Citi Custom Cash® Card: a comprehensive review

The Citi Custom Cash® Card is a versatile credit card designed to adapt to your spending habits, offering substantial rewards without the hassle of rotating categories or annual fees.

In this article, we will delve into the key features, benefits, and potential drawbacks of the Citi Custom Cash® Card, providing you with all the information you need to decide if this card is the right fit for your wallet.

Key information about the credit card

How does the annual fee work?

One of the standout features of the Citi Custom Cash® Card is that it comes with no annual fee. This is a significant advantage for cardholders, as it allows you to enjoy the benefits and rewards of the card without worrying about an additional yearly expense. Having no annual fee means you can maximize your cash back earnings without having to offset any costs, making this card an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals.

How is the credit limit determined?

The credit limit for the Citi Custom Cash® Card is determined based on several factors, primarily your creditworthiness. When you apply for the card, Citibank reviews your credit history, income, and other financial information to assess your ability to manage credit. If you have a strong credit score and a stable income, you’re more likely to receive a higher credit limit. 

Advantages of the credit card

  • 5% cash back on top spend category: Each billing cycle, you earn 5% cash back on your highest eligible spending category, up to $500. This means your rewards adjust based on your spending patterns, ensuring you get the most out of your purchases.
  • 1% cash back on all other purchases: For all other purchases outside your top spend category, you still earn 1% cash back, allowing you to accumulate rewards on every transaction.
  • Special travel offer: Through June 30, 2025, you can earn an additional 4% cash back on hotels, car rentals, and attractions booked through the Citi Travel℠ portal.
  • Welcome offer: New cardholders can earn $200 cash back after spending $1,500 on purchases within the first six months of account opening. This bonus is fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou® Points, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back.
  • 0% intro APR: Benefit from a 0% introductory APR on purchases and balance transfers for the first 15 months, with a variable APR of 19.24% – 29.24% thereafter.

Standout advantage

The standout feature of the Citi Custom Cash® Card is its flexible cash back rewards program. Unlike many cards that require you to sign up for rotating categories, the Citi Custom Cash® Card automatically adapts to your spending patterns each billing cycle. You earn 5% cash back on your highest spend category, which can include restaurants, gas stations, grocery stores, select travel, transit, streaming services, drugstores, home improvement stores, fitness clubs, and live entertainment.

Disadvantages

  • Balance transfer fee: There’s a fee for balance transfers, either $5 or 5% of the transfer amount, whichever is greater.
  • Foreign transaction fee: A 3% fee applies to purchases made outside the United States, which can add up if you frequently travel abroad.
  • Variable APR: After the introductory period, the APR ranges from 19.24% to 29.24%, which can be high for those carrying a balance.

A standout disadvantage

A notable disadvantage of the Citi Custom Cash® Card is the 3% foreign transaction fee. For cardholders who travel internationally, this fee can quickly add up, making every purchase abroad more expensive. This is particularly disadvantageous for frequent travelers who could benefit more from a card with no foreign transaction fees.

Who can apply for this card?

To apply for the Citi Custom Cash® Card, you must meet several eligibility requirements. Applicants need to be at least 18 years old and have a valid Social Security number. A good to excellent credit score is typically required, as the card’s benefits and rewards are geared towards those with strong credit histories. 

Additionally, you’ll need to provide proof of income, such as pay stubs or tax returns, to demonstrate your ability to manage credit responsibly. This card is not available to individuals with a negative credit history or those who have defaulted on previous credit accounts.

How to apply for the Citi Custom Cash® Card

For the website

You can apply for the Citi Custom Cash® Card directly on the Citi website. Visit the credit card section, select the Custom Cash® Card, and fill out the online application form. You’ll need to provide personal information, including your name, address, Social Security number, and income details.

Once submitted, you can expect a response within a minute. If approved, your card will be mailed to you within a few days. The Citi Custom Cash® Card offers various benefits, including cashback rewards tailored to your spending habits.

It’s a straightforward process designed to get you your new card quickly and efficiently. Make sure all your details are accurate to avoid any delays. With your new Custom Cash® Card, you can start earning rewards on your everyday purchases, making it a valuable addition to your wallet.

Through the app

For those who prefer mobile convenience, the Citi Mobile® App allows you to apply for the card. Download the app, navigate to the credit card application section, and follow the prompts to complete your application.

You can easily provide all necessary information, such as your name, address, Social Security number, and income details, directly through the app. The application process is straightforward and designed to be completed within minutes. Additionally, the app ensures your personal information is protected with advanced security features.

Once your application is submitted, you can quickly check your approval status. If approved, you can manage your Citi Custom Cash® Card through the app, including tracking your spending, paying your bills, and viewing your rewards.

At the branch

If you prefer an in-person application experience, you can visit a Citi branch to apply for the Custom Cash® Card. A representative will assist you with the application process, answer any questions you might have, and help ensure that you meet all the necessary requirements.

During your visit, the representative will guide you through providing your personal information, such as your name, address, Social Security number, and income details. They can also explain the benefits and features of the Citi Custom Cash® Card in detail. Applying in person allows you to get immediate feedback and support throughout the process. Additionally, the representative can help clarify any concerns about eligibility or the application itself.