Citi Custom Cash Card: Your Spending, Smarter Rewards

This card is a strong tool for managing spending while earning flexible cash back — and building a stronger credit profile along the way.

The Citi Custom Cash Card rewrites the rules for cashback credit cards. Instead of picking categories or juggling rotating options, this card adapts to your lifestyle by automatically giving you 5% back on your top eligible spending category each billing cycle — up to $500 per month. Whether your biggest expense is filling up the tank, dining out, or stocking up on groceries, the rewards automatically adjust with no action needed from you.

It’s modern cash back with no annual fee, no activation, and no stress.

Why Citi Stands Out in a Crowded Market

Citibank brings decades of trust and financial expertise to this innovative product. Unlike many issuers who require cardholders to opt-in or track promotional categories, Citi does the heavy lifting. With robust online tools, automatic category detection, and solid rewards structure, it’s easy to see why the Citi Custom Cash℠ Card continues to attract smart spenders.

Types of Cards — and Where Citi Fits In

Flat-Rate Rewards Cards

These cards give you the same rate on every purchase. While simple, they miss out on rewarding your highest spending. Citi Custom Cash℠ goes further by tailoring the highest return to where you spend most.

Rotating Category Cards

Cards like Chase Freedom Flex® offer 5% on changing categories, but require activation and tracking. Citi removes that friction and does the work for you.

Premium Travel Cards

While high-end travel cards have attractive points systems, they often carry steep annual fees. Citi Custom Cash℠ is more accessible, with no annual cost and rewards you can use every day.

Student or Entry-Level Cards

Many starter cards offer low rewards or none at all. This card offers a serious cashback structure and could be a smart upgrade for responsible spenders.

Balance Transfer Cards

This card competes in this category too, with an excellent 0% intro APR for 15 months on balance transfers and purchases.

Citi Custom Cash Card Benefits

5% Cash Back with Built-In Intelligence

Automatically earn 5% back on up to $500 in purchases in your highest eligible category each billing cycle. Choose nothing. Track nothing. Just spend as usual and reap the rewards.

Unlimited 1% on All Other Purchases

Every other purchase outside your top category earns 1% cash back — no limits, no restrictions.

0% Intro APR for 15 Months

Pay no interest on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months (after that, a variable APR of 19.24%–29.24% applies). Ideal for financing large purchases or consolidating balances.

$0 Annual Fee

All these perks come with no annual fee. Enjoy premium-like rewards without the premium price tag.

Technology Meets Simplicity

The Citi Custom Cash℠ Card integrates with major mobile payment platforms like Apple Pay®, Google Pay™, and Samsung Pay™. You’ll also get access to Citi’s app, where you can monitor your FICO® Score, view transactions, manage payments, and redeem your cashback.

Security You Can Rely On

With Citi’s real-time fraud detection, EMV chip, and $0 liability on unauthorized charges, your money and identity are protected. Plus, you’ll receive alerts for any unusual activity for added peace of mind.

Quick Snapshot of Key Details

• Intro APR: 0% for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers
• Regular APR: 19.24%–29.24% variable
• Annual Fee: None
• Foreign Transaction Fee: 3%
• Balance Transfer Fee: $5 or 5% of the amount (whichever is greater)

How to Apply for the Citi Custom Cash℠ Card

Getting started is easy. Head to the Citi website and fill out the online application. You’ll need to provide your personal details, income, and housing information. Many applicants get a decision within minutes. Once approved, your new card arrives by mail, and you can begin earning tailored rewards from your very first swipe.

Credit Impact: A Balanced Approach to Growth

Using the Citi Custom Cash Card responsibly can help boost your credit score over time. On-time payments, low utilization, and long-term account activity all contribute positively. Just be sure to stay under your credit limit and pay more than the minimum whenever possible.