Credit Cards
Citi® Double Cash Card Review: Ongoing 2% Rewards With Zero Hassle
The Citi® Double Cash Card offers simple, reliable rewards with 2% cash back. Here’s a clear look at its features, strengths, limitations, and who should apply.
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Note: The information provided in this article is accurate at the time of publication, but may be subject to change or cancellation by the card issuer.
Why the Citi® Double Cash Remains a Top Flat-Rate Cash Back Card

The Citi® Double Cash Card has earned a reputation as one of the most straightforward rewards cards on the market.
With no annual fee and the chance to earn enhanced rewards through Citi Travel®, it’s a practical option for everyday spending
In this review, we’ll break down its core features, strengths, drawbacks, eligibility criteria, the application process, and whose wallet this card truly belongs in.
Citi® Double Cash Card – Key Features Overview
| Annual Fee | $0 |
| Rewards Rate | 2% total cash back: 1% when you buy + 1% when you pay |
| Bonus Earnings | 5% total on hotels, rental cars, and attractions booked through Citi Travel® |
| Intro APR (Balance Transfers) | Promotional low intro APR for a set period (varies by offer) |
| APR After Intro Period | Variable APR based on creditworthiness |
| Cash Back Caps | None — unlimited cash back on purchases |
| Redemption Options | Statement credit, direct deposit, check, or conversion to ThankYou® Points |
| Foreign Transaction Fees | Yes (card is not ideal for international spending) |
| Benefits | Mastercard protections; flexible cash-back redemptions |
| Credit Needed | Good to Excellent (typically 700+) |
| Best For | Everyday spenders, simplicity lovers, long-term cardholders, Citi Travel® users |
| Not Ideal For | Travelers wanting no foreign fees, category maximizers, premium-perk seekers |
Key Features of the Citi® Double Cash Card
To understand what makes this card attractive, it helps to look at the overall experience it aims to provide.
The Citi® Double Cash Card is designed for people who want their rewards to stay consistent no matter where they shop.
There are no rotating categories to memorize, no surprise caps to track, and no confusing point conversions.
Instead, the card focuses on long-term dependability and a simple earning system that rewards responsible use.
Below are the main features that shape the Citi® Double Cash Card:
No Annual Fee
You can keep this card year after year without paying for the privilege, which makes it easier to benefit from long-term use.
2% Cash Back on All Purchases
The structure is simple: 1% cash back at the time of purchase and another 1% when you pay off that balance.
Enhanced Rewards Through Citi Travel®
When you book hotels, rental cars, or attractions through Citi Travel®, you can earn a total of 5% cash back — an appealing boost for occasional travelers.
Flexible Redemption Options
Your cash back can be turned into a statement credit, deposited into a bank account, mailed as a check, or converted into ThankYou® Points.
Intro APR on Balance Transfers
Depending on the current offer, you may qualify for a low introductory APR on balance transfers for a limited time.
No Earning Caps or Activations
You’ll earn rewards at the same rate whether you’re spending on groceries, gas, or last-minute online shopping — no tracking required.
Pros of the Citi® Double Cash Card
Looking at the advantages together gives a clearer sense of why this card remains a favorite among people who want something reliable. Its ease of use and steady value make it appealing for a wide audience.
- Flat 2% Cash Back: Earning 1% when you buy and 1% when you pay keeps the rewards structure balanced and predictable.
- No Annual Fee: You get full access to the card’s benefits without having to justify a yearly cost.
- Extra Earnings on Travel: Booking through Citi Travel® allows you to boost your rewards on certain travel-related purchases.
- No Category Tracking: You won’t need to remember rotating categories or enrollment deadlines.
- Multiple Redemption Choices: Cash back can be used or transferred in several convenient ways.
Cons of the Citi® Double Cash Card
Even strong cards have their shortcomings, and this one is no exception. Considering these drawbacks can help you decide if the Double Cash Card aligns with your financial habits.
- No Bonus Categories: You won’t find elevated rewards for groceries, dining, or gas outside of Citi Travel® bookings.
- Limited Travel Protections: The card lacks the insurance perks that premium travel cards typically offer.
- Rewards Tied to Paying Off Purchases: You only receive the full 2% when you pay the balance, which may be less appealing for users who carry a balance.
- Foreign Transaction Fees: This card is not ideal for international travel due to added costs on foreign purchases.
Eligibility Requirements
Before applying, it’s helpful to know what Citi generally looks for in potential cardholders. While approval can depend on multiple factors, these guidelines reflect the typical profile of a successful applicant.
- A good to excellent credit score (usually 700 or higher)
- A steady source of income to manage month-to-month spending
- U.S. residency and a valid Social Security Number
- A recent credit history with few or no delinquencies
How to Apply for the Citi® Double Cash Card
Understanding the steps involved can make the application process feel more straightforward. Here’s the general flow you can expect when applying online.
- Go to Citi’s official website and locate the Citi® Double Cash Card application page.
- Select Apply Now to start your online application.
- Enter your personal and financial information, including your Social Security Number, income details, employment status, and housing information.
- Review all terms and disclosures carefully so you fully understand the interest rates and fees.
- Submit your application. In many cases, Citi provides an instant decision, though some applications may require additional review.
Who Is the Citi® Double Cash Card Best For?
This section breaks down the types of people who are most likely to get full value from the Double Cash Card. Matching your spending style to these profiles can help you decide if it’s the right fit.
| Everyday Spenders | Great for people who want steady rewards on all purchases without tracking categories or deadlines. |
| Fans of Simplicity | Ideal if you prefer a card that does its job quietly and consistently. |
| Travelers Who Use Citi Travel® | Users who occasionally book through Citi Travel® can enjoy boosted rewards. |
| Long-Term Cardholders | Its no-fee structure makes it a convenient card to keep indefinitely. |
Who Should Not Get This Card
The Double Cash Card isn’t perfect for everyone. These profiles highlight users who may be better served by a different rewards structure or card type.
| Category Chasers | Those who enjoy earning higher percentages in targeted categories may find the 2% rate limiting. |
| Frequent International Travelers | Foreign transaction fees make it less practical for overseas spending. |
| Users Seeking Premium Perks | Travelers who want lounge access or robust insurance benefits should consider premium travel cards. |
| Balance Carriers | Since part of the rewards depends on paying off purchases, this card is less appealing for those who carry balances. |
Final Thoughts: Citi® Double Cash Card
The Citi® Double Cash Card stands out because of its clarity and consistency. With 2% cash back on every purchase and no annual fee, it’s an excellent everyday card that puts reliability first.
While it doesn’t offer flashy perks or bonus categories, it excels at what it promises: stable rewards that don’t require extra effort.
For anyone seeking a dependable card that keeps things simple, the Citi® Double Cash Card remains a strong contender.
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