| Rewards | None |
|---|---|
| Signup Bonus | None |
| Annual Fee | None |
| Cardmember Agreement | View Here |
| Cash Advance APR | 25.24% variable APR |
| Cash Advance Fee | Either $10 or 5% of each cash advance, whichever is greater. |
| Late Payment Fee | Up to $41 |
| Purchases APR | 22.49% variable APR (based on the Prime Rate). |
| * Card terms and offers are subject to change. Confirm current details with the issuer. | |
The Citi Secured Mastercard is best known as a straightforward credit-builder: no annual fee, no rewards, and no signup bonus — just the basics designed to help you establish or rebuild credit.
Most users say approval is relatively accessible and appreciate that Citi reports to all three credit bureaus. Many reviewers mentioned the simple, no-frills structure makes it easy to focus on payment habits. Cardholders also like the $0 annual fee, which isn’t guaranteed with secured cards.
On the downside, the lack of any rewards is the biggest complaint. Some users also say the deposit requirements and limited upgrade path feel restrictive, and the APR is high if you ever carry a balance. A few reviewers mentioned slow graduation to an unsecured card compared with competitors.
Personally, I think this card works well if your priority is rebuilding credit with a major issuer and keeping annual costs at zero. But if you want cash back while you build credit, better secured options exist.
Easy setup, clear reporting, and regular updates kept me motivated. Small limit at first, but responsible use boosted my confidence and credit steadily.