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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I’ve had this card since it launched and have appreciated the benefits. With the rumored changes I’ve taken up and Amex Plat offer and will be switching out the CSR for that.
You can’t consider yourself a premium card when your replacement benefits involve Southwest airlines. I have Amex Plat and Gold, and Seattle is home airport, so probably will have to at least downgrade if the rumors are true.
The Sapphire Reserve going to $795 is a big no for me. I’ll be dropping this card. If I traveled more than I do I might consider keeping it. I got the Sapphire Reserve for its rewards and to pair with my Chase Freedom Unlimited card. The combination of points is a great benefit and I gain points in certain categories using either the Freedom Unlimited or the Sapphire Reserve. I pay my card off monthly so the interest rate is not a factor for me, but even still, an increase in cost to $795 is a huge turn off for me especially when there are other premium cards at less cost. To each his own, but it’s a no for me.
I think the only benefit now is the lounge access. Still being able to take guests in with no extra fee. If that drops to just one person I don’t know that I will keep this card. Our adventure X already is going to original card owner only.
Wow! I just applied and was approved for the Chase Sapphire Reserve one week ago at the current annual fee. Husband has the Sapphire Preferred card. If I had known it was going to go up this much, I would have chosen a different card! Not at all happy!!!
Well, you won’t pay the higher annual fee until next year so try to use the new benefits.