The first rule of Chase applications isn't written on any application. It's called 5/24, and it says that if you've opened five or more new credit card accounts in the past 24 months — from any issuer, including store cards and authorized user accounts — Chase will almost always deny you.

Which means the order matters more than the cards. If you know you're going to want a Sapphire or an Ink Business Preferred over the next two years, Chase goes first. Everything else — Amex, Capital One, Citi, the store card the barista pitched you — waits.

The frustrating part: the wall is invisible until you hit it. Your credit report looks fine. Your utilization is low. And Chase says no in eight seconds with no explanation.

There is no clever workaround. There is only patience, and a plan.