Citi Rewards Credit Card – How to Apply

By Raquel Oliveira • 03/06/2025

Citi Rewards Credit Card: Earn rewards on dining, entertainment, and other everyday purchases. 

With 2 points per dollar on dining and entertainment, and 1 point per dollar on all other purchases, this card is a great choice for individuals who want to maximize their rewards in these popular categories. 

Plus, with no annual fee and a solid sign-up bonus, this card is an affordable way to earn points without worrying about additional costs.

Whether you’re dining at your favorite restaurant, watching a movie, or buying everyday items, the Citi Rewards card helps you earn rewards on every purchase.

The points you earn can be redeemed for travel, gift cards, or statement credits, giving you plenty of flexibility in how you use your rewards.

How does Citi Rewards work?

The Citi Rewards Credit Card works by offering 2 points for every dollar spent on dining and entertainment purchases. This makes it an excellent card for individuals who frequently dine out, order takeout, or spend on entertainment, such as movies or concerts.

For all other purchases, the card offers 1 point per dollar, which ensures you’re still earning rewards on everything you buy, no matter what the category. 

The simplicity of the rewards program means you don’t need to worry about rotating categories or keeping track of different rewards rates—just use your card for everyday purchases and earn rewards automatically.

In addition to the points you earn, the Citi Rewards card offers a generous sign-up bonus for new cardholders. After meeting the minimum spending requirement, you’ll receive a bonus that can significantly boost your rewards balance.

Main benefits for the Citi Rewards

• Five times points on hotel stays, car rentals, and attractions booked through CitiTravel, providing a great opportunity for frequent travelers to maximize rewards.
• Two times points on grocery and gas purchases for the first six thousand dollars spent annually, then one times points afterward, ensuring everyday expenses accumulate significant rewards.
• Automatic rounding-up system where every purchase rounds up to the nearest ten points, making even small transactions valuable in the long run.
• Ten percent of redeemed points are credited back annually, up to one hundred thousand points, increasing the overall value of accumulated rewards.

Cons for the Citi Rewards

Charges a balance transfer fee, which could offset any potential savings from the introductory APR offer, making it less appealing for consolidating existing debt.

The two times points bonus on groceries and gas is capped at six thousand dollars annually, limiting additional earnings after reaching this spending threshold.

Does not offer premium travel benefits such as airport lounge access or travel insurance, which might be a disadvantage for frequent travelers seeking luxury perks.

APR and Fees

Understanding the APR and fees is crucial for cardholders looking to maximize benefits while avoiding unnecessary expenses. This Card provides a fair balance between rewards and costs, making it an accessible option for many.

• Balance transfer fees apply as a percentage of the transferred amount, meaning users must calculate whether transferring a balance is cost-effective based on their financial situation.
• Zero percent introductory APR on purchases and balance transfers for a set period, allowing cardholders to finance large expenses or transfer balances without immediate interest.
• Variable APR applies after the introductory period, which is determined based on the applicant’s credit score and financial history, influencing long-term borrowing costs.
• No annual fee, ensuring that cardholders can continue earning rewards without paying extra to keep the card active, making it a budget-friendly choice.

How to Apply for the Citi Rewards Credit Card

Applying for this Card is a simple process that can be completed online. Citi provides a fast and secure application process, allowing eligible applicants to receive a decision within minutes.

• Visit the Citi website or follow a personalized offer link to access the application page and start the process of requesting the credit card.
• Fill out the online application form with personal information, including full name, address, income, and Social Security number, to allow for a credit evaluation.
• Submit the form and wait for approval, which may be provided instantly depending on the applicant’s credit history and overall financial profile.
• If approved, the card will be mailed within seven to ten business days, allowing new cardholders to activate it and start earning rewards immediately.

Who Should Apply for the Citi Rewards Card?

This Card is ideal for individuals looking for a straightforward way to earn rewards on daily expenses. The automatic rounding-up system makes it particularly useful for those who frequently make small purchases.

It is a great option for budget-conscious consumers, as it has no annual fee and offers bonus points on specific spending categories such as groceries, gas, and travel. These benefits help maximize rewards without extra costs.

Additionally, those looking to take advantage of an introductory APR on purchases or balance transfers may find value in this card. It provides financial flexibility while still allowing cardholders to earn rewards on regular spending.

However, individuals seeking premium travel perks or higher earnings on all purchases may find other rewards cards with specialized benefits more suitable for their financial goals.

Final Considerations

Ths Card offers a solid combination of everyday rewards, no annual fees, and unique features such as point rounding. It is a good choice for those who want to earn points without complex spending requirements.

While the bonus categories and introductory APR make this card attractive, it does come with limitations, such as the capped bonus rewards and lack of premium travel benefits. These factors should be considered before applying.

For those who value simplicity and reliable rewards on regular purchases, this card provides an excellent opportunity to earn points and redeem them in various ways. It is a practical choice for maximizing everyday spending.