Chase and Coinbase Announce Strategic Partnership to Bring Crypto to Ultimate Rewards

JPMorgan Chase and Coinbase have just revealed a new partnership designed to bring cryptocurrency closer to the everyday user. The collaboration is set to roll out in stages beginning fall 2025 and continuing into 2026, with several groundbreaking features that make it easier than ever for Chase customers to access digital assets.

If you collect Chase points, dabble in crypto, or just want more options with your rewards, this is worth a closer look.

Direct Bank-to-Crypto Wallet Link (Coming 2026)

Chase customers will soon be able to link their bank accounts directly to Coinbase wallets through JPMorgan’s secure API. This eliminates the need for third-party apps, wire transfers, or long settlement times.
 

The direct connection is expected to streamline transactions while maintaining the data privacy and security that Chase users rely on. It’s a step toward reducing friction and bringing traditional finance tools into the Web3 era.

Redeem Chase Ultimate Rewards Points for Crypto

Perhaps the most headline-worthy change: Chase Ultimate Rewards® points will soon be transferable to Coinbase at a flat 1:1 rate (100 points = $1 in crypto value).
 

This is the first time a major U.S. credit card rewards program has allowed direct point-to-crypto redemptions.
 

While crypto redemptions won’t offer the same point value as transferring to travel partners (which typically yield 1.25–1.5 cents per point), it gives users another flexible path, especially for those interested in building a crypto portfolio.
 

Redemptions through Coinbase are expected to launch sometime in 2026.

Fund Coinbase with Chase Credit Cards (Fall 2025)

Starting this fall, Chase credit cardholders will be able to fund Coinbase accounts directly using their eligible cards. While full details haven’t been released, this opens up the ability to use existing lines of credit for crypto purchases, something few banks have previously supported.
 

We’ll be watching to see whether these transactions earn points, trigger cash advance fees, or qualify under existing purchase categories.

Why This Matters

This partnership isn’t just a tech update, it’s a shift in how consumers can interact with their finances. For years, moving money into crypto has required multiple steps. Now, Chase and Coinbase are cutting down those barriers.
 

And for points enthusiasts? This adds another way to use Chase Ultimate Rewards, right alongside travel, Apple purchases, Amazon redemptions, and Pay Yourself Back®.
 

“With Ultimate Rewards, the most flexible loyalty program in the industry, our customers can now seamlessly and securely convert their points into cryptocurrencies,” said Melissa Feldsher, Head of Payments and Lending Innovation at JPMorgan Chase.
 

Max Branzburg, Head of Consumer & Business Products at Coinbase, added that the partnership will help “lower barriers to entry for consumers to participate in the future of financial services onchain.” Read the full press release here. 

Key Rollout Dates

Should You Redeem Points for Crypto?

The 1:1 redemption rate may sound appealing, but it’s worth comparing options.
 

• 100 Chase points = $1 in crypto via Coinbase
• 100 Chase points = $1.25–$1.5 value with travel transfers
   

If you’re optimizing for travel, transferring points to airlines or hotels still offers more value. But if you’re sitting on a stockpile of points and want to explore crypto without moving cash, this creates a frictionless option.