BPI Credit Card Application Without ITR: Alternative Options
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BPI Credit Card Application Without ITR: Alternative Options
For many Filipinos, especially first-time applicants, one of the biggest hurdles in getting a credit card is the Income Tax Return (ITR) requirement. Not everyone has an ITR—like freelancers, fresh graduates, online sellers, or even Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). But here’s the good news: you can still apply for a BPI credit card even without an ITR by providing alternative documents.
This guide explains what a credit card is, how it works, the requirements if you don’t have an ITR, and alternative options you can explore when applying for your first BPI credit card.
What Is a Credit Card and How Does It Work?
A credit card is a financial tool that lets you borrow money from the bank for your purchases. Instead of paying upfront like with cash or debit cards, you pay later, usually at the end of the month.
Example:
You use your BPI credit card to pay ₱5,000 for groceries.
BPI pays the store immediately.
You’ll get your billing statement at the end of the cycle.
If you pay the full ₱5,000 on or before the due date, no interest is charged.
This “buy now, pay later” system makes credit cards useful for emergencies, online shopping, travel bookings, and cash flow management.
Why ITR Matters in Credit Card Applications
Banks like BPI use the ITR as proof of your income and ability to repay. But if you don’t have an ITR, it doesn’t automatically mean you can’t apply. You just need to show alternative proof of income or financial capacity.
Alternative Options If You Don’t Have an ITR
1. Use Payslips or Certificate of Employment (COE)
If you’re employed but don’t file an ITR (common in some private companies), you can submit:
Latest 3 months’ payslips
Certificate of Employment (COE) stating position, tenure, and salary
2. Provide Remittance Records (For OFWs)
OFWs can apply by showing:
Employment contract abroad
Remittance receipts to the Philippines
Residence visa or work permit
3. Show Bank Statements
For freelancers or online sellers, your bank statements for the last 6–12 months can serve as proof of consistent income. If money regularly comes in, it strengthens your application.
4. Apply as a Supplementary Cardholder
If your parent, spouse, or sibling already has a BPI credit card, you can request to be added as a supplementary cardholder. This way, you don’t need to show income documents since the primary cardholder is responsible for payments.
5. Leverage Your BPI Deposit Account
If you have a savings or checking account with BPI, maintaining a high average daily balance can help. Some applicants get approved based on their strong banking relationship with BPI even without an ITR.
How to Apply for a BPI Credit Card Without ITR
Step 1: Choose the Right Card
Start with entry-level cards like BPI Blue Mastercard or Amore Cashback Card, which have lower income requirements.
Step 2: Prepare Alternative Documents
Payslips, COE, bank statements, or remittance proofs
In Branch: Best if you want guidance and verification in person
Online: Upload scanned copies of your documents
Step 4: Wait for Evaluation
BPI reviews your documents and financial capacity. Approval may take 1–3 weeks.
Benefits of Getting a Credit Card Without ITR
Convenience: Cashless payments for groceries, bills, and shopping
Emergency Use: Useful for hospital bills or urgent expenses
Online Access: Book flights, pay subscriptions, shop internationally
Credit Building: Timely payments improve your financial record
Promos and Rewards: Discounts, cashback, and reward points
💡 Before you apply, check out the Credit Card Cost Calculator to see how much you might pay if you don’t settle your balance in full. This helps first-time users manage expectations.
Common Challenges Without ITR
1. Stricter Approval Process
Banks are more cautious without an ITR. Tip: Strengthen your application with multiple alternative documents.
2. Low Credit Limit
First-time users without ITR may start with smaller limits. Tip: Use your card responsibly and request a limit increase after 12 months.
3. Misunderstanding Fees
Many new users forget about annual fees or late charges. Tip: Always read your billing statement carefully.
TL;DR – Quick Summary
You can apply for a BPI credit card even without ITR.
Alternatives include payslips, COE, bank statements, remittance records, or becoming a supplementary cardholder.
Apply in branch or online; approval may take 1–3 weeks.
1. Can freelancers apply for a BPI credit card without ITR? Yes. You can use bank statements or proof of online income instead.
2. Is it harder to get approved without ITR? Yes, banks may be stricter, but alternative documents can still get you approved.
3. Can students apply without ITR? Students can apply as supplementary cardholders under their parents’ account.
4. Do OFWs need ITR to apply for a BPI card? No. They can present contracts, remittance records, and work visas instead.
5. How much is the minimum income requirement? Depends on the card, but usually starts at ₱180,000 annual income for entry-level cards.
👉 Applying for a BPI credit card without ITR is possible. With the right documents and responsible usage, you can enjoy the benefits of a credit card and start building your financial future.
