The Complete Guide to UnionBank Cashback Credit Cards
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The Complete Guide to UnionBank Cashback Credit Cards
UnionBank Cashback Credit Cards give you real money back every time you spend — no points, no miles, just direct savings. This guide explains how cashback works, which UnionBank cards offer it, and how to maximize your rebates without paying unnecessary fees or interest.
Introduction
Imagine getting paid every time you shop, eat out, or pay bills. That’s the beauty of cashback credit cards. Instead of earning points or miles, you get a percentage of your spending returned as cash — simple, direct, and perfect for practical Filipinos.
If you’re new to credit cards, a cashback card is one of the easiest to understand and manage. Every time you swipe, a small amount of your purchase goes back to your account. With UnionBank Cashback Credit Cards, you can enjoy this benefit while also building your credit history responsibly.
Let’s dive into how UnionBank’s cashback system works, the best cards to choose, and how to make the most of every peso you spend.
What Is a Cashback Credit Card?
A cashback credit card rewards you with a portion of your purchases returned as cash. For example:
Spend ₱10,000
Get 1% cashback = ₱100 credited back to your account
Unlike reward points that need conversion or redemption, cashback is instant and straightforward — you earn and save automatically.
It’s ideal for first-time cardholders because:
You see tangible savings each month
It’s easy to understand
You can track your rebates directly in your billing statement
How UnionBank Cashback Works
UnionBank offers cashback cards that return a percentage of your purchases, usually between 1% and 6%, depending on the type of expense.
Here’s the basic idea:
Everyday purchases = 1% to 2% cashback
Specific categories (like groceries, fuel, or dining) = higher cashback rates
💡 Example: If your UnionBank card gives 6% cashback on groceries and you spend ₱8,000 at the supermarket, that’s ₱480 back — just from your usual spending!
Types of UnionBank Cashback Credit Cards
Here are the most popular cashback cards from UnionBank and their key features:
Card Name
Cashback Rate
Best For
Annual Fee
UnionBank Platinum Visa
Up to 6% cashback
High-spending professionals
₱3,000 (waived 1st year)
UnionBank Gold Mastercard
1%–2% cashback
Everyday spending
₱2,000
UnionBank Lazada or Go Rewards Card
Variable cashback or store rebates
Online shoppers
₱1,500
UnionBank Classic Cashback Card
1% cashback on all purchases
Starters/new cardholders
₱1,500
Each card fits a different lifestyle, so the trick is to choose the one that matches your spending habits.
Cashback Earning Categories
Most UnionBank cashback cards reward you differently based on where you spend.
Category
Typical Cashback Rate
Example Spending
Groceries & Supermarkets
Up to 6%
Puregold, Robinsons, SM
Fuel
2%
Shell, Caltex, Petron
Dining
3%
Jollibee, McDonald’s, or restaurants
Bills & Utilities
1%
Meralco, PLDT, Globe
Online Shopping
1%–3%
Shopee, Lazada, Grab
Others
0.5%–1%
All other purchases
The key is knowing which categories your card prioritizes. For instance, if you often dine out or buy groceries weekly, a higher grocery cashback rate makes more sense than travel rewards.
How to Redeem or Receive Your Cashback
Unlike reward points that need conversion, UnionBank cashback is automatically credited to your account — either monthly or once your balance hits a certain threshold.
Step-by-Step Process:
Use your card regularly for eligible purchases.
Earn cashback automatically each billing cycle.
Check your statement — your earned cashback appears as a credit.
Enjoy lower outstanding balances or use savings for your next purchase.
No redemption form, no waiting. It’s fast and simple.
Advantages of UnionBank Cashback Credit Cards
âś… Real Savings Every Month
You get actual cash value, not points that might expire or lose value.
âś… Simple and Transparent
No complex rewards tracking — what you earn is clearly shown in your billing statement.
âś… Encourages Smart Spending
You become more aware of your expenses since every transaction earns something back.
âś… Works with Regular Bills and Expenses
Groceries, gas, online shopping, and utility payments — all these can earn cashback.
âś… Perfect for Beginners
No need to study complicated redemption systems. It’s a direct savings benefit.
How to Maximize Your Cashback
1. Focus on High-Rebate Categories
If your card gives 6% on groceries, make sure you use that card every time you shop.
đź’ˇ Pro tip: Check your spending pattern. If groceries and fuel make up most of your expenses, prioritize those categories.
2. Avoid Carrying a Balance
Cashback loses its value if you pay interest on unpaid balances. Always pay in full each month.
To understand how much interest affects your savings, try the Credit Card Cost Calculator. It helps you estimate how much extra you pay if you only settle the minimum amount due.
3. Use Auto-Pay for Bills
Charging your recurring bills — internet, phone, Netflix, or electricity — ensures consistent cashback accumulation without extra effort.
4. Combine Cashback with Promos
UnionBank occasionally offers limited-time promotions that boost cashback rates or give additional rebates.
5. Watch Out for Caps and Limits
Some cards limit how much cashback you can earn per month (e.g., ₱1,000). Always read your card’s terms so you don’t miss out or overspend expecting higher returns.
Example: Monthly Cashback Calculation
Let’s say you spend ₱25,000 per month using a UnionBank Platinum Visa with 6% cashback on groceries and 1% on everything else.
Category
Spend
Cashback Rate
Cashback Earned
Groceries
₱10,000
6%
₱600
Fuel
₱3,000
2%
₱60
Dining
₱5,000
3%
₱150
Bills
₱7,000
1%
₱70
Total Cashback (Monthly)
₱880
That’s ₱10,560 cashback a year — just from your usual spending!
UnionBank Cashback vs. Rewards Points
Feature
Cashback Card
Rewards Card
Earnings
Direct peso rebates
Points that can be redeemed
Ease of Use
Automatic
Needs conversion
Expiry
Rare or none
Often expires in 2–3 years
Best For
Everyday spenders
Frequent travelers or big spenders
Transparency
Clear savings in billing
Requires tracking system
If you value simplicity and real savings, cashback wins. If you prefer travel perks, a rewards card might be better.
Pros and Cons
âś… Pros:
Immediate benefit in the form of savings
Ideal for everyday use
Simple to manage and monitor
Great for budget-conscious cardholders
❌ Cons:
Cashback rate may be capped monthly
Some purchases may not qualify
Lower rates compared to travel or luxury rewards cards
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Paying late or carrying a balance: Interest cancels out cashback value.
Ignoring spending categories: Use your card where it gives maximum rebates.
Overusing the card: Cashback should help you save, not encourage overspending.
TL;DR Summary
UnionBank Cashback Credit Cards give you real savings every time you spend — perfect for beginners who want a simple, rewarding credit card experience.
To maximize:
Focus on high-rebate categories (groceries, dining, fuel)
With discipline and smart usage, your card can become a financial tool for savings, not just spending.
FAQs
1. How do I apply for a UnionBank Cashback Credit Card?
You can apply online or at any UnionBank branch. Prepare valid IDs, proof of income, and your latest payslips or ITR.
2. How much cashback can I earn?
It depends on your spending and card type. Rates range from 1% to 6%, with possible monthly caps.
3. When will I receive my cashback?
Cashback is usually credited every billing cycle or once a threshold is reached.
4. Does cashback expire?
Generally, cashback doesn’t expire — but check your card’s specific terms to be sure.
5. Can I combine cashback with points or miles?
No, cashback cards only offer rebates, not points or miles. Choose one system that fits your lifestyle best.
Final Thoughts: A UnionBank Cashback Credit Card is an excellent starting point if you’re new to credit cards. It’s simple, transparent, and rewarding, giving you cash returns while helping you build financial discipline. Use it wisely, pay on time, and watch your savings grow with every swipe.
