The Exxon Mobil Smart Card+ is designed for drivers who regularly fill up at Exxon and Mobil stations. It offers instant savings at the pump, making it appealing if you want to cut down on gas costs.
But before you apply, it helps to know what credit score you’ll likely need for approval. Citi, the card’s issuer, looks at more than just your credit score, but your overall financial profile plays a big role in whether you get approved.
In this guide, we’ll cover the minimum credit score requirements, what other factors matter, and whether the Exxon Mobil Smart Card+ is the right fit for your wallet.
What Credit Score Do You Need for the Exxon Mobil Smart Card+?
Most applicants will want a credit score of at least 640 to 650 for the best approval odds. Some people with scores closer to 580 may still get approved, but the likelihood is much lower.
Citi, the card issuer, looks at your full financial profile rather than your credit score alone. That means income, debt levels, and your history of on-time payments all play a role in whether you qualify.
Minimum Credit Score Requirements
The Exxon Mobil Smart Card+ is generally within reach for people who have fair to good credit. A score in the mid-600s and higher gives you the strongest chance of approval. If your credit score is below that range, you may still qualify, but the decision will depend heavily on other factors in your application.
Having a stronger credit score not only improves your approval odds but also signals to Citi that you are likely to manage the account responsibly.
Exxon Mobil Smart Card+ Features
The Exxon Mobil Smart Card+ comes with perks tailored for drivers who frequently buy gas at Exxon and Mobil stations. Here are the highlights:
- Fuel savings: Earn instant discounts at the pump, often around 12¢ per gallon, at participating Exxon and Mobil stations.
- No annual fee: Enjoy rewards without the extra cost of carrying the card.
- Easy payments: Pay right at the pump or manage your account through Citi’s online tools.
- Credit building: Citi reports your account activity to all three major credit bureaus, which can strengthen your credit profile with consistent, on-time payments.
Pros & Cons of the Exxon Mobil Smart Card+
Like any credit card, the Exxon Mobil Smart Card+ has strengths and weaknesses worth considering.
Pros
- No annual fee: Keep more money in your pocket while earning gas savings.
- Automatic fuel discounts: Get immediate savings every time you fill up at Exxon and Mobil stations.
- Reports to all three credit bureaus: Can help build or improve your credit history with responsible use.
Cons
- High APR: Carrying a balance can become expensive due to interest rates above industry averages.
- Limited rewards: Discounts only apply to Exxon and Mobil gas purchases.
- No sign-up bonus: Unlike many other credit cards, this one does not offer upfront rewards.
- Narrow benefits: Missing extra perks such as extended warranties or travel protections that many rewards credit cards provide.
Other Factors That Affect Approval
Citi will review your entire financial profile when deciding on your application. These factors carry weight alongside your credit score:
- Income: A steady income shows your ability to repay your balance. Higher income can strengthen your application.
- Debt-to-income ratio: Lower ratios signal better financial stability and make you a safer bet for approval.
- Credit history: A record of on-time payments and a healthy mix of accounts improves your profile.
- Credit utilization: Keeping balances below 30% of your available credit demonstrates responsible use.
- Recent inquiries: Too many applications for new credit in a short time can hurt your chances.
How to Improve Your Chances of Getting Approved
Taking a few steps before applying can boost your approval odds.
- Review your credit report: Check for errors with all three major credit bureaus and dispute any inaccuracies.
- Pay down balances: Lowering your credit utilization can raise your credit score and strengthen your application.
- Make on-time payments: Recent late payments can be a red flag, so focus on paying bills by the due date.
- Limit applications: Avoid multiple hard inquiries within a short timeframe to protect your credit score.
- Stabilize your finances: Keep income steady and avoid taking on new debt right before you apply.
Consider Professional Credit Repair Services
If your credit score is holding you back, removing negative items from your credit report may help. Late payments, charge-offs, and other errors can drag down your score.
Credit repair companies like Credit Saint can work with the credit bureaus on your behalf to challenge these items. They even offer a 90-day money-back guarantee, which adds peace of mind if you decide to get professional help.
Should You Apply for the Exxon Mobil Smart Card+?
This card makes the most sense for people who frequently buy gas at Exxon and Mobil stations and want immediate discounts at the pump. It may also appeal to those working to build or rebuild credit, since Citi reports to all three major credit bureaus.
If you carry balances, however, the high APR could make this card expensive to manage. And if you prefer flexible rewards beyond gas savings, other options may give you more value.
Exxon Mobil Credit Card Alternatives
If you want to compare before applying, here are some alternatives worth considering:
- Shell Fuel Rewards Card: Offers discounts at Shell stations and ties into the Fuel Rewards program.
- BPme Rewards Visa: Provides savings on fuel purchases at BP and Amoco stations.
- Discover it Cash Back: Earns cash back in rotating categories, often including gas, with rewards that apply to more than just fuel.
- Citi Double Cash Card: A flat-rate cash-back card that works anywhere Mastercard is accepted.
Exxon Mobil Smart Card+ Customer Service Contact Information
For account help or application questions, you can reach out directly:
- Exxon Mobil Smart Card+ customer service: 1-800-EXXON-11
- Citi card services: The issuer provides account management online and by phone for balance inquiries, payments, and support.
Final Thoughts
The Exxon Mobil Smart Card+ is best for drivers who want steady fuel savings at Exxon and Mobil stations without paying an annual fee. Aim for a credit score of 640 to 650 or higher for the strongest approval odds, and make sure the rest of your financial profile is in good shape before applying.
Compare this card with alternatives that may offer broader rewards to ensure you pick the option that delivers the most value for your spending habits.
