This chart from ValuePenguin shows the relative dollar - per - point value for different
redemption methods of Chase Ultimate Rewards.
50,000 Ultimate Rewards points are worth $ 500 in cash or credit card statement credits (not my
preferred redemption method), $ 625 in travel through the Ultimate Rewards travel portal, or you can stretch out the value of your points by transferring them out to one of the many Ultimate Reward travel partners.
If you
favorite redemption method is cash back, this card can give you a little more bang for your buck than the USAA Rewards ™ Visa Signature ® Card.
At that point, it's all about using the
cheapest redemption methods to cover those costs and by focusing on the 1.67 redemption value, I'm able to better compare my options between award programs.
50,000 Ultimate Rewards points are worth $ 500 in cash or credit card statement credits (not my
preferred redemption method), $ 625 in travel through the Ultimate Rewards travel portal, or you can stretch out the value of your points by transferring them out to one of the many Ultimate Reward travel partners.
By contrast, a travel rewards card is likely to offer a more extensive range of
redemption methods.
Your 50,000 Ultimate Rewards ® points would actually get you $ 625 toward travel through
this redemption method.
50,000 Ultimate Rewards ® = $ 500 through
these redemption methods.
You aren't tied down to a single airline, hotel, or
redemption method.
The cash value of points is lower than the travel value: 50,000 Ultimate Rewards ® = $ 500 through
these redemption methods.
Changes may be made at any time including, but not limited to, changes to cashback reward percentages,
redemption methods and imposing additional restrictions.
So, if you were approved for the Sapphire Preferred and its 50,000 sign - up bonus, you would have $ 625 in travel through
this redemption method.
By using
these redemption methods, you will garner $ 0.0125 per mile or more.
While this isn't the best option in every case, there will be times you're glad to have access to
this redemption method.
By contrast, a travel rewards card is likely to offer a more extensive range of
redemption methods.
Sometimes you can increase the value of your points through
this redemption method as they often run promotions with partners where the exchange gives you more points or access to a discount.
Unfortunately,
this redemption method will be completely gone soon.
I would not suggest using
those redemption methods.
Redemption methods may also vary by card; for example, Discover cardholders can redeem their cash back rewards directly toward an Amazon purchase during the Amazon checkout process.