The Chase Sapphire Reserve credit card, a favorite among luxury travelers and dining enthusiasts, has undergone a significant transformation as of June 2025. JPMorgan Chase announced a major overhaul, raising the annual fee to $795—a 45% increase from the previous $550 fee—and introducing a wealth of new benefits designed to enhance the cardholder experience. This update aims to maintain the card’s appeal to affluent customers despite the steep fee hike, promising over $2,700 in annual benefits starting June 23, 2025.
What’s New with the Chase Sapphire Reserve Credit Card?
The Chase Sapphire Reserve credit card has long been recognized for its premium travel and dining rewards. Now, with the new changes, cardholders will enjoy a revamped suite of perks that significantly boost the card’s value proposition. Here’s what’s new:
- Annual Fee Increase: The annual fee jumps to $795, marking the largest increase since the card’s 2016 launch.
- Enhanced Travel Credits: Cardholders receive a $500 annual credit applicable to bookings at Chase’s curated collection of hotels and resorts known as “The Edit.”
- Dining Credits: A $300 annual credit is available for dining at restaurants within the Sapphire Reserve Tables network.
- Entertainment Perks: Complimentary subscriptions to Apple TV+ and Apple Music, valued at $250 annually, are now included.
- Event Credits: A $300 credit for ticket purchases through StubHub or Viagogo is offered.
- Elevated Points Earning: Flights and accommodations booked through Chase’s travel portal now earn 8x points, up from 5x, while direct bookings with airlines and hotels earn 4x points, an increase from 3x.
- Additional Travel Credit: The existing $300 annual travel credit for flights, hotels, and rideshares remains intact.
For those who spend $75,000 or more annually on the card, Chase unlocks premium status perks with Southwest Airlines and IHG Hotels and Resorts, adding even more value for high spenders.
Why the Fee Increase?
The $795 annual fee is steep, especially compared to the $450 fee at the card’s debut in 2016 and the $550 fee since 2020. However, JPMorgan Chase argues that the expanded benefits package, totaling more than $2,700 in value, offsets the higher cost. This move aligns with a broader trend in the premium credit card market, where issuers are catering to affluent consumers willing to pay more for exclusive rewards and experiences.
The fee increase also reflects Chase’s strategy to position the Sapphire Reserve as a lifestyle brand, competing directly with American Express’s Platinum cards and other luxury credit offerings. Chase has invested heavily in airport lounges, exclusive events, and curated travel experiences to attract younger, high-spending customers.
How Does the Chase Sapphire Reserve Credit Card Compare Now?
| Feature | Previous Card (Before June 2025) | New Card (After June 23, 2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Fee | $550 | $795 |
| Travel Credit | $300 | $300 + $500 hotel credit |
| Dining Credit | None | $300 dining credit |
| Entertainment Subscriptions | None | Apple TV+ & Apple Music included |
| Points on Flights (via portal) | 5x | 8x |
| Points on Hotels (via portal) | 5x | 8x |
| Points on Direct Bookings | 3x | 4x |
| Ticket Purchase Credit | None | $300 credit for StubHub/Viagogo |
| Premium Airline/Hotel Status | None | Southwest & IHG status at $75K spend |
What Cardholders Should Know
Existing cardmembers will see the new annual fee and perks take effect starting October 26, 2025, while new applicants will be subject to the $795 fee beginning June 23. Authorized users will also experience a fee increase from $75 to $195 annually.
The card’s physical design has been refreshed with a heavier metal and a new pattern to reflect its premium status. This redesign complements the enhanced benefits and positions the card as a symbol of sophistication.
Final Thoughts on the Chase Sapphire Reserve Credit Card
The Chase Sapphire Reserve credit card’s new $795 annual fee might be a tough pill for some to swallow, but the expanded benefits package makes a compelling case for frequent travelers and diners who can maximize the credits and elevated points earning. With over $2,700 in potential annual value, including exclusive dining, travel, and entertainment perks, the card continues to set a high bar in the premium credit card market.
If you are a luxury traveler or a passionate foodie who values exclusive experiences and rewards, the Chase Sapphire Reserve credit card remains a top contender despite the fee increase. Consider how the new benefits align with your spending habits and travel preferences to decide if this card fits your lifestyle.
Explore the new Chase Sapphire Reserve credit card today and unlock a world of premium rewards and exclusive experiences tailored for the discerning cardholder.