Chase sprinkled a little magic dust on the dull, monochrome world of personal finance on Jan. 25 when it teamed up with The Walt Disney Company to launch Disney’s Premier Visa Card from Chase. You can choose from eight designs, all of which are bright and colorful, and three of which feature Mickey Mouse. All of them should raise a smile when presented by parents and grandparents at most outlets, though you may want to choose another form of plastic if you ever find yourself needing to settle a Hooter’s check.

Magic rewards

The credit card design may be attractive, but its real magic is in the rewards it offers. You receive points at a standard rate of 1 percent on all purchases, but you get double that when you use the plastic at:

• Grocery stores
• Gas stations
• Restaurants
• Most Disney locations (those that are solely owned and operated by Disney)

That last group includes Walt Disney WorldResort, the Disneyland Resort, Disney Cruise Lineand Disney Store. In a statement, Chase Card Services general manager Robert Belan explained the thinking behind the new rewards credit card:

We developed Disney’s Premier Visa Card with one simple objective in mind – to deliver what Disney’s customers told us was most important in a rewards credit card – earning rewards faster. The ability to earn 2% on every day card purchases – specifically at restaurants, gas stations and grocery stores – was a key theme from our research and we’re pleased to offer that as a benefit on this new card.

Redeeming rewards

As you’d expect, you can redeem points (they’re called “Disney Dream Reward Dollars”) for most things Disney, including theme park tickets, hotel stays, merchandise, cruises and movie tickets. However, you can also use them for air travel on any airline traveling anywhere at anytime — with no block-out dates. You just pay for the ticket using your card and then reimburse yourself by redeeming the points as a statement credit. Jennifer Cohen, a senior vice president with The Walt Disney Company, said in a press release:

Cardmembers can redeem toward just about anything Disney from Theme Park tickets, hotel stays, dining and cruises to toys, apparel, movies, games, books and more. Offering more rewards on everyday purchases and the option to redeem toward Disney or airline travel are two more features intended to deliver on the Disney promise of high quality at good value.

Rewards credit cards with added perks

You can also enjoy a range of perks. For example, there’s a private location exclusively for cardholders at both Disneyland and Walt Disney World where Disney characters host meet ‘n’ greet sessions. And there are also special savings offered only to cardholders at Disney theme parks, retail outlets and DisneyStore.com.

Of course, many rewards credit cards are designed to appeal to niche markets, and this is one of them. Whether you’re a childless, single man in your 50s, or if you have kids or grandkids who love Disney, this product’s well worth a look for its everyday benefits.

Published 02/03/12