With 5 options for a variety of traveler types, Citi® / AAdvantage® credit cards offer cardmembers the chance to earn miles that can be redeemed on travel. These cards include:
What credit score do you need to apply for a Citi® / AAdvantage® credit card?
There’s no exact credit score needed to qualify. Several factors, such as income, credit score and recent applications can affect your chances of approval. The requirements can also depend on which card you’re applying for.
Factors to consider for a Citi® / AAdvantage® credit card
Here are some of the factors that may be considered when you apply for a Citi® / AAdvantage® credit card.
Payment history
Payment history has a major impact on your credit score. Card issuers may look at whether you pay your bills on time to get an idea of whether you’re a reliable borrower.
Credit utilization
Your credit utilization is the percentage of your total available credit you’re using. Keeping your utilization low may improve your credit score and show lenders you can manage debt responsibly.
Credit mix
Credit cards aren’t the only debts that contribute to your credit score. Having a varied credit mix — which can include things like mortgages, student loans, auto loans and personal loans — may help show lenders that you’re capable of handling multiple debts at once.
Income
You’ll likely be asked for your income as part of any credit card application. The card issuer may also consider your debt-to-income ratio (the percentage of your monthly gross income that goes to debt payments) when you apply for a card.
Recent credit card applications
A credit card application usually triggers a hard inquiry, which can temporarily lower your credit score slightly. A hard credit inquiry may impact your credit score for up to 1 year and stay on your credit report for up to 2 years. If you’re applying for multiple cards (or other types of debt) in a short period, it can be a red flag to lenders.
Building credit before applying
If you want to improve your credit before applying for a Citi® / AAdvantage® credit card (or any credit card) or if you have a limited credit history, here a few steps you may be able to take to help build credit:
- Get a secured card: A secured credit card (which requires a security deposit typically equal to the credit limit) can be a great option for someone building or rebuilding their credit. The lender may use the security deposit to cover missed payments if needed, so the credit requirements are less stringent, and you’re more likely to be approved.
- Become an authorized user: Becoming an authorized user on someone else’s credit card could allow you to benefit from their good credit habits. Just make sure the card issuer reports authorized user activity to the credit bureaus. To find out, you can check the card issuer’s website or call them to ask directly. Remember that card activity like late or missed payments may show up on your credit report as well.
- Keep your utilization low: Your credit utilization can impact your credit score, so keeping it low consistently could help improve your credit score.
- Make on-time payments: Payment history is a major factor in your credit score. A history of consistent on-time payments can improve your credit over time.
- Check your credit reports: You can request a credit report from each of the 3 major credit bureaus once every 12 months. Check your history to see where you can improve. If you find errors, dispute them by contacting the credit bureau and the company that reported the debt.
Disclosure: This article is for educational purposes. It is not intended to provide legal, investment, or financial advice and is not a substitute for professional advice. It does not indicate the availability of any Citi product or service. For advice about your specific circumstances, you should consult a qualified professional.
