How to Get the Most Out of Your UnionBank Credit Card Every Year

Getting a credit card feels like a big step — especially if it’s your first one. But here’s the thing: simply owning a card isn’t enough. The real value comes from how you use it.
UnionBank credit cards offer plenty of perks — from cashback and rewards points to flexible payment options — but most Filipinos miss out on hundreds or even thousands of pesos in potential savings every year.

In this guide, we’ll show you practical ways to maximize your UnionBank Credit Card benefits while avoiding unnecessary fees. Whether you’re a new cardholder or you’ve had your card for a while, these tips will help you make every swipe work harder for you.

1. Pay Your Balance in Full and On Time

Let’s start with the golden rule: don’t carry unpaid balances.
Credit cards can be helpful, but interest charges (around 3% monthly) can add up quickly if you only pay the minimum.

Example	Amount	Result if Only Minimum is Paid
Balance	₱10,000	You might pay ₱13,000+ after 12 months due to interest
Balance	₱30,000	Total cost could reach ₱39,000+ after a year

💡 Tip: Set up Auto-Debit Arrangement (ADA) or schedule your payments before your due date to avoid late fees.

If you want to understand how interest affects your monthly payments, try this free tool:
👉 Credit Card Cost Calculator

It helps you estimate how much you’d pay if you delay payments — so you can plan smarter and avoid surprises.

2. Use Your Card for Everyday Essentials — Not Impulse Buys

Your UnionBank Credit Card isn’t just for emergencies or big purchases. You can maximize rewards points or cashback by using it for regular expenses you already pay for anyway:

Groceries
Bills and utilities
Online shopping (Shopee, Lazada, etc.)
Gas and transportation
Food deliveries or dining out

By doing this, you earn points while spending on things you actually need.
Then, you can redeem those points for vouchers, flights, or cashback later — essentially getting “money back” for spending smartly.

3. Take Advantage of UnionBank Promos

UnionBank runs monthly and seasonal promos — from 0% installment offers to exclusive dining discounts and travel perks.

How to maximize:

Check the UnionBank app or email updates regularly.
Enroll in UnionBank Online to access promo details in one place.
Watch for holiday and payday deals (especially December and mid-year).

Example:

Spend ₱5,000 at a partner merchant and get ₱500 cashback — that’s like a 10% instant discount!

Promos often rotate, so consistent use helps you catch the best deals.

4. Redeem Your Rewards Before They Expire

A common mistake many cardholders make is forgetting to redeem points.
Most UnionBank cards have points that expire within 2–3 years, depending on your card type.

🔎 How to Check Your Points:

Open the UnionBank mobile app
Tap your card → “Rewards” section
See your total points and redemption options

Redeem your points early for:

Gift vouchers
Cashback credits
Travel miles
Shopping discounts

✅ Pro Tip: Set a reminder every 6 months to check your rewards balance.
You earned those points — don’t let them go to waste!

5. Use 0% Installment Plans for Big Purchases

If you’re planning to buy something big (like a laptop, phone, or appliance), take advantage of UnionBank’s 0% installment options.

Why it’s worth it:

You can spread payments over 3, 6, or 12 months without interest.
Keeps your cash flow stable while still earning rewards.

Just make sure to:

Pay on time (late fees can cancel your 0% benefit)
Avoid multiple installment purchases at once — to manage your credit limit wisely

6. Avoid These Common Credit Card Mistakes

Even responsible users can fall into small traps. Here’s what to watch out for:

Mistake	What Happens	How to Avoid It
Paying late	₱850 late payment fee + interest	Use AutoPay or reminders
Using credit for cash	6% cash advance fee + daily interest	Use debit card for cash needs
Exceeding limit	₱500 over-limit fee	Track spending via app
Ignoring statements	Missed charges, untracked fees	Check app monthly
Forgetting promos	Missed savings	Subscribe to UnionBank email updates

Remember: A credit card is a tool — use it with a plan, not emotion.

7. Review Your Annual Fee and Card Perks Every Year

Every year, review your card usage and see if it still fits your lifestyle.

Ask yourself:

Did I use the card enough to justify the annual fee?
Am I earning enough rewards?
Are there new UnionBank cards that fit my needs better?

UnionBank sometimes offers annual fee waivers if you reach a spending threshold or join retention promos.
You can call customer service and politely request:

“Hi, I’ve been a loyal UnionBank customer — can I request an annual fee waiver?”

You’d be surprised how often they’ll agree, especially for active users.

8. Protect Your Card and Monitor Transactions

Security is part of maximizing value. A stolen card or unauthorized charge can cancel all your savings.

Simple but vital habits:

Never share your OTP or CVV code.
Activate real-time transaction alerts on your UnionBank app.
Report suspicious activity immediately through the hotline or app.

UnionBank also allows temporary card blocking via the app — perfect if you misplace your card temporarily.

9. Track Your Monthly Spending Wisely

A huge advantage of UnionBank’s digital platform is that you can see all your spending data in one place.
Use this to analyze your habits and even set monthly budgets.

Try this mini checklist:

☑ Check total spending per category (food, bills, shopping)
☑ Set a target (e.g., < ₱10,000 for non-essentials)
☑ Use the data to adjust next month’s budget

This way, your credit card becomes a financial tool, not a temptation.

10. Use the Credit Card Cost Calculator for Smarter Planning

Before making big purchases or applying for another credit card, check how fees or interest might affect your budget.

You can use the Credit Card Cost Calculator to see how much your monthly and annual payments could total — including interest and potential fees.

It’s an easy way to plan your finances and avoid the “shock” of unexpected charges.

TL;DR – Quick Summary

Tip	Why It Matters
Pay on time	Avoid interest and late fees
Use for essentials	Earn rewards on what you already buy
Redeem points	Convert usage into real savings
Watch promos	Save more during special events
Review annually	Ensure your card still fits your lifestyle
Use calculator	Budget smarter and plan purchases

Bottom line:
UnionBank credit cards are not just about convenience — they’re about unlocking value when used wisely. The key is to stay informed, disciplined, and strategic.

FAQs

1. How can I get the most rewards with my UnionBank Credit Card?
Use your card for regular expenses like groceries, utilities, and online shopping. Redeem points regularly before they expire.

2. Does UnionBank offer 0% installment promos all year?
Yes, UnionBank regularly partners with merchants for 0% installment offers, especially during sale seasons.

3. How can I avoid paying annual fees?
Reach the minimum spend requirement or request a fee waiver through customer service.

4. What happens if I pay late?
You’ll be charged a ₱850 late fee plus monthly interest — always pay before the due date.

5. How do I know if I’m using my credit card wisely?
If you pay in full each month and earn rewards without paying extra fees — you’re doing it right!

✨ Final Thought:
Your UnionBank credit card can be your best financial partner — or your biggest expense — depending on how you use it. Treat it like a tool for growth, track your spending, and plan ahead using the Credit Card Cost Calculator to keep your finances strong every year.