If you’re getting your first credit card, one of the most rewarding perks you’ll encounter is cashback. Unlike traditional rewards points, cashback credit cards let you get a portion of your money back every time you spend.
Pero bago ka pumili ng card, it’s important to understand how cashback works, which credit cards give the highest rebates, and how to choose the one that fits your lifestyle.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know — from how cashback cards work to the best options available in the Philippines today.
What Is a Cashback Credit Card?
A cashback credit card gives you a percentage of your purchases back as rebates or credits.
Example: If your cashback card offers 5% on groceries and you spend ₱5,000, you’ll get ₱250 back on your statement.
This makes cashback cards perfect for budget-conscious spenders who want instant savings instead of waiting to redeem reward points.
How Do Cashback Credit Cards Work?
Spend Using Your Card → Use it for groceries, dining, bills, or online shopping.
Earn Cashback → A fixed or tiered percentage of your spending is credited back.
Redeem Automatically or Manually → Some cards credit it monthly; others require redemption via the bank’s app.
Types of Cashback Credit Cards
1. Fixed-Rate Cashback Cards
Earn the same cashback rate across all purchases.
Best for general spending.
Example:
1% cashback on all transactions
2. Category-Based Cashback Cards
Higher cashback for specific spending categories like groceries, fuel, or dining.
Perfect for people with targeted expenses.
Example:
6% cashback on groceries but only 0.5% on other purchases.
3. Tiered Cashback Cards
Cashback rates increase based on spending thresholds.
Great for high spenders.
Example:
1% cashback below ₱10,000 spend
3% cashback above ₱10,000 spend
Benefits of Cashback Credit Cards
Benefit
Why It Matters
Instant Savings
Get a portion of your money back automatically
Flexible Use
Cashback can offset future purchases or bills
Beginner-Friendly
No need to track complicated points systems
Budget-Friendly
Perfect for daily expenses like groceries and bills
Top 7 Best Cashback Credit Cards in the Philippines (2025)
Here’s a list of the best cashback credit cards based on rebates, fees, and perks:
Credit Card
Cashback Rate
Best For
Annual Fee
Citi Cash Back Card
Up to 6% on groceries & bills
Families & bill payers
₱4,500
UnionBank Cashback
1.5% flat cashback
Everyday spenders
₱0 (1st year)
Security Bank Complete Cashback
Up to 5% on groceries, fuel, dining
Balanced spenders
₱3,000
HSBC Gold Cashback
5% on dining & fuel
Foodies & travelers
₱2,500
RCBC Flex Visa
Choose your own 2 categories for 2% cashback
Custom spending habits
₱1,500
EastWest Practical Mastercard
5% cashback on groceries & fuel
Budget-conscious users
₱0 (1st year)
BDO Cashback Card
Up to 3% cashback on groceries
Everyday shoppers
₱2,400
đź’ˇ Pro Tip: Always compare cashback categories to match your spending habits.
How to Choose the Right Cashback Credit Card
1. Match It to Your Lifestyle
Grocery-heavy spender? Choose a high grocery cashback card.
Online shopper? Look for cards with e-commerce rewards.
2. Check the Annual Fees
Some cards offer ₱0 annual fee for the first year, but weigh this against your cashback earnings.
3. Compare Caps and Conditions
Some cards limit the maximum cashback you can earn monthly.
Read the fine print carefully.
4. Use the Credit Card Cost Calculator 🧮
Before applying, calculate the real cost of owning a cashback credit card using our free Credit Card Cost Calculator. This helps you choose the card that gives maximum rewards with minimum costs.
Tips to Maximize Cashback Rewards
Strategy
How It Helps
Use One Primary Card
Focus on one card to earn faster
Pay Your Balance in Full
Avoid interest eating up your cashback
Take Advantage of Promos
Some banks double cashback during promos
Time Your Spending
Spend during bonus categories for higher returns
Track Your Earnings
Use your bank’s app to monitor cashback balance
Common Mistakes Beginners Should Avoid
Mistake
Problem
Fix
Applying for too many cards
Slower cashback accumulation
Stick to 1–2 cards
Overspending for cashback
Cashback won’t offset debt
Spend within your budget
Ignoring annual fees
Can reduce net cashback
Choose ₱0 annual fee cards if possible
Missing payment deadlines
Cancels cashback benefits
Set payment reminders
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a Cashback Credit Card
Step 1 — Check Your Eligibility
At least 18 years old
Valid IDs
Minimum monthly income (varies per bank)
Step 2 — Choose the Right Card
Base it on your spending habits and preferred cashback perks.
Step 3 — Apply Online or In-Branch
Submit your valid IDs, proof of income, and other requirements.
Step 4 — Start Earning Cashback
Once approved, activate your card and enjoy rebates on your daily spending.
TL;DR (Quick Summary)
Cashback credit cards give you money back on your purchases
Choose a card that matches your lifestyle & spending
