
The Citi Custom Cash Card is a popular option for those looking for a cash back rewards credit card. With its unique rewards structure, it offers 5% cash back on up to $500 in purchases in your top eligible category each billing cycle.
This card is ideal for people with variable spending habits, as it allows you to earn cash back in the category where you spend the most. For example, if you spend a lot on dining, you'll earn 5% cash back on dining purchases.
The 5% cash back category is determined by your spending habits, and it can change each billing cycle. This means you can earn 5% cash back in different categories depending on your spending habits.
To maximize your rewards, it's essential to keep track of your spending habits and adjust your category accordingly.
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Key Features
The Citi Custom Cash card is a great option for those who want a rewards credit card with flexibility. Some of the most compelling features of the Citi Custom Cash card include earning 5% cash back on purchases in your top eligible spend category each month.
The card also offers a wide range of benefits, including no rotating categories or spending limits on rewards. Citi Custom Cash cardholders also enjoy the following advantages to owning the card: earning unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases, and no annual fee.
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High Rewards Potential in Valuable Categories
The Citi Custom Cash card is a great option for those who want to earn high rewards in valuable categories. It earns 5% cash back in your top eligible spending category, on up to $500 each billing cycle (1% back after that). This means you can earn a significant amount of cash back on your daily expenses.
One of the standout features of this card is the ability to earn lucrative ongoing rewards in broad and useful everyday spending categories. You can earn 5% cash back in one of 10 fixed bonus categories, including grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, and more. This is especially valuable if you have a consistent spending habit in one of these categories.
Here are the 10 fixed bonus categories where you can earn 5% cash back:
- Grocery stores.
- Restaurants.
- Gas stations.
- Streaming services.
- Drugstores.
- Home improvement stores.
- Fitness clubs.
- Select travel.
- Select transit.
- Live entertainment.
Compared to other cards, the Citi Custom Cash card is relatively low maintenance. Your 5% cash back is automatically adjusted based on your spending in the card's eligible bonus categories, so you don't have to remember to activate your rewards every quarter.
Interest and Fees
The Citi Custom Cash card has a reasonable interest and fee schedule, which is a plus for those who want to avoid unnecessary charges.
The interest rate on this card is 0% for 15 months, then it jumps to a variable rate. In comparison, the average cash-back card has a much higher interest rate of 20.57%.
You'll also appreciate the low minimum interest charge of $0.50, which is the same as the average cash-back card. However, be aware that the balance transfer rate is 0% for 15 months, then it reverts to a variable rate, similar to the interest rate.
The balance transfer fee is $5 or 5% of the transferred amount, whichever is greater, which is a bit higher than the average cash-back card's 3% to 5% fee.
Here's a quick breakdown of the fees:
Alternatives to the
If you're considering the Citi Custom Cash Card, you may also want to explore some of its alternatives.
One alternative to the Citi Custom Cash Card is the Chase Freedom Flex, which offers 5% cashback on purchases up to $1500, combined with bonus categories that you activate every quarter.
Cardholders of the Citi Custom Cash Card also enjoy perks such as cell phone protection when they pay their bills using the card, contactless payment, and no limits to the number of rewards they can earn.
You can redeem your earned cash from the Citi Custom Cash Card in four different ways:
- Get cash at the ATM
- Use for purchases
- Get gift cards
- Send cash to a qualifying Wells Fargo checking, savings or credit card account
Pros and Cons
The Citi Custom Cash Card has several advantages that make it a good option for some people. It earns cash quickly, and the competitive interest rate can help you save money on interest charges.
One of the standout features of this card is its automated rewards system, which adjusts based on your spending habits each billing cycle. This means you don't have to activate bonus categories each quarter, which can be a big draw for those looking to earn outsized earnings without added effort.
The card also offers a promotional bonus, which can be a nice perk. Additionally, it has a balance transfer APR, which can help you pay off debt more efficiently.
Here are some key pros of the Citi Custom Cash Card:
- Earn cash quickly
- Competitive interest rate
- Promotional bonus
- Balance transfer APR
However, it's worth noting that the card has some limitations. The 5% earning options come with a $500 cap, which can limit how much you can earn.
Pros
The Citi Custom Cash Card has some great features that make it a solid choice for those looking for a cash back credit card.
You can earn cash quickly with this card, which is a big plus.
One of the main perks is the competitive interest rate, which can save you money on interest charges.
The card also offers a balance transfer APR, which can be helpful if you need to transfer a balance from another card.
And, you can get a promotional bonus, which is always a nice incentive.
Here are some of the key benefits of the Citi Custom Cash Card:
- Earn cash quickly
- Competitive interest rate
- Balance transfer APR
- Promotional bonus
Cons
One of the main drawbacks of this card is its limited accessibility.
The cash back rewards are relatively low, with nearly all categories offering only a small percentage back.
You won't have the added protection of purchase protection, which can be a concern when buying online or from unfamiliar sellers.
Here are some specific cons to consider:
- Low cash back on nearly all categories
- No purchase protection
Who It's For
The Citi Custom Cash Card is a great option for certain types of people. If you have a fair to excellent credit score, you're a good candidate for approval.
To be specific, you'll need a credit score that's at least fair, but those with excellent credit will have the best chances of getting approved. Having a low fair credit score can still make it tough, especially if your debt-to-income ratio is high.
Only consider this card if you have a strong sense of self-control. It's easy to get caught up in earning cash back, but you need to keep track of your spending to avoid overspending.
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To use this card responsibly, you'll need to have strong budgeting skills. This means keeping track of your income and expenses to avoid racking up high levels of debt.
If you have high-interest-rate balances, you might want to consider this card for a balance transfer. The introductory rate can help you save money on interest.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Citi Custom Cash hard to get?
Approval for the Citi Custom Cash card is relatively good for those with a credit score of 700+ and stable income. However, individual approval odds may vary based on credit history and existing debts.
What is the average credit limit for Citi Custom Cash Card?
The average credit limit for the Citi Custom Cash Card is $6,616, with $500 being the most common amount. This credit limit can vary based on individual creditworthiness and other factors.
What credit score do you need for Citi Custom Cash Card?
To be eligible for the Citi Custom Cash Card, you'll need a credit score of 700 or better. Good credit is the key to getting approved for this card.
Sources
- https://www.brightmoney.co/card/citi-custom-cash-card
- https://www.gobankingrates.com/credit-cards/credit-card-reviews/citi-custom-cash-credit-card/
- https://www.moneygeek.com/credit-cards/compare/citi-custom-cash-vs-citi-simplicity/
- https://www.citigroup.com/global/news/press-release/2021/citi-launches-custom-cash-a-next-gen-cash-back-credit-card
- https://www.nerdwallet.com/reviews/credit-cards/citi-custom-cash
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