What you need to bring to Metrobank

Metrobank requires two forms of identification to open a savings account: one government-issued ID (passport, driver's license, national ID, or PRC license) and one secondary ID (company ID, school ID, credit card, or utility bill). Bring the originals — photocopies alone will not work. You will also need proof of address if your ID does not show your current home address; a recent utility bill, lease agreement, or government-issued document with your name and address will do.

Have your initial deposit ready. Metrobank's minimum opening deposit varies by account type — regular savings accounts typically start at 1,000 pesos, though some branches or promotions may differ. Bring cash or a check; you can deposit either at the teller window. If you are opening an account for a minor, bring the child's birth certificate and the parent or guardian's ID as well.

Write down your preferred account name exactly as you want it to appear on statements and your ATM card. Bring a list of any other account holders if you are opening a joint account — each person will need their own ID and proof of address.

Key Takeaways

  • Bring one government-issued ID and one secondary ID; photocopies are not accepted.
  • Have proof of your current address if your ID does not show where you live now.
  • Bring your minimum opening deposit in cash or check form — the amount varies by account type but is often 1,000 pesos.
  • The entire process takes 15 to 30 minutes at the branch, and you will receive your ATM card and passbook on the same day or within a few days.
  • You can also open an account online through Metrobank's website or mobile app if you meet their digital banking requirements.

Opening an account in person at a Metrobank branch

Walk into any Metrobank branch during business hours — most are open Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., and some Saturday mornings. Tell the teller or customer service representative you want to open a savings account. They will hand you an account opening form to fill out with your name, address, date of birth, occupation, and contact information. This form takes about five minutes.

Hand over your IDs and proof of address. The teller will verify them and make photocopies for the bank's file. Present your initial deposit. The teller will count it, record the amount, and credit it to your new account. You will sign signature cards — usually two or three copies — so the bank can match your signature to future transactions and checks.

Before you leave, ask whether your ATM card will be issued on the spot or mailed to you. Most branches issue debit cards immediately, though some may mail them within three to five business days. Your passbook (the record of deposits and withdrawals) is usually ready the same day. The teller will also give you a temporary reference number or receipt showing your new account number.

Opening an account online through Metrobank Digital

Metrobank offers online account opening through its website and mobile app for customers who meet certain requirements. You must be at least 18 years old, have a valid government-issued ID, and be able to verify your identity through video call or document upload. Download the Metrobank app or visit metrobank.com.ph and look for the "Open an Account" or "Digital Banking" section.

The online process asks for your personal information, ID details, and proof of address. You will upload photos of your ID and address proof directly through the app. Metrobank may request a video call to confirm your identity — this typically happens within 24 hours of submission. Once approved, your account is activated, and you can use mobile banking immediately, though your physical ATM card and passbook will arrive by mail within five to seven business days.

Online opening is faster than a branch visit, but you cannot deposit cash until your card arrives. If you need to deposit money right away, visit a branch in person instead.

What happens after your account opens

Your account is active as soon as the teller processes it or the bank approves your online application. You can begin using mobile banking or online banking immediately if you opened online; if you opened in branch, ask the teller for your login credentials or temporary password. Your ATM card will work at any Metrobank ATM and at partner ATMs nationwide once it arrives.

Metrobank will send you a welcome letter and account statements. Statements come monthly by default, though you can request quarterly or annual statements instead. Keep your passbook safe — it is your record of all transactions, though you can also check your balance through the ATM, mobile app, or by calling Metrobank's customer service line at 1-800-10-6386.

Set up a PIN for your ATM card as soon as it arrives. You will be prompted to create one at the first ATM withdrawal or through the mobile app. Do not share your PIN or online banking password with anyone, including Metrobank staff.

Account types and features at Metrobank

Metrobank offers several savings account options. The basic Metrobank Savings Account is the most common; it earns interest on your balance, has no monthly maintenance fee if you maintain a minimum balance (usually 1,000 to 5,000 pesos depending on the account variant), and comes with an ATM card and passbook. Interest rates change based on market conditions — ask the teller for the current rate when you open your account.

The Metrobank Savings Plus account offers higher interest rates if you maintain a larger minimum balance, typically 10,000 pesos or more. The Metrobank Youth Savings Account is designed for customers under 21 and may have lower minimum balances and special rates. Metrobank also offers joint accounts for two or more account holders, each with their own ATM card and equal access to the funds.

Ask the teller which account type fits your needs. If you plan to keep a small balance and make frequent withdrawals, a basic savings account is usually the best choice. If you want to earn more interest and can maintain a higher balance, ask about the Savings Plus option.

Fees and charges to know about

Metrobank charges a monthly maintenance fee if your balance falls below the minimum requirement — this is typically 100 to 300 pesos depending on your account type, though the exact amount varies. You can avoid this fee by keeping your balance above the minimum or by setting up automatic transfers from another account.

ATM withdrawals at Metrobank machines are free. Withdrawals at other banks' ATMs usually cost 11 to 15 pesos per transaction. Transferring money to another Metrobank account through online banking or mobile app is free. Transfers to other banks may cost 25 to 50 pesos depending on the amount and method. Ask the teller for a complete fee schedule when you open your account — it will also be printed on your welcome materials.

If your account sits inactive (no deposits or withdrawals) for a long time, Metrobank may charge a dormancy fee or close the account. The exact timeline varies, but most banks charge after 12 months of inactivity. Make at least one transaction per year to keep your account active.

Troubleshooting common problems

If you do not receive your ATM card within 10 business days of opening your account, visit your branch or call Metrobank customer service at 1-800-10-6386. They can check the status of your card or issue a replacement. If your card arrives damaged or does not work at an ATM, return it to any Metrobank branch and request a replacement — this usually takes three to five business days.

If you forget your online banking password, use the "Forgot Password" link on the Metrobank website or app to reset it. You will need your account number and registered email or phone number. If you forget your ATM PIN, visit any Metrobank branch with your ID and passbook to reset it at the teller window.

If you are charged a maintenance fee you believe is incorrect, or if you see a transaction you did not make, contact Metrobank within 30 days. Call 1-800-10-6386 or visit your branch with your passbook and ID. The bank will investigate and reverse the charge if it was an error.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Metrobank savings account without going to a branch?

Yes, you can open an account online through the Metrobank app or website if you have a valid government ID and can verify your identity through video call or document upload. However, you cannot deposit cash until your physical ATM card arrives by mail, which takes five to seven business days. If you need immediate access to deposit cash, open your account in person at a branch instead.

What is the minimum balance I need to keep in my Metrobank savings account?

The minimum balance varies by account type, but most basic Metrobank savings accounts require 1,000 to 5,000 pesos to avoid a monthly maintenance fee. Savings Plus accounts typically require 10,000 pesos or more. Ask the teller which minimum applies to the account type you are opening, and confirm whether the minimum is calculated daily or as a monthly average.

How much interest will I earn on my Metrobank savings account?

Interest rates change based on market conditions and your account type. Basic savings accounts typically earn between 0.25% and 1% annually, while Savings Plus accounts may earn higher rates. Ask the teller for the current rate when you open your account, and check your passbook or online banking to see how much interest you have earned each month.

What should I do if my ATM card is lost or stolen?

Call Metrobank immediately at 1-800-10-6386 or visit any branch to report the card lost or stolen. The bank will block your card to prevent unauthorized use. You can request a replacement card at the same time — it will arrive within three to five business days. In the meantime, you can withdraw cash at the teller window using your passbook and ID.

Can I open a joint savings account at Metrobank?

Yes. Both account holders must visit the branch together with their IDs and proof of address. Each person will sign the account opening form and signature cards. Both will receive their own ATM card and passbook, and both can withdraw money or check the balance independently. Ask the teller about the rules for joint accounts — some require both signatures for large withdrawals, while others allow either holder to act alone.