The Amex Everyday® credit card from American Express is no longer available, but it used to serve as a familiar option among Amex’s notable products. Like its more exclusive counterparts, it allows you to earn transferable American Express membership reward points, along with various bonus categories.
To illustrate the competitive landscape, the Citi Strata Card (prices and fees may vary) also stands out. It provides bonus points at supermarkets, gas stations, and other customizable categories, plus the points earned can ultimately be transferred to Citi’s travel partners, although at a lower ratio.
If you happen to hold another Citi card, such as the Citi StrataPremier® Card (rates and fees apply), you can combine points to utilize the standard transfer ratio.
Comparison of Amex Everyday vs. Citi Strata
| Amex Everyday | Citi Strata | |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Fees | $0 | $0 |
| Welcome Bonus | n/a | Earn 30,000 points after spending $1,000 in the first three months. |
| Earning Potential |
|
|
| Additional Benefits |
|
|
*Eligibility and benefits differ by card, conditions apply. For more details, visit AmericanExpress.com/benefitsGuide.
**Eligibility and benefits also vary, consult AmericanExpress.com/benefitsGuide for more info.
Welcome Offers
The Amex Everyday does not offer a welcome bonus since it’s no longer available for new applicants. In contrast, new Citi Strata cardholders can earn 30,000 points by spending $1,000 within the initial three months, equating to about $570 based on TPG’s valuation.
Winner: With no welcome bonuses left for Citi Strata, Amex Everyday prevails in this category.
Benefits of Amex Everyday vs. Citi Strata
The benefits for Amex Everyday are quite typical, including rental loss insurance, access to the Global Assist Hotline, and the Membership Rewards program. You can also book travel using the Pay with Points option, although registration is required.
Citi Strata, on the other hand, offers fewer options without exclusive perks commonly found in its premium counterparts. You will gain access to Citi Entertainment, identity theft protection, and no liability for unauthorized purchases.
Winner: Amex Every Day, as it provides a wider array of benefits, particularly travel protections.
Earning Points with Amex Everyday vs. Citi Strata
Both cards appear straightforward in their earning rates.
Amex Everyday allows:
- 2 points per dollar at US supermarkets (up to $6,000 annually; 1 point thereafter)
- 1 point per dollar on other transactions
Amex also rewards a 20% point bonus for exceeding 20 purchases each month, rewarding frequent swipers.
Citi Strata allows:
- 5 points for dollars spent at hotels, cars, and attractions booked on the Citi Travel Portal
- 3 points for supermarkets, specific transits, EV charging, and gas expenses
- 3 points for quarterly-customizable categories
- 2 points for dining out
- 1 point for all other transactions
While Amex offers simplicity, it does have a limit on grocery bonuses. Citi Strata’s multiple earning categories provide a stronger edge for budget-conscious individuals.
Winner: Citi Strata shines with broader earning opportunities.
Redemption Points with Amex Everyday vs. Citi Strata
Amex Everyday rewards can be redeemed for various purchases or travel, typically valued at around 1 cent each. However, redeeming for travel through partners can yield better value.
Citi Strata points, meanwhile, can also be redeemed for gift cards or travel but usually at a lesser value than Amex. Though they have decent options, they fall short of the advantage Amex offers in greater redemption value.
Winner: Amex Everyday for its superior redemption options.
Transferring Points with Amex Everyday vs. Citi Strata
Both cards let you transfer points to various partners. Amex has established connections with popular airline and hotel programs, allowing you to leverage maximum value from your points.
Citi Strata, while also offering transfers, generally has a less favorable 1:0.7 ratio with most partners. However, if you hold certain Citi premium cards, you can achieve a better transfer ratio.
Winner: Amex Everyday edges out in transfer options without additional restrictions.
Conclusion
Both cards have merits, yet Amex Everyday now represents the more appealing choice since the Citi Strata is unavailable for new applicants. The lack of an annual fee combined with benefits makes it a good starting point for earning points.
For a deeper dive, consider our complete review of both Amex Everyday and Citi Strata cards.
