The Ledger

How I Triple-Dipped the Citi Strata Elite in 48 Hours (and Accidentally Double-Dipped a Credit)

The Chase 5/24 Rule Is Still Alive — That’s Exactly Why I Built This Feature in WalletFreak

Chase’s "5/24 rule" is still very real in 2025, and the 48-month Sapphire rule is gone, replaced by once-per-lifetime bonus eligibility per product. I built …

If You Had $31,300 of Luxury Spend Before Year-End, How Would You Play It?

I turned $31k of luxury retail spend into a planning exercise by mapping wallets and thresholds first. We used a new Venture X for a …

Escape Lounge Portland Set My Priority Pass Expectations — And That’s the Problem

My first Priority Pass lounge at Escape Lounge PDX was calm, modern, and comfortable, with basic breakfast and mimosas—but no showers or toiletries. It set …

Is the Amex Gold still worth $325?

I keep the Amex Gold at $325 because I *like* the coupon-book style of credits. I use the Uber and dining credits every month and …

Stop using your debit card for groceries. Period.

Stop using your debit card for groceries — it earns nothing, gives weak protection, and leaves huge value on the table. I run all my …

The secret to waiving annual fees (Retention Offers)

I always call for retention offers right after an annual fee posts. I use a simple script, stay polite, and let the bank sell me …