Hey fellow travel enthusiasts!

I’m back with another potentially lucrative opportunity to maximize the value of your Chase Ultimate Rewards points. As you know, I’m constantly on the lookout for ways to stretch those valuable points further, whether it’s through strategic travel redemptions, transferring to airline and hotel partners, or occasionally, snagging a decent deal on gift cards. This one falls into the latter category, and while it might not send you soaring across the globe in first class, it’s a solid way to offset some everyday expenses with your points.

The Deal: 2,250 Points for a $25 eBay Gift Card

Here’s the skinny: Chase is currently offering a redemption option where you can exchange 2,250 Ultimate Rewards points for a $25 eBay gift card. This is available to those who hold a Chase Freedom, Chase Sapphire Preferred, or Chase Sapphire Reserve card. You simply navigate to the Ultimate Rewards portal, find the “Gift Cards” section, and search for eBay. You should see the offer listed there.

Why This Deal Caught My Eye

At first glance, this redemption might seem underwhelming. After all, you’re essentially getting a little over 1 cent per point (cpp). However, it’s important to consider a few factors. I generally aim to redeem my Ultimate Rewards points for travel redemptions that offer significantly higher value, often exceeding 2 cpp or more. However, in situations where I have a small number of points lingering in my account, or when I need to free up cash flow without dipping into my savings, deals like this can be quite practical.

For instance, let’s say you have 2,250 points that are expiring soon, or perhaps you don’t have enough points for a substantial travel redemption just yet. Instead of letting those points sit idle or even worse, risk losing them, this eBay gift card offer provides a tangible way to extract value from them.

Furthermore, eBay is a vast online marketplace where you can find virtually anything. From household goods and electronics to clothing and even travel accessories, the possibilities are nearly endless. So, the $25 gift card can be used for purchases you would likely make anyway, effectively reducing your out-of-pocket expenses.

Is This the BEST Redemption? Probably Not.

Now, let’s be clear: if you’re strictly pursuing optimal point maximization, this offer probably isn’t at the top of your list. Redeeming for travel through the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal (especially with the Sapphire Preferred or Sapphire Reserve’s bonus redemption values) or transferring to valuable airline and hotel partners typically yields a much higher return. I, for example, often transfer points to Hyatt to book luxury stays for pennies on the dollar.

However, I always advocate for a balanced approach to rewards programs. While aiming for aspirational travel redemptions is fantastic, it’s also important to have strategies for extracting value from your points in different scenarios. Not every redemption needs to be a transatlantic flight in business class.

Who Should Consider This Deal

I think this particular offer is most appealing to individuals in the following situations:

* Small Point Balances: If you have a small balance of Ultimate Rewards points that are difficult to use for larger travel redemptions. * Upcoming eBay Purchases: If you already have planned purchases on eBay, this offer essentially provides a discount on those items. * Cash Flow Optimization: If you want to reduce your spending in a particular category (e.g., household goods) without dipping into your bank account. * Points Expiration Concerns: If you have Ultimate Rewards points that are nearing their expiration date (although Ultimate Rewards points typically don’t expire as long as your account is open and in good standing). * Those New to Credit Card Rewards: Someone new to travel rewards might be intimidated by complicated redemption schemes. This simple gift card redemption can be a good way to start seeing value immediately.

How to Take Advantage of the Offer

Redeeming your points for the eBay gift card is straightforward:

1. Log in to Your Chase Account: Go to the Chase Ultimate Rewards website and log in to your account associated with your Chase Freedom, Sapphire Preferred, or Sapphire Reserve card. 2. Navigate to “Gift Cards”: In the Ultimate Rewards portal, look for the “Use Points” section and click on “Gift Cards.” 3. Search for eBay: Use the search bar to find eBay gift cards. 4. Select the $25 Gift Card: You should see the option to redeem 2,250 points for a $25 eBay gift card. 5. Complete the Redemption: Follow the on-screen instructions to finalize the redemption. The gift card will typically be delivered to your email address within a few minutes.

My Strategy: A Hybrid Approach

As someone deeply immersed in the world of travel rewards, I employ a hybrid approach to points redemptions. I primarily focus on maximizing my points for high-value travel experiences, such as premium cabin flights and luxury hotel stays. However, I also keep an eye out for opportunities like this eBay gift card offer to strategically extract value from smaller point balances or to offset everyday expenses.

I love my Chase Sapphire Reserve card in particular because it gives me access to transfer partners and a boosted redemption rate when booking travel through the Chase portal. But, I also have a Chase Freedom Unlimited to help me rack up points on everyday spending that doesn’t fall into bonus categories.

Consider the Alternatives

Before jumping on this eBay deal, I always advise considering the other available redemption options. If you have a Chase Sapphire Preferred or Reserve card, you can redeem your points for travel through the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal at a higher value (1.25 cents per point and 1.5 cents per point, respectively). Or, even better, transfer those points to Chase’s airline and hotel partners for potentially even greater value.

For instance, you might be able to transfer 2,250 points to Hyatt and redeem them for a free night at a Category 1 hotel, which could be worth significantly more than $25. Similarly, you could transfer those points to United Airlines or Southwest Airlines and use them towards a flight.

Therefore, it’s essential to weigh your options and determine which redemption strategy aligns best with your travel goals and financial needs.

The Bottom Line: A Decent, Not Amazing, Deal

While this 2,250 points for a $25 eBay gift card offer isn’t the most spectacular redemption in the world, it’s a solid option for extracting value from your Ultimate Rewards points, especially if you have a small balance or plan on making purchases on eBay anyway.

It’s a good reminder that not every redemption has to be a grand, aspirational trip. Sometimes, the most valuable redemptions are the ones that provide practical benefits and help you save money on everyday expenses.

Remember to always assess your individual circumstances and consider the alternatives before making a redemption decision. Happy points maximizing! Now I am off to see if I can redeem some expiring points.

Disclaimer: I may receive compensation from credit card issuers for links in this post, but my opinions are always my own.