Changes in Credit Card Options with Citi

I’ve never really engaged with Citi’s Credit Card rewards or their appreciation points. Instead, I’ve typically valued the reward points from Chase Ultimate Rewards and American Express, particularly in recent years. Oh, and I’ve also started using Bilt Rewards Points and Capital One Miles as well.

But that might change. Citi just announced a new transfer partner, and it’s quite interesting. Now, with certain Citi Credit Cards, you can transfer reward points to American Airlines at a 1:1 ratio. I’m considering adding the Citi StrataPremier® Card to my collection—it could end up being one of my go-to cards.

Why Not the City Strata Elite?

Some might wonder: why choose a mid-tier card like the StrataPremier? Sure, the Strata Elite has an appealing sign-up bonus and various perks, but honestly, it just doesn’t resonate with me.

For those with different spending behaviors or card portfolios, Strata Elite might actually be a solid choice. But for me, I don’t think I can wring out enough value to rationalize the $595 annual fee.

On the other hand, the $95 annual fee for the StrataPremier is much more manageable, and it serves as a fantastic pathway to earn more American Airlines miles.

Why Strata Premier Works for Me

The Citi Strata Premier Credit Card is often overlooked—I’ve overlooked it myself in the past. Its earning structure, particularly, is quite strong for a mid-tier card, offering 3 points per dollar spent in various categories such as:

• Aerial travel
• EV charging stations
• Gas stations
• Hotels
• Restaurants, including takeout
• Supermarkets

Right now, I lack a card that scores points for gas or EV charging stations. I typically rely on my Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card and American Express® Gold Card. My Amex Gold, by the way, currently provides 4 points per dollar on restaurant purchases (up to $50,000 annually) and US supermarkets (first $25,000 annually).

Since I have an ongoing partnership with Amex and Rakuten, shifting some online spending to Strata Premier for American Airlines miles sounds reasonable to me.

Airport Preferences

I’m usually based in Jersey City, New Jersey, and favor Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), especially after gaining access to the Admirals Club Lounge. Though, earning Aadvantage Miles hasn’t been straightforward because I’m not a primary cardholder on any co-branded American Airlines cards. No major issuers have a transfer relationship with the US since the conclusion of the BILT partnership in mid-2024.

Interestingly, I’ve actually flown more with Delta lately, thanks to a 15% discount on redemptions from easily transferring Amex points. However, that often means long distances before public transport to JFK Airport.

If I go with the Strata Premier, I could use my accrued Aadvantage miles throughout the year more effectively—rather than the hassle of transit to the airport, I could grab a quick Lyft and enjoy a light drink at the Admirals Club instead.

Annual Fees and Other Benefits

Aside from the robust earning potential, Strata Premier offers a nice sign-up bonus, with low annual fees—60,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 in the first three months. It’s not always straightforward to apply, as you often need to book substantial stays through the Citi Travel Portal.

But the City Entertainment Access could also yield benefits before attending shows or concerts. Given its low annual fee, I’m unconcerned with squeezing out every last advantage from my card.

Overall, the Strata Premier is an excellent addition to my wallet, giving me extra flexibility in how I plan my travels. Right now, I’m like a free agent regarding loyalty programs, so having different redemption options is definitely appealing to me.

Two Cards Are Better Than One

You can also enhance the value of the Strata Premier by pairing it with the Citi Strata Card. Although the latter doesn’t allow direct transfers to American Airlines, you can transfer points earned on the Strata Card to the Premier for access to theAmerican Airlines transfer partnership.

The City Strata Card currently has a limited-time sign-up bonus of 30,000 points after a $1,000 spend in the first three months, plus 3 points per dollar in select categories.

Conclusion

Accumulating American Airlines miles can be tricky without a co-branded card. I value these miles at about 1.55 cents each. If you’re a frequent American Airlines traveler, the Citi ThankYou points are worth your attention.

As Citi’s new transfer arrangement applies to both Strata Elite and Strata Premier cards, I believe the Premier is a solid choice, especially if the elite status doesn’t matter much to you. I’m looking forward to making it a part of my card lineup.