A Surprising Shift in Benefits
In a recent announcement, Chase has confirmed the discontinuation of the 10% anniversary points bonus for its popular Sapphire Preferred card, effective October 1, 2026. This change comes as part of Chase's ongoing evaluation of cardholder benefits, and it reflects a broader trend in the credit card industry where issuers are reassessing what perks resonate most with consumers. For many cardholders, this seemingly small bonus was a nice touch — an annual gift of points based on spending from the previous year. However, its removal raises questions about the card's overall value.
What the 10% Anniversary Bonus Entailed
Introduced in 2021, the 10% anniversary bonus allowed cardholders to earn a bonus equal to 10% of their total spending during the previous year, calculated based only on base spending (1 point per dollar) and not on category multipliers or welcome bonuses. For example, if you spent $25,000 on the card, you would receive 2,500 bonus points — worth about $25 if redeemed for travel or cash back. While it was a modest perk, it provided an added incentive to remain loyal to the card, especially for those who regularly spent in non-bonus categories.
The Bigger Picture: What This Means for Cardholders
The decision to cut this benefit may not come as a shock, given that many cardholders have likely overlooked it. However, the timing is critical. As Chase looks to attract a younger demographic, it’s likely that they will introduce new features or benefits that align better with tech-savvy consumers’ expectations. The removal of the anniversary bonus could be a precursor to more significant changes, potentially shifting the focus towards more innovative rewards structures that appeal to a new generation.
For consumers, this change prompts a reassessment of their current credit card strategies. It’s an opportunity to evaluate whether the Sapphire Preferred still meets your financial needs, especially considering other cards on the market that may offer more compelling rewards. For instance, the Amex Gold card provides 4x points on dining and 3x points on flights, making it a strong contender for foodies and travelers alike.
Consider the Current Offers
If you’re considering making a switch, now might be the perfect time to explore other credit card options. The Chase Sapphire Preferred is currently offering a competitive sign-up bonus of 60,000 points after spending $4,000 in the first three months, along with 2x points on travel and dining. These offers can significantly enhance your rewards potential, especially with the impending changes to the Sapphire Preferred’s benefits structure.
Streamlining Your Rewards with SuperPay
To navigate these changes effortlessly, consider utilizing SuperPay. With its Rewards Roadmap (PRO+) feature, SuperPay provides a personalized plan tailored to your spending habits, helping you maximize your points across all cards. The tool assesses how the loss of the anniversary bonus impacts your rewards strategy and suggests optimal cards to use for various purchases, ensuring you never miss out on potential earnings.
Additionally, the Smart Card Picker feature tells you exactly which card to use at each store, making it easier to earn the most points possible, especially during this transition period.
Take Action Today
As Chase prepares to phase out the 10% anniversary bonus, it’s crucial to reassess your credit card strategy. Download SuperPay on the App Store today to start optimizing your rewards and take control of your credit card benefits before the changes take effect. Don’t wait — ensure you’re making the most out of every dollar spent.