How to Maximize Your UnionBank Credit Card Rewards
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How to Maximize Your UnionBank Credit Card Rewards
UnionBank credit cards offer multiple ways to earn and enjoy rewards—from cashback and points to exclusive partner perks. To maximize your benefits, focus on using the right card for your lifestyle, paying on time to avoid interest, and redeeming points strategically. You can also use the Credit Card Cost Calculator to estimate your monthly payments and manage your spending better.
Introduction
Ever wondered how some people seem to “earn while they spend”? That’s the magic of credit card rewards—especially with UnionBank credit cards. For first-time cardholders, rewards can feel like a hidden bonus. But in reality, these perks are designed to give value back every time you use your card wisely.
This guide will show you how to earn, manage, and maximize UnionBank credit card rewards, especially if you’re new to credit cards in the Philippines. You’ll learn how to make every swipe count without overspending or missing out on valuable benefits.
What Are Credit Card Rewards?
In simple terms, credit card rewards are incentives banks give when you use your credit card for purchases. UnionBank offers rewards in different forms depending on your card type:
Points: Earn reward points for every peso you spend.
Cashback: Get a percentage of your spending back as real money or credits.
Miles: Convert points into travel miles for flights or upgrades.
Think of it like a mini rebate or “thank you” every time you use your card.
Why UnionBank Credit Cards Stand Out
UnionBank has tailored its credit card lineup for different spending habits. Whether you love shopping, dining, or traveling, there’s a reward structure for you.
Examples:
UnionBank Rewards Card – 1 point per ₱30 spend (2x for shopping and dining abroad).
UnionBank Cash Back Card – Up to 6% cashback on groceries and 2% on fuel.
UnionBank Miles+ Card – Earn points that convert to airline miles.
This flexibility allows you to match your lifestyle to your reward type—so your regular spending earns you the most.
How UnionBank Credit Card Rewards Work
Rewards are based on your spending pattern. Here’s how it typically works:
1. Earn Rewards Through Purchases
Every time you use your credit card for eligible transactions, you earn points or cashback. Example: If you spend ₱10,000 on groceries using a cashback card that gives 6%, you get ₱600 back—real savings!
2. Track Your Rewards
You can view your current points or cashback total through:
The UnionBank Online App
Your monthly billing statement
Email or SMS notifications from UnionBank
3. Redeem Your Rewards
Once you accumulate enough points, you can redeem them for:
Cash credits
Gift vouchers
Airline miles
Annual fee waivers
Merchandise
How to Maximize Your UnionBank Credit Card Rewards
Here’s where smart strategies come in. Getting the most out of your card isn’t about spending more—it’s about spending strategically.
1. Use the Right Card for the Right Expense
Different UnionBank cards have unique perks.
Use Cash Back Card for groceries and fuel.
Use Rewards Card for shopping and travel.
Use Miles+ Card for flight bookings.
👉 Tip: Align your biggest monthly expenses with the card that gives the highest return.
2. Pay in Full and On Time
Rewards are great—but they lose value if you pay interest. Always pay your full balance on or before the due date to avoid interest charges. This ensures your rewards stay as “free perks,” not as a trade-off for penalties.
If you want to estimate your monthly costs or interest savings, try the Credit Card Cost Calculator. It helps you see how much you can save by paying in full each month or how long it takes to pay off your balance.
3. Take Advantage of Promos
UnionBank regularly runs bonus point promos or cashback offers with partner stores.
Double points for specific merchants
0% installment deals
Seasonal rebates
👉 Join UnionBank’s newsletter or check your mobile app to stay updated.
4. Combine Rewards with Installment Plans
Many new users don’t realize that installment purchases also earn rewards, as long as they’re eligible transactions. Example: Buying a ₱30,000 laptop under a 0% installment plan still earns you points—just spread across billing cycles.
5. Don’t Let Points Expire
Reward points may have expiration dates (typically after 2–3 years). Regularly check your points balance and redemption deadlines to ensure you don’t lose value. Redeem before expiry to maximize every peso you’ve earned.
6. Add Supplementary Cards
Adding a supplementary card (for a family member) can help you earn rewards faster, since all spending adds up under one account.
Example: If your spouse or child uses a supplementary card for groceries, those purchases contribute to your total rewards too.
7. Track and Redeem Strategically
Instead of redeeming points in small amounts, wait until you accumulate more for higher-value rewards like travel miles or large cashback redemptions. This approach gives you better value for the same effort.
Common Mistakes That Reduce Reward Value
Even the most generous reward systems can lose impact if you make common mistakes. Avoid these:
Paying only the minimum due (you’ll pay more in interest).
Using the card for cash advances (no rewards for those).
Ignoring annual fees that might cancel out your reward value.
Redeeming for low-value items when you could save for higher-value rewards.
Example Scenario
Let’s say you spend ₱20,000 monthly on essentials using the UnionBank Cash Back Card:
₱8,000 groceries × 6% = ₱480 cashback
₱5,000 fuel × 2% = ₱100 cashback
₱7,000 general purchases × 0.2% = ₱14 cashback
That’s like getting your annual credit card fee back—just from normal spending!
Using the Credit Card Cost Calculator
Before applying or spending, it’s smart to understand the costs and potential savings of your credit card. You can use the Credit Card Cost Calculator to:
Compute your monthly payments
Estimate total interest if you pay partial amounts
Plan your repayment timeline
Understand how much you save by paying in full
This helps you stay in control while earning the most rewards possible.
How to Apply for a UnionBank Credit Card
If you don’t have a credit card yet, applying is simple. You usually need:
Valid ID (UMID, Passport, or Driver’s License)
Proof of income (payslip, ITR, or COE)
Minimum income requirement (varies per card, often ₱15,000–₱30,000 monthly)
Steps:
Choose the UnionBank card that fits your lifestyle.
Complete the online application form.
Wait for verification and approval.
Once approved, activate your card and start earning rewards.
Tips for First-Time Cardholders
Start with a card that matches your spending habits.
Avoid multiple applications at once (it may affect approval).
Monitor your spending using UnionBank Online.
Redeem rewards regularly to enjoy your benefits.
Conclusion
UnionBank credit cards make it easy to turn everyday spending into real rewards—whether it’s cashback, points, or travel perks. The secret is strategic use: spend smart, pay on time, and track your benefits.
By following the steps in this guide and using the Credit Card Cost Calculator, you’ll master the art of maximizing rewards—without paying unnecessary costs.
FAQs: How to Maximize UnionBank Credit Card Rewards
1. How do I know how many reward points I’ve earned?
You can check your rewards balance through your monthly statement or UnionBank Online App.
2. Do all purchases earn rewards?
Most regular purchases earn rewards, but cash advances, fees, and interest payments usually don’t.
3. Do UnionBank reward points expire?
Yes, most points expire after 2–3 years. Always redeem them before expiration.
4. Can I transfer my reward points to another UnionBank card?
No, points are usually non-transferable between different cards.
5. What’s the best UnionBank credit card for beginners?
If you’re new, the UnionBank Rewards Card or Cash Back Card are great options to start earning rewards easily.
