Chase Freedom (Original)
By Alex Compton · Last verified
The original 5 percent rotating workhorse, retired but never killed.
Welcome Bonus
None recorded
Last recorded offer
Spend Requirement
None recorded
Last recorded requirement
Annual Fee
$0
Last recorded · 3% FTF
Credit Score
670+
(Good)
Common Questions
Is the Chase Freedom (Original) discontinued?
Yes. Discontinued. The original 5 percent rotating workhorse, retired but never killed.
What can I use instead of the Chase Freedom (Original)?
The closest open alternatives we track are the Chase Freedom Unlimited, Chase Freedom Flex, Prime Visa. Each links to our full review with its current offer and complete breakdown.
Open Alternatives
The Freedom is gone, but these cards do a similar job and are still accepting applications.
1.5x on everything, and a points multiplier when paired with a Sapphire.
5% rotating categories that turn into 5x transferable points in the right setup.
5% back on Amazon and Whole Foods, no annual fee beyond your Prime membership.
Historical Offers Chart
Every public offer change we've tracked. Hover for details, timing your application is worth hundreds of dollars.
| Observed | Offer | Requirement | What changed | Evidence |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020-08 | 20,000 | $500 in 3 mo | Bonus increased: 15,000 → 20,000Final 200 dollar offer before Freedom Flex replaced it in September 2020 | Archive record · no attached snapshot |
| 2016-03 | 15,000 | $500 in 3 mo | Bonus increased: 10,000 → 15,000150 dollar standard offer | Archive record · no attached snapshot |
| 2011-04 | 10,000 | $500 in 3 mo | Earliest record100 dollar era | Archive record · no attached snapshot |
Primary-source verification log
Append-only evidence ledgerEvent-level primary-source attachments begin with the September 2026 verification system. Older records remain visible but are not retroactively presented as evidenced.
Historical record · spot an outdated offer? Report a correction above.
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Last Recorded Earning Rates
These terms are historical context and are not presented as current.
- 5xRotating quarterly categoriesOn up to 1,500 dollars per quarter, activation required
- 1xEverything else
Last Recorded Credits
No statement credits, this card wins on earn rates, not coupons.
Last Recorded Benefits
Confirm availability and enrollment requirements with the issuer.
- ✦Points are full Ultimate Rewards, transferable when paired with a Sapphire or Ink Preferred
- ✦Existing holders still get the same quarterly calendar as Freedom Flex
Why it earns its spot
- +Defined the modern rotating 5 percent category card
- +Still fully functional for grandfathered holders, and reachable by product change
Where it costs you
- −Visa version lacked Freedom Flex extras like cell phone protection
- −1 percent base earning outside the rotating categories
The Compound Verdict
The original Freedom carried the 5 percent rotating banner for over a decade and anchored countless Chase trifectas. In September 2020 Chase replaced it with the Mastercard-based Freedom Flex and stopped new applications, but nothing about the card itself died: grandfathered holders keep the same calendar, and downgraders can still land on it. It is the gentlest retirement on this list.
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