What you need to open a BDO Kabayan account

A BDO Kabayan savings account is a basic deposit account offered by Banco de Oro (BDO), one of the Philippines' largest banks. You can open one in person at any BDO branch with a valid ID, proof of address, and an initial deposit. The account is designed for everyday savers and requires no minimum balance to keep it open once it's established.

BDO Kabayan accounts come with a debit card, online banking access, and the ability to withdraw cash at any BDO ATM nationwide. Interest rates on the account balance vary and change periodically, so you should ask the bank directly what rate applies when you open your account.

Key Takeaways

  • You need one valid government-issued ID, proof of your current address, and cash for the opening deposit to start the account in person.
  • BDO branches are open Monday through Friday during standard banking hours, with limited Saturday service at some locations—call ahead to confirm your branch's schedule.
  • The account comes with a debit card and online banking, but the card typically arrives by mail within one to two weeks after opening.
  • You can also open the account through BDO's mobile app or website if you already have a BDO account, which is faster than visiting a branch.
  • There is no monthly maintenance fee, but some transactions like international transfers or cash advances may carry charges.

Documents and ID requirements

Bring one valid government-issued ID—a passport, driver's license, national ID, or postal ID all work. The ID must be current and have your photograph and signature on it. BDO will not accept expired IDs, even if the expiration is recent.

You also need proof of your current address. A utility bill, water bill, internet bill, or lease agreement dated within the last three months will work. If you cannot provide a recent bill in your name, a barangay certification of residence is accepted at most branches, though you should call ahead to confirm your specific branch takes it.

Bring your initial deposit in cash. The minimum opening deposit is typically 1,000 pesos, though some branches may ask for slightly more. Ask when you call to confirm the exact amount your branch requires.

Steps to open the account at a BDO branch

Go to any BDO branch during business hours with your ID, proof of address, and opening deposit. Tell the teller you want to open a Kabayan savings account. They will give you an account opening form to fill out with your personal information, contact details, and employment status.

The teller will verify your documents, process your deposit, and assign you an account number on the spot. You will receive a temporary passbook when ready. Your debit card will be mailed to the address you provided and usually arrives within one to two weeks—the bank will send it by registered mail.

Once your account is open, you can use online banking right away by registering on the BDO website or mobile app with your account number and ID number. You do not need to wait for the debit card to arrive to start using the account.

Opening the account online or through the BDO app

If you already have a BDO account, you can open a Kabayan savings account through the BDO mobile app or website without visiting a branch. Log into your existing account, select the option to open a new account, and follow the prompts to choose Kabayan savings.

The process takes about 10 minutes. You will need to confirm your identity and choose how much to transfer from your existing account as the opening deposit. The new account is active when ready, and you can transfer money into it right away.

If you do not have an existing BDO account, you must open your first account in person at a branch. Once that account is established, you can open additional accounts online.

What happens after you open the account

Your account is ready to use when ready. You can deposit money at any BDO ATM or teller window, transfer funds online, and set up automatic bill payments through BDO's online banking platform. Your debit card will arrive by mail within one to two weeks.

When the card arrives, set up it through the BDO app or by calling the number on the card. You can then use it to withdraw cash at BDO ATMs and other ATMs in the Bancnet network, or to make purchases at merchants that accept Visa debit cards.

Check your account regularly through online banking or your passbook. BDO sends statements monthly, and you can view transaction history anytime through the app or website.

Fees and charges to know about

There is no monthly maintenance fee on a Kabayan savings account. However, some transactions do carry charges. Withdrawals at non-BDO ATMs typically cost 10 to 15 pesos per transaction, depending on the ATM network. International wire transfers, cash advances, and stop-payment requests all have separate fees.

Ask the teller for a complete fee schedule when you open your account, or check the BDO website for the current fee list. Fees change occasionally, so it is worth reviewing them once a year.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a BDO Kabayan account if I don't have a permanent address?

Most branches require proof of a current address within the last three months. If you are living temporarily or do not have a utility bill in your name, ask your branch whether they will accept a barangay certification of residence or a letter from your landlord as proof of address.

What if my debit card doesn't arrive after two weeks?

Contact BDO customer service or visit your branch to report the missing card. They can reissue it, though a replacement card may take another one to two weeks. In the meantime, you can still withdraw cash at teller windows or use online banking to transfer money.

Can I open a Kabayan account for someone else?

No. The account holder must open the account themselves with their own ID and signature. A parent or guardian can open a savings account for a minor, but the minor's birth certificate and the guardian's ID are required.

Is there a limit to how much I can deposit or withdraw?

There is no daily deposit limit. Withdrawals at BDO tellers have no limit, but ATM withdrawals are typically capped at 10,000 to 20,000 pesos per day depending on your card type. You can request a higher daily limit through the app or by visiting your branch.

What if I lose my debit card?

Call BDO's customer service line or visit your branch when ready to report the card lost. They will block it to prevent fraud and can issue a replacement. You can still access your money through online banking or by withdrawing at a teller window while you wait for the replacement card.