Credit Cards for Low-Income Earners in the Philippines

You don’t need to earn six figures to benefit from a credit card. In fact, the right card can help you manage your expenses, build a good credit history, and even earn a little back on everyday spending.

If you’re living on a budget, there are options built for you—offering low or waived annual fees, flexible payment features, and reward systems that actually work with your lifestyle.

What to Look for in a Credit Card if You're on a Budget

For low-income earners, every peso counts, so the ideal card should minimize costs and maximize value. Focus on cards that offer straightforward benefits with minimal risk.

Avoid cards packed with frills you won’t use or fees you can’t afford. The simpler, the better—especially when you’re on a budget.

Key Features to Prioritize:

• Waived or zero annual fees
• Low income requirements
• Essential rewards or cashback (e.g., groceries, fuel, bills)
• Flexible payment terms (good for variable income)

Best Credit Cards for Low-Income Earners

Here’s a list of the best credit cards in the Philippines that are ideal for low-income earners:

These cards prove that affordability doesn’t mean sacrificing features. Whether you're a student, freelancer, or retiree, there’s a low-cost credit card to help you manage daily expenses and build credit over time.

Best Credit Cards Depending on Your Lifestyle Needs

No two cardholders are alike—and neither are their financial needs. Whether you're a student starting out, a freelancer managing your cash flow, or a senior living on a fixed income, there's a card made for your lifestyle and budget.

Here are the best credit card options in the Philippines tailored to different needs:

For Freelancers and Entrepreneurs

Self-employed individuals need credit cards that are flexible and practical, with perks that support both personal and business expenses.​

• UnionBank Rewards Credit Card
  Earn 3x non-expiring reward points when you shop and dine here and abroad. Earn 1 non-expiring reward point for every ₱30 spend. Redeem cash credits, merchandise, gadgets, points transfers, and more. ​
  
  
• Metrobank Titanium Mastercard®
  Earn 2x rewards points on dining, department store, and online purchases. Earn one (1) point for every ₱20 spend. Enjoy exclusive credit card features from Metrobank.
  
  

For Students and First-Time Cardholders

Just beginning your credit journey? Choose cards with low income requirements, fewer fees, and starter-friendly perks.​

• PNB Ze-Lo Mastercard
  Zero annual fees for life on principal and supplementary cards. No late payment or overlimit fees. Finance charge for as low as 1.88%. Swipe your card abroad and pay in Philippine Peso. Use it anywhere in the world where Mastercard is accepted.
  
  
• Maybank Visa Classic
  Earn one (1) Treat Point for every ₱25 spend. Auto-convert overseas spend to Philippine Peso. Accepted in over 20 million locations and territories. Free annual fee for the first year of credit card use.​
  
  
• UnionBank U Visa Platinum
  No annual fees for life. Earn a 10% rebate on interest charge when you pay at least the minimum amount due on or before the due date. No overlimit and late fees.​
  
  

For Seniors and Retirees

If you're managing a fixed income, pick a credit card that helps you stretch your money further through rebates and savings.​

• BPI Rewards Card
  Earn one (1) reward point for every ₱35 spend. Avail flexible installment plans with terms up to 36 months. Free travel insurance wherever you go up to ₱2 million. Enjoy a variety of year-round discounts and perks.​
  
  
• Metrobank Titanium Mastercard®
  Earn 2x rewards points on dining, department store, and online purchases. Earn one (1) point for every ₱20 spend. Enjoy exclusive credit card features from Metrobank. ​
  
  

For OFWs and Families Abroad

Stay in control of your Philippine expenses even while working overseas. These cards offer low forex rates¹:

• BPI Amore Cashback Card
  Get up to 4% cash back on supermarkets and department store spend. Get up to 1% cash back on drugstore and bills payment spend. Earn up to 0.3% cash back on all other local retail spend. Enjoy unlimited access exclusive customer and family lounges in yala Malls. This card offers one of the lowest forex conversion rates at 1.85%.​
  
  
• BPI Edge Mastercard
  Earn one (1) rewards point for every ₱50 spend. Enjoy flexible installment plans and payment options. This offers one of the lowest forex conversion rates at 1.85%. Enjoy deals and discounts all year round from BPI.
  
  
• Maybank Standard Mastercard
  Earn one (1) Treat Point for every ₱25 spend. Pay for overseas purchases in Philippine Peso. Free annual fee for the first year of credit card use.​

Do’s and Don’ts: Smart Credit Card Use on a Low Income

Using a credit card on a limited budget requires discipline. Here are some essential do’s and don’ts to help you use your card wisely—and avoid common traps.

DO:

• Pay in full and on time
• Use for essentials only
• Keep credit utilization² below 30%
• Review your statements monthly
• Take advantage of installment plans for big purchases
  
  

DON’T:

• Don’t take cash advances
• Don’t use your card to spend beyond your means
• Don’t chase rewards at the expense of savings
• Don’t forget your due dates

Used correctly, a credit card can be a stepping stone—not a stumbling block. Stick to these smart habits to build your credit, not your debt.

Find Your Best Match
Don’t just grab the first credit card offer you see—especially when you’re working with a limited budget. The right card can improve your financial life, while the wrong one can set you back.

Easily compare credit cards through Moneymax so you can find your best match today. 

Sources: 

[1] BPI Credit Cards’ Low Foreign Exchange Conversion Rate 

[2] What Is A Credit Utilization Rate? (Experian, November 2023)