Same, I am doing the cash back method. As the other methods caused me to spend money unnecessarily. My cards for cash back are currently: Chase freedom, Chase freedom flex, US Bank Cash+, Discover it, Citi double cash, and I just applied for the Citi custom cash.
Unfortunately I cannot confirm that. It depends on how each gas-station convenience store is set up on the Mastercard network (that is, what merchant category code it's using). Some may work, some may not.
This seems like an amazing card to use for gas purposes. My Amex Gold covers most of my other categories. But would you say it's worth it to apply for this card if I already have the citi double cash?
Hey Ryan! If you already have the Citi Double Cash Card, but still want a great card for gas purchases, then yes I definitely recommend adding the Custom Cash Card 😃👊 Earning 5X / 5% will be a lot more rewarding than 2% 💯
It seems like a power house, especially combine with other cards in the Citi Eco System. I'll be looking into to this card once I pay off my Petal 2 card and close it out.
I got this card in the mail about 1 week ago and for now, it's my restaurant card, next month probably switching to Gas Stations. It's the perfect card to mix with my flex and discover it. So many 5% 🤤🤤
I’m purchasing a home at the end of the year and because of that I’m taking this year off from applying for new cards. Next year however this will be my gas card.
Smart decision to hold off on new cards until the house situation is finalized. Good luck on the new home & on that Custom Cash Card application when the time is right! 😃💯
Wow. I'm glad that I watched this video beforehand! I didn't know that the no AF citi cards didn't have access to the transfer partners for travel. It was the whole reason I even wanted the card. To think I was about to affect my 5/24 for this card. You're a life saver!! Also, you are one of my favorite credit card TH-camrs as you really get into the nitty-gritty details that many gloss over. I subscribed today. Keep up the great work! :)
I used to be in the Citi ecosystem, but I left it when they dropped travel protection. So, I like this card as a possible gas card (many cards don’t have a strong gas category), but I’d use take the cash, not the thank you points.
This card is amazing, aside from rent I spend more on groceries than any other category, plus the fact anyone can get gift cards that extend the 5% shopping elsewhere. No more having to wait and rotate with my other cards. This definitely replaces my Amex BCE.
I received this card without realizing the great unbelievable cash back rewards benefits! I say this card is ALL you will need! I am Thankful to GOD I was approved for this card!
@@MarkReese I didn't wait 8 days to apply. I waited 10 days just to be safe, but I got at least another hard pull on Equifax only, nothing on Transunion at all and 1 on Experian.
Thanks for the video, Mark, great info. I’m not a big spender but I got approved for the custom cash card with a 4500 limit, which for me was a pleasant surprise. So now I have what I think is a very respectable no annual fee cashback lineup of this custom cash card plus the capital one saver one and discover it card (using the two card strategy with the discover It so it functions as my 2% catchall card). I suppose eventually I could add one more card to that group… Probably the chase freedom flex.
Not sure. Citi's terms only mention the following: "Includes airline, hotel, cruise line and travel agency purchases. Excludes timeshares, boat leases and rentals, campgrounds and trailer parks, and real estate agencies." You'd have to try it yourself or search for data points from other people who've tried it 👍
Since it’s only 5% up to 500$, I see this more for Gas and maybe dining, mostly Gas because I don’t see many people spending 500$ on gas a month, unless you drive a V8 F150 and you’re work is 30 miles to and back.
Hey John! At the moment I cannot confirm 100% as I don't yet have the card, however, my best guess would be 'yes.' The Custom Cash Card does offer 5X points on 'car services,' which is quite broad and would likely cover Uber / Lyft / rideshares. Once I get the card (likely next month in July), I'll post a video about it. Remind me in the comments on that video if you're still looking for an answer and I'll test it for you 😃👍
This will be my groceries card, usaa rewards plus as my gas card, and venture for everything else. Late start considering I have 15 years of credit, but finally paying attention to earning CC rewards
Decided to go for this so we could get 5% restaurant rewards, plus Costco Visa for gas (4%) and any restaurant expenses above $500 (3%) and travel (3%). Together with BofA rewards + Platinum Honors to give rewards on groceries (3.5%) and online purchases (5.25%). Topping it with Wells Fargo Active Cash (which I added just a couple of days back) to get 2% on everything else.
Thanks for for all the great info! Just did the math on my first monthly statement with this card and averaged 2.45% back across all my spending. Not too bad. Combined with other no fee cash back cards you can get around the 4% mark pretty easy!
Thank you for the excellent in depth detail for exclusions and inclusions. Semi off topic but I'm still puzzled by even the Savor/Savor One excluding golf as a reward option. I hope you're well and have a wonderful weekend, Mark! It's tempting but idk I'm restraining myself for now because I don't want another hard inquiry and another new card. I doubt Citi will add any World/World Elite benefits tho because it isn't on any of the other Citi cards. but hey they may surprise us later! haha Best to you, great sir.
Unfortunately I have to wait 6 - 12 months to apply for any card. Definitely I would apply for this card along with Capital One SavorOne Rewards. Great video as always.
Really liking this card so far. Anyone maxed out one of the categories? Do you get any notification once you've gone over $500. I like that the app tells you which category is your FrontRunner
Got this card on the way. Does the billing cycle start once you activate the card? Trying to get my billing cycle as close to the 1st-31st as I can for it to line up with my discover it card
Congrats! The billing cycle is already in motion & is set by Citi. You can change it to whichever date you like by calling the number on the back of your card 😃👍
I like this card way better than freedom flex or discover it chrome, tons of categories, nothing to activate and it auto adjust to how you spend so your not sitting their doing math all day instead of living your life also not rotate categories to keep track of. On top of that you point transfers as which is really good too. I want this card in my wallet.
Mark, thank you for your review, but I can tell you that Lumber Liquidators which is now called LL Flooring is not in their Home Improvement category. First, they said they will reclassify, then they said - oh, we don't know anything, our system classifies things automatically. :( If I knew they suck in this i would've put the charge on my BOFA card
Hi Mary - thanks for the data point about this. I'd bet very few retailers know how their transactions code. Best way to find out for sure is to learn from other's who've tried it or to run a transaction yourself 😁
It's definitely limiting for those who spend above that $500 threshold in certain categories each month ✌️ Could make sense to pair the Citi Custom Cash with a secondary card to take over once the $500 spend has been reached.
@@MarkReese I know the 5% is more then the 3% I get with the Savor. But with the Savor being unlimited just less to worry about. I don't know, I have to think about this one. I just got a pre-selected offer for this card today
I can’t get this card because citi says they can’t verify my info and when I call the reconsideration line they can’t do anything can someone tell me what to do? Also I never had this experience with my chase or Amex cards
@@MarkReese I’m pretty sure but now that you mention it I’m slowing starting to doubt myself. I’m for sure not gonna apply again and take another credit pull so I might just leave it as is and take the L
Wish one you would recommend U.S. Bank Cash+ or Citi Custom Cash Card, which is easier to apply regarding FICO score & after 6, 9 & 12 months waiting period.
I see what you’re saying. If you only want 1 card for all purchases, then yes, a 2% card would be much better 💯 However, if you spend less than $500/mo. in at least one of the categories and are willing to use more than 1 card, then the Citi Custom Cash can be great to have 😃👍 Would you agree that this card _PLUS_ a 2% card would be better than having just one?
Hey mark, I have a question. I have a couple travel expenses I would like to put on my new citi custom cash card. One of them is $321.57, and the other is $189.98. My question is will I get the 5% back for the $500 then the other $11.55 will be 1% or will they give me the 5% on one of the transactions and 1% on the other since my actual expenses go over the $500 cap for the month for the 5%. I’ve pretty new to maxing out categories and I’ve never gone beyond what the limits are, so I don’t know how this works. I just got approved for the card last week. And it should be arriving today. So I have not spent any money on the card yet.
Hi Alli - congrats on your new Citi Custom Cash Card! 🙌 You'll earn 5% on all amounts spent, up to $500, then 1% for every amount after that. So you'd earn 5% on the full $321.57 for Purchase A, and then you'd continue to earn 5% on Purchase B for the next $178.43 that remains below that $500 threshold. Then, the final $11.55 left over from Purchase B would earn 1%. Did all that make sense? 😃
@@MarkReese oh that makes sense. Thanks for explaining that. It also shouldnt matter that one is a hotel purchase and the other is for airfare, right? That’s all considered travel from what I understand. Is that correct?
@@allisbookishadventures8260 - Correct 💯 ‘Travel’ on the Citi Custom Cash card includes: airline, hotel, cruise line and travel agency purchases. It excludes: timeshares, boat leases and rentals, campgrounds and trailer parks, and real estate agencies.
@@user-ch8pj4tq2t - I can't guarantee anything as I don't know how deep of a view Citi / Mastercard receive, but when it comes to gift cards, I recommend either not doing it, or doing it infrequently. I've purchased gift cards at supermarkets along with normal food and it's not a problem. Just be aware that some banks are not friendly towards big / frequent gift card purchases.
@@rudyv8320 - Ah bummer 😕 Citi should send you a letter in the mail with the reason(s) for the denial; let me know what they say 👍 In general, I would recommend having 1 year of credit history or more before applying for the Custom Cash Card.
Got the letter in the mail! And it said i wasn’t approve due to not enough credit history. So I’ll give it about a year or more till i try and move on for a second card! Thank you very much!
@@rudyv8320 - Yep that makes sense and is a valid reason. You got the right strategy! Give it more time and give it another attempt after that 1st year 👊😃
You can keep gas all year round. However, you don't select a category. Citi automatically selects it for you based on how much you spend each month. So if you want to keep 'gas' as your 5% pick, then you'll want to make sure that gas purchases are the largest spend category on the card every month 👊
Does anyone happen to know what Kroger fuel stations fall under would it be gas or grocery. I guess I'm good either way cuz it is a grocery store and not a whole sale or big box store..... But it be nice to know for how spend and use the card. Thanks.
@@MarkReese nope but it looks great and I would like to get it. I just got the Citi double cash in March so probably wait a year before getting the custom cash card.
I just received my Citi Custom Cash card yesterday. I am wondering if, like Chase, I can combine my “thank you” points with other people who are family? I will build up my points, then apply for the Premier Card by years end or beginning of the next. I had been holding back from getting the Premiere because of the travel perks that Citi discontinued. But, I think I will give it a try. Thanks for the in-depth video.
@@briank.3539 - Ah I totally missed that part of your question 😄 Yes, Citi allows you to share points with other people. However, there are some BIG restrictions to be aware of. Here's a link to a blog post that goes over the details: thepointsguy.com/guide/transfer-citi-points-other-person/
Great review!!! This is so hard. I have the double cash. Would like to add this card along with the premier or prestige trifecta. However, I still have the Amex trifecta SUB spend to fulfill
@@MarkReese I am going to try. It will take me a while to get there but I am very interested! I wasn't really into Citi, but they have been actually trying and getting much better!
I dont get mail delivery at my house , i have to have a box at the post office . Sometimes there are issues and few days delay especially around a holiday . But even still i should have it TODAY dam it .
@@RedRider1600 - Yes, I got the Citi Custom Cash via product change. With Citi, the main guidelines are: - You can only apply for 1 card (personal or business) every 8 days - You can apply for no more than 2 cards in a 65-day period - You can only apply for 1 business card every 90 days
@@MarkReese The rules you mention all seem to be about other Citi cards. What about concerning non Citi cards? Numbers of recent inquiries . . . Numbers of recent cards . . . Length and average age of credit history, etc. . . .
@@MarkReese yeah I really wanted it. I got the Apple Card 10 months ago the CFF, Discover It 6 months ago the CFU 3 months ago and the CSP 2 month ago. How long do you think I should wait before I reapply? I think I would personally get more value from this then all of my other cards, which is why I wanted it.
I do not have any Chase cards, so I was wondering is this is a good card to use for renting a car with rental coverage protection? I noticed you mentioned No strong insurance coverage. If not can you help be choose a card that might? These are the six cards I currently carry Citi Custom Cash USAA Preferred Cash Rewards Visa Signature American Express EveryDay Silver American Express Delta Skymiles Blue Discover it Cashback NFCU More Rewards American Express Thanks for any help you can provide.
Hey there! The Citi Custom Cash Card is not a good option for rental car purchases w/ insurance coverage. Better options include: - Chase Sapphire Preferred - Chase Sapphire Reserve - Chase Ink business cards (for business travel only) - United Explorer Card - United Quest Card - United Club Infinite Card - Capital One Spark Cash for Business - Capital One Spark Miles for Business - U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve - Any Amex card as long as you enroll in the American Express Premium Car Rental Protection Program. There's a flat-rate fee for this per trip.
Hi Mark, I could be over analyzing this. You earn 5% in the category you spent the most in? For an example in one month you spend $500.00 in gas, $200.00 groceries, and $50.00 Dining. Since you spent the most in Gas you get 5% back for Gas. The groceries and Dining you only get 1% Back each?
@@stormb28 That's a little sneaky not as good as it sounds.. WF Action card is not as bad as you think. Straight 2% back on everything and no limit on earning cash back.
So here's the thing... (a) With all credit cards, if you pay the minimum payment then you'll be charged interest. Which means long term you'll actually be paying more money than you spent. (b) If you pay the whole balance back, then you'll avoid all interest. (c) The Citi Custom Cash Card is a regular credit card, so if you pay the minimum...you'll pay interest on top of that. If you pay the whole balance...you'll avoid interest. However, current welcome offer includes 15 months of 0% APR on balance transfers _and also on purchases._ That means you can carry a balance & pay the minimum while also avoiding all interest charges for those 15 months. Be careful to pay off everything before those 15 months expires, because if you don't, then you may have to pay interest retroactively on everything from the previous 15 months (which could be hundreds or thousands of dollars). (e) Minus a few exceptions - like a financial hardship - I recommend always paying the whole balance each billing cycle. Paying interest when you don't need to is kinda like setting money on fire 😬
Discover made a metal card for a limited time and allowed certain customers access to it. It's since been discontinued. I personally doubt they will again ✌️
Pair the one that offers a permanent spend category that's useful to you 👊 At the moment, I'd personally use it with the Citi Premier Card and the Citi Double Cash. That'd be 3 cards with a total of $95 in annual fees and GREAT rewards categories that I'd get good use out of 💯
Chase is being real difficult lately I got turned down (I think) I'm 4/24 and have a score of 810. I got the 7-10 get your rejection letter in the mail message.
@@stormb28 too late for that lol early in your credit journey they won’t accept you and or middle when you force to look elsewhere. I will leave Chase for last when I exhausted all my desires.
My new gas card!
For sure! 😎👊
Yup that’s my plan as well.
@@chrisbrown8748 - Great choice 👍
Same, I am doing the cash back method. As the other methods caused me to spend money unnecessarily. My cards for cash back are currently: Chase freedom, Chase freedom flex, US Bank Cash+, Discover it, Citi double cash, and I just applied for the Citi custom cash.
@@brayan8346 - Fantastic no-fee setup for cash back! 😃👊💵
Would you rate this card 👍 or 👎?
i'm confused. most gas stations have a convenience store. those are all excluded?
Unfortunately I cannot confirm that. It depends on how each gas-station convenience store is set up on the Mastercard network (that is, what merchant category code it's using). Some may work, some may not.
@@MarkReese u think costco credit card is better for gas?
@@cupidok2768 - Nope, 4% is less than 5%.
@@MarkReese thanks
This is giving $300 cash back now! I just got mine for $200 last week fml lol
I'm still seeing $200 online. Is the $300 an in-branch offer?
@@MarkReese So it popped up on my Credit Karma. I called Citi so they can match it and they couldn’t see it either? Anyone know why?
@@JohnnyJitsu11 - Hmm strange. Not sure 😁
This seems like an amazing card to use for gas purposes. My Amex Gold covers most of my other categories. But would you say it's worth it to apply for this card if I already have the citi double cash?
Hey Ryan! If you already have the Citi Double Cash Card, but still want a great card for gas purchases, then yes I definitely recommend adding the Custom Cash Card 😃👊 Earning 5X / 5% will be a lot more rewarding than 2% 💯
Gas? No, GROCERIES FOR ME THANK YOU VERY MUCH.
It seems like a power house, especially combine with other cards in the Citi Eco System. I'll be looking into to this card once I pay off my Petal 2 card and close it out.
Right on Brandon! Good plan 👊
Why would you close out your CC?
Why are you closing
I got this card in the mail about 1 week ago and for now, it's my restaurant card, next month probably switching to Gas Stations. It's the perfect card to mix with my flex and discover it. So many 5% 🤤🤤
Great strategy using it with your CFF 😃👊 Congrats on the approval!
Yes man. I can't wait to get this card
@@125henni - Make it happen! 👊
What credit score is required for this card?
@@JoseFernandez-wu8pj - The score requirement is not published.
I’m purchasing a home at the end of the year and because of that I’m taking this year off from applying for new cards. Next year however this will be my gas card.
Smart decision to hold off on new cards until the house situation is finalized. Good luck on the new home & on that Custom Cash Card application when the time is right! 😃💯
Wow. I'm glad that I watched this video beforehand! I didn't know that the no AF citi cards didn't have access to the transfer partners for travel. It was the whole reason I even wanted the card. To think I was about to affect my 5/24 for this card. You're a life saver!!
Also, you are one of my favorite credit card TH-camrs as you really get into the nitty-gritty details that many gloss over. I subscribed today. Keep up the great work! :)
Glad the video helped you! Thanks so much for subscribing; more great content coming your way 😃🎬💯
Use the 5/24 rule WISELY. They include credit limit increase now.
I used to be in the Citi ecosystem, but I left it when they dropped travel protection. So, I like this card as a possible gas card (many cards don’t have a strong gas category), but I’d use take the cash, not the thank you points.
A great card for gas! 👊
This card is a really good more by citi to better compete with chase!
You got that right, Jonathan! 👊
It’s a good more indeed
This card is a MUST have for the travel category. alone... It's like a Platinum card without the AF. Unreal value.
5X on Select Travel is good value up to the $500 limit 💯
This card is amazing, aside from rent I spend more on groceries than any other category, plus the fact anyone can get gift cards that extend the 5% shopping elsewhere. No more having to wait and rotate with my other cards. This definitely replaces my Amex BCE.
Sounds like a perfect fit for you! 😃👊 Do you plan on getting it soon?
Same im about to put down my blue cash preferred and use this one!
Keep in mind, it only covers $500 in spending. In otherwords, you only get a max of $25 in cash back each year from the 5% category.
@@nc6520 it’s $500 each month, not each year.
@@nc6520 - The Citi Custom Cash actually earns 5% in a designated category on up to $500 spent _per month,_ not per year ✌️
I received this card without realizing the great unbelievable cash back rewards benefits! I say this card is ALL you will need! I am Thankful to GOD I was approved for this card!
Congrats on your approval! 🌟 Indeed, it's a great card!
I just got approved for the custom cash 10 days after the double cash. I have $1,700 limit in each card for a credit limit. $3,400 total with Citi.
Awesome congrats! 💯
@@MarkReese I didn't wait 8 days to apply. I waited 10 days just to be safe, but I got at least another hard pull on Equifax only, nothing on Transunion at all and 1 on Experian.
Got my card this week! Gonna be my dining card. Great video Mark!
Awesome Bradley...congrats! 💯
I could not help myself and applied and got approved for 6k !!
CONGRATS on the approval + a great limit to go with it! 😃👊🎉
Added to 5% rotating cards where it’s not covered!!
By that you mean you applied & got the approval, yes? 😃💳
Thanks for the video, Mark, great info.
I’m not a big spender but I got approved for the custom cash card with a 4500 limit, which for me was a pleasant surprise. So now I have what I think is a very respectable no annual fee cashback lineup of this custom cash card plus the capital one saver one and discover it card (using the two card strategy with the discover It so it functions as my 2% catchall card). I suppose eventually I could add one more card to that group… Probably the chase freedom flex.
Congrats on your approval, William! You've got several great cash-back cards now 😃💯
Hi anyone ???? Hard inquiry or soft pull ??? Anyone thank you
Hey Joe - hard pull for the Citi Custom Cash 👍
Is AirBnB considered as a select travel category?
Not sure. Citi's terms only mention the following: "Includes airline, hotel, cruise line and travel agency purchases. Excludes timeshares, boat leases and rentals, campgrounds and trailer parks, and real estate agencies."
You'd have to try it yourself or search for data points from other people who've tried it 👍
Since it’s only 5% up to 500$, I see this more for Gas and maybe dining, mostly Gas because I don’t see many people spending 500$ on gas a month, unless you drive a V8 F150 and you’re work is 30 miles to and back.
Yep it definitely makes for a great gas card 😃💯
Great video Mark! Do you know if the transit includes Uber and Lyft purchases?
Hey John! At the moment I cannot confirm 100% as I don't yet have the card, however, my best guess would be 'yes.' The Custom Cash Card does offer 5X points on 'car services,' which is quite broad and would likely cover Uber / Lyft / rideshares. Once I get the card (likely next month in July), I'll post a video about it. Remind me in the comments on that video if you're still looking for an answer and I'll test it for you 😃👍
This will be my groceries card, usaa rewards plus as my gas card, and venture for everything else. Late start considering I have 15 years of credit, but finally paying attention to earning CC rewards
2 awesome cash back cards right there, plus the Venture for some travel 😃💯 Well done!
Decided to go for this so we could get 5% restaurant rewards, plus Costco Visa for gas (4%) and any restaurant expenses above $500 (3%) and travel (3%). Together with BofA rewards + Platinum Honors to give rewards on groceries (3.5%) and online purchases (5.25%). Topping it with Wells Fargo Active Cash (which I added just a couple of days back) to get 2% on everything else.
Phenomenal cash-back setup, well done! 💯
Do purchases @ Walmart and TARGET also earn 5% CB (grocery store category)
No those are department stores / super stores. However, 'Walmart Neighborhood Market' should work, though I cannot confirm 100% as I haven't tried it.
@@MarkReese : I just got approved for one! It was by invitation! Thanks again for your thorough review!
@@aadeorukhkar - Congrats! 🎉
@@MarkReese Thanks Mark!
Thanks for for all the great info! Just did the math on my first monthly statement with this card and averaged 2.45% back across all my spending. Not too bad. Combined with other no fee cash back cards you can get around the 4% mark pretty easy!
Well done, that's fire! 🔥
Thank you for the excellent in depth detail for exclusions and inclusions. Semi off topic but I'm still puzzled by even the Savor/Savor One excluding golf as a reward option. I hope you're well and have a wonderful weekend, Mark! It's tempting but idk I'm restraining myself for now because I don't want another hard inquiry and another new card. I doubt Citi will add any World/World Elite benefits tho because it isn't on any of the other Citi cards. but hey they may surprise us later! haha Best to you, great sir.
I can only imagine the intensity of the executive meetings about 'what counts' and 'what doesn't.' 😂
Unfortunately I have to wait 6 - 12 months to apply for any card. Definitely I would apply for this card along with Capital One SavorOne Rewards. Great video as always.
The countdown begins! 😁
Is walmart part o groceries?
Walmart is not.
Walmart Neighborhood Grocery might be, but I haven't tried it.
Really liking this card so far. Anyone maxed out one of the categories? Do you get any notification once you've gone over $500. I like that the app tells you which category is your FrontRunner
Same here! Yeah that front runner dashboard is legit 😃💯 Haven't maxed out a category yet.
@@MarkReese while it would be nice to get a heads up I understand it's not in citi's best interest to tell you lol
@@TheAudioCzar 😁
Really great review Mark. Thanks. Got my C4 on its way to my mailbox. Can’t wait to fold it in to my lineup.
Congrats on the approval, Michael! 💯
I do 90% grocery shopping at Costco. If Costco was one of the category I'll be all in.
Yep! This won't be the card to use at Costco. Even if it included warehouse clubs, it's a Mastercard, so Costco wouldn't accept it anyway 😬
Got this card on the way. Does the billing cycle start once you activate the card? Trying to get my billing cycle as close to the 1st-31st as I can for it to line up with my discover it card
Congrats! The billing cycle is already in motion & is set by Citi. You can change it to whichever date you like by calling the number on the back of your card 😃👍
@@MarkReese nice. Thanks
@@TheAudioCzar 👍
I like this card way better than freedom flex or discover it chrome, tons of categories, nothing to activate and it auto adjust to how you spend so your not sitting their doing math all day instead of living your life also not rotate categories to keep track of. On top of that you point transfers as which is really good too. I want this card in my wallet.
Right on, it's a GREAT card to have! You going to apply this year? 😃👌
Yes man fr. This will be a keeper card for real.
Mark, thank you for your review, but I can tell you that Lumber Liquidators which is now called LL Flooring is not in their Home Improvement category. First, they said they will reclassify, then they said - oh, we don't know anything, our system classifies things automatically. :( If I knew they suck in this i would've put the charge on my BOFA card
Hi Mary - thanks for the data point about this. I'd bet very few retailers know how their transactions code. Best way to find out for sure is to learn from other's who've tried it or to run a transaction yourself 😁
$500 a month feels limiting. Means the max cash back you could get in a month 8s $25
It's definitely limiting for those who spend above that $500 threshold in certain categories each month ✌️ Could make sense to pair the Citi Custom Cash with a secondary card to take over once the $500 spend has been reached.
@@MarkReese I know the 5% is more then the 3% I get with the Savor. But with the Savor being unlimited just less to worry about. I don't know, I have to think about this one. I just got a pre-selected offer for this card today
@@TheAudioCzar - Run your estimated spend thru a 1-card vs. 2-card setup to see what works best for you 👊
I can’t get this card because citi says they can’t verify my info and when I call the reconsideration line they can’t do anything can someone tell me what to do? Also I never had this experience with my chase or Amex cards
Hmm that's really strange. Are you 100% sure that there were 0 typos on the application?
@@MarkReese I’m pretty sure but now that you mention it I’m slowing starting to doubt myself. I’m for sure not gonna apply again and take another credit pull so I might just leave it as is and take the L
@@deviss7114 - In that case move on to something else, then circle back in the future if ya really want it 😁👍
In Mexico we are just starting to implement Citi Simplicity. But is too Chaotic in Mexico to mantain and honor the word Simplicity.
So the Citi Simplicity card was recently announced for Mexico? 😃
Just got approved for mine, gonna be a great card in my wallet rotation with my chase FF and chase unlimited
Congrats! 🎉
I was approved but I do most of my grocery shopping ($600-700 a week) at my sams club. Would you say they are excluded from the 5% back?
Yep, Sam’s Club is definitely excluded ☹️
This may fit in nicely as my grocery card Since my local grocery store doesn’t have Apple Pay to work with my Apple Card!
Could be a great alternative!
Thank you for the great breakdown of the categories!
You're welcome! 😃👍
Wish one you would recommend U.S. Bank Cash+ or Citi Custom Cash Card, which is easier to apply regarding FICO score & after 6, 9 & 12 months waiting period.
Why would I recommend the U.S. Bank Cash+ card in a review video about the Citi Custom Cash Card? 🤔
I've had this card for 4 months now
Great rewards
Approved for $6600 surprised me
Awesome! Congrats on that approval & the nice $6.6K limit!
Does anyone paying for gas at Sam’s club gas station will count has a gas category?
Haven't tried it. Let's see if others have data points.
My question is: How is your kitchen always so clean? 😂
Clean after every meal.
#HighStandards 👌
Card is not good at all, so you are capped at 25 bucks assuming you spend 500 on a category and then just 1 percent back
better to have no cap and 2 percent across all purchases, this would
be a great card if there was no spend limit and you get 5 percent with no max
I see what you’re saying. If you only want 1 card for all purchases, then yes, a 2% card would be much better 💯 However, if you spend less than $500/mo. in at least one of the categories and are willing to use more than 1 card, then the Citi Custom Cash can be great to have 😃👍 Would you agree that this card _PLUS_ a 2% card would be better than having just one?
Got approved…now I have to wait 10 months, you know why.
Congrats on the approval for a great card! 😃🎉
Definitely getting this card AFTER I get Chase Ink Biz and CSP 😀😀
Your card plan is a good one 💯
Now if only we get our travel protections back for the Premier/Prestige!
My Thank You points are sitting there for Amazon target offers xD
Crazy how Citi removed all travel protections...from their _travel cards_ 🤣
Hi
So could use this card always on walmart store so could get 5% ??
Hey Josh - I don't think Walmart is eligible. The 'grocery' category excludes 'general merchandise & discount superstores.'
I got this card because if the rewards it offered plus the opening up bonus. Pretty great card overall
Congrats on getting approved! The bonus & ongoing rewards are great 😃💯
Hey mark, I have a question. I have a couple travel expenses I would like to put on my new citi custom cash card. One of them is $321.57, and the other is $189.98. My question is will I get the 5% back for the $500 then the other $11.55 will be 1% or will they give me the 5% on one of the transactions and 1% on the other since my actual expenses go over the $500 cap for the month for the 5%. I’ve pretty new to maxing out categories and I’ve never gone beyond what the limits are, so I don’t know how this works. I just got approved for the card last week. And it should be arriving today. So I have not spent any money on the card yet.
Hi Alli - congrats on your new Citi Custom Cash Card! 🙌 You'll earn 5% on all amounts spent, up to $500, then 1% for every amount after that. So you'd earn 5% on the full $321.57 for Purchase A, and then you'd continue to earn 5% on Purchase B for the next $178.43 that remains below that $500 threshold. Then, the final $11.55 left over from Purchase B would earn 1%. Did all that make sense? 😃
@@MarkReese oh that makes sense. Thanks for explaining that. It also shouldnt matter that one is a hotel purchase and the other is for airfare, right? That’s all considered travel from what I understand. Is that correct?
@@allisbookishadventures8260 - Correct 💯 ‘Travel’ on the Citi Custom Cash card includes: airline, hotel, cruise line and travel agency purchases. It excludes: timeshares, boat leases and rentals, campgrounds and trailer parks, and real estate agencies.
What? costco doesn't count? i can't believe it....
Nope, Costco & other warehouse stores almost never count for 'groceries' on credit cards 👌
Great video. Your shirt color even matches this credit card!
Thanks! Haha it sure does 😂👊
One of the best explain everything with all details 💪🏼👏🏻👏🏻
Thank you, Gabriel! 😃
Hey Mark, great video!!! What is the best credit card to use to pay for premium auto insurance? Thank you!!!
Likely any card offering 2% back on all purchases.
@@MarkReese thanks Mark!!! Time to apply for Venture X!!!
@@cjjunkee8602 - Right on 😎👊
Can I purchase grocery store gift cards like whole foods /trader Joe's and still get the 5%?
Hey George - would you be purchasing those in store or online?
@@MarkReese
Would be in store purchase. Thanks for the reply
@@user-ch8pj4tq2t - I can't guarantee anything as I don't know how deep of a view Citi / Mastercard receive, but when it comes to gift cards, I recommend either not doing it, or doing it infrequently. I've purchased gift cards at supermarkets along with normal food and it's not a problem. Just be aware that some banks are not friendly towards big / frequent gift card purchases.
Hi Mark. Does Citi allow product changes from the Double Cash to the Custom Cash? Thanks.
Product changing any Citi card to the Custom Cash is not available yet, but it should be in the near future.
@@MarkReese Great. Thanks!
@@anthonygardner400 - You got it! 👊💯
That’s good for $200 I got approved! Yes 👍🏻
BOOM! 💥 Congrats on the approval!
Working on the bonus just got the card.
What’s great about the card is No Annual fee !
@@albertcastro409 - Congrats! Great card to have 💳🥇
@@albertcastro409 - I agree 😁👌
Doordash food did count as a resturant so idk which food delivery your referring to.? Doordash is usually labeled as resturant
Hey G M! Did you do a DoorDash purchase on the Citi Custom Cash Card, saw that it coded as 'restaurant / dining,' and saw the 5X points be issued?
@A E - Beyond the purchase coding as 'gas', did you earn 5X for the 7eleven purchase?
@@MarkReese yes
@@GregoryMorales-uo6ze - Awesome!
Hello i have the discover one collage card i would love to move on to my
Second credit card! I’m feeling this might it be please help!
Hey Rudy! What's your current credit score, and how long have you had the Discover card? 😃
@@MarkReese i actually apply and didn’t get it:( i have a credit score of 690 and all paid on time and have had it for about 5 months now
@@rudyv8320 - Ah bummer 😕 Citi should send you a letter in the mail with the reason(s) for the denial; let me know what they say 👍 In general, I would recommend having 1 year of credit history or more before applying for the Custom Cash Card.
Got the letter in the mail! And it said i wasn’t approve due to not enough credit history. So I’ll give it about a year or more till i try and move on for a second card! Thank you very much!
@@rudyv8320 - Yep that makes sense and is a valid reason. You got the right strategy! Give it more time and give it another attempt after that 1st year 👊😃
What’s the best way to see what something codes as?
By making the purchase and waiting until the transaction posts to your account 😁✌️ Then you can view the purchase details in your online account.
Thanks for detailed breakdown! Great video
Glad you enjoyed it!
It's basically my grocery store card.
Great choice for your grocery card!
So can i keep the category on gas all year round or do i have to switch it every month ?
You can keep gas all year round. However, you don't select a category. Citi automatically selects it for you based on how much you spend each month. So if you want to keep 'gas' as your 5% pick, then you'll want to make sure that gas purchases are the largest spend category on the card every month 👊
Just got this card can’t wait to add it to my arsenal
NICE! Congrats on the approval 💯
Does anyone happen to know what Kroger fuel stations fall under would it be gas or grocery. I guess I'm good either way cuz it is a grocery store and not a whole sale or big box store..... But it be nice to know for how spend and use the card. Thanks.
Not sure, I don't fill up at Kroger. Hopefully someone else can confirm 👍 Do you already have the Citi Custom Cash Card?
@@MarkReese nope but it looks great and I would like to get it. I just got the Citi double cash in March so probably wait a year before getting the custom cash card.
@@jddiggy2343 - Great choice going with the Double Cash! 👊
Do you guys know if the Walmart gas stations qualify for the gas rewards?
I just received my Citi Custom Cash card yesterday. I am wondering if, like Chase, I can combine my “thank you” points with other people who are family? I will build up my points, then apply for the Premier Card by years end or beginning of the next. I had been holding back from getting the Premiere because of the travel perks that Citi discontinued. But, I think I will give it a try. Thanks for the in-depth video.
Hey Brian! Yes, you can combine ThankYou points earned across different cards. See 12:34 in the video 😃👍🎬
@@MarkReese Hi Mark, thank you for the response. I just reviewed the video link. But, it did not state if I could pool from cards not mine?
@@briank.3539 - Ah I totally missed that part of your question 😄 Yes, Citi allows you to share points with other people. However, there are some BIG restrictions to be aware of. Here's a link to a blog post that goes over the details: thepointsguy.com/guide/transfer-citi-points-other-person/
How long did it take for you to get the card after you got approved?
I didn't apply for it, and I don't have it ... yet 😁👌 However, most Citi cards arrive in 7-10 business days.
Great review!!! This is so hard. I have the double cash. Would like to add this card along with the premier or prestige trifecta. However, I still have the Amex trifecta SUB spend to fulfill
Focus on that Amex welcome offer first; make sure you get it 😁👌
I am really interested in a Citi superfecta! Custom cash-Prestige-Double cash- Cash+ card=all the thank you points ❤️
@@GlacialSilenc3 - One of the best card setups out there! You gonna make it happen? 😎🤙💳
@@MarkReese - thanks Mark!
@@MarkReese I am going to try. It will take me a while to get there but I am very interested! I wasn't really into Citi, but they have been actually trying and getting much better!
I am pissed that I got an email saying that I was approved and card is in the mail , that was a week ago .
It can take 7-10 _business days_ for a card to arrive. It's a lame waiting game, I know, but it's coming 😬
I am still waiting and I am getting emails telling me to activate it . If I don’t get it tomorrow I’m thinking I better call them
@@tfe423 - On which day did you get approved?
@@MarkReese
June 17
I dont get mail delivery at my house , i have to have a box at the post office .
Sometimes there are issues and few days delay especially around a holiday .
But even still i should have it TODAY dam it .
Great video as always, Mark.
Thank you!
What credit bureau does it pull from?
It varies based on location. If they pull EX for me, it could be TU for someone else.
@@MarkReese
Does Citi have anything like the 5/24 rule?
For what reasons will they decline your application?
Have you gotten this card yourself?
@@RedRider1600 - Yes, I got the Citi Custom Cash via product change.
With Citi, the main guidelines are:
- You can only apply for 1 card (personal or business) every 8 days
- You can apply for no more than 2 cards in a 65-day period
- You can only apply for 1 business card every 90 days
@@MarkReese
The rules you mention all seem to be about other Citi cards. What about concerning non Citi cards?
Numbers of recent inquiries . . .
Numbers of recent cards . . .
Length and average age of credit history, etc. . . .
@@RedRider1600 - Those types of things are not part of known bank rules.
I applied and got denied they said too many recent inquiries. And I’m under 6/6.
Bummer ☹️ At least the fix is a straightforward one...wait & let inquiries fall off 😬
@@MarkReese yeah I really wanted it. I got the Apple Card 10 months ago the CFF, Discover It 6 months ago the CFU 3 months ago and the CSP 2 month ago. How long do you think I should wait before I reapply? I think I would personally get more value from this then all of my other cards, which is why I wanted it.
@@LilMao - Can't guarantee anything, but I'd personally have at least 6 consecutive months of no new inquiries 👍
@@MarkReese thank you
What bureaus they pulled from? Fico score?
The "starter" credit card market needed something like this to come along.
It sure did 👌
I do not have any Chase cards, so I was wondering is this is a good card to use for renting a car with rental coverage protection?
I noticed you mentioned No strong insurance coverage. If not can you help be choose a card that might?
These are the six cards I currently carry
Citi Custom Cash
USAA Preferred Cash Rewards Visa Signature
American Express EveryDay Silver
American Express Delta Skymiles Blue
Discover it Cashback
NFCU More Rewards American Express
Thanks for any help you can provide.
Hey there! The Citi Custom Cash Card is not a good option for rental car purchases w/ insurance coverage. Better options include:
- Chase Sapphire Preferred
- Chase Sapphire Reserve
- Chase Ink business cards (for business travel only)
- United Explorer Card
- United Quest Card
- United Club Infinite Card
- Capital One Spark Cash for Business
- Capital One Spark Miles for Business
- U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve
- Any Amex card as long as you enroll in the American Express Premium Car Rental Protection Program. There's a flat-rate fee for this per trip.
@@MarkReese ty Mark
@@TRUTHDrops - You got it! 💯
Oh hey look, the card that gave me fomo because it has 1 extra % for dining. (I literally just got approved for the altitude go)
Haha 😂✌️ The Altitude Go = legit for it's permanent dining category. Consider this one for 5% on something else 💯
@@MarkReese I was thinking gas but I don’t drive. Lol
@@eyeyamjstn628 - Then gas won't be useful for you 😂
Great video! I can’t wait to apply for this credit card!
Thanks Izzie! Good luck on your application when the time is right 😃💯
Hi Mark, I could be over analyzing this. You earn 5% in the category you spent the most in? For an example in one month you spend $500.00 in gas, $200.00 groceries, and $50.00 Dining. Since you spent the most in Gas you get 5% back for Gas. The groceries and Dining you only get 1% Back each?
Yes, you’re correct
@@stormb28 That's a little sneaky not as good as it sounds.. WF Action card is not as bad as you think. Straight 2% back on everything and no limit on earning cash back.
@@jaybrock30290 I think they’re pretty transparent. I don’t think this cArd is designed to be a daily driver
That's right, Jay 💯 You'll earn 5% in the category in which you spent the most, up to $500 spend per billing cycle. Everything else will earn 1%.
Do you have to pay the whole thing back within the billing cycle or can I make a minimum payment each month?
So here's the thing...
(a) With all credit cards, if you pay the minimum payment then you'll be charged interest. Which means long term you'll actually be paying more money than you spent.
(b) If you pay the whole balance back, then you'll avoid all interest.
(c) The Citi Custom Cash Card is a regular credit card, so if you pay the minimum...you'll pay interest on top of that. If you pay the whole balance...you'll avoid interest. However, current welcome offer includes 15 months of 0% APR on balance transfers _and also on purchases._ That means you can carry a balance & pay the minimum while also avoiding all interest charges for those 15 months. Be careful to pay off everything before those 15 months expires, because if you don't, then you may have to pay interest retroactively on everything from the previous 15 months (which could be hundreds or thousands of dollars).
(e) Minus a few exceptions - like a financial hardship - I recommend always paying the whole balance each billing cycle. Paying interest when you don't need to is kinda like setting money on fire 😬
Do you think Discover will make a metal card? Thoughts
I hope so. I love them so much
Discover made a metal card for a limited time and allowed certain customers access to it. It's since been discontinued. I personally doubt they will again ✌️
I’m 1st heyyy 🥇
🥇🥇🥇🥇
Which other citi card would you pair this one with? Another great video BTW
Pair the one that offers a permanent spend category that's useful to you 👊 At the moment, I'd personally use it with the Citi Premier Card and the Citi Double Cash. That'd be 3 cards with a total of $95 in annual fees and GREAT rewards categories that I'd get good use out of 💯
Does grocery store include Walmart and target?
Nope ☹️
Well then I'm 2nd then 😉
😁🥈
Been waiting for this one!
The education has been served! 😎👊
And I am 3rd
😁🥉
@@MarkReese I am approved for this card! ✌🏻
@@amanprusty1265 - CONGRATS Aman, that's awesome! 😃💥
Damn, this card is so tempting, but trying not apply for any cards 5/24 errrr!!!
Just Apply for chase products first
Chase is being real difficult lately I got turned down (I think) I'm 4/24 and have a score of 810. I got the 7-10 get your rejection letter in the mail message.
@@djpuplex wow did you call the reconciliation line immediately?
@@stormb28 too late for that lol early in your credit journey they won’t accept you and or middle when you force to look elsewhere. I will leave Chase for last when I exhausted all my desires.
@@callmeNeno spoke with them today they said there was one more security check I should get notified by mail in 7-10 days ie. Probably rejected.