What you need to open a BPI checking account
BPI (Bank of the Philippine Islands) requires you to bring a valid government-issued ID, proof of address, and your Social Security System (SSS) number or Tax Identification Number (TIN) to any BPI branch. You do not need an existing account to start. Walk into a branch during business hours, tell the teller you want to open a checking account, and they will hand you an application form to fill out on the spot.
The proof of address can be a recent utility bill, lease agreement, or government-issued document showing your current address. BPI accepts most forms of ID: a passport, driver's license, PRC license, or UMID card all work. If you do not have an SSS or TIN number yet, you can still open the account — BPI will ask you to provide it later, but it will not stop you from opening immediately.
Some branches offer online pre-registration through the BPI website, which lets you fill out basic information before you arrive. This shortens the time you spend at the branch, but you still have to show up in person with your documents to complete the account opening and sign the signature card.
Key Takeaways
- Bring a valid government ID, proof of address, and your SSS or TIN number to any BPI branch during business hours.
- The entire process takes 15 to 30 minutes at the branch, and your account opens the same day.
- BPI checking accounts have a minimum opening deposit that varies by account type — ask the teller which accounts are available at your branch.
- You can use online pre-registration on the BPI website to fill out your application before you arrive, but you must still visit the branch in person.
Types of checking accounts BPI offers
BPI offers several checking account options, and the one you can open depends on your opening deposit and how you plan to use the account. The most common option for individuals is the BPI Savings Account or BPI Checking Account, which have different minimum opening deposits. Ask the teller which accounts are currently available at your branch, because BPI sometimes changes the lineup or temporarily closes certain products.
Some accounts come with a debit card automatically; others require you to request one. Some have monthly maintenance fees that are waived if you keep a minimum balance or maintain a certain number of transactions per month. The teller will explain the fees and features for each account type before you decide which one to open.
If you are opening an account for a business, you will need to bring different documents — typically a business registration certificate, a board resolution authorizing the account, and identification for the authorized signatories. Business accounts have higher minimum deposits and different fee structures than personal accounts.
Minimum opening deposit and ongoing fees
The minimum opening deposit for a BPI checking account varies depending on the account type. Some accounts require as little as 1,000 pesos; others require 5,000 pesos or more. The teller will tell you the exact amount for each account type when you arrive at the branch. You can pay this deposit in cash or by check.
Monthly maintenance fees also vary by account type. Some accounts waive the fee if you maintain a minimum balance (often 10,000 to 25,000 pesos, depending on the account). Others waive it if you complete a certain number of transactions per month — for example, at least three debit card purchases or two fund transfers. Ask the teller for a written breakdown of all fees before you sign the application.
If your account falls below the minimum balance and you do not meet the transaction waiver, BPI will deduct the maintenance fee from your account each month. The fee is usually between 150 and 300 pesos, but it depends on the account type.
How to complete the application at the branch
When you arrive at the BPI branch, go to the new accounts desk or tell any teller you want to open a checking account. They will give you an application form and a pen. The form asks for your full name, date of birth, address, phone number, email, SSS or TIN number, and employment information. Fill it out completely and legibly — BPI staff will not process an incomplete form.
After you finish the form, the teller will review it with you to make sure everything is correct. They will then ask you to sign the signature card — a card that BPI keeps on file so they can match your signature to checks and withdrawal requests later. Sign it the same way you plan to sign checks and other documents. Do not print your name; actually sign it.
The teller will make copies of your ID and proof of address and attach them to your application. They will then process your opening deposit and issue you a temporary debit card or tell you when your permanent card will arrive by mail. Some branches issue the card on the spot; others mail it within 5 to 7 business days.
When your account is active and how to use it
Your checking account is active the same day you open it. You can begin depositing checks and making withdrawals immediately. If you received a temporary debit card at the branch, you can use it right away at BPI ATMs and at merchants that accept it. If your card is being mailed, BPI will send it to the address you provided on the application.
BPI will also set up online banking access for you at the branch or shortly after. Ask the teller for instructions on how to log in to BPI Online or the BPI Mobile app. You will need to create a username and password. Once you are logged in, you can transfer money between your own accounts, pay bills, and check your balance without visiting a branch.
Checks usually arrive in the mail within 2 to 3 weeks. If you need checks sooner, you can order them through BPI Online or ask the branch to order them for you. There is a fee for check orders, typically 50 to 100 pesos per book of 25 checks.
What to do if you cannot visit a branch in person
BPI does not currently offer fully online account opening without a branch visit. You must appear in person with your original ID and proof of address to complete the account opening. However, you can use the online pre-registration to fill out your application before you arrive, which saves time at the branch.
If you live far from a BPI branch, you can visit any BPI branch in the country — you do not have to open your account at a specific location. BPI has branches in most cities and towns, and you can find the nearest one on the BPI website or by calling their customer service line.
If you are unable to visit a branch yourself, a family member or authorized representative can open the account on your behalf, but they will need a notarized power of attorney document signed by you, in addition to your original ID and proof of address.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to open a BPI checking account?
The process takes 15 to 30 minutes at the branch if you have all your documents ready. Your account is active the same day. If you use online pre-registration, you can shorten the branch visit to 10 to 15 minutes because the teller will not have to fill out the form with you.
Can I open a BPI checking account if I do not have an SSS or TIN number?
Yes, you can open the account without an SSS or TIN number. BPI will ask you to provide it later, usually within 30 days. You can submit it by visiting the branch again, calling customer service, or uploading it through BPI Online.
What happens if I do not maintain the minimum balance?
If your balance falls below the minimum and you do not meet the transaction waiver requirement, BPI will charge you a monthly maintenance fee, usually 150 to 300 pesos depending on your account type. The fee is deducted automatically from your account each month until your balance rises above the minimum again.
Can I open a joint checking account at BPI?
Yes, BPI offers joint accounts. Both account holders must visit the branch together with their IDs and proof of address. You will both sign the signature card and the application. Ask the teller about the rules for withdrawals and fund transfers on joint accounts, as they vary by account type.
How do I get my debit card if I was not issued one at the branch?
BPI will mail your debit card to the address you provided on your application within 5 to 7 business days. You can track the status by calling BPI customer service or logging into BPI Online. If your card does not arrive within two weeks, contact the branch where you opened the account.