The Citi Custom Cash℠ Card is a top pick among no annual fee cash back credit cards, but like any financial product, approval isn’t guaranteed. Below is a tactical guide to help applicants improve their chances, avoid common mistakes, and unlock benefits most users overlook.
✅ Eligibility Criteria: What Citi Looks For
Although Citi doesn’t publish a strict rulebook, internal criteria strongly favor applicants who meet the following:
- Credit Score: 690 or higher (FICO)
- Credit Utilization Ratio: Below 30%
- Recent Inquiries: Less than 3 in the past 6 months
- Stable Income Source: Verifiable monthly income over $2,000
- Existing Relationship with Citi: Not required, but beneficial
💡 Pro Tip: Citi applies what’s known as the “8/65 Rule” — if you’ve opened 8 or more credit cards across all banks in the last 24 months, approval odds drop. Also, don’t apply if you’ve been approved for a Citi card in the past 65 days.
🧭 How to Apply for the Citi Custom Cash Card (Step-by-Step)
- Check Your Credit Report: Use Credit Karma or Experian to confirm your score and flag any issues.
- Reduce Utilization: If above 30%, pay down balances before applying.
- Use Citi’s Prequalification Tool: It won’t affect your score and gives a soft indication.
- Apply via Desktop (not Mobile): Reported data shows approval odds are 12–15% higher on desktop submissions.
- Use Accurate Income (Pre-Tax): Self-employed? Average your last 6 months’ gross income.
- Include All Eligible Income Sources: Side gigs, alimony, and rental income all count.
- Wait 72 Hours If Denied: Call Citi’s reconsideration line: 1-800-695-5171. Be prepared with explanations or documents.
❓ Underrated FAQs That Actually Matter
Q1: Can I qualify with a limited credit history?
A: Yes, but the odds are better if you’ve had at least one credit card for over 12 months with no missed payments.
Q2: Does Citi allow product changes into this card?
A: Yes. You can product-change eligible Citi cards (like ThankYou® Preferred) after 12 months.
Q3: What happens if I spend equally in two categories?
A: Citi selects the category with the higher eligible merchant volume, not necessarily the higher dollar spend.
Q4: Does balance transfer count toward the welcome bonus?
A: No. Only qualifying purchase transactions count toward the $200 bonus after $1,500 spent in 6 months.
Q5: Can I have more than one Citi Custom Cash?
A: Technically yes — via product change. But Citi only allows one new Custom Cash application per person.
💡 Optimization Hacks Most Users Don’t Know
- Category Stacking: Use this card for one core expense (e.g., gas), and pair with Chase Freedom Unlimited for 1.5% on all else.
- AutoPay Tweaks: Set small subscriptions (like Netflix or Spotify) on another card to prevent Citi from accidentally locking “streaming” as your top category.
- Advanced ThankYou® Transfers: If you have a Citi Premier® card, you can transfer points to airline partners for higher redemption value.
- Purchase Timing: Make large category purchases early in the billing cycle — Citi defines “top category” per billing statement, not calendar month.
🔄 Alternatives & Strategic Complements
If the Citi Custom Cash isn’t the perfect fit, consider these:
| Card | Ideal For | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|
| Chase Freedom Flex℠ | Rotating category maximizers | 5% rotating quarterly, $200 bonus |
| Wells Fargo Active Cash® | Flat-rate simplicity | 2% on all purchases, 0% APR for 15 months |
| Blue Cash Everyday® from Amex | Supermarket-focused households | 3% on groceries and gas, $0 annual fee |
🔁 Best Combo Strategy:
Use Citi Custom Cash for groceries or gas (5%), then pair with Active Cash for non-category spend (2%). This blend gives ~3.5% average return.
🔚 Final Take: Who Should Get This Card?
If you’re someone who:
- Has a clear top monthly expense
- Values automation and set-it-and-forget-it rewards
- Wants high cash back without a fee
- Prefers a 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers
Then the Citi Custom Cash℠ Card offers near unbeatable value. With a strong welcome offer ($200 back after $1,500 spend), flexible redemptions via ThankYou® Points, and Citi’s generous approval reconsideration department, it’s a top-tier option among best no annual fee rewards cards.
