So I just received an email from Citibank saying they are unable to approve my AAdvantage Amex from Citibank (35,000 bonus miles plus free annual fee the first year) application because my income is only $14,000. First of all, yes, I am a college student with a low income and still supported by my brother.

I just recently checked my credit score and it was 790 with excellent payment history, never carry balance, never have late payment. I have 4 credit cards, Bank of America ($2,500 CL), United Mileage Plus Visa from Chase ($4,200 CL), Amex Optima Platinum Card ($16,500 CL), and AT&T Master Card from Citibank ($19,200 CL). I admit that my amex and citibank are secondary cards from my brother under my own name.

On the email, they said they want me to call them back and revise my income statement just incase I want to include something else in my annual income. But I don't think so.. there are still tons of banks that have a smarter decision in terms of making decision on credit approval.

Do you guys ever have the same or similar experience? I don't think this is fair.

Please share your thoughts.

Thanks!