How to Earn Cashback from Everyday Purchases With UnionBank Credit Card

Imagine getting money back every time you spend — sounds great, right? That’s exactly what cashback credit cards do. Every grocery run, food delivery, or online order can give you a percentage of your spending back as cashback rewards.

If you’re new to credit cards, UnionBank makes it simple to start earning from your regular expenses. Whether you’re a student, a young professional, or just learning about credit cards for the first time, this guide will help you understand how cashback works and how to maximize it using your UnionBank Credit Card.

Why Cashback Credit Cards Are a Game-Changer

Unlike reward points or travel miles that take time to accumulate, cashback gives you instant value. A portion of your purchase is credited back to your account — usually as a peso rebate.

So every time you use your card to buy something, you’re essentially earning money back.

For example:

Spend ₱5,000 on groceries and get 5% cashback → ₱250 back to your account.
Spend ₱3,000 on dining and get 3% cashback → ₱90 back.

It’s small, but it adds up quickly when you use your credit card for daily needs.

What Is a Credit Card and How Does Cashback Work?

A credit card is like a short-term loan that lets you buy now and pay later. When you use your UnionBank Credit Card, the bank pays the store first. Then, you pay UnionBank later — either in full or in installments.

When your card has a cashback feature, UnionBank returns a certain percentage of your purchases to your account. This is your cashback reward.

Example:
If your card offers 6% cashback on groceries, you get ₱60 back for every ₱1,000 you spend at the supermarket.

This cashback can reduce your bill, offset future purchases, or sometimes be converted into credits on your statement.

Why Choose UnionBank for Cashback

UnionBank is one of the top choices for cashback credit cards in the Philippines because:

You can apply 100% online with no need for branch visits.
Cashback categories fit everyday Filipino spending habits — groceries, bills, gas, and dining.
Rewards are automatically credited — no complicated redemption process.
Their app makes it easy to track cashback and manage spending in real time.

If you’re just starting to explore credit cards, UnionBank’s cashback cards are an excellent entry point — simple, practical, and rewarding.

Best UnionBank Credit Cards for Cashback Rewards

UnionBank offers several cards that give cashback on daily expenses. Let’s look at the best options:

UnionBank Cash Back Credit Card

The UnionBank Cash Back Credit Card is the most straightforward cashback card for practical users.

Main Features:

Up to 6% cashback on groceries
2% cashback on utility bills (electricity, water, telecom)
0.20% cashback on other purchases
Cashback credited automatically each month

Why it’s great for first-timers:
This card helps you earn savings on everyday expenses you’re already paying for — groceries and bills.

UnionBank Platinum Visa Card

If you want more premium benefits, this card offers higher spending limits and cashback on global transactions.

Key Perks:

Earn cashback on both local and international purchases
Travel insurance and purchase protection
Access to airport lounges (selected locations)

Perfect for Millennials or professionals who travel frequently and want both rewards and protection.

UnionBank PlayEveryday Credit Card

While designed for lifestyle and entertainment, you can also earn points convertible to cashback.

Why it fits younger users:

Reward points for online gaming, streaming, and food delivery
Redeem points as cash credits through the UnionBank Rewards portal

It’s fun, flexible, and built for digital natives who spend on experiences rather than just essentials.

How to Apply for a UnionBank Cashback Credit Card

Applying for a UnionBank Credit Card is quick and 100% digital. You don’t need to visit a branch.

Step-by-step guide:

Go to the UnionBank website or app.
Choose your preferred cashback card.
Fill out the application form.
Upload your valid ID and proof of income.
Wait for approval — usually 3 to 5 banking days.

Once approved, your card will be delivered right to your doorstep. You can activate and manage it instantly using the UnionBank app.

Requirements:

Filipino citizen or resident
At least 18 years old
Minimum income of ₱15,000–₱30,000 monthly (depending on the card)
Valid ID (UMID, Driver’s License, or Passport)
Proof of income (payslip, COE, or ITR)

How Much Cashback Can You Earn?

Your cashback depends on where you spend and how often you use your card. Here’s a simple estimate:

Monthly Spending	Category	Cashback Rate	Cashback Earned
₱10,000	Groceries	6%	₱600
₱3,000	Bills	2%	₱60
₱2,000	Others	0.20%	₱4
Total Cashback			₱664/month

That’s ₱7,968 per year in cashback — just for using your credit card for daily expenses!

Tip: Know Your Credit Card Costs

While cashback is great, always check the fees that come with owning a credit card. Here’s what to expect:

Fee Type	Typical Amount	Description
Annual Fee	₱1,500–₱3,000	May be waived during promos
Interest Rate	~3% per month	Charged on unpaid balances
Late Fee	₱750 or 5% of amount due	Applies for missed payments
Cash Advance Fee	₱200 or 6%	For ATM withdrawals

💡 Smart Tip:
Before applying, try the Credit Card Cost Calculator to estimate your potential monthly fees and interest if you only pay the minimum. It’s a great way to plan your budget wisely and avoid debt.

How to Maximize Your Cashback

If you want to make the most out of your UnionBank Credit Card, follow these simple habits:

Pay on time and in full.
Avoid interest charges that can cancel out your cashback gains.
Use your card for regular purchases.
Groceries, bills, and gas are great for earning consistent cashback.
Watch for promos.
UnionBank often runs bonus cashback offers during holidays and online sale seasons.
Track your spending through the app.
The UnionBank mobile app shows your cashback earned and spending categories.
Avoid cash advances.
They have higher fees and don’t earn cashback.
Combine with rewards points (if applicable).
Some UnionBank cards let you redeem cashback and earn points.

Cashback Estimator

Monthly Spending Category	Estimated Spend (₱)	Cashback Rate	Cashback Earned (₱)
Groceries & Essentials	10,000	3%	300
Dining & Coffee Shops	5,000	2%	100
Online Shopping	8,000	1%	80
Transportation (Grab, Gas)	3,000	1%	30
Total Cashback per Month	₱26,000		₱510
Total Cashback per Year	₱312,000		₱6,120

Common Mistakes That Reduce Cashback Value

Many first-time users lose potential cashback because of small oversights. Avoid these pitfalls:

Paying late — you lose rewards and get charged fees.
Using your card for purchases outside cashback categories.
Ignoring small-print conditions (like minimum spend per transaction).
Forgetting to check monthly cashback caps.

By being mindful, you’ll ensure that every swipe earns the maximum possible cashback.

TL;DR – Quick Summary

UnionBank’s Cashback Credit Cards make your daily spending more rewarding. Whether you’re paying bills, shopping online, or buying groceries, you can earn up to 6% cashback every month — automatically.

Key Takeaways:

Great for first-time cardholders in the Philippines
Easy online application and fast approval
Cashback credited monthly — no manual redemption
Use for bills, groceries, and essentials for consistent rewards
Use the Credit Card Cost Calculator to plan payments smartly

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is cashback in a credit card?
Cashback is a reward where a portion of your spending is returned to you, usually as a peso credit or deduction from your bill.

2. How do I get my cashback from UnionBank?
UnionBank automatically credits your cashback to your account every month — no need to redeem manually.

3. Can I earn cashback on all purchases?
No, cashback applies only to specific categories like groceries, utilities, or dining, depending on your card.

4. Do cashback rewards expire?
Usually, cashback credits are applied directly to your billing statement and don’t expire. Check your card’s terms for details.

5. What happens if I miss a payment?
You’ll incur interest and late fees, and future cashback earnings may be affected. Always pay on time to keep your rewards.