Chase Freedom Rise℠ Review (2026)
What is the Chase Freedom Rise℠?
Chase's first true "first card" play. If you have $250+ sitting in a Chase checking account, Freedom Rise becomes one of the easier paths into the Chase ecosystem — useful long-term if you're aiming at Sapphire or Freedom Unlimited later.
Written by FairScoreGuide Editorial — Editorial Desk · Last updated
Issuer: JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. · credit cards · Editorial score: 8.2/10
Overview
Chase's first true "first card" play. If you have $250+ sitting in a Chase checking account, Freedom Rise becomes one of the easier paths into the Chase ecosystem — useful long-term if you're aiming at Sapphire or Freedom Unlimited later.
At a glance
- Editor rating
- 8.2/10Editor’s rating 8.2 out of 10
- Annual fee
- $0
- APR range
- ~28.49% variable
- Typical credit
- Building credit (~620+)
Best for
- Existing Chase customers ready for their first unsecured rewards card
- Builders aiming to graduate into Sapphire or Freedom Unlimited
Features
- 1.5% cash back on every purchase
- Intro Lyft and DoorDash perks for cardholders
- Approval is significantly easier with a Chase checking account funded $250+
- $0 annual fee
- Reports to all three major credit bureaus
Fees
| Annual fee | $0 |
|---|---|
| Foreign transaction fee | 3% |
| Late payment fee | Up to $40 |
Pros
- Entry point into the Chase relationship — useful for upgrading later
- 1.5% flat earn rate with no annual fee
- Real perks (Lyft, DoorDash) baked in for first-time cardholders
Cons
- Approval much harder without a Chase checking account
- 3% foreign transaction fee makes this a poor travel pick
- High variable APR; pay in full each cycle
Alternatives
Offer availability and terms can change. Confirm current APR, fees, and eligibility requirements on the issuer page before submitting an application.
Common questions
Is this review independent?
Yes. Ratings reflect editorial criteria described in our review methodology. We may earn a commission when you apply through partner links.
Will applying affect my credit?
Credit card applications typically involve a hard inquiry. Check for prequalification options on the issuer site when available.
How often is this page updated?
We refresh key facts when issuer disclosures change. See the published date signals on this page and our data sourcing notes for methodology.