WILMINGTON, DE — JPMorgan Chase & Co. (NYSE: JPM) said Chase Freedom and Freedom Flex cardmembers will be able to earn 5% cash back on select rotating categories during the first quarter of 2026, combining everyday spending, travel, and charitable giving in a bid to keep rewards-focused consumers engaged.
From January 1 through March 31, 2026, eligible cardmembers can earn 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined purchases across three categories: dining, donations to the American Heart Association, and purchases made directly with Norwegian Cruise Line. The offer applies after cardmembers activate the quarterly categories.
Wittney Rachlin, general manager of Chase Freedom, said the lineup reflects how customers want to spend and give. She said the addition of a charitable organization marks the first time a nonprofit has been included as a rotating bonus category, allowing cardmembers to support the American Heart Association while earning rewards.
Dining purchases eligible for the higher cash back rate include dine-in meals, takeout, and qualifying delivery services. Cruise-related spending must be booked directly with Norwegian Cruise Line to qualify. Donations to the American Heart Association will also earn the bonus rate during the quarter.
Beyond the rotating categories, Chase Freedom Flex cardmembers continue to earn 5% cash back on travel booked through Chase Travel, 3% on dining and drugstore purchases, and 1% on all other spending.
The promotion comes as card issuers intensify competition for consumer loyalty, using richer rewards and targeted categories to drive engagement amid ongoing pressure from inflation and shifting household budgets. Chase said cardmembers can activate the bonus categories now to begin earning the elevated cash back rate when the quarter opens in January 2026.
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