Ultimate Guide to Saving Money Using Your BDO Credit Card
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Ultimate Guide to Saving Money Using Your BDO Credit Card
Are you using your BDO credit card to its fullest potential? Many Filipinos get a credit card but don’t realize the hidden perks, cashback, promos, and strategies that can actually save them thousands of pesos every year.
Whether you’re a first-time credit card user or already have a BDO card, this guide will teach you practical, beginner-friendly tips on how to maximize your card benefits, avoid unnecessary fees, and get the best value for your money.
Why Saving Money with Your BDO Credit Card Matters
For many first-time credit card users, a card feels like “extra money.” But the reality is, if you don’t manage it well, you’ll end up paying high interest and hidden fees. On the other hand, if you use your card wisely, you can:
Earn cashback and rewards points
Get exclusive online and in-store promos
Enjoy 0% installment plans
Avoid unnecessary interest charges
Track your expenses better
đź’ˇ Pro Tip: Before making large purchases, calculate potential interest and savings using the Credit Card Cost Calculator. It helps you plan better and avoid overspending.
How a BDO Credit Card Works(Beginner-Friendly Explanation)
Before we dive into tips, let’s quickly explain the basics:
Credit Limit → The maximum amount you can spend.
Billing Cycle → The period when your purchases are recorded.
Payment Due Date → The last day to pay to avoid interest.
Minimum Payment → The smallest amount you can pay, but not paying in full leads to interest charges.
Example: Let’s say you have a ₱20,000 credit limit and spend ₱5,000 on Lazada. If you pay the full ₱5,000 before your due date → ₱0 interest. But if you only pay ₱1,000, BDO charges monthly interest on the remaining ₱4,000.
10 Smart Ways to Save Money with Your BDO Credit Card
1. Always Pay in Full and On Time(Avoid Interest)
Paying only the minimum balance leads to compounding interest.
Set reminders or enable auto-debit to avoid late fees.
Use the Credit Card Cost Calculator to see how much interest you can save by paying in full.
2. Take Advantage of BDO’s 0% Installment Plans
BDO partners with online and offline stores to offer 0% interest installment promos.
Perfect for gadgets, appliances, and online shopping deals.
Check BDO’s monthly promo list via your BDO Online Banking app.
3. Use the Right BDO Credit Card for Your Spending Style
BDO offers different cards with unique perks:
BDO Credit Card
Best For
Key Savings Benefit
BDO ShopMore Mastercard
Online shopping (Lazada, Shopee, Zalora)
Cashback + promos
BDO Amex Cashback
Everyday expenses
Up to 5% cashback
BDO Visa Gold
International purchases
Exclusive Visa discounts
BDO Platinum
Premium shopping & travel
Up to 5% rebates
BDO UnionPay
Asian shopping platforms
Lower conversion fees
4. Watch Out for BDO Online Shopping Promos
BDO frequently offers exclusive vouchers for Lazada, Shopee, Zalora, Shein, and other e-commerce platforms.
Subscribe to BDO’s email alerts or check the BDO Deals tab inside your BDO app.
5. Use Your BDO Points & Cashback Wisely
Some BDO credit cards earn points; others give cashback.
Redeem your rewards for shopping credits, e-gift cards, or cashback.
Don’t let your points expire — check your balance in the BDO Online Banking app.
6. Avoid Cash Advances(Hidden Fees Alert!)
While tempting, withdrawing cash using your credit card can cost you:
Cash advance fee: Up to 5% of the withdrawn amount
Immediate interest: Starts the same day
ATM fees
đź’ˇ Tip: If you need cash, use other financing options or personal loans instead.
7. Track and Control Your Spending
Use the BDO Online Banking app to monitor every transaction.
Set spending limits to avoid overspending.
Categorize expenses (groceries, shopping, bills) to see where your money goes.
8. Combine Promos with Rewards for Double Savings
Example:
Use your BDO ShopMore Mastercard on Lazada.
Apply a Lazada voucher + get BDO’s extra discount.
Earn cashback or points at the same time.
This stacking strategy saves more than just using one promo at a time.
9. Set Up SMS and Email Alerts(Avoid Unwanted Charges)
Get real-time notifications for every transaction.
Immediately spot fraudulent charges or unexpected fees.
Prevent late payments by getting payment due date reminders.
10. Use the BDO Credit Card Cost Calculator(Must-Do for Beginners)
Planning a big purchase? Before swiping, check:
How much interest you’ll pay if you don’t settle in full
