Chase Sapphire Reserve Military Update | $795 Annual Fee Still Waived, New Benefits #183

Spencer and Jamie break down all the major updates to the Chase Sapphire Reserve credit card and why military families should still consider it their top travel rewards card despite the annual fee increase to $795.

What You'll Learn:

Military Benefits That Make This Card a No-Brainer:

• How the Military Lending Act (MLA) waives the $795 annual fee for active duty, Guard, Reserve (on 30+ day orders), and military spouses
• Why the $300 flexible travel credit alone makes this card worth it
• How to potentially get multiple Chase Sapphire Reserve cards with fees waived on all of them

Major Card Updates:

• Enhanced earning rates: 4X points on flights and hotels booked directly (up from 3X)
• New $300 dining credit for Chase Sapphire Reserve exclusive tables
• Changes to the Chase Travel Portal: goodbye 1.5¢ per point, hello selective 2¢ "Points Boost"
• New credits: $300 StubHub, $120 DoorDash annual credit, Apple TV+ and Apple Music through 2027

Rule Changes That Open New Opportunities:

• Relaxed 5/24 rule - you might be eligible even if you've opened 5+ cards in 24 months
• Modified lifetime bonus restrictions with new application screening
• Ability to hold both Chase Sapphire Preferred and Reserve simultaneously

Essential Military Travel Benefits:

• Primary rental car insurance (rare among credit cards)
• No foreign transaction fees for overseas assignments
• Priority Pass lounge access plus exclusive Chase Sapphire lounges
• $120 Global Entry credit every 4 years

Resources Mentioned:

• Episode 161: Complete military credit card benefits guide
• MLA Database: Check eligibility at MilitaryMoneyManual.com
• Learn how to Apply for Chase Sapphire Reserve: MilitaryMoneyManual.com
• Credit tracking apps: Max Rewards and Card Pointers
• Multiple CSR guide: multiple Chase Sapphire Reserves military

Whether you're stationed overseas, PCSing frequently, or just want to maximize your travel rewards without paying annual fees, this episode explains why the Chase Sapphire Reserve remains the top recommendation for military families in 2025.