Chase launched the Sapphire Reserve for Business in June 2025, an ultra-premium card with a hefty $795 annual fee. The question for many business owners is simple: does this card deliver enough value to justify the expense? The answer, as with most high-fee cards, isn’t straightforward. Here’s a breakdown of how to decide if this card is right for your business.
The Allure of the Welcome Bonus
The biggest immediate draw is the welcome offer. As of January 22, 2026, new applicants can earn 200,000 Ultimate Rewards points after spending $30,000 within six months. This bonus alone is worth an estimated $3,400 – a significant return if you can meet the spending requirement. For eligible businesses, this welcome bonus almost makes the card a no-brainer.
Maximizing Rewards: Where This Card Shines
Beyond the initial bonus, the Sapphire Reserve Business offers tiered rewards:
- 8x points on all Chase Travel bookings
- 5x points on Lyft rides (through September 2027)
- 4x points on direct airfare and hotel spending
- 3x points on select advertising
- 1x point on all other purchases
These rewards are substantial for businesses that spend heavily in these categories. However, if your spending doesn’t align with these bonuses, other cards may offer better value.
High Spenders Get Extra Perks: Spending over $120,000 annually unlocks additional benefits, including IHG Diamond status, Southwest A-List status, a $500 Southwest credit, and a $500 Shops at Chase credit. These add considerable value for frequent travelers.
Credits That Offset the Fee
The high annual fee is partially offset by several annual credits:
- Up to $500 in hotel credits
- Up to $400 in ZipRecruiter credits
- Up to $300 in travel credits
- Up to $300 in DoorDash credits
- Up to $200 in Google Workspace credits
- Up to $120 in Lyft credits
- Up to $100 in gift card credits
Maximizing these credits can effectively reduce the net annual cost. The $300 travel credit alone brings the effective fee down to $495.
Lounge Access and Travel Perks
The card offers access to Chase Sapphire Lounges, plus a Priority Pass membership. This is valuable for frequent travelers, especially if you utilize the Chase lounge network.
The Verdict: Worth It If…
The Sapphire Reserve Business is worth considering if:
- You can meet the spending requirement to claim the welcome bonus.
- Your business spends heavily on travel, advertising, or Lyft rides.
- You can maximize the annual credits to offset the fee.
- You frequently use airport lounges.
If these factors don’t apply, the Ink Business Preferred, with its $95 annual fee, may be a better fit.
Ultimately, whether this card is worth $795 depends on your spending habits and how well you can leverage its benefits. The high fee demands careful consideration, but for the right business, the rewards and perks can make it worthwhile.
