Losing, damaging, or having your credit card compromised can be stressful—lalo na kung first time mong magkaroon ng credit card. Whether your card was stolen, worn out, or just not working anymore, you don’t have to panic.
UnionBank and other major banks in the Philippines make it simple to request a replacement credit card, and you can do it through your app, hotline, or branch.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process, explain the common reasons people request replacements, and share real examples to help first-time cardholders handle it like a pro.
🟢 Why You Might Need a Replacement Credit Card
Before requesting a replacement, it helps to know when it’s necessary. Here are the most common reasons cardholders ask for a new one:
1️⃣ Lost or Stolen Card
If your card is missing or stolen, it’s crucial to report it immediately to prevent unauthorized use. After blocking your card, UnionBank will issue a replacement card with a new number.
💡 Tip: If you lose your card abroad, you can still contact UnionBank via international hotline.
2️⃣ Damaged or Worn Out Card
Frequent swiping, heat exposure, or folding can damage the magnetic strip or chip. If your card doesn’t tap or swipe properly anymore, you can request a replacement through the app or by calling customer service.
3️⃣ Compromised Card
If UnionBank detects suspicious activity or a data breach involving your card, the bank might proactively issue a replacement to protect your account.
4️⃣ Card Renewal (Expired Card)
Credit cards usually expire every 3–5 years. UnionBank automatically sends a renewal card before your old one expires. You don’t need to apply for this manually unless your address has changed.
🟠 Step-by-Step: How to Request a Replacement Credit Card
You can request a replacement in three ways: via app, hotline, or branch. Here’s how each works:
Option 1: Through the UnionBank App (Fastest Method)
If your card is damaged, you can do everything directly from your phone.
Steps: 1️⃣ Open the UnionBank Online App. 2️⃣ Tap Credit Cards from the dashboard. 3️⃣ Select your card and go to Manage Card. 4️⃣ Choose “Request Replacement Card.” 5️⃣ Select your reason (e.g., “Card damaged,” “Card not working”). 6️⃣ Confirm your delivery address. 7️⃣ Submit your request.
✅ You’ll receive an SMS or email confirmation once your request is processed.
Typical delivery time:
Metro Manila: 5–7 working days
Provincial areas: 7–10 working days
Option 2: Via UnionBank Hotline
If your card was lost or stolen, the hotline is the best way to act fast.
1️⃣ Call the UnionBank Customer Service hotline (24/7). 2️⃣ Tell the representative your name and card details (for verification). 3️⃣ Request to block your lost card. 4️⃣ Ask for a replacement card.
🗒 Example: “Hi, I lost my UnionBank Visa card today. Please block it and request a replacement card to be sent to my address.”
Your card will be blocked immediately, and a new one will be issued and mailed to you.
Option 3: Visit a UnionBank Branch
If you prefer face-to-face service, visit your nearest UnionBank branch. Bring:
A valid government ID
Your old card (if damaged or defective)
The bank staff will assist in filing your replacement request.
🟣 Real-Life Example: Card Damaged by Daily Use
Let’s say Mark, a UnionBank Classic Credit Card user, noticed that his card no longer worked on some terminals. Instead of waiting for it to fail completely, he opened the UnionBank App, tapped “Request Replacement”, and confirmed his address.
In 5 business days, he received his new card — same credit limit, same rewards, but with a fresh chip and tap feature that worked perfectly.
🔵 What Happens After You Request a Replacement
Once your replacement request is approved, here’s what to expect:
1️⃣ Card Blocking (for Lost/Stolen)
Your old card is permanently deactivated, meaning no one can use it anymore — even online.
2️⃣ Delivery of New Card
UnionBank delivers your new card to your registered address. You’ll receive a notification once shipped.
3️⃣ Activation
When you receive your card:
Log in to the UnionBank App.
Go to Credit Cards → Activate Card.
Enter the card details or follow the on-screen steps.
You’ll get a message saying your new card is ready to use.
🟢 Important Reminders for Replacement Cards
Your card number will change. This means any automatic payments (Netflix, Grab, Spotify, etc.) must be updated.
Your credit limit remains the same. Even if the card number changes, your total credit line doesn’t reset.
Points or rewards are carried over. All your UnionBank Rewards Points stay intact.
Statement and billing cycle remain unchanged.
🟣 How Much Does a Replacement Card Cost?
For most UnionBank credit cards, replacement fees range between ₱400–₱500. This covers production, delivery, and security processing.
However, the fee is waived in some cases, such as:
Card was compromised due to fraud
Bank-initiated replacement due to a chip defect
Certain premium card types with no replacement fees
If you’re unsure, ask the representative during your request.
🧾 Keep Track of Spending and Interest with a Calculator
While waiting for your new card, it’s smart to review your current balance and payments. You can use the Credit Card Cost Calculator to understand:
How much interest you’ll pay if you only settle the minimum amount
How fast your balance grows if you delay payments
How much you save by paying your bill in full each month
This is especially useful for first-time cardholders who want to manage their finances responsibly while using replacement or new cards.
💡 Example: If you owe ₱10,000 and only pay ₱1,000 monthly, the calculator will show how much interest adds up over time — helping you see the true cost of credit.
🟠 Common Mistakes When Requesting a Replacement
❌ 1. Not Updating Payment Information
After getting a new card, some people forget to update saved payment details — causing auto-payments to fail.
❌ 2. Not Verifying Delivery Address
If you moved or changed residence, update your address before requesting to avoid delays.
❌ 3. Using the Old Card Number Online
Your old card number won’t work anymore. Always replace it with the new one.
❌ 4. Ignoring Fees
Some users are surprised by the replacement fee appearing on their next statement. Always check your card’s fee schedule.
❌ 5. Not Activating the Card Immediately
Your replacement card won’t work until activated. Log in to your app and activate as soon as it arrives.
🟢 TL;DR – Quick Summary
Step
What to Do
Notes
1
Open UnionBank App → Request Replacement
Fastest method for damaged cards
2
Call Hotline if Lost/Stolen
Immediate card blocking
3
Verify Address
Ensure delivery accuracy
4
Activate New Card
Required before using
5
Update Online Payments
For subscriptions and auto-bills
6
Track Payments with Calculator
Helps manage credit cost and interest
🟣 FAQs
1️⃣ How long does it take to get a replacement credit card? Usually 5–10 working days, depending on your location. Metro Manila deliveries are faster.
2️⃣ Is there a fee for card replacement? Yes, around ₱400–₱500, unless waived due to fraud or factory defect.
3️⃣ Will my card number change? Yes. You’ll get a new card number and CVV, but your limit and balance stay the same.
4️⃣ Can I still use my old card while waiting? No. Once you request a replacement, the old card becomes inactive.
5️⃣ Will my rewards points be lost? No. All accumulated points or cashback carry over to your new card.
🟢 Final Thoughts
Requesting a replacement credit card doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether your UnionBank card is lost, damaged, or due for renewal, the process is straightforward and secure.
The key is to act quickly, confirm your address, and activate your new card once delivered.
And to stay in full control of your spending, make sure to use the Credit Card Cost Calculator — your free tool for understanding interest, payments, and the real cost of credit.
With a little awareness and action, your replacement card will be up and running in no time — giving you peace of mind and uninterrupted convenience.
