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Citi is one of several banks that allow you to prequalify for a credit card before you apply, but you can no longer do it online. Instead, you must either receive a targeted mailing offer from Citi or talk to a rep in person at your local bank branch, giving you a leg up on success if you choose to apply. (Citi is a Finder advertising partner.)
It’s a shame you can’t prequalify online, given the simplicity of checking in on your odds of acceptance from your couch. Until it’s back, you’ll need to head to your nearest Citi branch or keep an eye on your mailbox for a targeted offer.
If you live near a Citi branch, walk in and ask a representative if you qualify for a credit card offer. Unlike a mailer targeted for a specific card, you may find you’re eligible for more than one — especially if you already bank with Citi.
Citi invites potential cardholders to apply for targeted cards through prequalification mailers. If you receive one, go to Citi’s site listed on your mailer and enter the invitation number to get started with your application. Just be sure not to chuck it into recycling with the penny savers!
As soon as it’s back, Citi’s online prequalification is the simple, straightforward way to go for learning about cards you may be eligible for:
After submitting your information, you’ll see — and can apply for — cards that match your credit profile.
You’re not guaranteed approval with prequalification, but it does give you a good shot at getting the card you’re recommended by the bank.
Both Chase and American Express offer prequalification on select cards and products, while USAA offers prequalification to its members.
When checking for prequalification, Citi looks at your finances and performs a soft pull of your credit to match your financial history against its card requirements. But you don’t have to wait for a bank to tell you whether you’re creditworthy.
With a little handiwork, you can get your free credit score from any of the three major credit bureaus — Experian, Equifax or TransUnion — and match your credit score against the range required of an eligible credit card. For Citi, that’s the credit requirements we’ve listed in the table on this page.
If you have a history of responsible borrowing and a credit score that rests comfortably within the required range, odds of application approval are in your favor.
Yes. Cobranded cards like the Costco Anywhere Visa and AT&T Access Card from Citi are eligible for prequalification.
You’ll likely need a good credit score of at least 670 to prequalify, though some banks prequalify potential cardholders with fair credit of at least 580.
However, prequalification comes down to the credit requirements of a particular card more so than your credit score. A prequalification offer means the bank or provider has reviewed your borrowing history through a soft pull of your credit and thinks you might be a match for its financial products.
Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, you have the right to opt out of offers for credit or insurance that aren’t initiated by you. Visit the Consumer Credit Reporting Industry Opt Out Prescreen site and identify whether you want to exclude your details from such offers for five years — or forever.
If you’re thinking about applying for a Citi credit card, prequalified can set you up for approval success. Until prequalification returns online, you’ll need to ask about your options at a branch or wait for a targeted offer to hit your mailbox. Or look to other credit card prequalification options to find the best fit with your spending habits and credit history.
You can prequalify for Citi credit cards with a fair credit score, though the best offers — like those for cashback and rewards cards — go to those with good to excellent credit. Narrow down a card that fits your needs, and ask about prequalifying at your local Citi branch.
Images: Shutterstock
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