June 23, 2025
Freelancers enjoy higher levels of independence and increased earning potential. However, being a freelancer also means not having the traditional perks of an office job, such as a fixed monthly salary and a payslip. These facts of life have led many freelancers to doubt whether they can qualify for a credit card.
The good news is that freelancers definitely can get a credit card! Banks are increasingly recognizing the vibrant and growing freelance and online selling economy in the Philippines. Let’s talk about the best credit cards for freelancers and online sellers and how you can boost your chances of approval.
The “No Regular Payslip” Dilemma: How Banks See You
Historically, banks preferred applicants with traditional employment and fixed monthly salaries. This made it a bit tricky for freelancers and online sellers whose income can fluctuate. However, this doesn’t mean that freelancers cannot get credit cards.
As a matter of fact, banks now understand that consistent income doesn’t always come with a payslip. So, credit card requirements now include proof of income stability (as opposed to a payslip), regardless of its source.
This means your focus shifts from showing a single employer to demonstrating a reliable income stream over time. Think of it as painting a complete financial picture of your thriving independent career.
The Path to a Credit Card for Freelancers in the Philippines
There are two main categories for the best credit card for freelancers and online sellers:
Secured Credit Cards
This is often the easiest and most recommended starting point for freelancers and online sellers.
To qualify for a secured credit card, you first need to deposit a certain amount of money into a savings account with the bank. This serves as your collateral and the basis of your credit limit (usually a percentage of the deposited amount).
The great thing about secured cards is that they are much easier to get approved for, as the bank has less risk. They are an excellent way to build a positive credit history, which can then pave the way for you to qualify for unsecured cards in the future.
Banks offering secured cards & deposit requirements:
| Bank | Deposit | Limit (approx. % of deposit) | Notes |
| RCBC InstaCard | ₱10,000 | 90% | Easy start |
| BPI Express Start | ₱10,000 | 80% | ₱10K holdout—seamless set-up |
| Metrobank M Free Mastercard | ₱17,000 | 80–90% | No annual fee |
| Security Bank Fast Track | ₱15,000 | 80% | Processed in ~3 banking days |
| AUB Secured Credit Card | ₱25,000 | 80% | Painless approval; no annual fee |
Unsecured Credit Cards via “Pre‑Approval”
Unlike secured credit cards, you don’t need a security deposit to qualify for unsecured credit cards.
These are the most common credit cards that typically have strict financial capacity requirements and long processing times. Your approval and credit limit depend on your creditworthiness, which banks assess through your income, credit history, and financial standing.
Once you’ve built a solid financial profile and potentially some credit history with a secured card, you can consider these unsecured options which may have lower income requirements or offer specific benefits that align with freelance/online seller needs. When choosing, consider whether a cashback vs rewards credit card fits your spending habits best.
| Credit Card | Income Requirement | Annual Fee | Ideal For |
| PNB Ze-Lo Mastercard | ₱10,000–₱15,000 (estimated)* | ₱0 | Budget-conscious first-timers |
| UnionBank Rewards Credit Card | ₱15,000–₱20,000 (estimated)* | ₱2,500 (often waived) | Freelancers who want perks and flexibility |
| Metrobank Titanium Mastercard | ₱15,000–₱20,000 | ₱2,500 (waivable) | Online sellers with frequent transactions |
| BPI Rewards Card | ₱15,000 | ₱1,550 | First-time applicants and frequent spenders |
Tips to Boost Your Credit Card Application as a Freelancer
Credit card applications for freelancers or online sellers require a bit more strategic preparation. Here are some key tips:
1. Register Your Business (DTI and BIR)
If you operate as a sole proprietor or independent professional, you need to formally register your freelance practice or online selling business with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR). This adds significant legitimacy to your source of income.
- DTI Registration: Registering your business name with the DTI (for sole proprietors) establishes a legal identity for your enterprise. This shows banks that you are a serious and established professional, not just an individual with sporadic income. It helps formalize your “business” in the eyes of financial institutions. The process can often be done online through the DTI BNRS Portal.
- BIR Registration: Registering with the BIR is crucial for all self-employed individuals, including freelancers and online sellers. It allows you to legally issue official receipts, file your Income Tax Returns (ITR), and demonstrate your compliance with tax obligations. Your ITRs become powerful proof of consistent income, which is a primary factor banks consider for credit card approvals. BIR registration provides you with a Certificate of Registration (BIR Form 2303), which is a key document to present.
2. Maintain Consistent Bank Transactions
Use one primary account for all your business transactions to maintain consistency. This creates a clear and traceable record of your earnings, which is crucial for banks to assess your financial stability. They look for regular deposits that reflect your ongoing work.
3. Build a Relationship with Your Bank
If you already have a savings account with a particular bank and maintain a good relationship with them, start by inquiring about their credit card offerings. Sometimes, an endorsement from your branch manager, based on your consistent account activity, can significantly improve your chances of approval.
4. Start with a Secured Credit Card
We cannot emphasize this enough. If you are having trouble getting approval for an unsecured card, your best credit card option as a freelancer is a secured credit card. It is a fantastic stepping stone to building a strong credit history and understanding credit card terms and best practices.
5. Declare All Your Income
When filling out the application, be sure to declare all legitimate sources of your freelance or online selling income. This paints a more complete and accurate picture of your financial capacity and can help justify a higher credit limit.
6. Avoid Multiple Applications at Once
Applying to too many banks simultaneously can negatively impact your credit score. Each application triggers a “hard inquiry” on your credit report, which temporarily lowers your score. Apply for one or two cards that you genuinely qualify for first.
7. Know Your Income Stability
While your income as a freelancer or online seller may fluctuate, try to show a consistent average monthly earning over the last 6-12 months. Banks are primarily looking for sustained income, even if it comes from multiple clients or projects. Highlighting your average monthly earnings helps convey this stability.
Your Journey Starts Here
As a freelancer or online seller, you are an entrepreneur, a go-getter, and a vital part of the Philippine economy. You deserve access to financial tools that support your growth and aspirations. Getting a credit card is a significant step towards achieving greater financial freedom and stability.
Have you got your eye on the ideal credit card as a freelancer or online business owner in the Philippines? Don’t let the traditional requirements intimidate you. Cards.ph is your ultimate resource. Our platform allows you to effortlessly research about and choose the best credit cards for your needs before applying online.
Start your credit card journey today! Visit Cards.ph and let us help you find the perfect credit card for your unique freelance or online selling lifestyle.