Frieda Reiss, WalletHub Credit Card Analyst
@freiss
To contact the Citibank reconsideration line, call 1 (800) 695-5171. Calling the Citibank reconsideration line is a way for credit card applicants to request a second review of their application and potentially get their denial overturned.
If you call to request reconsideration from Citibank, make sure you are prepared to make an argument for why you should be approved. You will typically only have a shot at overturning a denial if you can prove that your financial profile is better than it appeared on your initial application.
For example, if your credit score went up significantly or you got a raise since you applied, you could argue that you are now more creditworthy. Alternatively, if you were denied because of incomplete or incorrect information on the application, you could ask for reconsideration after fixing that error.
Unfortunately, your chances of overturning the denial are small, but there’s no harm in trying.
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People also ask
How do I ask creditors to reconsider a denied application?
If your credit card application was denied, you can ask the creditor to reconsider your application by calling their reconsideration line. This gives you a chance to explain your financial situation and potentially overturn the decision.
Call the reconsideration line as soon as you receive the denial notice—ideally within 30 days. Acting quickly increases the chance of reversing the decision before it becomes final or before your credit profile changes again.
Reasons Your Credit Card Application Can Be Denied
- Too much existing debt: High balances suggest you're overextended and may struggle with more credit.
- Low credit score or limited credit history: Credit card issuers may see you as a high risk if you have little to no credit history.
- Too many recent applications or inquiries: Applying for several cards at once can raise red flags and lower your score.
- Insufficient income: Your income may not support additional monthly debt obligations.
- Negative account history: Late payments or bankruptcies can significantly impact your approval chances.
If your credit card application is denied, start by calling the card issuer to ask for reconsideration as sometimes a simple clarification or update to your income can change the outcome. You should also review your credit reports for any errors, pay down existing debt, and give your credit time to improve before applying again. If needed, consider applying for a more suitable card, like a secured or student credit card, to build your credit profile.
How to Ask for a Credit Card Reconsideration
- Know why you were denied. Review the denial letter or notice.
- State why you're calling. Let the issuer know you're requesting reconsideration.
- Be prepared to make your case. Highlight recent positive changes (e.g., higher income, paid-off debts).
- Be open to negotiations. You may be approved for a lower limit or different product.
- Sell yourself as loyal and responsible. If you have an existing relationship with the issuer, be sure to mention it.
If you decide to request reconsideration, you’ll need to contact the card issuer directly. Below are the reconsideration phone numbers for major credit card companies.
Reconsideration Lines for Major Credit Card Companies
| Issuer: | Phone Number: |
| Call their customer service listed on their website. | |
A credit card denial isn’t the end of the road. By understanding the reason, improving your financial profile, and reaching out through the proper channels, you may be able to turn a "no" into a "yes." Even if not, it's a valuable opportunity to strengthen your credit for future applications.
For more details, check out WalletHub’s credit card reconsideration guide.
read full answer by Chip Lupo, Credit Card WriterHow long should I wait to apply for another credit card after being denied?
You should wait six months to one year between credit card applications in most cases, regardless of whether your last application was approved or denied. Most people’s credit scores will bounce back from a credit card application in about six months. The same rule applies if you’re trying to reapply for the same credit card you were denied for (though you should make sure you’ve addressed the reasons stated in your rejection letter before you...
read full answer by WalletHub, Financial CompanyHow can I check my credit card application status?
You can check your credit card application status either online or over the phone, depending on the credit card company. Many credit card applicants receive a decision within minutes, but it can take longer if the issuer needs more information or if it’s a close call between approval and rejection. Some credit card applications stay in pending status for up to 30 days.
All major credit card companies allow applicants to check their status by calling the main...
read full answer by Keyaira Sutton, WalletHub AnalystDid we answer your question?
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Well, that was weird. I applied for the Citi AAdvantage Platinum Select World Elite Mastercard (there's a mouthful) and I was denied!! A first for me!! The denial was because I had too much unused credit, and I had recently opened a new account. Credit score >800. Decades of never a late payment. Full payments only, every month. >$100,000 collective credit line across 7 cards. I currently have a Barclays AAdvantage card, which will automatically turn into a Citibank Card in 2026 - but I was hoping to score some new card points... I had a nice chat with a Citi rep at the above number. Thank you. He put me on hold to allegedly check with American Airlines if they'd budge. Apparently, they wouldn't. I offered to slash my unused credit by $50,000-$60,000. Nope. I offered to preload my account with $5,000 with a $5,000 limit to prove myself. Nope. Then I stopped with the suggestions. I guess I'll hang on to Barclays and auto-transition into being a Citi customer and only use the card to score a free checked bag on my domestic flights. Chase Sapphire Reserve points transfers, if/when needed, will fill the gap. Thanks for the how-to info. Although I failed, I learned something new today.