When it comes to credit cards that help consumers manage high-interest debt or large purchases, the Citi Diamond Preferred® Card remains a popular option in 2025. Known for its lengthy 0% APR offers and no annual fee, it’s often considered a smart financial tool for those looking to pay off balances without interest.
In this detailed review, we’ll cover the features, benefits, drawbacks, and whether the Citi Diamond Preferred Card is a good fit for your financial needs today.
Overview of the Citi Diamond Preferred Card
The Citi Diamond Preferred Card, issued by Citibank, is designed for consumers who want to consolidate debt, manage large purchases, or avoid interest for an extended period. While it lacks a rewards program, the card shines with one of the longest introductory 0% APR periods on the market.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Intro APR on Balance Transfers | 0% for 21 months |
| Intro APR on Purchases | 0% for 12 months |
| Regular APR | 17.99% – 28.74% (variable) |
| Annual Fee | $0 |
| Balance Transfer Fee | 5% (minimum $5) |
| Foreign Transaction Fee | 3% |
| Late Payment Fee | Up to $41 |
| FICO® Score Access | Free, monthly |
| Mobile App | Yes – Citi Mobile® App |
Pros of the Citi Diamond Preferred Card
Long Intro APR on Balance Transfers
The standout feature of this card is the 21-month 0% APR on balance transfers—an industry-leading offer. It gives users nearly two years to pay off transferred balances without accruing interest.
0% Intro APR on Purchases
The 12-month 0% APR on purchases makes it useful for financing large expenses, such as home renovations or emergency costs.
No Annual Fee
Cardholders pay no annual fee, making it easier to keep the card long-term for its financial flexibility.
Trusted Citi Protections
Includes fraud protection, free credit score monitoring, and access to Citi® Identity Theft Solutions.
Cons of the Citi Diamond Preferred Card
No Rewards Program
Unlike many modern credit cards, this card does not offer cashback, points, or travel rewards—its focus is purely on saving you interest.
Balance Transfer Fee
The 5% balance transfer fee means you’ll pay $500 on a $10,000 transfer. While it’s a common fee, it still reduces the savings potential slightly.
Not Ideal for International Use
With a 3% foreign transaction fee, it’s not recommended for frequent travelers or international shoppers.
Credit Score Requirement
Approval often requires good to excellent credit (typically a FICO® score of 700+), limiting accessibility to some applicants.
Who Should Get the Citi Diamond Preferred Card?
This card is ideal for:
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People looking to consolidate high-interest credit card debt
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Consumers who want to finance a large purchase over time
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Applicants with strong credit who don’t need rewards
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Users seeking a low-cost card with long-term value
It’s not suitable for:
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Rewards-focused users
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Frequent international travelers
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People with fair or poor credit
Real-Life Use Case Example
Let’s say you owe $7,000 on a credit card with a 23% APR. If you transfer this balance to the Citi Diamond Preferred Card and pay it off within the 21-month promotional period, you’ll pay:
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$0 in interest (assuming monthly payments)
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$350 transfer fee (5% of $7,000)
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Total savings: Over $1,500 in interest over 21 months
That’s a substantial financial benefit for anyone dealing with debt.
Comparison with Similar Cards
| Feature | Citi Diamond Preferred | Citi Simplicity® | Chase Slate Edge® |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0% APR on Balance Transfers | 21 months | 21 months | 18 months |
| Rewards Program | No | No | No |
| Late Payment Fee | Yes | No | Yes |
| Annual Fee | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Foreign Transaction Fee | 3% | 3% | 3% |
Verdict: Citi Diamond Preferred offers a better all-around value if you can manage due dates, while Citi Simplicity may appeal to those prone to late payments.
How to Maximize Benefits
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Transfer balances early: You must complete balance transfers within 4 months to qualify for the 0% APR offer.
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Set up auto-payments: Avoid late fees and interest charges by scheduling monthly payments.
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Use a different card for purchases abroad: Save on fees with a travel-focused credit card.
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Pay off debt before the promo ends: Once the introductory period ends, standard interest rates apply.
Application Process
Applying for the Citi Diamond Preferred Card is simple. You can apply online in under 10 minutes. Be sure to have your income, employment information, and credit history ready.
Tip: You can pre-qualify through Citi’s website without impacting your credit score.
Customer Reviews
5/5 – “Great for Getting Out of Debt”
“I paid off $9,000 over 18 months and saved hundreds in interest. The 0% APR helped me breathe again.”
— Mia, Chicago
4/5 – “No Frills but Effective”
“No cashback or miles, but I wasn’t looking for that. Just wanted to eliminate high-interest debt.”
— John, Florida
3/5 – “Limited Use After Intro Period”
“After I paid off my balance, I rarely used it. It doesn’t reward spending, but still worth having.”
— Elise, New York
Final Verdict: Is the Citi Diamond Preferred Card Right for You?
The Citi Diamond Preferred Card is a top-tier option for consumers seeking interest-free periods to manage balances or big purchases. Its 21-month 0% APR on balance transfers is hard to beat in today’s market.
While it doesn’t offer rewards or perks for spending, it delivers exactly what it promises—a reliable, low-cost way to regain control over your finances.
If you’re carrying debt and have good credit, this card may be the perfect tool to take charge of your money in 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What credit score is needed for Citi Diamond Preferred?
A: Typically, a FICO® score of 700 or higher is required for approval.
Q: Can I transfer a balance from another Citi card?
A: No. Citi does not allow balance transfers between its own cards.
Q: What happens after the 0% APR period ends?
A: The regular variable APR (17.99%–28.74%) will apply to any remaining balances.
Q: Does the card offer any rewards or cash back?
A: No, the Citi Diamond Preferred Card is designed for interest savings, not rewards.