Citi Custom Cash® Card: Cash Back with a Twist
Looking for a flexible cash back card that adapts to your spending habits? The Citi Custom Cash® Card might just be what you need this spring.
The Quick Version
If you're looking for a credit card that adapts to your spending habits, the Citi Custom Cash® Card is a strong contender. With no annual fee and a 5% cash back rate on your top spending category each month, it's a flexible option. However, its variable APR and a cap on the 5% cash back limit might not suit everyone.
Citi Custom Cash® Card is a flexible cash back card
Citi Custom Cash® Card
What's Inside
The Citi Custom Cash® Card offers a unique approach to cash back rewards. You'll earn 5% cash back on your top eligible spending category each billing cycle, up to $500 spent. This could be anything from groceries to dining, making it adaptable to your lifestyle. After hitting the $500 mark, or for other purchases, the card earns 1% cash back. Plus, there's a $200 bonus if you spend $1,500 within the first six months. And let's not forget the 0% intro APR on balance transfers for 18 months, which can be a lifesaver if you're juggling balances from other cards.
What's Actually Good
The standout feature here is the flexibility. The 5% cash back on your top category is perfect if your spending habits shift month to month. No annual fee means you're not tied down with extra costs, and the $200 sign-up bonus is a nice cherry on top. Additionally, the extended 0% APR on balance transfers is a great benefit, giving you time to pay down existing debt without extra interest piling up.
- ✅ No annual fee
- ✅ 5% cash back on top spending category
- ✅ $200 sign-up bonus
- ✅ 0% intro APR for balance transfers
The Catch
While the 5% cash back is appealing, it's capped at $500 in spending per billing cycle, which might not be enough for big spenders. The variable APR, ranging from 19.49% to 29.49%, can be quite high if you carry a balance. Additionally, if your spending is consistent across categories rather than concentrated, the 1% cash back rate on other purchases could feel lackluster compared to other cards in the market.
- ❌ 5% cash back capped at $500 spend
- ❌ High variable APR
- ❌ Only 1% cash back on other purchases
Who It's For
This card is best for those with varied spending habits who want a card that adapts to their lifestyle without the burden of an annual fee. If you have a good to excellent credit score (670+), and you're looking for a flexible, short-term cash back solution, this card could be a great fit. However, if you frequently exceed the $500 spending cap in one category or don't pay off your balance monthly, you might want to consider other options.
The Bottom Line
The Citi Custom Cash® Card is a flexible, no-annual-fee option for those who like their spending rewards to keep up with their life. Just keep an eye on the spending cap and APR. Curious about another card option that might fit your lifestyle? Check out our review on whether the Delta SkyMiles Gold Amex is worth your wallet space: Is the Delta SkyMiles Gold Amex Worth Your Wallet Space?.
