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Calling the Citi Reconsideration Line: How to Get Approved

November 14, 2025

It is frustrating to receive a denial after applying for a new credit card. However, a "denial" is not always the final answer with major issuers like Citi. Credit card issuers have a dedicated department called the reconsideration line where you can speak to an analyst and make a case for your approval.

Calling the Citi reconsideration line can sometimes turn a denial into an approval.

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When to Call the Citi Reconsideration Line

You can call the reconsideration line any time after receiving an application decision, but you typically have about 30 days to make your case while the "hard pull" (credit inquiry) is still fresh.

The best reasons to call are if you believe:

  • There is an error on your credit report that caused the denial.

  • Your financial situation has improved since your last application.

  • You have additional information to provide (e.g., a recent pay raise, a major existing debt that was just paid off).

  • The Citi Reconsideration Phone Number

    The direct number for the Citi reconsideration department is:

  • 1-800-695-5171

  • This line is for existing customers and new applicants who wish to discuss a denial or application status.

    What to Do Before You Call

    Preparation is key to a successful reconsideration call:

    1. Check Your Credit Report: Ensure there are no errors on your Experian report, as Citi typically pulls from Experian in many regions.

    2. Know Your Score: Be aware of your current FICO® score.

    3. Note the Denial Reason: The denial letter will list the specific reasons for the rejection (e.g., "too many new accounts," "high existing debt"). Be ready to address these points calmly.

    Tips for a Successful Call

  • Be Polite and Calm: The analyst is a person, not a computer. Politeness goes a long way.

  • Be Specific: If they say "too many accounts," you might explain you have consolidated debt or closed older, unused accounts.

  • Show Loyalty (If applicable): If you already have another Citi card (like your Costco Visa), you can mention your reliable payment history with that card.

  • Offer to Move Credit Lines: You can suggest moving credit from an existing card to the new one if they are worried about giving you too much total credit.

  • Summary: Take Action on a Denial

    Receiving a credit card denial isn't the end of the road. A simple phone call to the reconsideration line often provides a chance to get approved for the Citi card you need.

    For a full step-by-step guide on the application process and tips for successful approval, including how to potentially overcome a denial, view our main guide: How to Apply for a Citi Card: Step-by-Step Application Guide.







    Found this guide helpful? Bookmark it for future reference as you continue your financial journey!

    Experian Boost: A Comprehensive Guide to Boosting Your Free Credit Score

    FICO® Credit Scores

    A FICO® Score is a specific, proprietary type of credit score created by the Fair Isaac Corporation (FICO). It is the most widely used credit scoring model, with approximately 90% of top U.S. lenders using a FICO® Score to make lending decisions.

    FICO® Score Ranges:

    • Exceptional: 800–850
    • Very Good: 740–799
    • Good: 670–739
    • Fair: 580–669
    • Poor: 300–579
    While many people (and credit education websites) use "Excellent" and "Bad" as general, descriptive terms, FICO® officially categorizes its score ranges as Poor, Fair, Good, Very Good, and Exceptional.

    What is a Credit Score?

    A credit score is a three-digit number, typically ranging from 300 to 850, that predicts your creditworthiness—how likely you are to repay borrowed money on time. Lenders use this score to assess the risk of lending to you and to determine the interest rates and terms of any credit you might receive.

    Why is a Credit Score Important?
    A credit score is important because it acts as your financial reputation. Lenders, landlords, insurers, and employers use this single number to quickly judge how reliable you are with money. A higher score helps you qualify for loans and credit cards, often securing lower interest rates that can save you significant money. Conversely, a poor credit score can lead to application denials or much higher costs for borrowing, making it a key factor in your overall financial opportunities.

    FICO® Credit Score Facts

    Key Characteristics of FICO® Scores

    • Three-Digit Number: Like other credit scores, FICO® Scores are a three-digit number that summarizes a consumer's credit risk.

    • Range: Most standard FICO® Scores range from 300 to 850. Higher scores indicate lower credit risk.

    • Data Source: FICO® Scores are calculated using data from your credit reports maintained by the three major credit bureaus: Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion. Your score may vary slightly depending on which bureau's data is used.

    • Industry Standard: Lenders rely on FICO® Scores for mortgages, auto loans, and credit cards because they provide a consistent, statistically sound assessment of the likelihood that a borrower will repay their debt.

    Note: Credit scores are used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any credit card product.

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