The Citi Trifecta, Explained

By Bryce Casson, Founder · Cardocrat · Updated June 2026
The short answer: The Citi trifecta pairs the Strata Premier (3x on travel, dining, groceries, gas, and more) with the Double Cash (2x flat on everything), so all spending earns ThankYou points that transfer to partners like Turkish Airlines for cheap Star Alliance awards. A Custom Cash can add a 5x category where available.

The cards and what each does

The core: the Strata Premier for 3x across travel, dining, supermarkets, and gas plus transfer access, and the Double Cash for an effective 2x flat on everything else. Both earn ThankYou points, so the pair covers nearly all spending at 2x or better. The classic third card is the Custom Cash for 5x in your top category, where you can still get it.

Why it works

On its own the Double Cash is a cash-back card, but paired with the Strata Premier its points convert to full ThankYou points that transfer 1:1 to airline partners. The standout is Turkish Airlines, which prices Star Alliance awards (including United flights and Hawaii) very cheaply. The Strata Premier fee is modest and it carries a useful annual hotel credit.

Build it

Start with the Strata Premier and Double Cash as the core, and add a Custom Cash for a 5x category if it is available to you. Keep an eye on Citi application spacing rules. Model the combo in the wallet builder. See all card combinations.

Frequently asked questions

What cards make up the Citi trifecta?
The Strata Premier (3x travel, dining, groceries, gas) and the Double Cash (2x flat), with the Custom Cash (5x a top category) as the classic third card where available. All earn transferable ThankYou points.
Why pair the Double Cash with the Strata Premier?
Alone the Double Cash earns cash back, but with the Strata Premier its points become full ThankYou points that transfer to airline partners like Turkish for far more value than cash.

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Bryce Casson

Bryce Casson, Founder of Cardocrat. Every card is ranked by what it actually returns, with all points valued at a flat 1 cent and offers verified against issuer sources. About the author.