Issuer Rules You Need to Know

Why These Rules Matter

Credit card issuers have developed rules—most unwritten—that determine who gets approved and who earns bonuses. Ignoring these rules can mean wasted applications, denied bonuses, or missed opportunities.

Here are the key rules for each major issuer.

Chase Rules

The 5/24 Rule

Chase will automatically deny most applications if you've opened 5 or more credit cards (from any bank) in the past 24 months.

What counts toward 5/24:

• Personal credit cards from any issuer
• Business cards that report to personal credit (most don't)
• Authorized user accounts (sometimes, can dispute)

What doesn't count:

• Most business credit cards
• Credit limit increases
• Store cards (usually)

One Sapphire Rule

You can only hold one Sapphire card (Preferred or Reserve) at a time, and you can only get a Sapphire bonus if you haven't received one in the past 48 months.

2/30 Rule

Chase typically won't approve more than 2 cards within 30 days.

American Express Rules

Once-Per-Lifetime

Amex generally only lets you earn a welcome bonus on each card once in your lifetime. If you got the Gold Card bonus in 2018, you can't get it again.

There are occasional exceptions (targeted offers with different language), but assume the rule applies.

One Card Per 5 Days, Two Per 90 Days

Amex limits credit card approvals. For best results, space applications at least 90 days apart.

Pop-Up Jail

Some applicants see a pop-up warning during application saying they won't receive the welcome bonus. This usually happens if Amex thinks you're not using their products enough or "gaming" the system. The only solution is to use existing Amex cards more and wait.

Capital One Rules

Generally More Lenient

Capital One doesn't have strict rules like Chase 5/24. They're often a good option for people who are over 5/24.

One Card Per 6 Months (Soft Rule)

Capital One prefers you wait 6 months between applications, though this isn't as rigid as Chase rules.

Inquiry Sensitive

Capital One can be sensitive to many recent credit inquiries. If you've applied for lots of cards recently, they may deny you.

Citi Rules

8/65 Rule

You can only apply for 1 Citi card every 8 days, and no more than 2 applications in any 65-day period.

24-Month Bonus Rule

You're ineligible for a bonus if you've opened or closed the same card in the past 24 months. Also applies to cards in the same "family."

48-Month Rule for Some Cards

Citi Premier has a 48-month rule similar to Chase Sapphire.

Practical Implications

If You're Just Starting

1. Count your cards from the last 24 months
2. If under 5/24, prioritize Chase cards first
3. Then move to Amex (once-per-lifetime means no rush)
4. Capital One and Citi are flexible additions anytime

If You're Already Over 5/24

Focus on Amex, Capital One, and Citi. Consider waiting for Chase if you want their cards—slots open up as old accounts age past 24 months.

Key Takeaways

• Chase 5/24: Get Chase cards first while you can
• Amex Once-Per-Lifetime: Don't waste bonuses on cards you're not ready for
• Space applications: Don't apply for too many cards at once
• Know your count: Track your applications to stay strategic
• Rules change: These are current as of writing but may evolve