Common Mistakes That Delay Your BDO Credit Card Application
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Common Mistakes That Delay Your BDO Credit Card Application
Getting your first credit card is exciting — pero minsan nakakainip kapag hindi mo alam kung bakit ang tagal ma-approve ng application mo. Many first-time applicants in the Philippines make small but critical mistakes that cause delays or even rejection. If you’re planning to apply for a BDO credit card, understanding these common errors can save you weeks (or even months) of waiting.
This guide will walk you through the most common mistakes, practical tips to avoid them, and how to make your application process faster and smoother.
Why Your BDO Credit Card Application Gets Delayed
Applying for a credit card isn’t just about filling out forms — BDO carefully checks your documents, financial capability, and payment history. Even a small mismatch of information can lead to delays or rejections.
If you’re a first-time credit card user, avoiding these mistakes can help you get approved faster.
Mistake #1: Incomplete or Wrong Information
One of the most common reasons why applications are delayed is wrong or missing details on the form.
Examples:
Misspelled name or mismatched signature
Incorrect birthday
Wrong employment details
Typo in your contact number or email
How to Avoid It:
Double-check your form before submitting.
Make sure your name matches your valid ID.
Provide updated contact information.
Review your employment and income details carefully.
Mistake #2: Missing or Invalid Requirements
BDO requires several documents when applying for a credit card. If even one document is missing or outdated, your application may be put on hold.
Typical Requirements for First-Time Applicants:
Valid government-issued ID (e.g., passport, driver’s license, UMID)
Proof of income (payslips, ITR, or COE)
Proof of billing (electricity, water, or internet bill)
Pro Tip: Always prepare clear and updated copies of your documents. Kung freelancer ka or walang payslip, BDO may require bank statements or additional proof of income.
Mistake #3: Applying Without Meeting the Minimum Income Requirement
BDO evaluates your ability to pay before approving your credit card. Each card type has a minimum annual income requirement.
Example:
Basic BDO Classic Card → around ₱180,000 annual income
BDO Gold → around ₱300,000 annual income
BDO Platinum → around ₱1,000,000 annual income
If you apply for a card above your financial capacity, your application could be delayed or rejected.
How to Avoid It:
Choose a card that matches your income level.
If you’re unsure, start with an entry-level card and upgrade later.
Mistake #4: Unstable Job or No Proof of Income
BDO prioritizes applicants with a stable source of income. If you recently changed jobs or cannot show proof of earnings, your application may be flagged.
What You Can Do:
Stay at your job for at least 6 months before applying.
For freelancers, prepare bank statements or PayPal transaction records.
Include secondary income if applicable (e.g., rentals, business profits).
Mistake #5: Poor Credit History or Existing Debts
Even if you’ve never had a credit card, you may already have a credit score if you’ve taken out loans, used buy-now-pay-later apps, or missed utility bill payments.
How It Affects You:
Late payments or unpaid debts lower your chances of approval.
Applying for multiple credit cards at once also lowers your score.
Solution:
Pay off any outstanding balances first.
Maintain a good payment record before reapplying.
Avoid applying for several cards in a short period.
Mistake #6: Applying for Too Many Cards at the Same Time
Some first-time users apply to multiple banks at once, thinking it improves their chances. In reality, it can hurt your approval odds.
Banks, including BDO, can see your credit inquiries. Too many applications signal financial desperation, which can lead to delays or outright rejections.
Tip: Apply for one card at a time and wait for the result before trying another.
Mistake #7: Ignoring Your Credit Limit Needs
First-time users often choose the wrong card type without considering their spending habits. If you get approved for a card that doesn’t match your income, BDO might delay approval while adjusting your credit limit.
Mistake #8: Not Answering Verification Calls or Emails
After submitting your application, BDO may call or email you to verify details. If you miss these calls or fail to respond, your application could be put on hold.
How to Avoid Delays:
Keep your phone nearby after applying.
Make sure your email inbox isn’t full.
Answer BDO’s calls promptly to confirm your details.
Mistake #9: Submitting Applications During Peak Periods
During holiday seasons or big promo campaigns, BDO receives thousands of applications, causing processing delays.
Solution:
Apply off-peak (e.g., early in the year or mid-month).
Prepare your documents in advance to avoid resubmission.
Mistake #10: Not Understanding How a Credit Card Works
Many first-time users think a credit card is “free money.” If you don’t understand the basics, you risk over-borrowing, missing payments, and damaging your credit score.
Quick Overview:
A credit card is a loan you need to pay back on time.
Missing payments can lead to high interest and penalties.
Proper use builds your credit history and unlocks higher credit limits.
BDO Credit Card Application Tips for First-Time Users
Always double-check your documents.
Choose a card that matches your income and lifestyle.
Use the Credit Card Cost Calculator to know your capacity.
Keep your contact info updated for faster verification.
Don’t apply for multiple cards at once.
TL;DR – Quick Summary
If your BDO credit card application is taking too long, chances are:
You missed a requirement
You provided wrong details
You don’t meet the income criteria
You ignored verification calls
You applied during peak periods
Avoiding these mistakes can speed up approval and improve your chances of getting your first card successfully.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How long does BDO take to process a credit card application?
Usually 7 to 15 banking days, but delays happen if documents are incomplete or verification is pending.
2. Can I apply for a BDO credit card without proof of income?
Yes, but approval is harder. You may apply for a secured credit card by opening a BDO deposit account as collateral.
3. What’s the minimum income to apply for a BDO credit card?
It depends on the card type, but entry-level cards generally require ₱180,000 annual income.
4. Will applying for multiple credit cards affect my approval chances?
Yes. Multiple applications make you look risky to banks, which can delay or deny your request.
5. What happens if BDO rejects my application?
You can reapply after 3 to 6 months, but make sure to address the reason for rejection first.
