In June, Chase announced some important updates to its popular premium credit card product: the Chase Sapphire Reserve® (see rates and fees). The new benefits went into effect immediately for those who applied for (and were approved for) the card starting June 23, 2025, but starting October 26, all cardholders you can access the full set of benefits.
There was a lot to analyze with these changes, so to help with this effort, we went straight to the source.
This fall, I sat down with Chase Sapphire CEO Sam Palmer and our founder Brian Kelly for an in-depth interview about the revamped Sapphire Reserve, as well as a discussion about the other products in the Sapphire portfolio. It’s safe to say our conversation was wide-ranging, touching on how Chase approached the upgrade, where it sees the card offering value, and (of course) how to make the most of the new benefits to cover the annual fee increase on the card.
You can see the full video right here:
As a long-time Sapphire Reserve cardholder, I was really intrigued to hear Sam and Brian’s perspectives on the new benefits. Part of this discussion focused on the benefits of the salon; In fact, we recorded the entire conversation in one of the hotel’s private suites. Sapphire Lounge at New York LaGuardia Airport (LGA).
Read more: The Complete Guide to Chase Sapphire Airport Lounges and How to Access
Sam was quick to point out the continuing privileges offered to guests at both the personal Sapphire Reserve and the Reserve Chase Sapphire for Business℠ (see rates and fees). This remains a key differentiator compared to Chase’s competitors, which either already either soon it will restrict guest access to cardholders.
I had the opportunity to visit these lounges at LGA, Philadelphia International Airport (PHL), Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX), and San Diego International Airport (SAN), and each one has been exceptional.
Additionally, both Sam and Brian also promoted the new Point Increase Redemption Option through Chase Travel℠which allows Sapphire Reserve cardholders to earn up to 2 cents per point when booking select flights and hotels. This is particularly lucrative in editing propertiesChase’s curated collection of luxury hotels and resorts around the world. All Sapphire Reserve cardholders are now eligible for up to $500 in statement credits each calendar year on prepaid stays of at least two nights at these locations (currently divided into two $250 credits every six months, but from 2026are a couple of $250 credits at any time of the year).
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Related: Chase’s full list of The Edit properties now available to Sapphire Reserve cardholders
All stays at The Edit properties are available through Points Boost, so if you pay for part of your stay with your card and the rest with points, you’ll receive 2 cents per point on the redemption side. and receive statement credit for the cash portion of the reservation. Additionally, you will receive the following benefits:
- Daily breakfast for two
- A property credit worth up to $100
- Free Wi-Fi
- A room upgrade based on available space
- Early check-in and late check-out (at select properties; subject to availability)
Even better? Many of these properties are also now eligible to earn points into a hotel loyalty program when you book through Chase.
In short, this represents an amazing way to build value on any of the Sapphire Reserve cards.
This just scratches the surface of what we covered, so be sure to watch the full recording. And if you’re not currently a cardholder, you may now be eligible for a targeted welcome bonus of up to 175,000 points after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first three months of account opening. Click here to check your own offer. There is no impact on your credit score. This offer is only available through this tool. If you are not eligible for this elevated offer, you may still be eligible to earn the standard offer of 125,000 points with the same spending requirements.
