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With the introduction of new bonus categories, eligible Chase Freedom cardholders have several ways to earn 5% cash back in the last quarter of 2024.

From Oct. 1 to Dec. 31, 2024, Chase Freedom Flex® cardholders can get 5% back on up to $1,500 in combined quarterly spending at the following merchants:

• McDonald’s.

• Pet shops and vet services.

• Select charities. 

All non-bonus-category purchases earn 1% back, as do purchases made after hitting the $1,500 combined quarterly cap in the categories above. Cardholders must activate the bonus categories by Dec. 14, 2024, to earn the 5% rate. Activation applies retroactively to all qualifying purchases made since Oct. 1, 2024.

Here are some tips for making the most of Chase’s bonus categories in the last quarter of 2024.

For the first time, McDonald’s, pet shops and vet services are bonus categories for Chase Freedom cardholders.

The Golden Arches category is pretty self-explanatory. But “pet shops” is a pretty broad category that includes stores that sell pet supplies, services and animals. Note that pet day cares, pet insurance and groomers are ineligible to earn 5% back. Nevertheless, now is an ideal time to stock up on food, medicine and other supplies, and to finally schedule your pet for its annual checkup.

Chase Freedom cardholders will be rewarded bonus cash back for their generosity this holiday season, as long as they donate to one of 17 eligible charities. Charities that qualify this quarter include the American Red Cross, Habitat for Humanity and United Way. Come Giving Tuesday, remember to pay for charitable contributions with your Chase Freedom card.

To ensure you get 5% back on purchases made via PayPal, add your Chase Freedom card as the default payment method. If you haven’t already, download the PayPal app, too. You’ll need it in order to use PayPal for in-store purchases.