Chase 24 Month Rule Explained: How to Get Credit Card Bonuses in 2025
Dig into the Chase 24 month rule: what it means, why it matters for credit card bonuses, and practical tips to get the most from Chase in 2025.
Chase 24 Month Rule – Simple Guide to Boost Your Rewards
If you own a Chase card you’ve probably heard people talk about the "24 month rule". It’s not a secret law, just a habit that helps you get the most points while keeping your credit healthy. In this guide we break down the rule, why it matters, and what you can do today to make it work for you.
How the rule works
The basic idea is to treat your Chase account like a short‑term loan. Every 24 months you aim to reset the balance to zero, either by paying it off in full or by moving the debt to a 0 % balance transfer offer. By doing this you avoid a long‑term revolving balance that can drag down your credit score and increase interest costs.
Chase rewards are earned on purchases, not on the amount you carry over. So as long as you pay off the balance each month, you keep earning points without paying interest. The 24‑month window is a safe cushion – it gives you enough time to plan a big purchase, spread it over a couple of months, and still clear the debt before the next cycle.
Practical steps to apply the rule
1. Mark your calendar. Set a reminder for the date you opened the card, then add 24 months. When the deadline approaches, plan a payoff strategy.
2. Track your spending. Use the Chase app or a simple spreadsheet to see how much you’ve spent each month. Knowing the exact total helps you avoid surprises at the end.
3. Pay more than the minimum. Even a small extra payment each month reduces the balance faster and keeps the interest‑free period intact.
4. Consider a balance transfer. If you can’t pay the full amount, look for a 0 % transfer offer that lasts at least 12 months. Transfer the balance before the 24‑month mark, then pay it off during the promo period.
5. Watch your credit utilization. Aim for a utilization rate under 30 % – ideally under 10 % – on the month you report to the bureau. This keeps your credit score from dipping.
6. Keep the card active. Even after you pay off the balance, keep using the card for small purchases you can pay off immediately. This shows the issuer you’re a regular user and helps you collect more points.
Following these steps means you’ll enjoy the full reward rate, avoid costly interest, and keep your credit score healthy. The rule isn’t a hard law – you can adjust the timing to fit your cash flow – but staying within a 24‑month window gives you a clear deadline and reduces the temptation to let a balance sit.
Remember, the goal is simple: use the card to earn points, then wipe the slate clean before the next cycle. That way you get the perks without the price tag. Start setting up your reminders today and watch your rewards grow while your credit stays strong.
