UnionBank Credit Card FAQs: Everything First-Time Users Need to Know
Getting your first UnionBank Credit Card can feel exciting — but also a bit confusing. With terms like billing cycle, minimum payment, and interest rate, it’s normal to have questions.
If you’ve ever wondered “How does a credit card really work?”, or “What happens if I miss a payment?”, this guide is for you.
We’ve compiled the most common UnionBank Credit Card FAQs — explained in simple Filipino-English, so you can easily understand how to manage your card wisely, avoid fees, and make the most of its benefits.
What Is a Credit Card and How Does It Work?
A credit card is a payment tool that lets you borrow money temporarily from a bank to buy goods or services — then pay it back later, usually at the end of each billing cycle.
When you use your UnionBank Credit Card, the bank pays the merchant first. Then, you’ll receive a monthly billing statement showing how much you spent and when you need to pay it back.
You can:
Pay the full balance to avoid interest
Or pay the minimum amount due and carry the rest to the next month (with added interest)
💡 Example: If you buy ₱10,000 worth of groceries and pay ₱10,000 before the due date, you won’t be charged interest. But if you only pay ₱2,000, the remaining ₱8,000 will earn interest in the next billing cycle.
What Are the Benefits of a UnionBank Credit Card?
UnionBank offers different types of credit cards — each designed for different lifestyles. But here are some common benefits that most UnionBank cards share:
Convenient Cashless Transactions: Shop online or in stores locally and abroad.
Rewards or Cashback: Earn points or cashback every time you spend.
Installment Plans: Convert large purchases into 0% installment terms.
Security: Safer than carrying cash, with fraud protection and SMS alerts.
Emergency Access: Use your credit line for urgent or unexpected expenses.
đź’ˇ Tip: Use the Credit Card Cost Calculator to estimate how much interest or fees you might pay each month, so you can budget smarter.
How to Apply for a UnionBank Credit Card
Applying for a credit card is easier than ever — but you must meet certain eligibility requirements.
Requirements
Requirement
Details
Age
At least 18 years old (65 max for principal cardholder)
Income
Minimum ₱15,000 to ₱30,000 monthly income depending on card type
Employment
Must be employed or self-employed for at least 1 year
Payslips or ITR for employed; business permit for self-employed
Application Process
Go to UnionBank’s website or visit a branch.
Choose the card that fits your needs (cashback, rewards, travel, etc.).
Fill out the application form.
Submit your ID and income documents.
Wait for approval (usually 3–5 business days).
If approved, your card will be delivered to your address and you’ll receive your PIN separately for security.
What Is the Minimum Payment Due?
The minimum payment due is the smallest amount you must pay before your due date to keep your account in good standing.
Usually, it’s around 5% of your total balance or ₱500, whichever is higher.
💡 Example: If your balance is ₱10,000, your minimum due is ₱500. But paying only the minimum means you’ll pay more interest in the long run.
To see how much that costs you over time, try using the Credit Card Cost Calculator. It breaks down your total payment and interest month by month.
What Is a Billing Cycle and Due Date?
A billing cycle is typically 30 days — it’s the period in which your purchases are recorded.
At the end of the cycle, UnionBank sends your billing statement showing:
Total amount due
Minimum amount due
Due date
Transaction details
đź’ˇ Example: If your billing cycle is from October 1 to October 30, your due date might be November 15. Paying on or before that date helps you avoid late payment fees.
What Happens If You Miss a Payment?
Missing your due date can result in:
Late Payment Fee (usually ₱750 or a percentage of the balance)
Interest Charges on unpaid amounts
Negative Impact on Credit Score
Temporary Card Suspension
If you ever miss a payment, pay as soon as possible to avoid compounding interest.
đź’ˇ Pro Tip: Set up auto-debit payments or reminders so you never forget your due date.
How Much Is the Interest Rate on UnionBank Credit Cards?
UnionBank follows the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) cap of 3% monthly interest rate (36% annually).
However, your actual cost depends on your payment behavior. If you always pay your balance in full, you can enjoy zero interest every month.
Use the Credit Card Cost Calculator to estimate your potential monthly interest based on your spending and payment habits.
How to Increase Your Credit Limit
You can request a credit limit increase once you’ve used your card responsibly for several months.
Tips Before Requesting a Limit Increase
Always pay on time
Keep your utilization below 30% of your limit
Maintain a good credit history
Prepare updated proof of income
To request an increase, call UnionBank’s customer service hotline or send a request through UnionBank Online.
How to Redeem Your Rewards or Cashback
Depending on your UnionBank card type, you can earn points, miles, or cashback from your spending.
How to Redeem:
Log in to your UnionBank Online or Rewards portal.
Check your available points or cashback balance.
Choose your preferred reward (shopping voucher, miles, or statement credit).
Confirm and redeem.
đź’ˇ Note: Some points expire after a few years, so redeem regularly to avoid losing them.
Report lost or stolen cards immediately to avoid unauthorized charges.
FAQs About UnionBank Credit Cards
1. How long does it take to get a UnionBank credit card after applying? Usually around 3 to 5 business days after approval, depending on your location.
2. Can I have more than one UnionBank credit card? Yes, you can apply for multiple cards as long as you meet the income and credit requirements.
3. What should I do if I see an unauthorized transaction? Call UnionBank’s Credit Card Hotline (02) 8841-8600 immediately to report and dispute the transaction.
4. Can I use my UnionBank credit card abroad? Yes! It’s accepted worldwide wherever Visa or Mastercard is honored. Just make sure to enable international transactions before traveling.
5. How can I avoid paying interest on my credit card? Pay your full balance before the due date every month. Interest only applies when you carry over unpaid balances.
6. Can I transfer my UnionBank credit card balance to another bank? Yes. You can apply for a balance transfer program to another bank with lower interest rates.
7. What happens if I go over my credit limit? You may be charged an overlimit fee and your next transactions may be declined until you make a payment.
Final Thoughts
Having a UnionBank Credit Card can be a powerful financial tool — but only if used wisely.
For first-time users, understanding your card’s features, fees, and payment terms is key to avoiding debt and maximizing rewards.
Before applying, upgrading, or canceling, use the Credit Card Cost Calculator to see your estimated total cost and monthly interest.
Remember: credit cards are not just for spending — they’re for building your financial future when handled responsibly.
