What the Citi Diamond Preferred Card includes
The Citi Diamond Preferred Card is a no-annual-fee credit card that focuses on cash back rewards and introductory purchase rates. The card offers 1% cash back on all purchases, with a higher rate on specific categories depending on how you use the card. There is no annual fee, which means you can hold the card without paying to keep it open.
The card's main draw is its introductory 0% APR period on purchases, which lasts for a set number of months from account opening. After that period ends, a regular variable APR applies to any remaining balance. The card also includes standard protections like purchase protection and extended warranty coverage on may be able to access items.
Key Takeaways
- The Citi Diamond Preferred offers 1% cash back on all purchases with no annual fee, making it useful for everyday spending without cost.
- A 0% introductory APR on purchases for a limited time means you can carry a balance interest-free if you pay it off before the period ends.
- The card includes purchase protection and extended warranty coverage, which protect items you buy against damage or defects.
- Cash back rewards are deposited as a statement credit and do not expire as long as your account remains open.
- The card has no foreign transaction fees, which can save money if you use it for purchases outside the United States.
How the cash back rewards work
Every purchase you make on the card earns 1% cash back automatically. This means a $100 purchase gives you $1 in rewards. The cash back is not a separate account or voucher—it shows up as a credit on your monthly statement, reducing what you owe.
Cash back rewards do not expire as long as your account is open and in good standing. You do not have to reach a minimum amount to redeem them; they are credited each month. If you close the account, any unredeemed cash back is forfeited, so keeping the card open preserves the value of rewards you have already earned.
The introductory 0% APR period and how to use it
When you open the card, you get 0% APR on purchases for a promotional period. This means any balance you carry during that time does not accrue interest charges. This is useful if you have a large purchase planned or want to move an existing balance from another card.
The 0% period applies only to purchases made during the promotional window, not to balance transfers or cash advances. After the introductory period ends, the regular variable APR kicks in on any remaining balance. To avoid interest charges, you need to pay off the balance before the 0% period expires. If you cannot pay it off in full, the interest rate will explore to whatever remains.
The length of the introductory period varies, so check your offer details when you receive your card. Setting a payment plan before you make large purchases helps may support you can pay off the balance in time.
Purchase protection and extended warranty coverage
The card includes purchase protection, which covers items you buy if they are damaged or stolen within a certain number of days of purchase. This protection applies to most merchandise purchased with the card and reimburses you for the loss up to a set dollar limit per claim.
Extended warranty coverage adds extra time to the manufacturer's warranty on may be able to access items. If an item breaks down after the manufacturer's warranty expires but within the extended coverage period, the card's coverage may reimburse repair or replacement costs. Both protections have limits and exclusions, so review the full terms in your cardholder agreement.
No foreign transaction fees
If you use the card for purchases outside the United States, you will not pay foreign transaction fees. This is different from many credit cards, which charge 1% to 3% on international purchases. The lack of foreign transaction fees makes this card practical for travel or online purchases from international merchants.
The card still uses the Visa exchange rate for currency conversion, so you will see the converted amount on your statement. But you avoid the extra fee that many issuers add on top of the exchange rate.
How to track your rewards and account activity
You can view your cash back balance and account activity through the Citi mobile app or the Citi website. Log in with your username and password to see your current balance, recent transactions, and the amount of cash back you have earned. The app also lets you set up payment reminders and view your introductory offer details.
Your monthly statement shows the cash back credit applied that month. If you want a record of all rewards earned, you can read your statements or set up email alerts when cash back is credited. Keeping track of your balance during the 0% introductory period helps you stay on pace to pay it off before interest kicks in.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I transfer a balance from another card onto the Citi Diamond Preferred?
The 0% introductory APR applies to purchases only, not balance transfers. If you transfer a balance, it will accrue interest at the regular variable APR from the start. However, you can still use the card for new purchases and earn 1% cash back on them.
What happens to my cash back if I close the card?
Any unredeemed cash back is lost when you close the account. Cash back only stays active as long as your account remains open. If you have accumulated rewards, make sure they are credited to your statement before closing the card.
Does the card have a spending limit for the 0% introductory rate?
The 0% APR applies to all purchases made during the promotional period, with no separate limit. However, your credit limit on the card itself determines how much you can charge. The introductory rate covers whatever you purchase up to your credit limit during the offer window.
Are there categories where I earn more than 1% cash back?
The Citi Diamond Preferred earns a flat 1% cash back on all purchases with no bonus categories. Unlike some cards that offer higher rates on groceries, gas, or dining, this card treats all spending the same. The simplicity of one rate across all purchases is part of the card's design.
How long does the introductory 0% APR last?
The length of the promotional period varies by offer and changes over time. Check your offer details when you receive your card or contact Citi customer service to confirm the exact number of months. The expiration date is also listed in your cardholder agreement.