Guide ยท Credit cards

Chase Freedom vs Amex vs Discover (2026)

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Three cash-back referral links compared: Chase Freedom Unlimited $200 / Flex $250 after $500 in 3 months ($0 AF), Amex Blue Cash Preferred personalized welcome (often as high as $300 after $3,000 / 6 months; $0 intro then $95; 6% U.S. groceries), and Discover Refer-a-Friend statement credits for both sides after approval + a purchase within 3 months.

Some links are referral links.

Which cash-back card referral fits you?

All three links are issuer Refer-a-Friend pages. Welcome amounts can be personalized or capped. Credit approval required. Official pricing & terms on each issuer site win.

CardWelcome / ongoing snapshotAnnual feeAction
Chase Freedom Unlimited / Flex Unlimited: $200 after $500 in 3 months. Flex: $250 after $500 in 3 months. 24-month new-cardmember-bonus rule. $0 Open
Amex Blue Cash Preferred Personalized welcome โ€” often as high as $300 after $3,000 in 6 months. Ongoing: 6% U.S. groceries (up to $6k/yr), 6% select streaming, 3% gas + transit. $0 intro year, then $95 Open
Discover (Capital One) Both sides get a statement credit after digital-link approval by Dec 31, 2026 and a purchase within 3 months. Public write-ups often cite ~$100 each โ€” confirm on the offer. Many Discover it cards are $0 AF (confirm product) Open

Quick decision tips

Frequently asked questions

What is the Chase Freedom Unlimited referral bonus right now?

On the verified Refer-a-Friend page: $200 cash back after $500 spend in 3 months ($0 annual fee). Freedom Flex shows $250 after $500 in 3 months.

What is the Amex Blue Cash Preferred welcome offer?

Personalized โ€” many current offers show as high as $300 after $3,000 in 6 months, plus 6% U.S. groceries (cap applies). $0 intro annual fee, then $95.

What is the Discover referral bonus?

You and your friend each get a statement credit after they apply via the digital link, are approved by Dec 31, 2026, and make a purchase within 3 months. Exact dollars are on the individual offer.

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