The Citi Double Cash Card is a popular choice for straightforward cashback with no annual fee.
You get 1% back when you buy and another 1% when you pay, making it easy to earn on everyday spending.
This guide shows you how to apply for the card online, step by step, at no cost.
What You’ll Need Before Applying
Before starting the online application, ensure you have a few key details ready.
This helps speed up the process and reduces the chance of delays or errors.
- Full legal name and U.S. residential address
- Social Security Number (SSN)
- Date of birth
- Email address and phone number
- Employment status and employer name (if applicable)
- Estimated annual income
- Monthly housing or rent payment
- Authorization to check your credit history
Step-by-Step: How to Apply Online
Applying for the Citi Double Cash Card online is quick and straightforward. Just follow these steps to complete the process in a few minutes.
- Visit the Citi website: Go to the official Citi site and search for the Double Cash Card.
- Click “Apply Now”: This button takes you to the online application form.
- Enter your details: Include your name, address, date of birth, SSN, and contact info.
- Add your financial information: Provide your income, employment details, and monthly housing costs.
- Review the terms: Read the card’s terms and disclosures carefully before proceeding.
- Submit your application: Click the final submit button and await approval.
Interest Rates and Fees
Understanding the rates and fees helps you decide if this credit card fits your spending habits. Here’s a clear breakdown of the costs involved:
- Purchase APR: Variable 19.24% to 29.24%, based on your creditworthiness
- Balance Transfer APR: Same as purchase APR after the intro period
- Intro Offer: 0% APR for 18 months on balance transfers (3% fee or $5 minimum applies)
- Annual Fee: $0
- Cash Advance APR: 29.99% variable
- Cash Advance Fee: Either $10 or 5% of the amount, whichever is greater
- Late Payment Fee: Up to $41
- Returned Payment Fee: Up to $41
- Foreign Transaction Fee: 3% of the amount in U.S. dollars
What Happens After You Apply
Once you’ve submitted your application, the following steps are usually quick and straightforward. Here’s what typically happens:
- Instant decision: Most applicants get approved or denied within seconds.
- Further review: Citi may contact you or take a few days to decide if more information is needed.
- Email confirmation: You’ll receive an update about your application status.
- Card delivery: If approved, your card arrives by mail within 7–10 business days.
- Online setup: You’ll be guided to create or log into your Citi account to manage your new card.
Approval Tips: Boost Your Chances
Getting approved depends on your overall credit profile and financial stability. Here are practical ways to improve your chances before you apply:
- Check your credit score: Aim for a FICO score of 670 or higher.
- Review your credit report: Fix any errors or outdated information before applying.
- Keep credit utilization low: Ideally, under 30% of your total credit limit.
- Pay bills on time: A strong payment history signals reliability.
- Avoid multiple recent credit applications: Too many can lower your score and raise red flags.
- List all sources of income: Include part-time work, side jobs, or other income streams if applicable.
How Cashback Works
The cashback system on this card is simple, but there are a few rules to understand, so you get the full 2%. Here’s how it works:
- 1% back when you make a purchase: Earn cashback immediately at the time of purchase.
- 1% back when you pay off that purchase: You get the second 1% as you make payments toward your balance.
- Minimum payment required: You must pay at least the minimum due to qualify for the second 1%.
- No bonus categories: You earn the same rate on all purchases—no rotating categories or limits.
- Redemption options: Once you've earned at least $25, cashback can be redeemed as a statement credit, direct deposit, or check.
Common Mistakes People Make
Even with a straightforward rewards system, some users miss out on full benefits or run into issues. Here are common mistakes to avoid:
- Thinking you get 2% upfront: You only earn the second 1% after making a payment.
- Missing payments: Late payments can trigger fees and hurt your credit score.
- Overlooking the balance transfer fee: The 0% intro APR still has a 3% fee.
- Ignoring the foreign transaction fee: Using the card abroad adds a 3% surcharge.
- Redeeming too soon: You need at least $25 in rewards to redeem for cash back.
- Skipping the fine print: Not reviewing terms can lead to interest rate or fee surprises.
Approval Time & Card Delivery
After you submit your application, the process moves quickly in most cases. Here’s what you can expect from approval to receiving your card:
- Instant decisions are common: Most applicants get a response within seconds.
- Manual review may take longer: If more info is needed, it can take 1–3 business days.
- Email or mail notification: You’ll receive updates about your application status.
- Card shipping: Approved applicants typically receive their card within 7–10 business days.
- Online access before delivery: You may be able to view your card info through your Citi account before the physical card arrives.
Who This Card Works Best For
This card isn’t for everyone, but it’s a great fit if your spending and payment habits align with how the rewards are structured. Here’s who benefits the most:
- People who pay off their balance regularly: You only get the full 2% cashback if you make payments.
- Users who want simple rewards: No need to track categories or enroll in bonus programs.
- Those looking for a no-annual-fee card: Ideal to earn cashback without paying a yearly fee.
- Anyone with consistent, everyday spending: It rewards groceries, gas, bills, and more at the same rate.
- Consumers planning a balance transfer: The intro 0% APR offer for 18 months can help manage existing debt.
Customer Support Info
Citi offers several ways to get in touch if you need assistance with your account. Here's how you can reach them:
- Phone Support: Call 1-800-950-5114 for general inquiries. For Spanish-speaking assistance, dial 1-800-947-9100. These lines are available 24/7.
- Online Chat: Log in to your Citi account to access secure messaging or live chat with a representative.
- Mailing Address: For written correspondence, send mail to Citibank Customer Service, P.O. Box 6500, Sioux Falls, SD 57117
Final Check: Should You Apply?
If you want a no-annual-fee card with simple, reliable cashback, Citi Double Cash Card delivers solid value.
It works best for people who pay off their purchases and want to earn rewards without tracking categories.
If that sounds like you, apply online today and earn 2% back on everything you buy and repay.
Disclaimer
Rates, fees, and terms are subject to change and may vary based on your credit profile.
Always review the most current information on Citi’s official website before applying.
