"Cater 2 U" received mixed reviews from music critics who, despite generally praising its composition and the group members' vocal performances, criticized the lyrical content. The song was nominated in two categories at the 48th Annual Grammy Awards in 2006 and received an award for Best R&B/Soul Single, Group, Band or Duo at the 2006 Soul Train Music Awards. "Cater 2 U" was commercially successful in the US, peaking at number 14 on the "Billboard" Hot 100 and three on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs, further receiving a gold certification. The song also appeared in the top ten in New Zealand and top twenty in Australia, while also receiving minor chart placement in Belgium and Netherlands.