What BPI charges to keep a savings account open
BPI requires you to maintain a minimum balance in your savings account to avoid monthly maintenance fees. The exact amount depends on which type of BPI savings account you hold — different products have different thresholds. If your balance drops below the required minimum, BPI will charge you a monthly maintenance fee, typically between ₱300 and ₱500 depending on the account type.
The most common BPI savings accounts are the BPI Savings Account (regular) and the BPI Savings Account Plus. The regular savings account generally requires a minimum balance of ₱5,000, while the Plus version may have a higher requirement. Some specialty accounts, like those tied to payroll or student programs, may have lower or no minimum balance requirements.
These minimums are not one-time deposits — you must keep that amount in the account at all times. If you fall below the threshold even once during a billing cycle, the maintenance fee applies to that month. The fee is deducted directly from your account balance.
Key Takeaways
- BPI savings accounts require you to maintain a minimum balance, typically ₱5,000 for standard accounts, to avoid monthly maintenance fees.
- If your balance falls below the minimum at any point during the month, BPI charges a maintenance fee of ₱300 to ₱500 depending on account type.
- The exact minimum balance and fee amount vary by account product, so you should check your account documents or contact BPI directly to confirm your specific requirements.
- Some specialty accounts linked to payroll, student status, or other programs may have lower minimums or waived requirements.
- The maintenance fee is deducted from your account, which can push your balance even lower if you are already near the minimum.
How to find your specific minimum balance requirement
Your account documents — the ones you received when you opened the account — should list your minimum balance requirement. Look for the terms and conditions sheet or account agreement. If you no longer have those papers, you can find this information by logging into BPI Online or the BPI mobile app and checking your account details.
The fastest way is to call BPI customer service at 1-800-1-888-BPI (1-800-1-888-274) or visit a BPI branch in person. Have your account number ready. A representative can tell you the exact minimum balance for your specific account type and what the maintenance fee is if you fall below it.
What happens when your balance drops below the minimum
BPI does not freeze your account or prevent you from withdrawing money if you go below the minimum. You can continue to use your debit card, make transfers, and withdraw cash. However, the maintenance fee will be charged to your account during the next billing cycle — usually at the end of the month.
If your balance is very low when the fee is charged, the maintenance fee itself can make your balance negative. BPI may then charge overdraft fees or other penalties. This creates a cycle where one month below the minimum can trigger multiple fees.
The maintenance fee appears on your monthly statement as a deduction. You can review it by checking your statement online, through the mobile app, or by requesting a paper copy from a branch.
Ways to avoid or reduce maintenance fees
The simplest way to avoid the maintenance fee is to keep your balance at or above the minimum at all times. If maintaining ₱5,000 is difficult, ask BPI whether you may have access to for a waiver. Some accounts waive the minimum balance requirement if you set up automatic salary deposits, maintain a linked credit card, or meet other conditions.
Some BPI accounts also waive the maintenance fee if you maintain a certain average balance over the month rather than a minimum at any single point. Ask your branch or customer service whether your account offers this option.
If you are a student or have a payroll account with BPI, you may already have a lower minimum or no minimum at all. Check your account agreement to see what applies to you.
Comparing BPI savings accounts by minimum balance
| Account Type | Typical Minimum Balance | Monthly Maintenance Fee (if below minimum) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| BPI Savings Account | ₱5,000 | ₱300–₱500 | Standard account; fee varies by branch or product tier |
| BPI Savings Account Plus | ₱10,000 or higher | ₱500+ | Higher minimum; higher interest rate potential |
| BPI Student Savings Account | ₱0–₱1,000 | Waived or reduced | Requires valid student ID; may have no minimum |
| BPI Payroll Account | ₱0–₱5,000 | Often waived | Minimum may be waived if salary is deposited |
The amounts shown are typical but can vary by branch, product update, or promotional period. Contact BPI directly to confirm the current requirements for your account.
What to do if you cannot maintain the minimum
If keeping ₱5,000 in your account is not realistic for your situation, talk to BPI about your options. Some branches offer accounts with lower minimums or no minimum requirement, though these may have different features or interest rates. You might also ask about waiving the maintenance fee based on your circumstances.
Another option is to move money into the account only when you need to use it, accept the monthly fee as a cost, and budget for it. This is not ideal, but it is a choice some people make if they cannot meet the minimum consistently.
If you are unhappy with BPI's requirements, you can also research other banks. Some Philippine banks offer savings accounts with lower or no minimum balance requirements, though they may offer lower interest rates or fewer features.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get the maintenance fee waived if I go below the minimum by accident?
BPI may waive a single fee if you contact them quickly and explain the situation, especially if it is your first time falling below the minimum. There is no may provide, but it is worth asking your branch or customer service. Repeated fees are less likely to be waived.
Does the minimum balance earn interest?
Yes, your entire account balance earns interest, including the minimum balance portion. However, BPI savings account interest rates are typically very low — often less than 1% per year. The interest you earn will likely be much less than the maintenance fee if you fall below the minimum.
What if my account balance is exactly at the minimum — will I be charged a fee?
No. If your balance is exactly at the minimum or above it at any time during the billing cycle, you will not be charged a maintenance fee. The fee only applies when your balance falls below the required amount.
Do I need to maintain the minimum balance every single day?
BPI typically checks your balance at the end of each day or at specific points during the billing cycle. As long as your balance meets the minimum at those check points, you should not be charged. However, the safest approach is to keep your balance at or above the minimum at all times to avoid any risk of a fee.
Can I transfer money out of my account if I am at the minimum balance?
Yes, you can withdraw or transfer money even if you are at the minimum balance. However, once you go below the minimum, the maintenance fee will be charged in the next billing cycle. Plan your withdrawals accordingly if you are close to the threshold.