The Chase Freedom Unlimited® and Citi Custom Cash℠ Card are two of the most popular basic cash-back rewards credit cards on the market. Both cards offer generous rewards rates on everyday spending, but they have different strengths and weaknesses.
In this detailed comparison, we will delve into the unique features and advantages of both cards.
Freedom Unlimited vs. Custom Cash: General Comparison
The Chase Freedom Unlimited card offers an array of cash back rewards, allowing cardholders to earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase and higher cashback on dining and purchases via Ultimate rewards. If you spend a lot of money on travel and dining, the Chase Freedom Unlimited® card is a good option.
In contrast, the Citi Custom Cash Card takes a different approach by offering dynamic rewards that adapt to your spending habits, allowing you to maximize cash back in categories where you spend the most.
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Cashback Battle: Freedom Unlimited vs. Custom Cash
When it comes to cashback potential, the Chase Freedom Unlimited has an advantage, particularly for those who often make travel-related purchases through Chase Ultimate Rewards.
However, if you tend to spend more in specific categories like groceries or gas and want to maximize your rewards, the Citi Custom Cash Card could offer a better cashback rate.
|  | |
|---|---|---|
Spend Per Category | Chase Freedom Unlimited® | Citi Custom Cash Card |
$15,000 – U.S Supermarkets | $225 | $390 |
$5,000 – Restaurants
| $150 | $50 |
$4,000 – Airline | $200 | $40 |
$3,000 – Hotels | $150 | $30 |
$4,000 – Gas | $60 | $40 |
Estimated Annual Value | $785 | $550 |
Which Extra Benefits You'll Get With Each Card?
Chase Freedom Unlimited
- Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver: Drive with confidence as you get coverage against theft and collision damage. Simply decline the rental company's insurance and charge the entire rental cost to your card. This coverage is applicable to most cars in the U.S. and abroad.
- Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance: Experience flexibility in your travel plans with reimbursement for pre-paid, non-refundable passenger fares. It covers up to $1,500 per person and $6,000 per trip in case your trip is canceled or interrupted due to covered situations.
- My Chase Plan: Enjoy financial flexibility with My Chase Plan on the Unlimited card. Easily pay off eligible purchases of $100 or more in equal monthly payments with no interest, only a fixed monthly fee.
- Instacart+ Benefit: Enjoy a complimentary 3-month Instacart+ membership with bthe Freedom Unlimited, granting you unlimited deliveries at $0 delivery fees and reduced service fees on eligible orders.
- 5% Cash Back/5x Points on Lyft Rides: Elevate your Lyft experience with enhanced rewards on the card through March 31, 2025, providing 5% cash back or 5x points on all Lyft ride purchases.
- Cellular Telephone Protection: The Unlimited card ensures peace of mind with up to $600 in cell phone protection. Simply pay your monthly cell phone bill with the card, and enjoy coverage, subject to a $25 deductible.
- Purchase Protection: The card extends a safety net to your new purchases, offering 120 days of coverage against damage or theft. Benefit from up to $500 per claim and $50,000 per account.
- Extended Warranty Protection: Amplify your warranty with the Unlimited card, extending the U.S. manufacturer's warranty by an additional year on eligible warranties of three years or less.
Citi Custom Cash Card
$0 Liability on Unauthorized Charges: Enjoy complete protection against any unauthorized charges on your account at Citi. You won't be held responsible for charges you didn't authorize, whether online or otherwise.
Free Access to your FICO® Score: Monitor your FICO® Score effortlessly with no impact on your credit score. Accessible anytime, the score is updated monthly and easily accessible through the Citi Mobile® App and Citi® Online. Explore the key factors influencing your score and more.
24/7 Customer Service: Experience round-the-clock assistance from our customer service representatives, available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to address your needs.
When You Might Want the Chase Freedom Unlimited Card?
There are several situations in which you might prefer the Chase Freedom Unlimited card over the Citi Custom Cash Card:
- Travel Enthusiasts: If you travel often and use Chase Ultimate Rewards, the Freedom Unlimited card gives you more value for travel-related expenses.
- Better Insurance Perks: If you're looking for extra perks like travel insurance and rental car coverage, the Freedom Unlimited card has you covered.
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