Earlier this week, I wrote about how changes to the the Chase Sapphire Reserve are imminent. It seems like that that refreshed card could be out sooner rather than later. The annual fee on the card is about to go up from $550 to $795. Chase will be adding a bunch of new benefits and credits to the card, with refreshed earning and redemption rates.
Chase Sapphire Reserve Refresh: Out next week?
As per Frequent Miler, the new Chase Sapphire Reserve card could well be announced as soon as June 17, 2025, with changes going into effect very quickly on Jun 21, 2025.
You can refer to this post to have a look at all the changes that will go into effect.
Analysis
Overall, I’m not too impressed with these changes. It only confirms the continuation of a disturbing trend in the premium credit card space over the last 5 years. I call it the 3 Step trick.
- Step 1: Hike the annual fee on the credit card by a significant amount
- Step 2: Add credits broken into different time frames with partner brands
- Step 3: Advertise the card as “Up to $1,000” in value, whereas in reality these are just a bunch of credits that make you purchase at partner brands as opposed to being tied to a particular category.
In this case, the Chase Sapphire Reserve will be upping its fee from $550 to $795. That’s a massive increase of 55%! In my opinion, I fear this refresh as a net negative but I will reserve my criticism until I see all the details confirmed by Chase on the day of the launch. However, given how Amex has been going with its premium credit cards off late, I won’t be surprised if Chase comes out copying most of their strategy.
The Pundit’s Mantra
Are you excited for this refresh? For me it’s just a but of meh. I was really excited when the Chase Sapphire Reserve was launched and got it right away with a sign up bonus of 100,000 Chase Ultimate Rewards points.
However, in this case, I’m not really too keen on product changing. I’ve carried the Chase Sapphire Reserve in my wallet for over hal f a decade and really love it. Most importantly, it only carries an annual fee of $95 and gives me enough opportunities to earn points and redeem them with Chase’s travel partners.
Also, I already have the Amex Platinum Card (Charles Schwab version) and I don’t intend to get another premium credit card. I’m well covered with both the Amex Platinum Card and the Chase Sapphire Preferred and can transfer points to their partners when needed.
What do you make about these recent changes to the Chase Sapphire Reserve card? Once it’s out, you plan to apply right away (assuming you’re eligible)? Tell us in the comments section.
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