Citibank offers a different approach than traditional big banks—fewer branches but strong digital banking and integration with Citi's excellent credit card lineup. Understanding the Citi Relationship Tiers helps unlock maximum value.
Citi Checking Accounts
Basic Banking Package
Entry-level banking with a $12 monthly fee, waived with $1,500+ balance or one qualifying direct deposit and bill payment. Includes standard checking features and ATM access.
Citi Access Account
A checkless, no-overdraft account with a $10 monthly fee. No minimum balance and no overdraft fees make this ideal for straightforward debit-based banking.
Citi Priority Account
Premium banking requiring $30,000+ in combined balances waives the $30 monthly fee and unlocks significant benefits:
- No foreign transaction fees worldwide
- Free wire transfers
- Relationship pricing on loans
- Priority customer service
- Airport lounge access discounts
Citigold
For high-net-worth clients with $200,000+ in assets, Citigold provides wealth management integration, dedicated advisors, and exclusive benefits including global concierge services.
Citi Savings Accounts
Citi Accelerate Savings
A standout product offering competitive high-yield rates typically matching online banks. No monthly fee makes this one of the best savings options from a traditional bank.
Citi Savings
Standard savings with tiered rates based on relationship level. The $4.50 monthly fee waives with $500+ balance or linked checking.
Citi Credit Card Integration
Citi excels at combining banking with Citi credit cards. Priority and Citigold members receive enhanced benefits:
- Bonus ThankYou points on select cards
- Priority approval consideration
- Relationship-based credit offers
- Streamlined account management
For building credit, Citi's secured card graduates to an unsecured product automatically.
Global Banking Features
Citi's international presence benefits travelers and global customers:
- Banking in 90+ countries
- Global ATM Alliance access
- No foreign transaction fees (Priority+)
- Multi-currency accounts available
Digital Platform
The Citi mobile app provides:
- Account aggregation across banks
- Bill negotiation services
- Spending analysis and alerts
- Mobile check deposit
- Zelle instant transfers
Fee Considerations
Key fees:
- Overdraft: $34 per item
- Non-Citi ATM: $2.50 per transaction
- Wire transfers: Free for Priority, otherwise $25-45
- Foreign transaction: Free for Priority, 3% for Basic
Who Should Bank with Citi?
Citi works best for customers who travel internationally, want strong credit card integration, or can qualify for Citi Priority benefits. The Accelerate Savings account offers competitive rates for anyone.
For extensive branch networks, consider Chase or Bank of America instead.
Explore options at Citi.com
