Debating Between Chase Sapphire and Amtrak Guest Rewards Mastercard
Apr 30, 2013, 7:00 am
#1
Original Poster
Join Date: Apr 2013
Posts: 1
Debating Between Chase Sapphire and Amtrak Guest Rewards Mastercard
Hello,
As the title says, I'm trying to decide between the Chase Sapphire or the Amtrak Guest Rewards Mastercard (or perhaps both).
I'm leaning towards Amtrak, since it is only $500 in the first 3 months and $3000 would be tricky for the Sapphire. Also, I'm weary of the $95 annual fee of the Sapphire and the Amtrak has no annual fee.
I would like to get the Amtrak rewards now since I'm using Amtrak frequently, and then apply for the Sapphire towards the fall/winter in order to use the points next summer.
Will I be able to get both cards with the bonus points for singing up (12,000 for Amtrak, 40,000 for Sapphire) or will having one disqualify me for the other? Also, if I were to get the Sapphire, spend $3000 for the points, and redeem the points, would I be able to close out the card before having to pay the annual fee?
Any help is appreciated. Thank you!
As the title says, I'm trying to decide between the Chase Sapphire or the Amtrak Guest Rewards Mastercard (or perhaps both).
I'm leaning towards Amtrak, since it is only $500 in the first 3 months and $3000 would be tricky for the Sapphire. Also, I'm weary of the $95 annual fee of the Sapphire and the Amtrak has no annual fee.
I would like to get the Amtrak rewards now since I'm using Amtrak frequently, and then apply for the Sapphire towards the fall/winter in order to use the points next summer.
Will I be able to get both cards with the bonus points for singing up (12,000 for Amtrak, 40,000 for Sapphire) or will having one disqualify me for the other? Also, if I were to get the Sapphire, spend $3000 for the points, and redeem the points, would I be able to close out the card before having to pay the annual fee?
Any help is appreciated. Thank you!
Apr 30, 2013, 5:06 pm
#2
Join Date: Apr 2012
Location: MKE
Programs: Hyatt Diamond, SPG Plat, Hilton Gold, Club Carlson Gold,
Posts: 639
I think your best bet is to go with the Sapphire because it transfers one to one with Amtrak. if I'm not mistaken you should get 2x for travel which may include Amtrak fares anyway.
Apr 30, 2013, 5:53 pm
#3
Join Date: Feb 2012
Location: LAX
Programs: AA, TY, UR, UA, US, WN, MR, SPG
Posts: 1,453
Welcome to FT!
As phdtomd stated, the CSP may be the better option for the reasons specified. However, if there is any doubt that you would hit the spend bonus required for the 40K signup bonus, then definitely don't get that card. Getting the card and failing to hit the bonus is a huge missed opportunity.
As phdtomd stated, the CSP may be the better option for the reasons specified. However, if there is any doubt that you would hit the spend bonus required for the 40K signup bonus, then definitely don't get that card. Getting the card and failing to hit the bonus is a huge missed opportunity.