Apart from being a convenient payment method, credit cards have become an essential financial tool for many Filipinos. Today’s modern consumers rely on their credit cards for making cashless payments and for handling their day-to-day expenses. Additionally, the wide variety of credit cards available today contributes to their popularity, with many providers offering appealing perks that cater to a wide range of lifestyles.

The sheer number of credit card choices in the Philippines can make it challenging to find the one that best suits your unique lifestyle and financial needs. Having a credit card that doesn’t match your spending habits can result in wasted time and benefits, as well as unnecessary costs. That’s why it’s crucial to select a card that aligns with your financial goals and lifestyle right from the get-go. With a well-suited credit card, you’ll be able to manage your budget more effectively and enjoy benefits that make spending more rewarding.

In this article, we’ll explore some of the key factors that will help you determine whether a specific credit card matches your needs..

1. Your Spending Habits

One factor you need to consider is your regular spending habits. If you often shop for groceries in bulk, for example, you’ll understand the advantage of having access to a variety of products and the importance of maximizing your monthly household budget. A credit card that offers rewards or cashback for these large, routine purchases can help you stretch your budget further while ensuring that you have all the essentials for your family. The Landers Cashback Everywhere Credit Card by Maya is one great example of such a credit card.

It gives you up to 5% cashback at Landers, and all you need to do is accumulate PHP 50,000 worth of total spending on your card for the month—and that includes not just what you spend at Landers but anywhere you pay using your credit card. Since the Landers Cashback Everywhere Credit Card is also a Landers membership card, you can use it to enjoy exclusive access to premium finds, superb dining experiences, and other special perks at any Landers branch.

2. The Credit Card’s Online Functionalities

In today’s digitally connected world, a credit card that offers comprehensive online functions is often the best match for many Filipinos' modern lifestyles. The convenience online banking apps provide can save time and provide greater control over your finances whenever and wherever you may be. So, if you’re someone who is always on the go or prefers digital solutions, be sure to look for such a card.

Aside from being able to manage your credit card anytime and anywhere later on, a key advantage of such a credit card is access to an online credit card application process. The ability to apply for a credit card without having to visit a bank makes it a great choice for those with busy schedules. In the case of the Landers Everywhere Cashback Credit Card, you can apply in minutes right on the Maya app. Just make sure to have an upgraded Maya account to access the credit card online application feature. Upgrading is free and requires only 1-2 valid IDs.

Once your application has been approved and you have received your card, you can use the Maya app to stay organized and maintain control over your spending. You can set daily spending limits for different types of credit card transactions, such as online payments, contactless payments, the amount you can spend per day, and more. This provides an extra layer of protection against overspending and fraud.

3. The Rewards and Benefits Offered by the Credit Card

Credit cards come with various rewards programs, from cashback to miles and even exclusive offers such as discounts and access to special events. Understanding the type of rewards offered is key to ensuring the card aligns with your lifestyle. For those who enjoy everyday purchases, cashback credit cards offer a simple, no-fuss way to earn back a percentage of what you spend.

This is the case with the Landers Cashback Everywhere Credit Card. Aside from your Landers purchases, you can earn 2% cashback on dining spends and 1% on all other qualified transactions*. Once you earn enough cashback points, these are converted into cashback vouchers that you can use at any Landers Superstore nationwide. You'll also receive a notification when you unlock a cashback voucher so you know when you can use your available cashback vouchers.

To use these vouchers, simply log in to Maya and go to "Cards.” Select your credit card, and at the bottom of your screen, tap the middle icon to open the “Rewards” screen. From here, you’ll be able to view and select a cashback voucher. Tap “Claim” to reveal a voucher code. Then, present your voucher code at any Landers branch upon checkout

4. Interest Rates and Fees

Interest rates and annual fees can also make a big difference in the overall cost of owning a credit card, so make sure to consider this when selecting a credit card. If you tend to carry a balance from month to month, it’s essential to check the card's interest rates to avoid paying high interest on unpaid balances.

On the other hand, if you always pay your balance in full, you might be more focused on minimizing fees rather than interest rates. Also, pay attention to the annual fee, which varies depending on the card. High-end cards with extensive perks, such as travel rewards, concierge services, and exclusive access, usually come with higher annual fees.

5. Security Features and Fraud Protection

Security is another critical factor when choosing a credit card. If you often make digital transactions, ensuring that your card is equipped with robust security features can help protect you from fraud. With this in mind, an important feature to look for is the availability of a dynamic CVV.

The traditional credit card CVV that’s found on the back of your card is static, which could leave you vulnerable to fraud if your card information is exposed. With a dynamic CVV, you get a three-digit security code that changes periodically, offering enhanced protection for online payments. With the Landers Everywhere Cashback Credit Card, the dynamic CVV is only valid for 24 hours, and a new number is generated every time the card details are accessed in the app. This means that even if someone gets hold of your card details, they won’t be able to complete a transaction without the current, active CVV. This feature is particularly useful for frequent online shoppers or those who engage in digital transactions, providing an extra layer of protection to ensure your financial security.

Choosing the right credit card isn’t just about picking one with the best perks or rewards. It’s about selecting a card that fits your lifestyle and supports your financial stability. That said, consider evaluating key factors like the ones mentioned above to make an informed decision that maximizes the value you get from your credit card. Also, take the time to compare different options and find the one that fits you best. With the right card, you can make the most of every purchase and enhance your financial well-being.

*Transactions that don’t qualify include: cash in, cash advance, quasi cash purchases, casinos and gambling, fuel, supermarket, pharmaceuticals, utilities, telco, and government.