Massive Changes to Chase Sapphire Reserve: Is It Still Worth It in 2025?

Chase has officially redrawn the premium credit card battlefield. On June 23, 2025, the bank launched its long-rumored Chase Sapphire Reserve® for Business — and it came with a twist. Alongside it, Chase quietly but significantly revamped its flagship Sapphire Reserve® (Personal) card.

The result? A bold and calculated move to challenge the Amex Platinum, Capital One Venture X, and every other card in the high-end travel rewards space — not just with flashy perks, but with real, tangible value.

What’s New: Chase’s Massive Two-Card Revamp

Chase Reserve for Business: $3,500+ in Annual Credits

Chase is clearly targeting business owners who value real-world utility over aspirational perks. Here’s what comes with the Sapphire Reserve for Business:

• ✅ $300 Annual Travel Credit
  
• ✅ $500 The Edit Hotel Credit (2x $250 credits)
  
• ✅ $200 Google Workspace Credit
  
• ✅ $100 GiftCards.com Credit
  
• ✅ $400 ZipRecruiter Credit
  
• ✅ $120 DoorDash DashPass
  
• ✅ $60 DoorDash Dining Credits
  
• ✅ $240 DoorDash Non-Restaurant Credits
  
• ✅ $120 Global Entry/PreCheck/NEXUS
  
• ✅ $120 Lyft Credit
  

Total Value: Over $3,560 — more than 4x the annual fee if used wisely.

Sapphire Reserve (Personal): Lifestyle Loyalty Perks

The personal version of the card received a refresh too, including:

• $300 Travel Credit
  
• $120 Instacart+ & $60 Instacart Credit
  
• $120 Apple One Credit
  
• $120 Peloton Credit
  
• $120 DoorDash DashPass
  
• $120 Lyft Credits
  
• $100 Global Entry/NEXUS
  
• $50 Entertainment Credit (Sapphire Tables, StubHub, etc.)
  

These updates make it one of the most well-rounded lifestyle rewards cards on the market.

Rewards Earning & Redemption: What’s Changing?

Redemption Value Tip: Chase’s new Points Boost system offers dynamic redemptions up to 2¢ per point, compared to Amex’s static 1¢–1.5¢ per point (unless booking premium travel).

Competitive Comparison: Chase vs Amex Platinum vs Capital One Venture X

💡 Verdict: Chase now rivals Amex on luxury while beating them on practical use, especially for small business owners who can actually use ZipRecruiter or Workspace credits.

Application Tips & Eligibility

• 5/24 Rule: Applies to personal card; unclear for business card (likely yes)
  
• Sapphire Rule: You can now hold both the personal and business Sapphire cards
  
• Bonus Eligibility: You’re eligible for the business bonus even if you’ve received a Sapphire personal bonus in the past 48 months
  

Pro Tip: Apply through your Chase business banking portal if eligible — internal approval rates tend to be higher.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

Yes — if you can unlock the full value.
The Chase Sapphire Reserve overhaul represents a massive shift in the premium credit card space. Rather than focusing only on “luxury travel,” Chase has leaned into a high-ROI, real-world value strategy that rewards cardholders who spend and redeem smartly.

Whether you’re a points enthusiast or a business owner looking for premium travel protection and versatile rewards, this new Sapphire lineup delivers more than just prestige — it offers purchasable practicality.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the 4-year rule for Chase Sapphire Reserve?

Chase’s 4-year rule means you can only receive the welcome bonus on a Sapphire card (Preferred or Reserve) if it has been at least 48 months since you last earned a Sapphire bonus. It applies across both cards — not per card.

Is the Chase Sapphire Reserve increasing its annual fee?

Yes. As of June 23, 2025, the Chase Sapphire Reserve annual fee increased from $550 to $795. However, the card also added over $3,500 in value through new perks, credits, and travel benefits.

Does Chase Sapphire Reserve cover TSA PreCheck or Global Entry?

Yes. Cardholders receive a $100 statement credit every four years for Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, or NEXUS application fees. This benefit is available on both the personal and business versions.

What can I replace the Chase Sapphire Reserve with?

If the higher annual fee doesn’t justify the perks for you, top alternatives include:

• Capital One Venture X – Lower $395 fee, 2X points on everything, and $300 travel credit.
  
• Amex Platinum – $695 fee with luxury lifestyle credits and premium lounge access.
• Chase Sapphire Preferred – $95 fee with 3X on dining/travel and access to Chase Ultimate Rewards.