Citi Custom Cash – How to Apply
The Citi Custom Cash℠ Card is a clever take on modern cashback.
Instead of requiring cardholders to pick or activate bonus categories, this card automatically gives you 5% cash back on your top spending category each billing cycle, up to $500. It’s the kind of intelligent rewards system that fits effortlessly into your daily life.
Its flexibility makes it one of the most user-friendly options out there, especially for consumers who want solid rewards without having to study reward charts or manage multiple cards. Whether your expenses fluctuate or you consistently spend in one category, this card tailors its benefits to match.
The Citi Custom Cash card offers more than just personalized cashback. With no annual fee, a solid welcome bonus, and access to the full Citi credit ecosystem, it brings together flexibility and functionality in a modern, user-friendly experience.
With no annual fee, a generous welcome bonus, and a 0% intro APR, Citi Custom Cash doesn’t just reward your spending—it also helps you save.
Citi Custom Cash
No annual fee Automatic rewardHow does the Citi Custom Cash℠ Card work?
Every billing cycle, the card automatically detects which of your eligible spending categories received the highest spending. That category earns 5% cashback on up to $500 in purchases. Categories include things like restaurants, grocery stores, gas stations, select travel and transit, fitness clubs, streaming services, and drugstores.
After you hit the $500 monthly cap in that top category, or on all other spending, you earn 1% cash back, which is still competitive for a no-fee card. All rewards are issued as Citi ThankYou® Points, which you can redeem for cash back, statement credits, travel, or gift cards.
You don’t need to manually enroll in a program, track rotating calendars, or activate any bonus areas. It’s truly a “set it and forget it” experience, and that’s exactly what makes it attractive for a wide range of users.
Main benefits for the Citi Custom Cash℠ Card
One of the strongest features is the dynamic cashback structure. Instead of being locked into one or two reward areas, the card shifts its focus depending on how you spend. This makes it ideal for people whose spending habits change monthly—or even seasonally.
Another standout perk is the welcome bonus. New cardholders can earn a lump sum of points after meeting a modest spending requirement in the first three months. This jumpstarts your rewards balance and gives you immediate value from the card.
The introductory 0% APR for purchases and balance transfers also provides room for financial flexibility, especially if you need to cover unexpected expenses or want to move existing balances onto a no-fee platform.
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Cons for the Citi Custom Cash℠ Card
Despite the flexibility, the 5% reward cap only applies to $500 of spending per month—that’s $25 in maximum cash back monthly. For high spenders, this may feel restrictive. And once you exceed the $500, you drop to a 1% rate.
Another limitation is that only one category qualifies per cycle, so if you split spending across several eligible categories, you may not be maximizing the return potential on all fronts.
Lastly, rewards are issued as Citi ThankYou® Points, which are valuable but may require additional steps for redemption compared to straight cashback.
APR and Fees
The Citi Custom Cash card has no annual fee, which is a major plus for users seeking long-term value. New users also get a 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for the first 15 months, followed by a variable APR depending on creditworthiness.
Balance transfers must be made within a specified window to qualify for the promo rate and are subject to a transfer fee. Late payments may also trigger penalties, so managing due dates is important to avoid extra costs.
Overall, the fee structure is competitive, and the combination of no annual fee and low intro APR makes this card an excellent choice for cost-conscious cardholders.
How to Apply for the Citi Custom Cash℠ Card
Here’s how to apply:
- Visit Citi’s official website and navigate to the Custom Cash Card page.
- Click “Apply Now” and begin filling out the application.
- Provide your personal details, such as income, Social Security number, and address.
- Review and agree to the terms before submitting.
- Wait for a decision—many applicants receive instant approval, and digital card info may be available before the physical card arrives.
