website for current information. GOBankingRates does not receive commission for this product.

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