Citibank offers a variety of banking product services, with credit cards being one of its top products.
As one of the largest issuers of credit cards, Citi has a pool of different types of credit cards targeting both individuals and small business consumers. These cards also offer multiple perks and benefits such as cash backs, airline miles, and its proprietary rewards program known as ThankYou points. Whether you are looking for cash back credit cards, travel reward points, or to collect miles from your best airline, you are guaranteed to find a Citi credit card for your specific needs.
Here are The Smart Investor Select’s picks for Citi credit cards:
Card | Rewards | Bonus | Annual Fee | Best For |
| 2%*
2% cash back rewards rate – 1% every time you swipe and another 1% upon payment.
| Up to $200
None
| $0 | Cashback |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1X – 3X
3X points per dollar on restaurant, supermarket, gas station, hotel and air travel and other hotels purchases, and 1X points per dollar on all other purchases
| 60,000 points
60,000 bonus ThankYou® Points after you spend $4,000 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening. Plus, for a limited time, earn a total of 10 ThankYou® Points per $1 spent on hotel, car rentals, and attractions (excluding air travel) booked on the Citi Travel portal through June 30, 2024
| $95 | Travel Rewards | |
| 1-4%
4% cash back on on eligible gas and EV charging purchases for the first $7,000 per year and then 1% thereafter, 3% cash back on restaurants and most travel purchases, 2% cash back at Costco and Costco.com, 1% cash back on all other purchases
| None
| $0 * | Shopping | |
| None | None | $0 | Balance Transfers | |
| None | None | $0 | Bad Credit | |
 | 1-5%
5% back in rewards on shopping at BestBuy ( 6% back* in rewards for Elite Plus Cardmembers), 3% back in rewards on gas purchases, 2% back in rewards on dining, takeout and grocery purchases, 1% back in rewards on everyday purchases
|
10% first day
10% back in rewards on your first day of purchase
| $0–$59
based on creditworthiness | Store | |
| 1X – 2X
2 AAdvantage® miles for every $1 spent at gas stations and restaurants, and 2 AAdvantage® miles for every $1 spent on eligible American Airlines purchases
| 50,000 Miles
50,000 American Airlines AAdvantage® bonus miles after $2,500 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening
| $99
Waived for the first 12 months
| American Airlines Flyers | |
 | 1-5%
5% cash back on your highest eligible spend category each billing cycle up to the first $500 spent and 1% cash back thereafter
| $200
$200 cash back after you spend $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening (20,000 ThankYou® Points, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back)
| $0 | No Annual Fee |
How's Citi Rewards Program Work?
Citi offers various rewards to its cardholders including cash back and ThankYou point rewards. This makes Citi reward programs as competitive as other reward programs in the credit card industry such as Chase Ultimate Rewards and Amex Membership Rewards. If you are looking to get your first Citi credit card, consider a card with these rewards:
1. Citi ThankYou Rewards
This rewards program lets banking and credit card customers collect points when they make purchases using a qualifying card. Depending on the card, you may qualify for signup bonuses, and earn 5x to 3x points for every dollar spent on a specific purchase category. These points do not expire, and you can earn as many points as you want.
Each ThankYou point is worth 0.8 to 1 cent depending on the redemption option you choose and the Citi credit card you have. You can redeem your ThankYou points for cash rewards, travel rewards, or gift cards from top retailers such as Amazon, eBay, Best Buy, and Live Nation. If you want to redeem your points for airline miles or hotel stays, check the ThankYou Travel center for active offers.
Citi also allows you maximize the value of your rewards by transferring them to a participating transfer partner. These partners mostly comprise Airline and hotel, travel partners. You can convert your points at a transfer rate of 1:1, with 1000 point increments.
2. Citi Cash Back Program
The Citi cash back program earns a return of 2% of the total amount spent on every qualifying purchase and it's mainly relevant to Citi Double cardholders. This cash back model includes 1% cash back when you swipe your card at the payment terminal, and another 1% cashback you pay back the credit. This reward program has no cap on the number of cash backs you can earn, and it does not track specific categories. However, you do not earn cash backs on cash advances, balance transfers, or account fees.
This reward program appeals to consumers who prefer fixed-rate earnings, and the fact that Citi allows these cash backs to be converted to ThankYou points if you hold the Citi Premier Card or Citi Prestige Card. You can also redeem the cash backs as direct deposits, checks, or a statement credit.
Citi Redemption Options
From airline tickets to gift cards, there are endless opportunities for turning your cash back and Thank You points into actual rewards.
To see the available redemption options, go to Citi’s ThankYou website. Log in your account, and click on redemption categories at the top bar. The main redemption options include:
- Gift cards – You can trade your ThankYou points for gift cards that you can use in over 100 local and international stores. You can use the gift cards to shop across various categories such as accessories, apparel, hotel and dining, health and beauty, and electronics.
Depending on the store, you can redeem your points at the ratio of 1:1.
- Shop with points – Use your ThankYou points to pay for purchases directly at participating stores. When shopping with points, check the partner websites on ThankYou websites, and link the preferred retailer’s website and your ThankYou account.
Pick the preferred product you want to buy, and add to cart. Choose to pay using ThankYou Points and select the number of points required, and complete the purchase.
- Travel rewards – Use your points to pay for airline tickets, car rentals, cruise lines, and hotel stays and dining. The value of each ThankYou point may vary from 0.5 cents to 1 cent, depending on the time of travel, cost of travel, and length of travel.
If you hold a qualifying Citi card, either Citi Premier Card or Citi Prestige Card, you can transfer your ThankYou points to participating travel loyalty programs on a 1:1 transfer ratio.
- Other ways to redeem – There are a dozen other ways to redeem your Citi reward points. One of these redemption options is to use your ThankYou points to make a charitable contribution.
If you are currently paying your student loan or mortgage, you can use your points to pay back the outstanding balance with a check to your lender of up to $1000. You can also get cash rewards in $50 and $100 denominations, with no limits on the number of rewards you can redeem.
Citi® Double Cash Card
Reward Details
Current Offer
Credit Rating
Annual Fee
0% Intro
APR
On Citi Secure Website, Terms Apply
Looking for a credit card issuer that offers an unrivaled flat-rate cash back rewards on all your purchases with no annual fee and a straightforward reward structure, then look nowhere else; Citi Double Cash is the best for you. You can get up to 1% cashback when you use the card plus an additional 1% whenever you make a payment. The flexible redemption options of this card make it a potentially lucrative option for its users.
The card is also great for those who are looking to transfer their balance since it offers a outstanding intro APR of 18 months on balance transfers (18.99% - 28.99% (Variable) after that).
- Rewards Plan: 2% cash back rewards rate – 1% every time you swipe and another 1% upon payment.
- APR: 18.99% - 28.99% (Variable)
- Annual fee: $0
- Balance Transfer Fee: $5 or 5%
- Foreign Transaction Fee: 3%
- Sign Up bonus: None
- 0% APR Introductory Rate period: 18 months on balance transfers
- Simple and Generous Rewards System
- 0% Intro APR
- Fee Waiver on First Late Payment
- No Annual Fee
- Average Cashback Rate
- Balance Transfer Fee
- Foreign Transaction Fee
- Is there a limit to cash back rewards? No limit in place
- Can I get car rental insurance with Citi Double Cash? Yes, it offers rental insurance for cars if you pay for the full cost with this credit card and you decline the rental company’s insurance.
- What are the income requirements? No out and out income requirements and normally you will not have to provide proof of income.
- Does cash back rewards expire? They don’t expire once you keep your account open.
- Does card Citi Double Cash Credit Card offer pre approval? Yes, pre-approval is a possibility.
- What is the initial credit limit? It will normally be at least $500.
- How do I redeem cash back? You will be able to redeem the cashback points through direct deposit, check, or as a statement credit. You can also use them in other ways, such as spending on gift cards, Amazon.com, and on travel.
- What purchases don't earn cash back? All purchases earn cashback
- Should You Move to Citi Double Cash Card? If you like predictability and want an incentive to meet your payment commitments.
- How to maximize rewards on Citi Double Cash ? Make sure that you make your minimum due payments.
- Top Reasons NOT to get the Citi Double Cash? If you want a higher cashback rate you may need to look for another card.
Citi Premier® Card
Reward details
Current Offer
Credit Rating
Annual Fee
0% Intro
APR
On Citi Secure Website, Terms Apply
With the Citi Premier card, you'll earn unlimited 3X points per dollar on restaurant, supermarket, gas station, hotel and air travel and other hotels purchases, and 1X points per dollar on all other purchases. The points can be redeemed through the Citibank Thankyou Network that allows for the combining of points. They also can be used for things other than traveling, such as merchandise and gift cards.
As a sign up bonus, you'll get 60,000 bonus ThankYou® Points after you spend $4,000 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening. Plus, for a limited time, earn a total of 10 ThankYou® Points per $1 spent on hotel, car rentals, and attractions (excluding air travel) booked on the Citi Travel portal through June 30, 2024. It also has travel insurance that covers canceled or delayed flights and baggage delay insurance and it doesn't have a foreign transaction fee. These features help give you peace of mind while traveling at home and abroad.
However, the card has an annual fee of $95 - so make sure the benefits you get cover the card fee.
- Rewards Plan: 3X points per dollar on restaurant, supermarket, gas station, hotel and air travel and other hotels purchases, and 1X points per dollar on all other purchases
- APR: 20.99% - 28.99% (Variable)
- Annual fee: $95
- Balance Transfer Fee: $5 or 3%
- Foreign Transaction Fee: None
- Sign Up bonus: 60,000 bonus ThankYou® Points after you spend $4,000 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening. Plus, for a limited time, earn a total of 10 ThankYou® Points per $1 spent on hotel, car rentals, and attractions (excluding air travel) booked on the Citi Travel portal through June 30, 2024
- 0% APR Introductory Rate period: None
- Sign-Up Bonus
- No Foreign Transaction Fee
- Thank you Points + No Limit
- Protection & Free Credit Score
- $95 Annual Fee
- No Intro 0% APR
- Balance Transfer Fee
- Complicated Rewards Structure and Redemption
Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi
On Citi Secure Website, Terms Apply
Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi
Reward details
Current Offer
Credit Rating
Annual Fee
0% Intro
APR
On Citi Secure Website, Terms Apply
This card is an amazing choice for regular Costco shoppers who want to earn a highly competitive cashback rewards, and one of the best shopping cards available. Costco Anywhere Card does not charge any fee on foreign transactions and does not charge any annual fee. The card offers 4% cash back on on eligible gas and EV charging purchases for the first $7,000 per year and then 1% thereafter, 3% cash back on restaurants and most travel purchases, 2% cash back at Costco and Costco.com, 1% cash back on all other purchases.
To enjoy all these benefits, all you need to do is pay your annual Costco membership fee to maintain your card account. Some of the limitations attached to this card usage include; limited cashback redemption option and a cap on gas rewards.
- Rewards Plan: 4% cash back on on eligible gas and EV charging purchases for the first $7,000 per year and then 1% thereafter, 3% cash back on restaurants and most travel purchases, 2% cash back at Costco and Costco.com, 1% cash back on all other purchases
- APR: 20.24% (Variable)
- Annual fee: $0 *
- Balance Transfer Fee: 3% or 5$
- Foreign Transaction Fee: 0%
- Sign Up bonus: None
- 0% APR Introductory Rate period: None
- Cashback on Costco, Gas, Restaurants and Travel and Other Spending
- No Annual Fee
- No Foreign Transaction Fee
- Extended Manufacturer Warranty, Travel Perks
- Redemption Restrictions
- No Sign-Up Bonus or 0% APR Introductory Rate
- There are Better Cashback Cards
- High APR
What’s the initial credit limit?
The initial credit limit for the Costco Anywhere visa is $500, but some cardholders have been offered an initial limit as high as $10,000.
What are the top reasons not to get the Costco card?
The top reason to not get the Costco Anywhere card is if you can get better rewards on a different tier card. There are some cards out there that offer 5% on one or two categories, which provides greater flexibility.
How’s the card customer service availability?
Citi has phone lines that are open 24/7, so you can access support at any time.
How much should I spend to cover the card fees?
There is no annual fee, However, you do need to have a Costco membership for the Costco Anywhere, but presumably, you’ll already have this covered.
Is it hard to get the Costco card?
To qualify for the Costco Anywhere card, you must have excellent credit and a low income-to-debt ratio.
Can I get pre approved?
Citi does not support Costco Anywhere card pre-approval. You'll need to fill out a full application, which will include a hard credit pull.
Citi Simplicity® Card
Reward details
Current Offer
Credit Rating
Annual Fee
0% Intro
APR
On Citi Secure Website, Terms Apply
If you need a card that will give you the freedom to pay off you debt without pesky fees, Simplicity by Citi offers you a perfect solution.
The main benefit the card offers is the long 0% intro APR - it applies for 12 months on purchases and 21 months on balance transfers (18.99% - 29.74% (Variable) after that), so the card can be a perfect fit if you need to payoff your debt or in case you plan a big purchase soon.
- APR: 18.99% - 29.74% (Variable)
- Annual fee: $0
- Balance Transfer Fee: $5 or 5% (whichever is greater)
- Foreign Transaction Fee: 3%
- Rewards Plan: None
- Sign Up bonus: None
- 0% APR Introductory Rate period: 12 months on purchases and 21 months on balance transfers
- No Annual Fee
- Long 0% intro APR
- Citi Perks
- No Rewards System
- 5% Balance Transfer Fee
Citi® Secured Mastercard®
Reward Details
Current Offer
Credit Rating
Annual Fee
0% Intro
APR
On Citi Secure Website, Terms Apply
The Citi® Secured Mastercard® is different from other secured credit cards. It is designed for individuals that have no credit or individuals with limited credit. Individuals with bad credit are not eligible to have this card. It's a great plus for you if you qualify because they don’t charge an annual fee, and they report all card activities to all the three main credit bureaus.
The Citi Secured Mastercard offers no rewards. Some of the benefits you can get from using this card include; free FICO score access, account alerts and flexible payment due date. However, there is a high annual percentage, which is one of the disadvantages of using this card.
- APR: 26.74% (Variable)
- Annual fee: $0
- Balance Transfer Fee: $5 or 3%
- Foreign Transaction Fee: 3%
- Rewards Plan: None
- Sign Up bonus: None
- 0% APR Introductory Rate period: None
- Build Your Credit
- No Annual Fee
- Protection
- No Rewards/Intro 0% APR Periods / Sign Up Bonus
- High APR
- Deposit Needed
Best Buy Credit Card
Reward Details
Current Offer
Credit Rating
Annual Fee
0% Intro
APR
On Citi Website, Terms Apply
The Best Buy Visa Card is a store rewards card that provides excellent benefits to frequent Best Buy customers. This is a Visa card, and it is accepted everywhere Visa is accepted, so you are not limited to using it at Best Buy.
Cardholders earn 5% back in rewards on shopping at BestBuy ( 6% back* in rewards for Elite Plus Cardmembers), 3% back in rewards on gas purchases, 2% back in rewards on dining, takeout and grocery purchases, 1% back in rewards on everyday purchases.
This card is great in the right situation and for Best Buy big spenders. If that doesn't describe you, you might want to look for other rewards cards with better perks.
- APR: 29.24% Variable
- Annual fee:
$0–$59 based on creditworthiness
- Balance Transfer Fee: $15 or 5%
- Foreign Transaction Fee: N/A
- Rewards Plan: 5% back in rewards on shopping at BestBuy ( 6% back* in rewards for Elite Plus Cardmembers), 3% back in rewards on gas purchases, 2% back in rewards on dining, takeout and grocery purchases, 1% back in rewards on everyday purchases
- Sign Up bonus:10% back in rewards on your first day of purchase
- 0% APR Introductory Rate period: None
- High Rewards on Best Buy
- No Foreign Transaction Fee
- Debt Protection Plan
- Fraud Protection
- Annual Fee
- Not For Everyday Purchases
- Redemption Restrictions
Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard®
On Citi Secure Website, Terms Apply
Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard®
Reward details
Current Offer
Credit Rating
Annual Fee
0% Intro
APR
On Citi Secure Website, Terms Apply
With the Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard® cardholders earn 2 AAdvantage® miles for every $1 spent at gas stations and restaurants, and 2 AAdvantage® miles for every $1 spent on eligible American Airlines purchases. The card offers a nice sign-up bonus of 50,000 American Airlines AAdvantage® bonus miles after $2,500 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening. There's no limit to the number of miles you can earn.
There are many additional perks you're eligible that can make flying a little bit less of a hassle since such as a free checked bag, preferred boarding and discounts on inflight food and beverage. However, the card comes with annual fee of
- APR: 20.99% - 29.99% (Variable)
- Annual fee: $99 Waived for the first 12 months
- Balance Transfer Fee: $5 or 5%
- Foreign Transaction Fee: 0%
- Rewards Plan: 2 AAdvantage® miles for every $1 spent at gas stations and restaurants, and 2 AAdvantage® miles for every $1 spent on eligible American Airlines purchases
- Sign Up bonus: 50,000 American Airlines AAdvantage® bonus miles after $2,500 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening
- 0% APR Introductory Rate period: None
- Sign up Bonus
- Great Rewards For AA Flyers
- No Limit on Miles Earned
- Wide Network of Airlines
- Free Checked bag and Preferred Boarding
- Annual Fee
- High Fees For Reward Changes
- Travel on Many Partner Airlines Can’t be Redeemed Online
- Blackout Dates on Some Rewards
Does it have a rewards limit?
No - the AAdvantage Platinum card doesn't specify a maximum number of miles you can earn, so you can accumulate as many rewards as you like throughout the year.
Can I get car rental insurance?
Unlike the Citi AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®, The Citi AAdvantage Platinum Select card does not offer rental car insurance.
What are the card income requirements?
it is possible to obtain the Citi AAdvantage card with good to excellent credit. However, there are no stated income requirements. Your credit score will be used to determine your eligibility, while your income will determine your credit limit upon approval.
Do the miles expire?
There is an expiration on AAdvantage miles, but this is only if you have 18 months of account inactivity. So, if you keep your account active, you should not have any problems with miles expiring.
Can I redeem for flights with airline partners?
American Airlines has limited redemption options for other airlines. You can use your AAdvantage miles for JetBlue flights, but otherwise you are limited to American Airlines flights.
How much is 10,000 miles worth?
Aadvantage miles have a lower average redemption compared to most airline cards, estimated value at 1.27 cents per mile. This means that 10,000 miles could be worth $127 with the Aadvantage Executive World Elite.
Citi Custom Cash℠ Card
Reward details
Current Offer
Credit Rating
Annual Fee
0% Intro
APR
On Citi Secure Website, Terms Apply
The Citi Custom Cash℠ Card is a good option for those for aren't spending too much on their card and mainly focus on a specific category.
The rewards rate is pretty high for such cardholders - 5% cash back on your highest eligible spend category each billing cycle up to the first $500 spent and 1% cash back thereafter. In addition, new applicants are eligible for a sign up bonus of $200 cash back after you spend $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening (20,000 ThankYou® Points, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back).
The card has no annual fee and provide generous 0% intro APR for new cardholders.
- APR: 18.99% - 28.99% (Variable)
- Annual fee: $0
- Balance Transfer Fee: $5 or 5% (the greater)
- Foreign Transaction Fee: 3%
- Rewards Plan: 5% cash back on your highest eligible spend category each billing cycle up to the first $500 spent and 1% cash back thereafter
- Sign Up bonus: $200 cash back after you spend $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening (20,000 ThankYou® Points, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back)
- 0% APR Introductory Rate period: 15 months on purchases and balance transfers
- High Cash Back Rate
- 0% Intro APR
- Sign-Up Bonus
- No Annual Fee
- Balance Transfer Fee
- Low Cap on Higher Cashback
- Foreign Transaction Fee
Can I get car rental insurance with Citi Custom Cash Card?
Yes, it offers rental insurance for cars if you pay for the full cost with this credit card and you decline the rental company’s insurance.
Is there a cash-back rewards limit?
Besides the cap on specific categories, there is no limit in place with this card on how many total rewards you can earn. Therefore, people who will be spending large sums on purchases can ideally take advantage of this offering.
What is the initial credit limit?
The initial credit limit will usually be $500 for this card. The exact limit that will be in place will depend on your financial situation (can be much higher).
Should You Move to Citi Custom Cash Card?
If you don't tend to spend more than $1,000 - $1,500 every month and you tend to spend them on specific categories, this card can be a perfect fit due to the high cashback on the your top category.
What purchases don't earn cash back?
All purchases earn cashback as a result of using this card. Therefore, you will be able to take a very flexible approach and know that you will always be able to earn reward no matter the type of purchase.
How to maximize rewards on Citi Custom Cash Card?
Make sure that you avail of the signup bonus and that you maximize the 5% cashback offering each cycle. This will allow you to get the best bang for your buck.
How to Compare Citi Credit Cards
Citi Credit Cards Types & Differences
Citi has different types of credit cards, with each card packed with multiple perks and benefits such as cash backs, 0% introductory interest rate, airline rewards, and other forms of cash and points rewards.
If you are a Citi customer, and you are looking for a new Citi credit card, here are the best Citi credit cards to consider:
Citi® Premier Card (Best for sign-up bonus)
The Citi Premier card is the best Citi credit card for a sign-up bonus. This card earns 60,000 bonus ThankYou® Points after you spend $4,000 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening. Plus, for a limited time, earn a total of 10 ThankYou® Points per $1 spent on hotel, car rentals, and attractions (excluding air travel) booked on the Citi Travel portal through June 30, 2024.
Cardholders also get 3X points per dollar on restaurant, supermarket, gas station, hotel and air travel and other hotels purchases, and 1X points per dollar on all other purchases. This card has an annual charge of $95 , and there are no charges on foreign transaction fees.
Citi® Double Cash Card (Best for cash back rewards)
This Citi Double Cash card offers one of the most generous cash back rates in the credit card market. It earns double cash backs for every purchase. You get 2% cash back on everything you buy; 1% cash back when you buy and other 1% when you for the purchase. Cardholders get a 0% APR period for the first 18 months.
Once this period lapses, the APR changes to a variable rate of 18.99% – 28.99% (Variable). This card can be used for credit card consolidation if you are looking to combine your credit card debts since it offers o% intro APR for 18 months on balance transfers. Cardholders do not pay an annual fee for the Citi Double Cash Card.
Costco Anywhere Visa by Citi® (Best for Costco Members)
The Costco Anywhere Visa by Citi® card is designed exclusively for Costco members, and it earns cash points for every purchase made at Costco. It gives cardholders a 4% cash back on on eligible gas and EV charging purchases for the first $7,000 per year and then 1% thereafter, 3% cash back on restaurants and most travel purchases, 2% cash back at Costco and Costco.com, 1% cash back on all other purchases.
Although this card does not charge an annual fee, cardholders require a Costco membership card to get the Costco Anywhere Visa Citi card. The Costco membership card requires an annual membership subscription. Costco Anywhere Visa has no foreign transaction fees.
Citi®/AAdvantage Platinum Select World Elite Mastercard (Best for airline travel)
The Citi®/AAdvantage Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard credit card is one of the top-tier credit cards for American airlines that can help you earn cash back and premium benefits if you are a frequent American Airlines flyer.
Cardholders get 50,000 American Airlines AAdvantage® bonus miles after $2,500 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening. Cardholders get 2 AAdvantage® miles for every $1 spent at gas stations and restaurants, and 2 AAdvantage® miles for every $1 spent on eligible American Airlines purchases.
Cardholders enjoy various travel perks including a membership to the American Admiral Club lounges, TSA PreCheck credit, priority boarding and check-in, and waived fees on the first checked bag.
Citi Secured Mastercard (Best for credit building)
If you are looking to build your credit, the Citi Secured Mastercard is a good pick. This card does not offer rewards, and it is mainly designed for people with a limited credit history or people with bad credit who are looking to improve their credit score.
The repayment history is reported to credit bureaus and entered into the credit report. Once approved, users are required to deposit $200 to $2,500, which acts as security for the credit. This card does not charge an annual fee.
Citi Simplicity Card (Best for balance transfers)
If you need a card that will give you the enough time to pay off debt or funding a new purchase, Simplicity by Citi offers you a perfect solution. This card offers a very long 0% intro APR of 12 months on purchases and 21 months on balance transfers
You need a credit score of between 690 to 850 to qualify for this card, and. As a bonus, there are no late fees or annual fees when using this card ever.
Citi Custom Cash Card (Best for rotating categories)
The Citi custom cash is ideal for those who are looking to get a higher cashback on specific categories. Once you sign up for this card, Citi rewards you with $200 cash back after you spend $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening (20,000 ThankYou® Points, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back). Cardholders also get 1-5%.
Similar to more Citi cards, the Citi Custom Cash Card also offers other perks such as contactless pay, digital wallets, automatic account alerts, $0 liability on unauthorized charges and free access to your FICO® Score.
Citi Rewards+® Card (best for everyday purchases)
The Citi Rewards + Card is the best credit card if you are looking to collect points for everyday purchases. This card rewards you 2x points on purchases up to $6,000 per year on supermarkets & gas stations (then 1x thereafter) and 1 point per $1 on all other purchase. Plus, users are awarded 10% back on the ThankYou points they redeem, up to 100,000 points per year.
Once you sign up for the Citi Rewards+ card, Citi rewards you with 25,000 bonus points after you spend $1,500 in purchases with your card within 3 months of account opening; redeemable for $250 in gift cards at thankyou.com. Plus, for a limited time, earn 5 ThankYou® Points per $1 spent on hotel, car rentals, and attractions (excluding air travel) booked on the Citi Travel Portal through June 30, 2024. The Citi Rewards + Card offers 0% introductory APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers. The APR increases a variable rate of 18.49% – 28.49% (Variable) . The issuer also charges a fee of 3% on the transfer amount. This card does not have an annual fee.
What Credit Score Will I Need in Order to Get Approved?
When considering credit card applications, Citi uses credit scores as one of the main factors in deciding whether or not to approve the application.
Although Citi does not publish the specific credit scores needed to be approved for any of the cards, you should expect to have an excellent credit score to be approved for one of Citi’s top-tier credit cards. Here are the credit scores you will need to get a Citi credit card:
- Cards For Excellent credit (750+) – With a credit score above 750, you are eligible for all of Citi's credit cards, assuming that you pass other credit approval requirements. Specifically, this credit score can make you eligible for a rewards card such as Citi Double Cash Card, Citi Rewards+ , Costco Anywhere Visa card, and Citi/AAdvantage Executive World Elite Mastercard.
- Cards For Good credit (700-749) – A good credit score makes you eligible for some of Citi's attractive credit offerings such as Citi Premier Card, Citi Simplicity Card, and even the Citi Double Cash. If you have a good credit score, you can prequalify for any of the Citi cards to see where you stand.
- Cards For Fair credit (640- 699) – A fair credit score makes you eligible for one of Citi's store cards that can be used in the participating stores. Examples of these store cards include Best Buy and Staples.
- Cards For Bad credit (below 640) – If you have a limited credit history or bad credit, you are eligible for the Citi Secured Mastercard. This credit card is ideal is you are looking to rebuild your credit. However, you will need to make a deposit of $200 to $2,500, which will be equal to your credit limit.
How Citi Cash Back Offers Work?
Citi cash back offers allow cardholders to earn cash rewards when they use the card to make cash purchases. Some of the cash back offers earn higher cash rewards on specific purchase categories like gas, restaurant bills, and airline tickets, and a lower reward for all other purchases.
If you are using the Citi Double Cash Card, you will get 2% cash back on every purchase made using your card i.e. 1% when you buy a product/service, and 1% after you pay the credit. You must make on-time payment of the credit to get the additional 1% cash back. This model is an alternative to the rotating categories and permanent categories cash back model.
An example of credit card in the permanent category is the Blue Cash EveryDay® from American Express. When using this credit card to make purchases, you get 2X at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 each year), then 1x on all purchases (Terms Apply).
How Citi Points Reward Offers Work?
Credit card reward points are points earned when you make purchases using your credit card. If you are using a Citi Credit card, the reward points are known as ThankYou Points. The Citi ThankYou rewards program is one of the most generous rewards for credit cardholders looking to redeem points for airline tickets, gift cards, shopping, cash rewards, and charity donation. The ThankYou rewards are accessible on Citi’s ThankYou website.
The three Citi credit cards that collect points include the Citi Premier Card, Citi Rewards+ Card, and Citi Prestige Card. You can earn ThankYou Points on these cards from the sign-up bonuses and by picking a card that offers the highest points in the categories where you spend the most.
If you are using the Citi Premier Card, you earn 60,000 bonus ThankYou® Points after you spend $4,000 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening. Plus, for a limited time, earn a total of 10 ThankYou® Points per $1 spent on hotel, car rentals, and attractions (excluding air travel) booked on the Citi Travel portal through June 30, 2024. This card also earns 3X points per dollar on restaurant, supermarket, gas station, hotel and air travel and other hotels purchases, and 1X points per dollar on all other purchases.
In comparison, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® credit card earns 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. Cardholders also earn 5x total points on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards, 3x points on dining and online grocery purchases and 2x on other travel purchases. Plus, earn 1 point per dollar spent on all other purchases .
How to Maximize Citi Rewards?
The Citi rewards program is one of the most generous programs for credit cardholders looking for lucrative points that can be redeemed for travel, gift cards, statement credit, or other rewards. If you are looking to get the most value from your credit cards, here are handy tips to help you maximize the cash back offers and ThankYou points:
- Sign Up Bonus
For example, if you sign up for a Citi Premier Card, you earn 60,000 bonus ThankYou® Points after you spend $4,000 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening. Plus, for a limited time, earn a total of 10 ThankYou® Points per $1 spent on hotel, car rentals, and attractions (excluding air travel) booked on the Citi Travel portal through June 30, 2024. Assuming a transfer rate of 1:1, the sign-up bonus is worth about $600. The value may be higher if you transfer the points to one of Citi's participating loyalty programs.
Even with an annual fee of $95, the sign-up bonus makes the Citi Premier Card worth it. If you are applying for a new Citi credit card, pick the card with the highest sign-up offers. Most of Citi's top-tier credit cards offer a generous sign-up bonus in the first few months of use.
- Pick the Card With the Highest Rewards
Citi has a wide range of credit cards that earn cash back offers and ThankYou points. Each card earns different rewards on unique categories. Getting one or two Citi credit cards can help you earn ThankYou points and cash back in different categories and increase your rewards. It is also depends on your goals and spending behavior.
For example, the Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® 2 AAdvantage® miles for every $1 spent at gas stations and restaurants, and 2 AAdvantage® miles for every $1 spent on eligible American Airlines purchases which can be great for frequent flyers. In comparison, The Citi Custom Cash Credit Card earns 5% cash back on your highest eligible spend category each billing cycle up to the first $500 spent and 1% cash back thereafter which is great if you can leverage the high cash back in specific categories.
Signing up for these two cards, and using them for everyday purchases can help you collect bonus points in different categories and boost your total rewards.
- Transfer Points to a Partner Loyalty Program
If you want to get the most out of your points, you can transfer them to one of Citi’s transfer partners. This list includes retail and airline partners. Examples of partner airlines that accept ThankYou points include JetBlue, Emirates, Virgin Atlantic, Singapore Airlines, Air France.
These partners have excellent offers for domestic and international flights to popular destinations such as Hawaii, Europe, and Mexico. Most of the partner airline alliances offer a transfer ratio of 1:1, and each point will give you 1 mile in the program. These rates may vary, and you should get the current rates before transferring your ThankYou points.
What are The Other Benefits of Having a Citi Card?
Whether you are looking to get the highest rewards or manage your spending, you can get the right Citi credit card for your needs. The following are some of the benefits you will get when you enroll for Citi credit cards:
- 0% Introductory APR
Citi offers an attractive annual percentage rate (APR) on balance transfers on a select number of Citi credit cards i.e. Citi Double Cash Card and Citi Rewards+ . Citi Rewards+ has a 0% APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers.
This rate changes to a variable APR rate of 18.49% – 28.49% (Variable) when the 0% APR offer lapses. If you are looking to consolidate your credit cards, you can use either of these cards to enjoy the 0% introductory rate as you pay the remaining debts.
- Access to presale tickets
Some of the Citi credit cards give you exclusive access to presale tickets or VIP access to eligible concerts, sporting events, theater, and other events. You also get preferred access to entertainment experiences before they are released to the public.
If you are a Citi cardholder, you can check these offers on Citi Entertainment to get advance tickets to your band’s upcoming concert.
- Security
Citi offers fraud protection to its cardholders in the form of $0 liability on authorized charges on the cards. If the issuer detects unusual activity on your card, you will receive a fraud alert to help you take quick action. Citi also provides the Citi Quick Lock that lets you lock your card if it is stolen or lost, and unlock it when you find it.
How Many Citi Credit Cards Can I have at One Time?
There are no limits on the number of Citi credit cards you can have at any one time. If you meet the income and credit requirements for a card, you can have several Citi cards in your wallet. However, Citi has various credit card application rules that you should consider:
- Rule 1/8: Apply for only one credit card application every 8 days.
- Rule 2/65: Apply for only two credit card applications every 65 days.
- Rule 1/90: Apply for only business credit card once every 90 days.
- 24 Month Rule: You only get a sign-up bonus for a Citi credit card once every 24 months.
How Do I Cancel a Citi Credit Card?
You can cancel your Citi credit card by phone or via your Citi online account.
If you want to cancel your Citi card by phone, call the bank representative at 800-950-5114. The representative will require you to provide your credit card details to close the card. However, the bank's representative will try to convince you to retain the card, and you may be forwarded to the customer retention department to try and persuade you against the decision.
If you prefer to cancel the credit card without calling the bank, log in to your account at citi.com using your assigned credentials. On the dashboard, scroll down and click “contact us” and then go to “chat with Citi”. Once a chat box pops up, ask the live chat support to cancel your credit card.
