Citi® Double Cash Card Overview: A Simple and Rewarding Cash-Back Card
The Citi® Double Cash Card is a cash-back rewards card that offers a straightforward and lucrative earning structure. With up to 2% cash back on all purchases and no annual fee, it’s a compelling choice for individuals looking to maximize their rewards without the hassle of complicated bonus categories. Additionally, cardholders have the opportunity to convert their rewards into fully transferable ThankYou points if they also hold select Citi cards. Overall, the Citi® Double Cash Card is highly recommended with a rating of ⭐⭐⭐⭐.
*Card rating is based on the opinion of TPG’s editors and is not influenced by the card issuer.
Why the Citi Double Cash Card is the Top Choice for Cash-Back Rewards
When it comes to cash-back rewards, the Citi Double Cash Card is the top recommendation for friends and family. With a flat 2% cash back on all purchases, it outshines competing cards that offer lower cash-back rates. The card’s earning structure allows cardholders to earn 1% cash back when they make a purchase and an additional 1% as they pay off their purchase. This makes the Citi Double Cash Card a valuable addition to anyone’s wallet.
To be eligible for the Citi Double Cash Card, you typically need a fair credit score of 580 or higher. However, the card has no annual fee, making it an attractive long-term option for those looking to maximize their cash-back rewards.
Unlocking Enhanced Redemption Options
By holding other select Citi cards, cardholders can take advantage of enhanced redemption options for their Citi Double Cash rewards. By converting their cash back into fully transferable ThankYou points, individuals can unlock higher-value redemption opportunities. While the Citi Prestige® Card is no longer available to new applicants, the Citi Premier® Card is still an option for those interested in maximizing their rewards potential.
Citi Double Cash Welcome Offer
Currently, there is no welcome offer for cash-back rewards on the Citi Double Cash Card. However, the card does provide an introductory 0% annual percentage rate for the first 18 months on balance transfers. It’s important to note that to be eligible for the introductory rate, a balance must be transferred within the first four months. Additionally, a balance transfer fee of 3% (minimum $5) applies. After the introductory period, the variable APR ranges from 19.24% to 29.24% based on creditworthiness.
Citi Double Cash Benefits
While the Citi Double Cash Card is primarily focused on its cash-back rewards, it does offer a few additional benefits. These include:
- A chip-enabled card for contactless payments
- $0 liability for unauthorized charges
- Access to Citi Entertainment, providing special access to event tickets
- Complimentary ID theft protection with monitoring and alerts
Note that the Citi Double Cash Card does have a 3% foreign transaction fee, so it’s advisable to have an alternate card without foreign transaction fees when traveling internationally.
Earning Rewards with the Citi Double Cash Card
With the Citi Double Cash Card, cardholders earn cash back in the form of ThankYou points. The earning structure is straightforward: 1% cash back when purchasing and an additional 1% when paying off the purchase. However, there is also a limited-time offer for cardmembers to earn 5% cash-back rewards on hotels, car rentals, and attractions booked through the Citi Travel site until Dec. 31, 2024.
To ensure rewards are earned, it’s essential to keep the card account current and pay at least the minimum payment due by the first day of each billing period.
Redeeming Cash-Back Rewards with the Citi Double Cash Card
With the Citi Double Cash Card, ThankYou points can be redeemed in various ways to suit cardholders’ preferences. Redemption options include:
1. Cash Back
The simplest redemption option is to redeem points for cash back at a rate of 1 cent per point. Cardholders can request a statement credit, direct deposit, or a check by mail for cash-back rewards.
2. Gift Cards
ThankYou points can also be redeemed for gift cards. Redemption rates will vary depending on the merchant, with occasional sale offers providing higher value for point redemption.
3. Travel Bookings
Citi Double Cash Cardholders can use their ThankYou points to book hotels, flights, rental cars, and attractions through the Citi Travel portal. Redemption rates typically offer a value of 1 cent per point.
4. Shop with Points
Points can be used to make purchases directly with select merchants through the Shop with Points program. However, the redemption rate is often less than 1 cent per point, so alternative redemption options may provide better value.
5. Charitable Donations
ThankYou points can be donated to various charities, starting at 1,000 points per donation. However, individuals looking to make charitable contributions may find it more beneficial to redeem points for cash and then donate the funds.
6. Transfer Points
Cardholders have the option to transfer their ThankYou points to other ThankYou Rewards members or select travel loyalty programs. However, it’s worth noting that this option is only available to cardholders who also hold the Citi Premier or Citi Prestige cards.
Is the Citi Double Cash Card Worth it?
Without a doubt, the Citi Double Cash Card is worth considering for those seeking a straightforward cash-back rewards card. Its earning structure and redemption options provide excellent value, especially when combined with other Citi cards for enhanced redemption opportunities. Whether used as a primary cash-back card or as a complement to a larger credit card strategy, the Citi Double Cash Card offers simplicity and value to cardholders.
In Conclusion
The Citi Double Cash Card stands out as a top choice in the cash-back rewards category. With its generous earning structure, no annual fee, and the option for enhanced redemption when paired with other Citi cards, it’s a compelling option for individuals seeking a straightforward and worthwhile cash-back card.
If you’re interested in applying for the Citi Double Cash Card, click here.
