If you're looking for a credit card with no annual fee and 0% introductory APR offers, you may be considering the Citi Simplicity Card and the BankAmericard credit card. The Citi Simplicity Card is better for longer balance transfer periods, offering 0% for 21 months on balance transfers, while the BankAmericard credit card is more suitable for those who need a longer introductory APR on purchases, with 0% for the first 18 billing cycles. The BankAmericard also has a lower regular APR range, which could be beneficial after the introductory periods end.
Citi Simplicity® Card
vs. BankAmericard® Credit Card
Between these two great cards for zero interest introductory offers, the Citi Simplicity® Card offers a superior balance transfer period, whereas the BankAmericard® credit card has the longer intro APR on new purchases.
![First credit card image](https://res.cloudinary.com/moneygeek/image/upload/v1670249479/Citi_Simplicity_Card_d14f41be99.png)
![Second credit card image](https://res.cloudinary.com/moneygeek/image/upload/v1679925363/Bank_of_America_Bank_Americard_45de605c1c.png)
![](https://res.cloudinary.com/moneygeek/image/upload/c_scale,q_auto:eco,f_auto,fl_lossy,w_100,b_white/v1585262247/bbgpw5eliaweh29jfpd8.png)
Doug Milnes, CFA
Head of Credit Cards at MoneyGeek
Doug Milnes is a CFA charter holder with over 10 years of experience in corporate finance and the Head of Credit Cards at MoneyGeek. Formerly, he performed valuations for Duff and Phelps and financial planning and analysis for various companies. His analysis has been cited by U.S. News and World Report, The Hill, the Los Angeles Times, The New York Times and many other outlets. Milnes holds a master’s degree in data science from Northwestern University. He geeks out on helping people feel on top of their credit card use, from managing debt to optimizing rewards.
Victoria Copans
Editor
Victoria Copans is a professional writer, editor and translator. She previously worked as the managing editor for online events industry publication XLIVE. As a self-described budgeting nerd, she was drawn to the personal finance space to help share important and useful information that people may not otherwise have access to. In her free time, she loves to travel, learn languages and explore the beautiful nature in her home of Vermont.
![](https://res.cloudinary.com/moneygeek/image/upload/c_scale,q_auto:eco,f_auto,fl_lossy,w_100,b_white/v1585262247/bbgpw5eliaweh29jfpd8.png)
Doug Milnes, CFA
Head of Credit Cards at MoneyGeek
Doug Milnes is a CFA charter holder with over 10 years of experience in corporate finance and the Head of Credit Cards at MoneyGeek. Formerly, he performed valuations for Duff and Phelps and financial planning and analysis for various companies. His analysis has been cited by U.S. News and World Report, The Hill, the Los Angeles Times, The New York Times and many other outlets. Milnes holds a master’s degree in data science from Northwestern University. He geeks out on helping people feel on top of their credit card use, from managing debt to optimizing rewards.
Victoria Copans
Editor
Victoria Copans is a professional writer, editor and translator. She previously worked as the managing editor for online events industry publication XLIVE. As a self-described budgeting nerd, she was drawn to the personal finance space to help share important and useful information that people may not otherwise have access to. In her free time, she loves to travel, learn languages and explore the beautiful nature in her home of Vermont.
Updated: April 24, 2024
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![Credit Card logo for Citi Simplicity® Card](https://res.cloudinary.com/moneygeek/image/upload/c_scale,q_auto:eco,f_auto,fl_lossy,h_190,w_300/v1670249479/Citi_Simplicity_Card_d14f41be99.png)
![Credit Card logo for BankAmericard® Credit Card](https://res.cloudinary.com/moneygeek/image/upload/c_scale,q_auto:eco,f_auto,fl_lossy,h_190,w_300/v1679925363/Bank_of_America_Bank_Americard_45de605c1c.png)
- Regular APR19.24% - 29.99% variable16.24% – 26.24% variable0% APR Offer0% for 12 months on purchases0% intro APR for first 18 billing cyclesBalance Transfer Offer0% for 21 months on balance transfers0% intro APR for first 18 billing cyclesAnnual Fee$0$0Rewards Summary-This card doesn't offer cash back, miles, or points-Recommended Credit670-850 (Good to Excellent)670-850 (Good to Excellent)Not sure?
Citi Simplicity Card vs. BankAmericard Credit Card: Which Is Better for You?
You might prefer the Citi Simplicity Card if: you're looking for the longest possible time to pay off a balance transfer without accruing interest. With a 0% intro APR for 21 months on balance transfers and 12 months on purchases, this card is a great option for those who need an extended period to manage their debt. Additionally, the absence of late fees can provide peace of mind if you're occasionally late with a payment, though it's always best to pay on time to maintain a good credit score.
You might prefer the BankAmericard Credit Card if: you value a combination of a generous introductory APR period and higher customer satisfaction. The card offers a 0% intro APR for 18 billing cycles on both purchases and balance transfers, which is longer than the Citi Simplicity Card. The higher issuer satisfaction rating suggests that you might enjoy better customer service and overall experience with this card. Remember, while both cards have no annual fee, the BankAmericard could cost you up to $40 for late payments, so it's important to stay on top of your payment schedule.
MoneyGeek's Take on the Citi Simplicity Card
The Citi Simplicity Card is highly regarded for its balance transfer capabilities and has a MoneyGeek balance transfer score of 4.6 out of 5. This card is particularly beneficial for those looking to consolidate debt and save on interest, offering a lengthy 21-month 0% intro APR on balance transfer. It's a strong choice for individuals who want to avoid late fees and penalty rates, as the card imposes none. With no annual fee and a variable APR of 19.24% to 29.99% after the introductory period, the Citi Simplicity Card is tailored for those seeking a straightforward approach to managing existing credit card debt.
![Credit Card logo for Citi Simplicity® Card](https://res.cloudinary.com/moneygeek/image/upload/c_scale,q_auto:eco,f_auto,fl_lossy,h_190,w_300/v1670249479/Citi_Simplicity_Card_d14f41be99.png)
MoneyGeek's Take on the BankAmericard Credit Card
The BankAmericard credit card, issued by Bank of America, earned a MoneyGeek balance transfer score of 4.3 out of 5, reflecting its strength in this category. With a $0 annual fee and a 0% APR on purchases and balance transfers for the first 18 billing cycles, this card is tailored for individuals looking to manage existing debt or finance new purchases without incurring interest charges immediately.
It's recommended for consumers with good to excellent credit scores ranging from 670 to 850, making it a solid choice for those with a strong credit history. While the card does not offer rewards, its value lies in its cost-saving potential, particularly for those seeking to minimize fees and interest on balance transfers and purchases.
![Credit Card logo for BankAmericard® Credit Card](https://res.cloudinary.com/moneygeek/image/upload/c_scale,q_auto:eco,f_auto,fl_lossy,h_190,w_300/v1679925363/Bank_of_America_Bank_Americard_45de605c1c.png)
Details Comparison: Citi Simplicity Card vs. BankAmericard Credit Card
Our breakdown will help you compare APRs, fees, required credit, rewards, introductory offers, and other features of the Citi Simplicity Card and the BankAmericard credit card. Use this section to match your financial habits with the card that offers the most benefits for your situation.
Regular APR
The BankAmericard credit card offers a lower APR range of 16.24% to 26.24% variable, compared to the Citi Simplicity Card's APR range of 19.24% to 29.99% variable. This makes the BankAmericard better for those concerned about interest rates following the introductory period.
Annual Fee
Both the Citi Simplicity Card and the BankAmericard credit card have no annual fee.
Introductory 0% APRs
For balance transfers, the Citi Simplicity Card offers a longer 0% APR period of 21 months compared to the BankAmericard Credit Card's 18 months. However, for purchases, the BankAmericard credit card provides a more extended 0% intro APR period of 18 billing cycles, surpassing the Citi Simplicity Card's 12 months. This makes the BankAmericard Credit Card better for purchases and the Citi Simplicity Card superior for balance transfers.
Rewards
Neither the Citi Simplicity Card nor the BankAmericard credit card offers rewards such as cash back, points or miles. For those interested in rewards, consider other cards with rewards.
Welcome Offers
Neither the BankAmericard credit card nor the Citi Simplicity Card offers a welcome bonus. Both cards are equal in this aspect, with no introductory offers in terms of cash back, points or miles.
Recommended Credit Score
Both the Citi Simplicity Card and the BankAmericard credit card recommend a credit score range of 670-850 (Good to Excellent). This means neither card has an advantage based on the recommended credit score alone.
Penalties and Fees
The Citi Simplicity Card is better for penalties and fees due to its $0 late fee policy. Neither card has a penalty APR, which is beneficial. Cash advance fees are similar, but the absence of a late fee with the Citi Simplicity Card offers a clear advantage. Foreign transaction fees are equal at 3% for both cards.
Issuer Satisfaction
Bank of America has a higher issuer satisfaction rating at 4.5, compared to Citibank's rating of 4.1.
Other Features & Perks
Neither card has stand out perks that give one an edge over the other in terms of perks.
FAQ: Citi Simplicity Card vs. BankAmericard Credit Card
Both cards are zero interest cards. the Citi Simplicity Card offers 0% APR for 21 months on balance transfers and 12 months on purchases, while the BankAmericard offers 0% APR for 18 billing cycles for both.
Both cards charge a 3% fee for balance transfers. The Citi Simplicity Card has a minimum of $5.
Neither card offers rewards or cash back; they focus on introductory APR periods and no annual fees.
Citi Simplicity Card has no late fees, while BankAmericard may charge up to $40.
Citi Simplicity Card's APR ranges from 19.24% to 29.99% variable, and BankAmericard's ranges from 16.24% to 26.24% variable.
About Doug Milnes, CFA
![Doug Milnes, CFA headshot](https://res.cloudinary.com/moneygeek/image/upload/c_scale,q_auto:eco,f_auto,fl_lossy,w_160/v1585262247/bbgpw5eliaweh29jfpd8.png)
Doug Milnes is a CFA charter holder with over 10 years of experience in corporate finance and the Head of Credit Cards at MoneyGeek. Formerly, he performed valuations for Duff and Phelps and financial planning and analysis for various companies. His analysis has been cited by U.S. News and World Report, The Hill, the Los Angeles Times, The New York Times and many other outlets.
Milnes holds a master’s degree in data science from Northwestern University. He geeks out on helping people feel on top of their credit card use, from managing debt to optimizing rewards.
Editorial Disclosure: Opinions, reviews, analyses and recommendations are the author’s alone and have not been reviewed, endorsed or approved by any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. Learn more about our editorial policies and expert editorial team.
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