Each quarter I put together a list of the 5% cash back on rotating categories [1]. However, I find that there’s something missing from just looking at the current quarter.
For example, what if you know you want to make a big purchase (a big home improvement purchase, airline tickets, a large electronics purchase…), but you have some flexibility in when you want to purchase it. If you knew the purchase category would be on the list for a future quarter, you might want to hold off on your purchase until you can get 5% cash back.
To help you accomplish your purchase planning for the year, here is the Chase Freedom cash back calendar for 2012.
Update: To see the calendar for the current year, see the 2013 Chase Freedom Rewards Calendar [2].
2012 Chase Freedom Rewards Calendar
| 1st Quarter | 2nd Quarter | 3rd Quarter | 4th Quarter |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gas Stations Amazon.com [3] |
Grocery Stores Movie Theaters |
Gas Stations Restaurants |
Hotels Airlines Best Buy Kohl’s |
More on Chase Freedom Calendar
Cash Back Limits. The 5% cash back is for spending up to $1,500 each quarter in the bonus categories.
Activation. Even though the Chase Freedom 2012 calendar is available in advance, you have to wait to enroll each quarter. Enrollment for each bonus category starts on the 15th of the month prior to the new quarter. For example, for 2nd quarter, you can sign up for the 5% cash back beginning on March 15.
How to activate. To enroll, you’ll need to login to your account online. From there, you’ll find the link to activate your quarterly bonus category.
Other calendars. Stay tuned, and we’ll put together calendars for other 5% cash back programs to help you plan out your purchases this year. In addition, I’ll still remind you each quarter to switch out your cards and we’ll review all of the cards at once.
Maximize points. Once you earn your rewards, be sure to check out the Best Way to Maximize Chase Ultimate Rewards Points [4].
Action Plan
Using the cash back rewards calendars should help those of you with a spendy spouse. For example, if my husband comes up with a new electronic gadget he really wants… I can remind him he’ll have to wait until 4th quarter to make the purchase so we can get 5% cash back. Of course, delaying the purchase that long might actually help avoid the purchase altogether, which will save even more money!