How To Upgrade a Citi Credit Card: A Complete Guide [2025]

Upgrading your Citi credit card can unlock better rewards, higher credit limits, and premium benefits like travel perks, cashback bonuses, and lower interest rates. However, the process isn’t always straightforward.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to upgrade your Citi credit card, eligibility requirements, potential benefits, and tips to maximize your chances of approval.

Why Upgrade Your Citi Credit Card?

Before diving into the process, let’s explore why upgrading can be beneficial:

1. Higher Credit Limit

Upgrading often comes with an increased credit limit, improving your credit utilization ratio—a key factor in your credit score.

2. Better Rewards & Perks

Premium Citi cards (like the Citi Premier® or Citi Prestige®) offer enhanced rewards on travel, dining, and entertainment compared to entry-level cards.

3. Lower Interest Rates (In Some Cases)

Some upgraded cards may come with lower APR offers, saving you money on carried balances.

4. Exclusive Benefits

Premium cards include perks like airport lounge access, annual travel credits, and concierge services.

Eligibility for a Citi Credit Card Upgrade

Citi doesn’t publicly disclose specific upgrade requirements, but these factors improve your chances:

✅ Good to Excellent Credit Score (670+) – Higher-tier cards typically require a FICO score of 720+.
✅ Solid Payment History – No late payments or defaults in the last 6-12 months.
✅ Sufficient Income – Higher-tier cards may require proof of stable income.
✅ Card Usage – Regular, responsible use of your current card increases upgrade chances.

How To Upgrade Your Citi Credit Card

Citi doesn’t offer a self-service upgrade option online, so you’ll need to follow these steps:

Method 1: Call Citi Customer Service

The most reliable way to request an upgrade is by calling Citi’s customer service:

Dial the number on the back of your card (or 1-800-950-5114).
Ask about upgrade options – Inquire if you’re eligible for a product change to a higher-tier card.
Review offers – The agent may present available upgrades (e.g., moving from Citi Double Cash® to Citi Premier®).
Accept or negotiate – If approved, confirm terms before proceeding.

Method 2: Check for Online Offers (Rare)

Occasionally, Citi may display upgrade offers in your online account:

Log in to Citi’s website or app.
Navigate to “Credit Card Services” or “Offers”.
Look for “Upgrade Your Card” or similar promotions.

(Note: Most users must call, as online upgrades are uncommon.)

Method 3: Apply for a New Card (Alternative Option)

If Citi denies your upgrade request, you can:

✔ Apply for a new Citi card (subject to a hard credit pull).
✔ Use Citi’s pre-approval tool to check eligibility without affecting your score.

Best Citi Cards To Upgrade To in 2025

Here are some top Citi cards worth upgrading to:

Current Card	Recommended Upgrade	Key Benefits
Citi® Double Cash	Citi Premier®	3X on dining, groceries, gas, flights, hotels
Citi® Rewards+	Citi Custom Cash®	5% cashback in top eligible spending category
Citi® Diamond Preferred	Citi® Simplicity®	No late fees, longer intro 0% APR periods

What to Do If You’re Denied an Upgrade?

If Citi declines your request, try these steps:

Ask why – The agent may explain if you need a higher credit score or more income.
Improve your credit – Pay down balances and avoid late payments.
Wait 3-6 months – Reapply after strengthening your profile.

FAQs About Upgrading a Citi Credit Card

1. Does upgrading a Citi card hurt my credit score?

No, a product change (upgrade) typically doesn’t trigger a hard inquiry. However, applying for a new card does.

2. Can I downgrade my Citi card later?

Yes, you can request a downgrade if the new card’s fees or benefits don’t suit you.

3. Will I keep my credit history after upgrading?

Yes, upgrading doesn’t close your old account, so your credit history remains intact.

4. Are there upgrade fees?

Most upgrades are free, but premium cards (like Citi Prestige®) have annual fees.

Final Tips for a Successful Upgrade

Call at the right time – Try after 6-12 months of responsible card use.
Mention competitor offers – If you have better offers (e.g., from Chase or Amex), Citi may match them.
Check for retention offers – Sometimes, Citi offers upgrades to retain customers.

Conclusion

Upgrading your Citi credit card can unlock valuable rewards and benefits, but the process requires patience and a strong credit profile. By following this guide, you’ll maximize your chances of securing a better card with improved perks.