Do you mean the rewards (3 points per dollar on travel spend) or something else? Most of the features of the Sapphire Reserve are available elsewhere, and we might be able to suggest a strategy that would allow you to have some of the benefits while you build your credit file to the point where it is realistic to apply for Sapphire Reserve.
The points system is of Chase is very appealing to me. I am allowed to use personal cards for spending at work and am reimbursed immediately. I've done the math and putting my work expenses on an UR earning card will net me a free plane ticket ($1000) every year when redeemed with the CSR's portal.
The other benefits like no foreign exchange rate, Priority Pass, and GE credit are all really nice too.
Originally Posted by
thunderlounge
That’s good, but my advice above still stands firm. It doesn’t matter how responsible and knowledgeable that you think you are. What does matter is how potential creditors perceive how responsible you by looking at your credit report.
Sometimes that perception isn’t fully clear, but it is what it is.
Unfortunately the best recommendation for probably this year,
next year, and until you can build and work your way up the card chain is to buy travel insurance for any trip you feel it is necessary.
Travel insurance isn't really what I want from the CSR. I am fine with getting the Freedom/FU first to bank up points but my end goal is the CSR as soon as humanely possible. I understand that my file will be perceived as risky, which is why I am asking for tips on how I could mitigate that.