Everything You Need To Know About Chase Sapphire Preferred Eligibility

Before you apply for the Chase Sapphire Preferred, you need to meet a few key requirements. Chase is selective with this card, so it’s important to understand what they look for. You must be at least 18 years old (or 21 in some states), be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, and have a valid Social Security Number or ITIN.

Chase doesn’t share an exact income threshold, but based on reported approvals, having an income of around $30,000 per year or more puts you in a stronger position. Your credit history should also be well-established, ideally with over a year of active credit use.

Ideal Credit Score Range for the Sapphire Preferred

Most successful applicants have a credit score of 700 or higher. Approval becomes more likely as your score increases. People with scores in the 750–850 range typically have very high approval odds. If your score is between 700–749, you still have a good shot, especially if your payment history and debt levels are clean.

Even if you fall just below this range, it’s not impossible—but your chances are lower unless you have a solid relationship with Chase and a healthy income.

Remember, Chase also looks at your overall credit activity, how much credit you’re using compared to what’s available, and how many recent hard inquiries show up on your report.

Understanding Chase’s 5/24 Rule

One of the biggest reasons people get denied is the 5/24 rule. If you’ve opened five or more personal credit cards in the past 24 months from any issuer, Chase won’t approve you for the Chase Sapphire Preferred. This rule doesn’t only apply to Chase cards—it includes all major issuers like Amex, Citi, and Discover.

However, most business credit cards don’t count against the limit, unless they report to your personal credit file (as Capital One and Discover business cards sometimes do).

The 48-Month Rule for Welcome Bonuses

To be eligible for the current welcome bonus, you must not have received a bonus from the Chase Sapphire Preferred or Chase Sapphire Reserve in the past 48 months. Even if you closed your old Sapphire card years ago, if you got the bonus within the last four years, you’ll need to wait.

In addition to the time restriction, you also cannot currently have either the Sapphire Preferred or the Sapphire Reserve open when applying. You need to cancel your existing Sapphire card first if you hope to be approved and qualify for the bonus.

Additional Chase Rules to Be Aware Of

Chase has a few more policies that can impact your eligibility. If you already have the Sapphire Reserve, you won’t be approved for the Preferred—Chase only allows you to hold one Sapphire card at a time. They also won’t approve more than two personal credit cards within any 30-day period, regardless of product. Lastly, Chase avoids issuing duplicate cards, so if you already have a card with similar benefits, your application may be denied.

Common Approval Questions About the Sapphire Preferred

Is It Difficult to Get Approved?

It depends on your credit profile. If you’re under 5/24, haven’t earned a Sapphire bonus in the last 48 months, and have a score over 720 with a stable income, you’re in a strong position. Approval is not guaranteed, but many people with that profile are approved.

How Long Does It Take to Hear Back?

Some applicants are approved instantly—usually within a minute. Others may go through a review process that takes a few business days. In some cases, it may take up to two weeks, especially if Chase needs to verify information or you’re close to their credit line thresholds.

What’s the Minimum Credit Limit?

Because this is a Visa Signature card, Chase typically approves applicants with a minimum $5,000 credit line. If your credit profile doesn’t support that amount, your application could be declined.

Which Credit Bureau Does Chase Pull From?

It depends on your location, but Chase most commonly pulls from Experian. In some states, they might also use Equifax or TransUnion, or even multiple bureaus. You can check forums like CreditBoards for state-specific patterns.

Will a Denial Hurt My Credit?

A hard inquiry from your application will remain on your credit report for about two years, but its impact on your score fades within six months. Getting denied for a card isn’t ideal, but it’s not devastating if you don’t apply for multiple cards in a short period.

Can You Reapply If Denied?

Yes. After a denial, you can call Chase’s reconsideration line to discuss your case. If you’re still declined, wait at least 30 days before applying again—and only after you’ve addressed any issues, such as high credit utilization or too many recent accounts.

You can also consider product changing from an existing Chase card, such as Freedom Unlimited, to the Sapphire Preferred if eligible.

Sapphire Preferred vs Sapphire Reserve: Which Should You Get?

The Chase Sapphire Preferred is best for people looking to maximize points without paying a high annual fee. If you travel often and can use the $300 annual travel credit, the Reserve might offer more long-term value.

What If You’re Not Approved? Are There Easier Chase Cards?

Yes. If you’re unsure about getting approved for the Chase Sapphire Preferred, you may want to start with a less premium card from Chase. The Chase Freedom Unlimited and Chase Freedom Flex both offer strong cashback with no annual fee. They’re also easier to qualify for. Another option is the Chase Slate Edge, designed for people building or rebuilding their credit.

Final Thoughts: Should You Apply for the Sapphire Preferred?

The Chase Sapphire Preferred is one of the most recommended travel cards for beginners and experienced users alike. But Chase has strict approval criteria, so make sure you:

• Fall below the 5/24 limit
• Haven’t received a Sapphire bonus in the last 48 months
• Have a strong credit profile with good income and low utilization

If you check those boxes, this card offers excellent long-term value and a path to more advanced points strategies.