What you need to bring to BDO
BDO (Banco de Oro) requires two forms of identification and proof of your current address before you can open a savings account. One ID must be government-issued with your photo — a passport, driver's license, or national ID card. The second can be any valid ID, including a company badge, school ID, or professional license.
For proof of address, bring a recent utility bill, water bill, or lease agreement in your name dated within the last three months. If you don't have a utility bill, a bank statement, insurance document, or government-issued mail with your address will work. BDO accepts these documents in either English or Filipino.
You'll also need to know your intended opening deposit amount. BDO savings accounts have different minimum opening deposits depending on the account type — some start at PHP 1,000, while others require more. Ask the bank representative which account type fits your situation before you visit, so you know whether you have enough to open the account you want.
Key Takeaways
- Bring two forms of ID (one government-issued with a photo) and proof of your address dated within three months to any BDO branch.
- The minimum opening deposit varies by account type, so confirm the amount required for the specific account you want before you go.
- You can open an account in person at any BDO branch during business hours — no appointment is needed at most locations.
- The account opens the same day you visit, and you receive a passbook and ATM card either when ready or within a few business days.
- If you're under 18, a parent or legal guardian must be present and provide their own ID and proof of address.
Steps to open your account in person
Walk into any BDO branch during business hours with your documents and opening deposit. Tell the teller or customer service representative that you want to open a savings account. They will give you an account opening form to fill out — this asks for your name, date of birth, address, employment status, and the type of account you want.
Hand the completed form back along with your IDs and proof of address. The representative will verify your documents, confirm your opening deposit amount, and process the account. This usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. Once approved, you'll sign the account agreement and receive your passbook when ready. Your ATM card may be issued on the spot or arrive by mail within three to five business days, depending on the branch.
Ask the representative to show you how to use your passbook and explain the account features — interest rates, withdrawal limits, and any monthly fees. Write down your account number and keep it in a safe place. If you plan to use online banking, ask about setting up BDO Online Banking at the same time.
Types of BDO savings accounts and their differences
BDO offers several savings account options, and the one you choose affects your minimum opening deposit and the interest you earn. The BDO Savings Account is the most basic option, designed for everyday savers with lower opening deposit requirements. The BDO Savings Account with Relationship Pricing offers higher interest rates if you maintain a larger balance or have other BDO products.
The BDO High-Yield Savings Account pays more interest but typically requires a higher opening deposit and minimum balance. If you're young or a student, BDO may offer a youth or student savings account with lower minimums and special features. Ask the branch which account matches your savings goals and how much you need to deposit to open each one.
Don't choose based on the account name alone — the interest rate, fees, and minimum balance requirements are what actually affect your money. A representative can show you a comparison of what each account costs and earns over a year, so you can decide which fits your situation.
What happens if you're under 18
If you're a minor, a parent or legal guardian must come with you to open the account. They will need to bring their own government-issued ID and proof of address — the same documents you're bringing. Both of you will sign the account opening form, and the account will be in your name but under parental supervision until you turn 18.
Once you turn 18, you can visit the branch and update the account to remove the guardian requirement. Bring your government-issued ID showing your new age, and the bank will process the change. Until then, the guardian may be able to withdraw money or check the balance, depending on how the account was set up — ask the representative about the specific rules when you open it.
Opening a BDO account without visiting a branch
BDO offers online account opening through their website and mobile app, though the process still requires some in-person steps. You can start the process online, but you must visit a BDO branch within a set timeframe to verify your identity and make your opening deposit. This option saves time if you live far from a branch or have a busy schedule, because you complete the paperwork before you arrive.
To start online, go to the BDO website or read the BDO app, look for the account opening section, and follow the prompts. You'll enter your personal information and choose your account type. The app will tell you which branch is nearest and when you need to visit. Bring the same documents you would for an in-person opening — the online process doesn't eliminate the ID and address verification step.
Fees and ongoing account costs
BDO savings accounts may have a monthly maintenance fee, though some accounts waive the fee if you maintain a minimum balance or meet other conditions. The fee amount and the balance required to avoid it depend on which account type you choose. Ask the representative for the fee schedule in writing before you open the account, so you know exactly what you'll pay each month.
You won't be charged for basic transactions like deposits or balance inquiries at the branch. However, some services cost extra — withdrawing money at an ATM outside the BDO network, requesting a replacement passbook, or stopping a check payment may have fees. The representative can give you a full fee schedule when you open the account. Review it carefully, because fees reduce the interest you earn.
What to do after your account opens
Once your account is open, set up online banking if you didn't do it at the branch. Go to the BDO website, click on BDO Online Banking, and register using your account number and the temporary password the bank gave you. Change the password to something only you know, and enable two-factor authentication if BDO offers it — this adds a security step when you log in from a new device.
Keep your passbook and ATM card in a safe place. Your passbook is your record of deposits and withdrawals, and your ATM card lets you withdraw money 24/7. If you lose either one, visit the branch when ready to report it and request a replacement. Write down your account number and customer service phone number and keep them separate from your cards — you'll need them if something goes wrong.
Start making regular deposits, even if they're small. The interest you earn compounds over time, meaning you earn interest on your interest. The more you deposit and the longer you leave the money in the account, the more it grows. Check your passbook or online banking monthly to watch your balance increase and stay aware of any fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a BDO savings account online without visiting a branch?
You can start the process online through the BDO website or app, but you must visit a branch in person to verify your identity and make your opening deposit. The online step saves time on paperwork, but the bank requires face-to-face verification before the account becomes active.
What's the minimum amount I need to open a BDO savings account?
The minimum opening deposit varies by account type, ranging from PHP 1,000 to higher amounts for premium accounts. Contact your nearest BDO branch or check their website to confirm the opening deposit for the specific account you want.
How long does it take to get my ATM card after I open the account?
Some branches issue your ATM card when ready when you open the account. Others mail it within three to five business days. Ask the representative when you open the account whether your card will be issued on the spot or sent by mail.
Do I need a job to open a BDO savings account?
No. The account opening form asks about your employment status, but you don't need a job to open a savings account. Students, retirees, and self-employed people can all open accounts. You only need valid ID, proof of address, and your opening deposit.
What happens if my account balance falls below the minimum?
If your account type has a minimum balance requirement and your balance drops below it, you may be charged a monthly maintenance fee. The fee amount depends on your account type. Review the fee schedule the bank gives you to understand what happens if your balance falls short.