Two weeks! That’s all the time we have left in 2023. As such, it’s time to register for the Chase Freedom Q1 2024 bonus categories. The categories are very similar to what we got this year, but trades a very useful category for a splurgy, more limited-use one.
The Q1 2023 Chase Freedom bonus categories seem like they were aimed at New Year’s resolutions: grocery stores (excluding Walmart), Target, and fitness club/gym memberships. Next year’s Q1 categories are going to be more of the same, but with a twist that may excite or annoy you – or maybe even do both – depending on what your lifestyle preferences are.
Chase Freedom Q1 2024 Bonus Categories
For our first set of bonuses of the year, the Chase Freedom Q1 2024 bonus categories keep the number of categories the same – three. Two of those categories – grocery stores and fitness club/gym memberships – are staying the same. Unfortunately, that means that Target isn’t returning for Q1 2024. In its place, we get a bonus category I’ve never seen before: self-care & spas. So, what the hell qualifies under “self-care & spas?” More than I was guessing:
- massages
- spa treatments
- manicures
- tanning
- barbers
- salon services
Of course, even the above services have broad variations in them. As such, it’s important to note that things like massages only count if you obtain them from licensed professionals, but not medical professionals. For example, massages obtained from sports medicine doctors or occupational therapists will not count. Moreover, any of these services purchased from a spa, salon, etc. in a hotel that codes as part of that hotel won’t count. Merchandise purchases from qualifying merchants allegedly don’t count, though I’m not sure how that works.
An example of what to watch out for is Laniwai, a Disney Spa at Aulani. It’s been long enough that I can’t view statements anymore. But if my memory serves me correctly, Laniwai posts as a general Aulani transaction. On the other hand, the Moana Lani Spa at the Westin Moana Surfrider and the Royal Kalia Spa at the Waikiki Beach Marriott both post as standalone spas.
Register
As always, you can register for the Chase Freedom Q1 2024 bonus categories at chasebonus.com. Don’t bother looking at their Freedom page, as it’s still reflecting the Q4 2023 bonus. Per the usual, you have until March 14, 2024, to register.
Final Thoughts
I love me a good massage, but they’re so expensive. In that sense, this bonus category intrigues me, though having Target included again would’ve been more useful. That said, the grocery category is always incredibly useful, especially with how expensive everything has gotten over the past year. Regardless of the changes in bonus categories, I suspect the grocery one is where most will still make most of their purchases.
At any rate, what do you think of the Chase Freedom Q1 2024 bonus categories? Do you like the changes?