The Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard® is more than just a credit card, it’s a passport to a world of travel rewards and benefits tailored for those who frequently fly with American Airlines.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the key information you need to know about the Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard®, including details on its annual fee, credit limit, advantages, and disadvantages. We’ll also cover the application process, ensuring you have all the information you need to decide if this card is right for you.

Key information about the credit card

How does the annual fee work?

The Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard® comes with an annual fee of $99. However, this fee is waived for the first 12 months, giving new cardholders a chance to explore the card’s benefits without an immediate cost. After the first year, the annual fee is automatically charged to your account. Unfortunately, there is no option to pay the fee in installments, and it must be paid in full.

How is the credit limit determined?

The credit limit for the Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard® is determined based on several factors, including your credit score, income, and overall creditworthiness. Citi reviews your financial history to assess your ability to manage credit. For conventional credit cards like this one, the institution sets the limit based on these factors, which means it can vary significantly from one cardholder to another.

Advantages of the credit card

• Bonus miles: Earn 75,000 bonus miles after spending $3,500 within the first four months.
• First checked bag free: Enjoy the first checked bag free on domestic American Airlines itineraries for you and up to four companions on the same reservation.
• Preferred boarding: Get preferred boarding on American Airlines flights, allowing you to settle in earlier and have first access to overhead bin space.
• Earn miles on everyday purchases: Earn 2 AAdvantage® miles for every $1 spent at restaurants, gas stations, and on eligible American Airlines purchases. All other purchases earn 1 mile per $1 spent.
• 25% inflight savings: Save 25% on inflight food and beverage purchases on American Airlines flights when you use your card.
• No foreign transaction fees: Shop abroad without worrying about additional fees, making it an excellent choice for international travelers.

A standout advantage

The standout advantage of the Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard® is the ability to earn AAdvantage® miles on everyday purchases while enjoying significant travel perks with American Airlines. The combination of earning potential and travel benefits, such as a free first checked bag and preferred boarding, makes this card especially valuable for frequent flyers.

Disadvantages

• Annual fee: The $99 annual fee, though waived for the first year, could be a disadvantage for those who prefer no-fee cards.
• High APR: The variable APR ranges from 21.24% to 29.99%, which can be costly if you carry a balance from month to month.
• Limited to American Airlines: The card’s benefits are most valuable when flying with American Airlines, making it less versatile for those who travel with multiple airlines.
• No introductory APR offer: Unlike some cards, this one does not offer an introductory 0% APR on purchases or balance transfers.

A standout disadvantage

The primary disadvantage of the Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard® is its limited versatility. The card’s benefits are heavily tied to American Airlines, which may not appeal to those who fly with different airlines or want more flexibility in their travel rewards. This makes the card less attractive to travelers who are not loyal to a single airline, as the perks offered may not justify the annual fee in such cases.

Who can apply for this card?

To apply for the Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard®, you must meet certain eligibility requirements. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and have a valid Social Security Number (SSN).

A good to excellent credit score is generally required, meaning a FICO score of 670 or higher is recommended for the best chances of approval. Additionally, applicants must have a stable source of income to demonstrate their ability to manage the credit line responsibly.

The card is available to U.S. residents, but it excludes those living in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. If you’ve received a new account bonus for a Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® account within the past 48 months, you may not be eligible for the bonus miles offer associated with this card.

How to apply for the Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard®

For the website

To apply for the Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard® online, simply visit the official Citi website. You’ll find a detailed application form that requires you to provide personal information, such as your name, address, SSN, and income details. Be sure to double-check all information before submitting your application, as errors could delay the process.

The online application also allows you to review the card’s terms and conditions before finalizing your request. Once submitted, you’ll typically receive a decision within minutes, although in some cases, additional verification may be needed, which could take a few days.

Through the app

If you prefer to apply via your smartphone, you can download the Citi mobile app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app provides a user-friendly interface that guides you through the application process. Similar to the website application, you’ll need to enter your personal and financial information.

The app also allows you to track your application status in real-time, so you can stay updated on any developments. Applying through the app is convenient, especially for those who are always on the go and prefer managing their finances digitally.

At the branch

For those who prefer a more personal touch, you can apply for the Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard® at a Citi branch. A Citi representative will assist you in filling out the application and answer any questions you might have.

Applying in person can be beneficial if you need clarification on the card’s features or if you prefer face-to-face interaction when handling financial matters. The process may take a bit longer compared to online or app applications, but it offers the reassurance of direct assistance.