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.
Credit Card Bonuses – Quick Guide to Getting the Best Offers
Ever wondered why some people seem to collect points like candy while you’re stuck with a plain card? It’s all about credit card bonuses. These are one‑off rewards you get for signing up, meeting a spend threshold, or just using the card the right way. In this guide you’ll see what they are, which offers are worth chasing, and how to lock them in without hurting your credit.
What Are Credit Card Bonuses?
A bonus is a lump‑sum of points, miles or cash back that appears on your account after you satisfy a set of rules. The most common rule is a spend requirement – for example, spend £1,000 in the first three months and grab 20,000 points. Some cards throw in a welcome bonus plus a higher ongoing earn rate. Others offer a “no‑spend” bonus just for opening the account, but those are rarer.
Why do banks hand out these offers? They want new customers, and a big bonus can tip the scales. The catch is the bonus usually comes with an annual fee, a higher APR, or a limited time frame. Knowing the fine print helps you decide if the reward outweighs the cost.
How to Maximise Your Bonus
First, pick a card that matches your spending habits. If you fly a lot, a travel‑focused card with airline miles will give you more value per point than a cash‑back card. If you spend mostly on groceries and bills, look for a high‑cash‑back bonus that rewards everyday purchases.
Second, plan the spend. Use existing expenses you already have – grocery trips, utility bills, even prepaid phone credit – to hit the threshold. Some people buy gift cards at a discount or pre‑pay for annual subscriptions earlier to meet the target faster.
Third, time your applications. Banks often reset bonus offers quarterly. If you’ve just missed a big bonus, wait a few weeks and apply again when a fresh promotion appears. Keep an eye on credit checks, though; too many applications in a short period can ding your score.
Fourth, set a reminder to avoid the “spend‑and‑forget” trap. Some bonuses disappear if you don’t claim them within a specific window after meeting the spend. A quick calendar alert ensures you don’t lose points you’ve already earned.
Finally, consider the annual fee. A £150 fee might look steep, but if the bonus is worth £300 in travel value, you’re still ahead. Calculate the net gain by subtracting the fee and any interest you might pay if you carry a balance.
Putting it all together: Choose a card that fits your lifestyle, map out the spend, watch the promo calendar, claim the bonus on time, and run the numbers against any fees. Follow these steps and you’ll start seeing a healthy boost to your rewards pile without any guesswork.
