Everything You Need to Know About Cashback Credit Cards

Using a cash rewards credit card comes with more perks than obvious cash savings.

1. Earn Money Back on Everyday Spending

The biggest advantage of a cashback credit card is that it literally pays you back for the things you already spend on—like groceries, gas, dining, or bills. Instead of spending and getting nothing in return, you’re rewarded with a percentage of your purchase back in cash. It’s a practical way to save money passively.

2. Helps Offset Monthly Expenses

Cashback rewards cards can actually help reduce your monthly bills. Imagine getting a PHP 300 to PHP 500 rebate simply because you paid your utility bills or mobile subscriptions using your cashback card. If you’re disciplined and pay your balance in full each month, the rewards can act like a mini-discount on life’s recurring expenses. 

For budget-conscious individuals or families trying to get the most out of every peso, cashback helps you do more with what you already have.

3. Simple and Transparent Rewards System

Unlike airline miles or points with complex conversion rates, cashback is straightforward: spend money, get money back. There’s no need to memorize point charts, partner rules, or blackout dates. If your card offers 1% or 5% cashback, you know exactly what that means. 

This clarity makes it easier to plan your purchases and track how much you're earning.

4. Flexible Redemption Options

With most cashback cards, you have full control over how you use your rewards. Some let you automatically apply your cashback to your next billing statement, while others allow you to cash it out or use it to offset specific purchases. 

This flexibility means you can use your rewards for what matters most. Cashback doesn’t lock you into specific products or travel dates, giving you more freedom and convenience.

5. Encourages Smarter Spending Habits

Knowing you’ll earn cashback for certain types of spending can encourage more mindful money habits. You may start using your card more strategically—like swiping it at restaurants or supermarkets where you earn the highest cashback percentage.

Over time, this builds awareness of where your money goes and helps you develop spending habits that give you better value. It's like having a built-in incentive to be financially smart.

6. Accessible for First-Time Credit Cardholders

Cashback credit cards are often beginner-friendly. Many options come with low or no annual fees, and the rewards structure is easy to understand. This makes them a great starting point for young professionals or students looking to build credit while getting something back in return.

It’s a low-risk, high-reward way to enter the world of credit cards responsibly.

Top Features to Look for in a Cashback Credit Card

With so many options available, it can be tough to know where to begin. Here are top features a cashback credit card should (ideally) have.

Bonus Offers and Promotional Cashback Rates

Some cards provide sign-up bonuses or temporary higher cashback rates to new users. For example, you might earn 5% cashback on dining for the first 3 months or receive PHP 500 cashback if you spend PHP 10,000 in your first 60 days.

These bonuses can kick-start your rewards—just make sure the regular rate stays competitive after the promo ends.

No Annual Fee

A no-annual-fee card means you keep 100% of your cashback. If your spending is moderate, this option gives you pure savings with no upfront cost.

Ideal for those who:

• Use a card for essential purchases only
• Want to build a good credit history
• Prefer simplicity over premium perks

Flexible Redemption Options for Cashback Rewards

Flexibility lets you use your rewards however they benefit you most. Choose a card that offers:

• Auto-credit to your statement
• Direct cash to your account
• Use of cashback for purchases or bill payments

Things to Consider When Choosing a Cashback Credit Card

Before choosing a cashback credit card, take the time to ask yourself the following questions so you can make an informed decision:

1. What are my spending habits and lifestyle?

Do you dine out frequently, drive, or have big grocery bills? Your lifestyle should match the card’s reward structure. A dining-heavy card won’t benefit you if most of your spending is on utilities.

Track your expenses over a month to see where your money goes. Choose a card that rewards your top spending categories.

2. Do I meet the credit score requirements?

Premium cashback cards often require a good to excellent credit history. Make sure you meet income and credit qualifications before applying to avoid rejections that could hurt your credit score.

Check your credit standing before you shop for a new card.

3. What interest rates and fees should I watch out for?

A cashback card only saves you money if you avoid carrying a balance. Include annual fees, interest rates, and late payment fees into your calculations.

BPI’s cashback credit cards are designed to give you real value where it matters. Here are the cards we recommend:

BPI Amore Cashback Card

The BPI Amore Cashback Card is an entry-level Visa Classic card that earns tiered cashback on local spends with a generous PHP 15,000 annual cap, making it perfect for PHP 180,000 annual income folks focused on family essentials. You get an annual fee of just PHP 2,050 after the first-year waiver, plus unlimited Ayala Malls lounge access to unwind during shopping trips.

This card offers the following perks:

• 4% cashback at supermarkets
• 1% on drugstores and utilities/bills
• 0.3% on all other local retail
• Access to unlimited Ayala Malls lounges
• 1.85% forex fee
• Installment options

How to Maximize Cashback Rewards

Maximizing cashback credit cards turns everyday spends into big savings. Keep these tops in mind to get the most out of every transaction and peso.

Use Your Card for Everyday Expenses

If your card gives cashback on groceries, utilities, fuel, and other essentials, use it to pay for them. Treat your card like a debit card and pay in full every month.

Take Advantage of Promo Offers

Follow your card issuer’s promotions. Some offer boosted cashback for spending at partner merchants or hitting a monthly spending target.

Subscribe to alerts or newsletters to stay updated.

Track Rewards and Redemption Options

Use your banking app and monthly statements to check:

• Your total earned cashback
• How close you are to hitting bonus tiers
• If any cashback is expiring

Set reminders so you don’t miss out on using your rewards.

Get More Out of Every Purchase

With the right cashback credit card, your money works harder for you. Whether you’re paying bills, buying groceries, or treating yourself to a nice dinner, you’ll earn something back every time.

Ready to earn while you spend? Explore your options and find a card that fits your lifestyle.

FAQs About Cashback Credit Cards

1. How do cashback credit cards work?

They return a percentage of what you spend—like 1% to 4%—as cashback. This reward is credited to your account or deducted from your next bill.

2. What’s the difference between flat rate and tiered cashback?

Flat rate cashback gives you the same rate for every purchase. Tiered gives higher rewards for specific categories like groceries or dining.

3. Do cashback rewards expire?

It depends on the bank. With BPI Amore Cashback Cards, your rewards never expire.

4. Can cashback cards be used abroad?

Yes, but check the card’s forex fee. Some cards have preferential rates for foreign transactions.

5. Is there a spending limit for earning cashback?

Yes, many cards have a cap. Always read the card’s terms and conditions.

For inquiries and comments, please send us a message or call our 24-hour BPI Contact Center at ‎(+632) 889-10000.