Citi Simplicity® Card
vs. BankAmericard® Credit Card

Updated: April 24, 2024

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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.

Credit Card logo for Citi Simplicity® Card
Citi Simplicity® Card
Credit Card logo for BankAmericard® Credit Card
BankAmericard® Credit Card
MoneyGeek Rating
4.5/ of 5
MoneyGeek Rating
4.5/ of 5

  • Regular APR
    19.24% - 29.99% variable
    16.24% – 26.24% variable
    0% APR Offer
    0% for 12 months on purchases
    0% intro APR for first 18 billing cycles
    Balance Transfer Offer
    0% for 21 months on balance transfers
    0% intro APR for first 18 billing cycles
    Annual Fee
    $0
    $0
    Rewards Summary
    -
    -
    Recommended Credit
    670-850 (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.

Citi Simplicity® Card
Credit Card logo for Citi Simplicity® Card
MoneyGeek Rating
4.5/ of 5

Regular APR
19.24% - 29.99% variable
0% APR Offer
0% for 12 months on purchases
Balance Transfer Offer
0% for 21 months on balance transfers
Rewards Summary
N/A
Recommended Credit
670-850 (Good to Excellent)

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.

BankAmericard® Credit Card
Credit Card logo for BankAmericard® Credit Card
MoneyGeek Rating
4.4/ of 5

Regular APR
16.24% – 26.24% variable
0% APR Offer
0% intro APR for first 18 billing cycles
Balance Transfer Offer
0% intro APR for first 18 billing cycles
Rewards Summary
N/A
Recommended Credit
670-850 (Good to Excellent)

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.

    discount icon

    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.

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    Annual Fee

    Both the Citi Simplicity Card and the BankAmericard credit card have no annual fee.

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    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.

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    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.

    rewards icon

    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.

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    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.

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    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.

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    Issuer Satisfaction

    Bank of America has a higher issuer satisfaction rating at 4.5, compared to Citibank's rating of 4.1.

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    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

Do either cards have zero interest introductory periods?
How do the balance transfer fees compare between the Citi Simplicity® Card and the BankAmericard® Credit Card?
Are there any rewards or cash back offers with either card?
What are the penalties for late payments on these cards?
What is the regular APR range after the introductory period ends?

About Doug Milnes, CFA


Doug Milnes, CFA headshot

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.


*Rates, fees or bonuses may vary or include specific stipulations. The content on this page is accurate as of the posting/last updated date; however, some of the offers mentioned may have expired. We recommend visiting the card issuer’s website for the most up-to-date information available.
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