Managing your finances is already a task, and understanding the fees attached to managing wealth makes the process seem even more complicated. If you’re considering Citi Personal Wealth Management to guide your financial future, you’re probably asking the right questions: What will it cost? How do these fees work? Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered.
Below, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the fees and costs of a Citi Personal Wealth Management (CPWM) account.
What Does Citi Personal Wealth Management Offer?
Citi Personal Wealth Management provides personalized financial services tailored to fit varying needs. These services include investment planning, retirement planning, estate planning, and more. The offerings vary depending on the level of assets under management (AUM), so it’s crucial to understand what you're paying for.
With Citi, financial planning typically includes creating a detailed financial roadmap. Investment services are offered through Citi’s advisor programs, which range from automated portfolios to hands-on advisory services.
Account Fees: What You'll Pay
Standard Management Fees
The fees for a CPWM account are based on your AUM and the type of service or portfolio you choose. Here’s a closer look at the breakdown in 2025:
- First $500,000 in AUM: 2.00% annual fee
- Next $500,000 (up to $1,000,000): 1.50% annual fee
- From $1,000,000 to $3,000,000: 1.25% annual fee
- Assets exceeding $3,000,000: 1.00% annual fee
For accounts focused on fixed-income investments, the fees are slightly lower, starting at 1.00% for the first $500,000 and decreasing to 0.60% for AUM above $3,000,000.
These rates may seem high, but they include advisory services, ongoing account reviews, and financial planning tailored to you.
Additional Costs
There are other costs you should be aware of when using a Citi wealth management account:
- Brokerage and Custodial Fees: These fees are separate from advisory fees and can vary based on transactions and account type.
- Third-Party Manager Fees: If your investments involve outside management, those fees will also be added.
- Service Tier Fees: Certain programs, such as Fiduciary Services or Manager Selection, have separate costs.
Photo by Tima Miroshnichenko
Minimum Investment Thresholds
One critical point to understand is the minimum account balances required for different programs. Here’s how Citi compares:
- Citi Advisor Program: Minimum account balance of $100,000.
- Fiduciary and Manager Selection Services: Require $50,000 to participate.
- Consulting & Evaluation Services Program: Minimum ranges from $100,000 to $1,000,000 depending on the client.
- Portfolio Manager Program: Minimum investments range widely, from $25,000 to as high as $25 million based on the chosen product.
These minimums ensure clients have a specific level of assets that justify the resources dedicated to their advisory services.
How Does Citi Wealth Management Compare to Competitors?
It’s always good to compare offerings. Citi’s fees tend to lean toward the higher end of the spectrum, particularly for smaller portfolios. However, the value comes from the comprehensiveness of their service. Citi's all-in-one approach ensures that everything—investment strategy, tax considerations, financial planning—is tailored to your situation.
For smaller investors, alternatives like robo-advisors or hybrid platforms may represent a more budget-friendly option since their fees typically hover between 0.25% and 0.50% of AUM. However, those platforms often lack the personalized touch or comprehensive financial planning services Citi provides.
Are There Any Hidden Fees?
Citi is transparent about its pricing, but it still helps to read the fine print. For example:
- ETF Costs: If your portfolio includes ETFs, you’ll need to account for fund-specific management fees.
- Foreign Exchange Fees: Any international transactions may incur additional costs.
Review all documents and account agreements carefully to understand the total picture.
Is a Citi Personal Wealth Management Account Worth It?
That depends on your financial situation and goals. If you’re someone with significant wealth and looking for customized financial strategies, the higher fees may feel justified by the value Citi adds. However, if you’re starting out or have a modest portfolio, the fees may eat into your returns.
The key is to weigh the quality of services against your financial priorities and determine whether Citi provides what you need to manage and grow your wealth effectively.
Citi Personal Wealth Management offers an excellent range of options for investors with varied goals. While the fees may seem steep, they include services tailored to secure your long-term financial well-being. Always evaluate the costs, services, and your unique circumstances to decide whether it’s the right fit for you.