How to Request for an UnionBank Credit Card Increase or Decrease in Credit Limit
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How to Request a UnionBank Credit Card Limit Increase or Decrease
Your UnionBank Credit Card’s limit decides how much you can spend — it’s like your personal financial boundary. But what if that limit feels too low or too high for your current needs?
Good news: UnionBank allows credit limit adjustments (both increase and decrease) upon request. Whether you want more spending flexibility or better control over your finances, understanding how and when to make this request can make a big difference.
This guide will walk you through how to request a credit limit change, the requirements, common reasons for approval or denial, and tips to improve your chances.
Why Your Credit Limit Matters
Your credit limit is the maximum amount you can charge to your card before payments are due. It’s determined based on factors like your income, credit score, and payment history.
If you often hit your limit or can’t manage large purchases, requesting a credit limit increase makes sense. On the other hand, if you’re trying to limit overspending or control debt, a credit limit decrease can help.
Understanding how this limit works can help you manage your credit card responsibly and improve your financial health over time.
Types of Credit Limit Adjustments
Type of Adjustment
When to Request
What It Means
Credit Limit Increase
When your income grows, or you often reach your current limit
UnionBank raises your available credit so you can spend more
Credit Limit Decrease
When you want tighter control or lower spending risk
UnionBank reduces your available credit for safety or budgeting reasons
Benefits of Increasing Your Credit Limit
A higher credit limit isn’t just about spending more — it can also benefit your credit health and lifestyle:
Improved Credit Score – Keeping your spending below 30% of your limit shows good financial behavior.
More Financial Flexibility – You can handle emergencies or big purchases more easily.
Better Rewards and Cashback Opportunities – Higher spending power can mean more points or cashback.
Easier Approvals for Future Loans – A higher limit with responsible usage builds trust with banks.
Example: If your current limit is ₱20,000 and you often spend ₱18,000 monthly, your utilization is 90%. That’s considered high. Increasing your limit to ₱40,000 drops utilization to 45%, improving your credit standing.
When It’s Smart to Request a Credit Limit Increase
Consider asking for an increase if:
Your income recently increased (promotion, new job, or business growth)
You’ve had no late payments for at least 6–12 months
You use your UnionBank credit card regularly and responsibly
You plan a big upcoming expense, like travel, tuition, or business purchases
Avoid requesting if you recently missed payments or carry a large balance — it might reduce your approval chances.
Reasons to Request a Credit Limit Decrease
Sometimes, lowering your limit is the smarter move — especially if you’re trying to simplify your finances or avoid temptation.
Common reasons include:
You want to avoid overspending
You’re focusing on debt reduction
You have multiple cards and want to distribute your credit wisely
You’re preparing for a major financial goal (like applying for a home loan)
A lower limit can also make it easier to manage your budget and feel more in control.
How to Request for a Credit Limit Increase or Decrease in UnionBank
Here’s how you can do it:
Step 1: Log in to UnionBank Online
Go to UnionBank Online or use the mobile app. Make sure your card is linked to your account.
Step 2: Go to “Credit Card Management”
Select your card, then find the “Credit Limit Adjustment” option (this may appear as “Manage Credit Limit” or “Request Change”).
Step 3: Fill Out the Request Form
Provide the following details:
Requested limit amount (increase or decrease)
Reason for the request
Proof of income (for limit increase only)
Step 4: Submit Supporting Documents
UnionBank may ask for the latest:
Payslips (last 3 months)
Certificate of Employment or Income
ITR or Audited Financial Statement (for self-employed)
Step 5: Wait for Evaluation
UnionBank will review your request and verify your documents. This usually takes 5–10 business days. You’ll get a confirmation through SMS or email.
Common Reasons Why Limit Increase Requests Are Denied
UnionBank may decline your request if:
You have recent late or missed payments
Your income documents don’t support your requested limit
You have too many existing debts or maxed-out cards
You’ve requested too soon after getting your card (wait at least 6 months)
If denied, don’t worry — you can reapply once your financial profile improves.
Example: Understanding Credit Utilization and Limit Impact
Here’s a sample breakdown showing how your credit limit affects your credit standing:
Credit Limit
Average Monthly Spend
Utilization Rate
Risk Level
Recommendation
₱10,000
₱9,000
90%
High
Request limit increase
₱30,000
₱9,000
30%
Ideal
Keep spending steady
₱50,000
₱9,000
18%
Excellent
Strong credit score potential
As you can see, increasing your limit can actually lower your utilization rate, which helps maintain a healthy credit profile — as long as you don’t overspend.
Using the Credit Card Cost Calculator
Before you decide on a credit limit change, it’s smart to know how your monthly payments and interest will look.
See how much interest you’ll pay if you don’t pay in full
Compare different credit limit scenarios
Estimate how much you can safely spend each month
It’s a useful tool to help you manage your budget while still enjoying your UnionBank card benefits.
Tips to Improve Approval Chances
If you’re planning to request a higher credit limit, these small habits can help you qualify faster:
Pay on time – Every single month.
Keep balances low – Below 30% of your total limit.
Avoid applying for too many loans or cards at once.
Update your income records regularly with the bank.
Use your card actively but responsibly.
Consistency is key — banks like UnionBank value customers who show financial stability.
Risks of Having Too High a Credit Limit
While it sounds great to have a big limit, it can backfire if you’re not disciplined.
Temptation to overspend
Higher potential interest if you don’t pay in full
Bigger impact on your debt ratio during loan applications
Remember: your credit limit is a tool, not a goal. Use only what you can pay back comfortably.
How to Reduce Your Credit Limit Safely
If you want to lower your limit:
Contact UnionBank customer service or send a request via the mobile app.
Specify your desired new limit.
Wait for a confirmation message (processing takes 3–5 business days).
UnionBank may not require new documents for a decrease, but they’ll need confirmation that you understand the change is permanent unless you request another adjustment.
TL;DR – Quick Summary
You can request to increase or decrease your UnionBank credit card limit anytime based on your financial situation.
Limit increases require proof of income and good payment history.
A lower credit limit can help manage spending and budgeting.
Always maintain a low credit utilization rate and pay on time to build strong financial credibility.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How often can I request a credit limit increase? You can usually request once every 6 months, depending on your payment record and account standing.
2. Will UnionBank automatically increase my credit limit? Yes, sometimes after consistent good payment history, UnionBank offers an automatic limit review.
3. Can I request a credit limit decrease anytime? Yes. Limit decreases are simpler and often approved within a few days.
4. Do I need to visit a branch to request a credit limit change? No, most requests can be made via UnionBank Online or through the mobile app.
5. Will a credit limit increase affect my credit score? It can improve your score by lowering your utilization rate — but only if you don’t overspend.
