How Does the Citi Custom Cash® Card Work

The Citi Custom Cash® Card is designed to offer a flexible and user-friendly cash-back experience. Here’s how the card works:

1. Application Process: Applying for the Citi Custom Cash® Card is simple and can be done online, over the phone, or at a Citi branch. Approval is based on factors such as your credit score, income, and overall creditworthiness. The card is generally available to individuals with good to excellent credit.
2. Earn 5% Cash Back in Your Top Spending Category: Each billing cycle, the Citi Custom Cash® Card automatically identifies your highest spending category and rewards you with 5% cash back on up to $500 in purchases within that category. This allows you to maximize your rewards based on your actual spending patterns.
3. Earn 1% Cash Back on Other Purchases: For all purchases outside of your top spending category, you’ll earn 1% cash back. This ensures that you continue to earn rewards on every dollar spent, even if it’s not in your highest spending category.
4. Receive the $200 Sign-Up Bonus: To qualify for the $200 cash back bonus, you need to spend $750 on purchases within the first 3 months of account opening. The bonus is credited to your account as cash back, providing a substantial reward right from the start.
5. Take Advantage of the 0% Introductory APR: The 0% introductory APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months allows you to finance large purchases or transfer existing credit card debt without incurring interest. After the introductory period, a variable APR applies to any remaining balances.
6. Redeem Your Cash Back: Cash back earned with the Citi Custom Cash® Card can be redeemed in several ways, including as a statement credit, direct deposit, or for gift cards and merchandise. The flexibility of redemption options allows you to use your rewards in a way that best suits your needs.
7. Enjoy Additional Perks: Take advantage of Citi Entertainment® for exclusive access to tickets and presale opportunities for various events. Utilize travel and purchase protections, including travel accident insurance and extended warranty coverage, to enhance your cardholder experience.

Benefits of Using the Citi Custom Cash® Card

The Citi Custom Cash® Card offers several benefits that make it an appealing option for cash-back enthusiasts:

• Flexible Rewards Program: The ability to earn 5% cash back on your top spending category each billing cycle provides a personalized cash-back experience. This flexibility allows you to maximize your rewards based on your spending habits without the need for manual category tracking.
• Generous Sign-Up Bonus: The $200 cash back sign-up bonus is a substantial incentive for new cardholders, providing a valuable boost to your cash-back earnings in the first few months.
• 0% Introductory APR: The 0% introductory APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months is a valuable feature for those looking to finance large purchases or consolidate existing debt without incurring interest. This can help you manage your finances more effectively.
• No Annual Fee: With no annual fee, the Citi Custom Cash® Card is a cost-effective option for earning cash back. You can enjoy the benefits of the card without worrying about ongoing costs.
• Flexible Redemption Options: The card’s flexible redemption options allow you to use your cash back in various ways, including as a statement credit, direct deposit, or for gift cards and merchandise. This flexibility adds to the card’s overall value.
• Exclusive Access to Citi Entertainment®: The Citi Entertainment® program provides exclusive access to tickets and presale opportunities for concerts, sporting events, and other entertainment experiences. This adds an extra layer of value to the cardholder experience.
• Travel and Purchase Protections: The card offers travel accident insurance and extended warranty coverage, providing additional protection for your purchases and travel-related expenses.

Potential Drawbacks of the Citi Custom Cash® Card

While the Citi Custom Cash® Card offers many benefits, there are some potential drawbacks to consider:

• Limited Cash Back in Categories: The 5% cash back is limited to your top spending category each billing cycle, up to $500. If you spend heavily in multiple categories or exceed the $500 cap in your top category, you may not earn the highest cash-back rate on all of your spending.
• Variable APR After Introductory Period: After the 15-month introductory APR period, the card’s variable APR applies to any remaining balances. If you carry a balance beyond this period, the interest rate could be higher compared to other cards with fixed or lower APRs.
• Foreign Transaction Fees: The Citi Custom Cash® Card charges a foreign transaction fee of 3% of each transaction. If you frequently travel abroad or make purchases in foreign currencies, this fee may be a consideration.

Who Should Consider the Citi Custom Cash® Card?

The Citi Custom Cash® Card is a good option for several types of individuals:

• Those Who Want Flexible Cash-Back Rewards: If you prefer a rewards program that adapts to your spending habits and provides high cash-back rates in your top spending category, the Citi Custom Cash® Card is an excellent choice. The ability to earn 5% cash back on your top category each billing cycle offers a personalized rewards experience.
• New Cardholders Seeking a Sign-Up Bonus: The $200 sign-up bonus is an attractive incentive for new cardholders who can meet the spending requirement. This bonus provides a substantial boost to your cash-back earnings in the first few months.
• Individuals Looking for a 0% Introductory APR: If you need to finance a large purchase or consolidate existing credit card debt, the 0% introductory APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months is a valuable feature. It allows you to manage your finances more effectively without incurring interest.
• **People Who Prefer