Pros

Helps Build Credit: The Citi® Secured Mastercard® reports to all three major credit bureaus, assisting users in establishing or rebuilding their credit.

No Annual Fee: This card has no annual fee, making it a cost-effective option for cardholders.

Flexible Credit Line: Users can choose their credit line, ranging from $200 to $2,500, based on the security deposit provided.

Free Access to FICO® Score: Cardholders can monitor their credit progress with free online access to their FICO® Score.

Cons

Security Deposit Required: To open an account, users must provide a security deposit equal to their desired credit line.

No Rewards Program: The card does not offer a rewards program for its users.

No Introductory APR: The Citi® Secured Mastercard® does not provide an introductory APR on purchases or balance transfers.

High Regular APR: The card has a variable APR of 27.49%, which can be costly if cardholders carry a balance.

Why Choose It

The Citi® Secured Mastercard® is a strong choice for individuals looking to build or improve their credit without the burden of an annual fee. While it lacks a rewards program and introductory APR offers, its primary focus on credit-building, flexible credit line options, and free access to FICO® Score make it an attractive option for users who prioritize improving their credit scores. The security deposit requirement may be a drawback for some, but the card's overall benefits, including no annual fee and credit reporting to major bureaus, make it an appealing choice for those seeking to establish or rebuild a strong credit foundation.