Credit card churning is a popular strategy where individuals apply for credit cards with lucrative sign-up bonuses, earn the rewards, and potentially cancel or downgrade the card before the annual fee hits. The goal is to maximize points, miles, or cashback without long-term commitments. For this approach to be effective, finding credit cards with the best sign-up bonuses is essential. Here are some of the top credit card offers currently available that make for excellent churning opportunities.
- Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
The Chase Sapphire Preferred® is a favorite among churners due to its high-value sign-up bonus. The card frequently offers a substantial bonus, often around 60,000-80,000 Chase Ultimate Rewards® points after spending $4,000 within the first three months of account opening. These points can be worth $750-$1,000 when redeemed for travel through the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal or transferred to airline and hotel partners for potentially even higher value.
With an annual fee of $95, this card provides good flexibility for redeeming rewards, making it one of the best sign-up bonuses for credit card churning.
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- American Express® Gold Card
The American Express® Gold Card is another solid choice, especially for those who can take advantage of its travel and dining rewards. The sign-up bonus often sits at around 60,000 Membership Rewards® points after spending $4,000 in the first six months. These points can be used for flights, hotels, or transferred to Amex’s travel partners for valuable redemptions.
The card comes with a $250 annual fee, but its perks—including dining credits and airline fee credits—can help offset this cost. For churners, the key is to maximize the sign-up bonus while utilizing the benefits within the first year.
- Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card typically offers a sign-up bonus of 75,000 miles after spending $4,000 in the first three months. These miles are worth $750 towards travel, making it a valuable card for churning enthusiasts who seek easy-to-redeem rewards.
With an annual fee of $95, the card also earns 2X miles on all purchases, allowing churners to continue accumulating rewards even after meeting the initial spending requirement.
- Citi Premier® Card
The Citi Premier® Card often features a sign-up bonus of 60,000 ThankYou® points after spending $4,000 within three months of account opening. These points can be redeemed for $600 in gift cards or transferred to Citi’s travel partners for potentially higher value.
Its $95 annual fee is on the lower end compared to other premium travel cards, making it a great option for churners looking for high-value bonuses without a hefty cost.
- Chase Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card
For those eligible for business credit cards, the Chase Ink Business Preferred® is an excellent option. It frequently offers a substantial bonus of 100,000 Chase Ultimate Rewards® points after spending $8,000 in the first three months. These points can be worth $1,250 towards travel or transferred to partners for even more value.
The $95 annual fee is relatively modest for the rewards offered, making it a top pick for business owners or freelancers engaging in credit card churning.
Tips for Maximizing Sign-Up Bonuses
Plan your spending: Ensure you can meet the minimum spending requirements without straining your finances. Large expenses or recurring bills can help meet these thresholds.
Track application dates: Avoid triggering credit card issuer rules like the Chase 5/24 rule (which limits approvals if you've opened five or more accounts in the last 24 months).
Be aware of fees: Consider downgrading or canceling cards before annual fees come due if you no longer find value in the card.Conclusion
When it comes to credit card churning, choosing cards with the best sign-up bonuses can make a significant difference. Cards like the Chase Sapphire Preferred®, Amex Gold, and Citi Premier® offer great bonuses and valuable perks, making them ideal choices for maximizing rewards. Remember to stay organized, meet minimum spending requirements, and use your rewards effectively to get the most out of your credit card churning strateg