Citizens Cash Back Plus™ World Mastercard® review: Get 1.8% cash back on every purchase, no strings attached
Our take: The Citizens Cash Back Plus™ World Mastercard® is a solid option for casual rewards card users who appreciate the ease of a consistent cash back rate without the hassle of changing categories.
ProsIntroductory 0% APR on balance transfersNo annual feeNo foreign transaction feesConsLimited redemption optionsNo sign-up bonus
Citizens Cash Back Plus World Mastercard: Overview
Card type: Cash back
APR
Intro: 0% APR on balance transfers for the first fifteen billing cycles
Purchase: 21.24%–29.24% variable
Balance transfer: 21.24%–29.24% variable, plus a fee of either $10 or 5% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater
Annual fee: $0
Foreign transaction fee: None
The Citizens Cash Back Plus World Mastercard stands out as an easy-to-manage rewards card that appeals to a variety of credit card users. It offers a straightforward cash back reward system: Cardholders earn 1.8% cash back on every purchase, eliminating the need to track rotating categories or sign up for specific promotions. Those who also have a Citizens checking account earn a higher cash back rate of 1.9%.
Another notable aspect of the Citizens Cash Back Plus World Mastercard is the absence of an annual fee and foreign transaction fees. This makes the card particularly attractive for those seeking a cost-effective credit card option, especially international travelers. Plus, the card offers a 15-month 0% introductory APR on balance transfers (after the introductory period, the interest rate reverts to the standard purchase APR) and added perks such as extended warranty protection, car rental insurance, and more.
Citizens Cash Back Plus World Mastercard: Rewards
The Citizens Cash Back Plus World Mastercard comes with a simple, flat rewards rate: Earn 1.8% cash back on all purchases. There is no cap on earnings and rewards don’t expire.
If you have a Citizens Quest® checking account, you can boost your rate to 1.9% cash back.
How to redeem rewards
When it comes time to redeem your cash back rewards, you have the option to receive a credit card statement credit or a direct deposit to your Citizens personal checking, savings, or money market account. You’re eligible to redeem rewards in increments of 25 for $25 in cash back.
To redeem your rewards, log in to your credit card online banking account or contact a customer service representative at 1-800-684-2222.
Additional benefits
In addition to earning cash back on your spending, the Citizens Cash Bank Plus World Mastercard also comes with the following perks and protections:
Extended warranty protection: This doubles the original manufacturer’s or store brand warranty for up to two years.
MasterRental insurance: Covers your rental for collision, loss or damage.
ID theft protection: Mastercard services can detect and help you resolve ID theft events quickly.
Trip cancellation/interruption insurance: Use your credit card to purchase your entire trip on a major airline, and you’re eligible for reimbursement of non-refundable cancellation or change fees if you have to cancel your trip for a covered reason.
Is the Citizens Cash Back Plus World Mastercard right for you?
Thanks to its competitive flat-rate cash back rewards, the Citizens Cash Back Plus World Mastercard is ideal for those who prefer a simple, straightforward rewards program without bonus or rotating categories to keep track of.
Credit cards similar to Citizens Cash Back Plus World Mastercard
When shopping around for a rewards card, it’s important to pick one that fits your spending habits and priorities. So before settling on a card, be sure to shop around for similar cards to compare your options.
Synchrony Premier World Mastercard® vs. Citizens Cash Back Plus World Mastercard
The Synchrony Premier World Mastercard is similar to the Citizens Cash Back Plus World Mastercard in that it also offers a flat cash back rate—slightly higher at 2%. It also does not charge an annual fee and comes with Mastercard World benefits including ID theft protection, Mastercard lifestyle and travel services, and more. This card does require excellent credit to qualify, so it may not be the best choice for everyone.
Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card vs. Citizens Cash Back Plus World Mastercard
The Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card is another flat-rate cash back card that offers 2% back on purchases. New cardholders can also earn a $200 cash reward after spending $500 within the first three months of account opening. Plus, the card comes with an introductory 0% APR for the first 15 months. There’s also no annual fee.
Frequently asked questions
How do I redeem my cashback from Citizens Bank?
Cash back rewards can be redeemed as a direct deposit into your Citizens personal checking, savings, or money market account, as a credit card statement credit.
What bank owns Citizens Bank?
The Royal Bank of Scotland Group acquired Citizens in 1988.
What does it cost to apply for the Citizens Cash Bank Plus World Mastercard?
There is no application fee or cost associated with applying for this card.
Please note that card details are accurate as of the publish date, but are subject to change at any time at the discretion of the issuer. Please contact the card issuer to verify rates, fees, and benefits before applying.