Doctor of Credit (H/T) has reported today that the Chase Sapphire Reserve has brought back return protection. Chase eliminated this benefit on all their cards in 2018. However, they decided to bring this benefit back for the Sapphire Reserve as well as the discontinued Ritz Carlton credit card.
What’s Going On?
There is a $500 maximum per claim and a $1,000 maximum per cardholder per calendar year. This is not a lot, especially for more expensive and “big-ticket” items. But having this protection is better than having nothing, especially on a card that now costs $550 per year.
Furthermore, you must file a claim within 90 days of purchasing the product. And the product must be in like-new or good working condition upon filing the claim.
You can file a claim by calling 1-888-675-1461.
Analysis
Chase has likely brought back Return Protection as another way to compete with American Express’ premium cards, such as the Platinum Card. American Express revamped the benefits on their entire card lineup in late 2019. One of the changes was discontinuing Return Protection on certain cards. Only certain cards now have this benefit.
However, I am surprised that Chase only added Return Protection to two premium cards (one of which is discontinued). Chase should have added Return Protection to at least their mid-tier cards to compete better with American Express.
Final Draw
Nonetheless, the Chase Sapphire Reserve bringing back Return Protection is a pleasant surprise. It might also be a reason to keep it for another year.
However, I wish that Chase would bring back Return Protection to more cards to compete with American Express. The first two cards that come to mind are the Freedom Unlimited and the Ink Business Unlimited, which are optimal for non-bonus spend. More people are likely to use this benefit, especially on those two no annual fee cards.
