How to Apply for a Supplementary Credit Card in the Philippines
Applying for a credit card for the first time can feel intimidating â but what if you could enjoy the benefits of a credit card without going through the strict approval process? Thatâs where a supplementary credit card comes in.
Whether youâre a student, freelancer, or new employee, a supplementary card is one of the easiest ways to start building your credit history and enjoy the perks of cashless transactions.
In this guide, weâll cover:
What a supplementary credit card is and how it works
The requirements and process for applying
The benefits and possible risks
Tips to get approved quickly
A free tool to calculate potential credit card costs
1. What Is a Supplementary Credit Card? đł
A supplementary credit card is an additional card linked to the primary cardholderâs account. Itâs like a âsub-accountâ under the main card:
The primary cardholder is responsible for paying the total bill.
The supplementary cardholder gets to use the card for purchases and bills, but spending is limited by the credit limit set by the bank.
Example Scenario: Maria owns a BDO credit card with a â±50,000 credit limit. She gives her son, Kevin, a supplementary card with a â±10,000 spending limit for school expenses. Maria pays for all transactions, but Kevin gets to enjoy the benefits of a credit card.
2. Why Get a Supplementary Credit Card? đ
Supplementary cards are perfect for first-time users because they:
Help build your credit history without applying for your own card yet
Give you access to cashless payments online and in-store
Let you earn rewards points, cashback, or miles (depending on the main card)
Often have lower requirements compared to applying for a primary card
If youâre a student, young professional, or someone new to managing finances, this can be your first step into the world of credit cards.
3. Requirements for Applying for a Supplementary Credit Card đ
Unlike a primary credit card, supplementary cards are easier to get because banks rely on the main cardholderâs income and credit profile.
Basic Requirements:
Must be at least 13â18 years old (varies per bank)
Must present one valid government-issued ID
Must submit a filled-out supplementary card application form
The primary cardholder must have an active credit card in good standing
Additional Notes:
Some banks allow up to 3â5 supplementary cards per account.
The credit limit for the supplementary card is usually decided by the primary cardholder.
4. How to Apply for a Supplementary Credit Card đ
Hereâs a step-by-step guide to help you:
Step 1: Choose the Right Bank & Card
Ask the primary cardholder which bank and credit card benefits suit your needs.
Example:
Want cashback? Go for Citi Cash Back or Metrobank Cashback Visa.
Want airline miles? Consider PNB Mabuhay Miles or UnionBank Miles+.
Step 2: Prepare the Required Documents
Primary cardholderâs valid ID
Supplementary cardholderâs valid ID
Completed application form
Proof of relationship (for dependents, some banks may request a birth certificate)
Step 3: Set a Credit Limit
The primary cardholder decides how much the supplementary cardholder can spend. This helps:
Control expenses
Avoid overspending
Manage repayments easily
Step 4: Submit the Application
You can apply through:
Bank branches
Online applications (many banks now accept digital submissions)
Customer service hotlines
Processing usually takes 5â7 banking days.
Step 5: Activate and Start Using Your Card
Once approved, activate the supplementary card through the bankâs:
Mobile app
Hotline
Online banking portal
After activation, you can start shopping, paying bills, and earning rewards!
5. Benefits of Having a Supplementary Credit Card đ
Benefit
Description
Build Credit History
First-time users can start creating a credit profile.
Rewards & Cashback
Earn points and perks from the main card.
Lower Requirements
No need to meet income thresholds.
Controlled Spending
The main cardholder sets a credit limit.
Convenient for Families
Parents can give cards to kids for school, groceries, or emergencies.
6. Potential Risks & How to Avoid Them â ïž
While supplementary cards are convenient, there are risks to watch out for:
Overspending â Set strict spending limits.
Debt Accumulation â Remember, the primary cardholder is responsible for payment.
Missed Payments Affect Credit â Late or missed payments can hurt the main cardholderâs credit score.
Pro Tip: Use the Credit Card Cost Calculator before applying. It helps estimate monthly dues and lets you plan your budget wisely.
7. Best Supplementary Credit Card Options in the Philippines (2025) đ
Bank
Card Name
Minimum Age
Supplementary Fee
BDO
ShopMore Mastercard
13
â±150/month
BPI
Blue Mastercard
13
Free for life
Metrobank
M Free Mastercard
14
Free first year
RCBC
Flex Visa
13
â±1,000/year
UnionBank
Rewards Platinum
16
â±1,500/year
8. TL;DR (Quick Summary)
A supplementary credit card lets you enjoy the perks of a credit card using the primary cardholderâs account.
Easier approval since banks rely on the main cardholderâs credit profile.
Set spending limits to control usage and avoid debt.
Use the Credit Card Cost Calculator to plan your budget before applying.
9. FAQs About Supplementary Credit Cards
1. Can I get a supplementary card even if I donât have a credit history?
Yes! Thatâs one of the main benefits of supplementary cards â you donât need to meet strict income or credit requirements.
2. Who pays for the supplementary card bill?
The primary cardholder is always responsible for paying the total balance, including charges made by the supplementary user.
3. Does using a supplementary card improve my credit score?
Not directly, but if the primary cardholder manages the account well, it helps when you apply for your own credit card later.
4. How many supplementary cards can I get?
Most banks allow up to 3â5 supplementary cards per account, depending on the issuer.
5. What happens if the supplementary user overspends?
The primary cardholder still needs to pay the full amount. Thatâs why itâs important to set spending limits.
