Chase has quietly changed the rules for receiving welcome bonuses on two of its popular business credit cards that come with no annual fee. This shift is part of a broader trend by the issuer towards stricter policies, similar to what was seen with the Sapphire card family back in June.
What’s changing?
Starting now, Chase will modify the wording regarding eligibility between its cards. Specifically, with the Ink Business Cash® Credit Card and Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card, if you possess one, you won’t be able to earn the welcome bonus on the other. Here’s how it breaks down:
- If you’ve had the Ink Business Cash card, you can’t receive the welcome bonus for the Ink Business Unlimited.
- If you’ve had the Ink Business Unlimited, you’re ineligible for the Ink Business Cash bonus.
Chase has added a new clause to the terms for both cards stating, “If you have this card or any other Chase for Business card with no annual fee, you may not be eligible for the new cardmember bonus. We may also consider factors related to your business when determining bonus eligibility.”
This new language introduces a kind of “family rule” for Chase’s no-annual-fee business offerings, aligning it with the recent restrictions on Sapphire cards and reflecting a trend also seen with American Express.
What does this mean for business owners?
For those who don’t qualify for the welcome bonus, you still have the option to apply for one of the Ink Business cards or switch products. However, many small business owners have typically opened both cards to optimize their rewards, thanks to benefits like no annual fees for either card. Plus, you can link them with a premium card that earns Chase Ultimate Rewards points. Cash back can be converted into fully transferable Ultimate Rewards. The inability to earn both bonuses could make this strategy less appealing, especially for newcomers.
Conclusion
Chase has tightened its eligibility for bonuses this year, notably limiting Sapphire card bonuses about five months ago. These new restrictions for Ink cards seem to represent a continued effort by issuers to minimize duplicate applications and encourage users to stick with one product within each card family. It wouldn’t be surprising if similar changes spread to other Chase card families in the future.
