Bilt Rewards vs. Chase Ultimate Rewards: Which One Should You Choose?
We compared two programs that turn everyday spending into travel points.
1Introduction
Bilt Rewards and Chase Ultimate Rewards® are two popular rewards programs that allow you to convert everyday spending into travel points. Both offer the ability to transfer points to frequent flyer and hotel loyalty programs, potentially unlocking more value. However, which one is better for you depends on your spending habits and travel preferences.
2Advantages of Bilt Rewards
Bilt Rewards is the only major rewards program that allows you to earn points on rent and mortgage payments without transaction fees. This is a significant advantage for those with high housing expenses. Additionally, it boasts a vast transfer network with 18 airline and 7 hotel programs, most of which transfer at a 1:1 ratio.
3Disadvantages of Bilt Rewards
Bilt Rewards' card options are new and still finding their footing. Relaunched in January 2026, the cards offer annual fees ranging from $0 to $495. Maximizing rewards on housing payments requires navigating between two different earning structures, which can be complex for some users.
4Advantages of Chase Ultimate Rewards
Chase Ultimate Rewards® has built its reputation with a broad lineup of travel cards, strong welcome bonuses, and well-known transfer partners. It includes 14 transfer partners, featuring major brands like Southwest, United, Hyatt, and Marriott, as well as international carriers like Aer Lingus and Iberia.
5Disadvantages of Chase Ultimate Rewards
Booking travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards® nets you just 1 cent per point. Some cards offer a Points Boost feature that can increase the value to 1.5 or 2 cents per point for certain bookings, but this limits the overall value.
6Comparison of Bilt Rewards Cards
Bilt Rewards offers three cards with annual fees ranging from $0 to $495. Each card allows you to earn up to 1.25x points on housing payments. Additionally, you can earn 1x points on everyday purchases and 2x points on travel. Some cards offer extra perks like application bonuses and annual Bilt Cash credits.
7Comparison of Chase Ultimate Rewards Cards
The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card and Chase Sapphire Reserve® are two popular cards that earn Chase Ultimate Rewards® points. The Sapphire Preferred® offers 5x points on travel and 3x points on dining for a $95 annual fee. The Sapphire Reserve® offers 8x points on travel and 3x points on dining for a $795 annual fee, but comes with additional perks.
8Transfer Partners
Bilt Rewards has a vast transfer network with 18 airline and 7 hotel programs. Chase Ultimate Rewards® offers a narrower network with 10 airline and 4 hotel programs. Both programs transfer most points at a 1:1 ratio, but Bilt Rewards' network is more extensive.
9Point Value
Booking travel through Bilt Rewards nets you 1.25 cents per point. Chase Ultimate Rewards® offers 1 cent per point, but the Points Boost feature can increase the value for certain bookings. Overall, Bilt Rewards offers a higher base value.
10Who Is It For?
Bilt Rewards is ideal for those with high housing expenses who want to take advantage of a vast transfer network. Chase Ultimate Rewards® appeals to a broader audience with strong welcome bonuses and well-known transfer partners. Using both programs can allow you to benefit from different advantages.
11Conclusion
Bilt Rewards and Chase Ultimate Rewards® are two rewards programs, each with its own strengths. Which one is better for you depends on your spending habits and travel preferences. Bilt Rewards offers a vast transfer network and higher point value, making it ideal for those with high housing expenses. Chase Ultimate Rewards® appeals to a broader audience with strong bonuses and well-known partners.
Original article: NerdWallet — Bilt Rewards vs. Chase Ultimate Rewards: Hangisi Daha İyi?