If you’re considering the Citi Custom Cash® Card after learning about its dynamic 5% cash back rewards and no annual fee, you’re already on the right track. But applying for a credit card successfully requires more than just interest—it demands strategy, timing, and the right credit profile.

In this guide, you’ll find lesser-known advantages, eligibility requirements, application tips, and a step-by-step process to increase your chances of instant approval. Whether you’re building your credit or optimizing your wallet, this is the information other websites often miss.

More Underrated Advantages of the Citi Custom Cash® Card

You already know about the automatic 5% cash back, intro APR, and no annual fee. But there are more perks that make this one of the best cash back cards in the U.S.:

🛡️ Built-In Cell Phone Protection

Pay your monthly phone bill with the Citi Custom Cash® Card and enjoy up to $600 in cell phone protection (terms apply). This rarely advertised benefit can save you hundreds annually.

🌍 Use Rewards Beyond Statement Credits

Citi’s ThankYou® Rewards program isn’t just for cash back—you can redeem points for travel, gift cards, or even transfer them to airline partners like JetBlue. This adds travel credit card value to a card that’s marketed primarily for cash back.

🔐 Contactless Security + Digital Wallet Integration

The Citi Custom Cash® Card supports contactless payments and is compatible with Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay—a must for secure, fast, and hygienic transactions in 2025.

Minimum Requirements to Qualify for the Citi Custom Cash® Card

Citi doesn’t openly publish hard limits, but based on real approvals, here are the essential criteria:

• Credit Score: Ideally 690 or higher (FICO®), but some users with scores as low as 660 have been approved with strong income and low utilization.
• Income: At least $25,000/year is recommended. Self-employed applicants should provide consistent income history.
• Credit History: Minimum 1–2 years of credit history. No recent late payments or delinquencies.
• Debt-to-Income Ratio (DTI): Preferably below 35% for best results.
• No recent hard inquiries (within 3–6 months) increases chances.

💡 Pro tip: Citi sometimes pre-approves applicants via soft pulls. Visit Citi’s pre-qualification tool before applying—it won’t impact your score.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Does Citi do a hard pull for the Custom Cash Card?

Yes. Once you submit the full application, Citi performs a hard inquiry on your credit report.

2. How long does approval take?

Most users receive instant decisions. However, if Citi needs additional income verification, it may take 7–10 business days.

3. Can I get this card if I already have another Citi card?

Yes, but it may reduce your approval odds if you recently opened another Citi account. Waiting 6+ months between applications is recommended.

4. Does Citi allow product change to/from Custom Cash?

Yes. Many Citi cardholders have successfully done product changes from other cards (e.g., Double Cash) into the Custom Cash—ideal if you don’t want a new hard inquiry.

5. Can I have more than one Custom Cash Card?

Officially, Citi only allows one Custom Cash® Card per user. Attempts to apply for a second are generally declined.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for the Citi Custom Cash® Card Online

Applying is straightforward. Here’s how to do it efficiently:

Step 1: Visit the Official Citi Website

Navigate to Citi’s Custom Cash® Card page via a secure browser or trusted affiliate link.

Step 2: Use the Pre-Qualification Tool

Check for pre-approval using only a soft pull. While not guaranteed, it gives a strong signal on your odds.

Step 3: Fill Out the Application

Provide your:

• Full name
• Address
• Date of birth
• SSN
• Annual income
• Monthly housing payment

💡 Include side income (freelance, gig work, etc.) if stable—it may improve your limit.

Step 4: Review Terms and Submit

Verify all details, agree to the terms, and hit “Submit”. You’ll typically get an answer within 60 seconds.

Step 5: Wait for Your Card

Once approved, your card will arrive within 5–10 business days. You can often activate it through the Citi mobile app instantly.

Expert Tips to Maximize Your Approval Odds

To increase the chance of approval on your first attempt, follow these insider tips:

✅ Check Your Credit Report First

Use AnnualCreditReport.com to check for errors or unpaid collections. Dispute any inaccuracies before applying.

✅ Keep Utilization Below 30%

Pay down balances on existing cards before applying. Lower utilization = higher approval odds.

✅ Time Your Application Strategically

Avoid applying right after a major purchase or another credit inquiry. Best time: after a credit score increase or when you receive income proof like tax returns.

✅ Freeze Reports with Other Bureaus (optional advanced tip)

Some users freeze Equifax and Experian to force Citi to pull only TransUnion, which may have a cleaner history. Use this tip cautiously and only if experienced with credit reporting.

Final Thoughts

The Citi Custom Cash® Card is not just another no annual fee credit card. Its smart reward structure, valuable hidden perks, and flexible redemption options make it one of the best picks for 2025—if you qualify.

Now that you know how to meet the eligibility criteria, complete the application properly, and maximize your approval chances, the next step is clear.