The Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard® is an excellent option for frequent travelers who often fly with American Airlines. This credit card not only offers a generous welcome bonus of 50,000 American Airlines AAdvantage® bonus miles but also provides a host of travel-related perks.

In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the key aspects of the Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard®. We’ll explore how the annual fee works, how the credit limit is determined, and the various advantages and disadvantages of the card.

Key information about the Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard®

How does the annual fee work?

Understanding the annual fee structure of the Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard® is crucial for potential cardholders. For the first year, there is no annual fee, allowing you to enjoy the card’s benefits without any initial cost. After the first year, the annual fee is $99.

How is the credit limit determined?

The credit limit for the Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard® is determined based on several factors. These include your creditworthiness, income, and overall financial health. When you apply for the card, Citi conducts a comprehensive review of your credit history and current financial situation to set an appropriate credit limit.

Advantages of the Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard®

• Generous welcome bonus: Earn 50,000 American Airlines AAdvantage® bonus miles after spending $2,500 within the first three months.

• First checked bag free: Enjoy the first checked bag free on domestic American Airlines itineraries for you and up to four travel companions on the same reservation.

• Preferred boarding: Gain preferred boarding on American Airlines flights, allowing you to settle in more comfortably.

• Earning miles: Earn 2 miles for every $1 spent at restaurants, gas stations, and on eligible American Airlines purchases. Earn 1 mile for every $1 spent on all other purchases.

• $125 flight discount: Earn a $125 American Airlines Flight Discount after spending $20,000 or more in purchases during your cardmembership year and renewing your card.

• Loyalty points: Earn 1 Loyalty Point for every 1 eligible AAdvantage® mile earned from purchases to reach AAdvantage® status faster.

Standout advantage

One of the standout advantages of the Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard® is the ability to earn AAdvantage® miles and Loyalty Points simultaneously. This dual-earning structure allows cardholders to maximize their rewards from everyday purchases. For every $1 spent at restaurants, gas stations, and on eligible American Airlines purchases, you earn 2 AAdvantage® miles.

Disadvantages

• Annual fee: After the first year, the card carries a $99 annual fee.

• High APR: The variable APR for purchases and balance transfers ranges from 21.24% to 29.99%, which can be high for some users.

• Limited redemption options: AAdvantage® miles are primarily redeemable for American Airlines flights and partner airlines, limiting flexibility compared to other reward programs.

A standout disadvantage

One of the most notable disadvantages of the Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard® is its high variable APR, ranging from 21.24% to 29.99%. This can be a significant drawback for cardholders who carry a balance from month to month. High-interest rates can quickly accumulate, leading to substantial debt if not managed carefully.

Who can apply for this card?

To apply for the Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard®, you must meet certain eligibility criteria. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and have a valid Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number. 

Additionally, having a good to excellent credit score increases the likelihood of approval. While the card does not explicitly require a minimum income, demonstrating a stable income source can enhance your application.

The card is available to individuals who reside in the United States and its territories, excluding Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Unfortunately, it is not available to those who have received a new account bonus for a Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® account in the past 48 months.

How to apply for the Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard®

For the website

To apply online, visit the Citi website and navigate to the Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard® page. Click on “Apply Now” and fill out the application form with your personal and financial information. Ensure all details are accurate before submitting the form. The online application process is quick and convenient, and you may receive an instant decision.

This streamlined method allows for a hassle-free experience, saving you time and effort. Completing the application accurately increases your chances of approval, making it easier to enjoy the benefits of the Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard®.

Through the app

You can also apply for the card through the Citi mobile app. To do this, first download the app from either the App Store for iOS devices or the Google Play Store for Android devices. Once the app is installed, open it and either log in to your existing account or create a new one if you don’t already have one.

After logging in, navigate to the section where you can view the list of available credit cards. From this list, select the Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard®. Next, you will need to complete the application form provided within the app.

This involves filling in all the necessary personal and financial information required by Citi. The advantage of using the mobile app is that it offers the added convenience of allowing you to manage your application status and account details directly from your mobile device, anytime and anywhere, making the entire process more streamlined and accessible.

At the branch

If you prefer an in-person application, you can visit a Citi branch near you. Upon arrival, a knowledgeable representative will assist you with the application process, ensuring that you understand all the terms and conditions associated with the Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard®.

It is essential to bring all the necessary documents, such as a valid form of identification, proof of income, and your Social Security number, to facilitate the application process. Applying at a branch offers the benefit of a more personalized experience, where you can receive immediate, face-to-face assistance.

This interaction allows you to ask any questions you may have about the card, its benefits, or any other concerns you might have regarding the application process. The representative can provide detailed explanations and guidance tailored to your specific needs, ensuring that you are fully informed and comfortable with your decision before completing the application.