Before we talk about the guide on how to apply for a GCash Mastercard, let us know more about GCash first.
What is GCash?
GCash started sometime in 2004. It was during the time when the mobile commerce is still new. It is a virtual wallet or in much more known term, e-money. A GCash app is available for mobile users to download. The app transforms your mobile phones into a wallet, which allows you to send and receive money, buy prepaid load, pay bills, save and invest and even buy movie tickets.
Where to use GCash?
Now that we are in the middle of this pandemic, you can also use it to pay for your food and goods deliveries. As long as you are connected to the internet, cashless transactions is an ease, right? As soon as I got my account fully verified by GCash, I was able to connect the app to my Paypal account. Now that saves me few dollars transaction fee if I get a 3rd party to convert my Paypal to Philippine Peso.
Those are just the many virtual uses of the app but, you can do more if you get the GCash Mastercard. The Mastercard will no longer require you to use your mobile data and go online when you are out to buy necessities and stuff. You can cash-in and even withdraw your funds at any Bancnet or Mastercard partner ATMs. GCash Mastercard can also be used as a debit card, so it’s a convenient shop and swipe transaction!
How do you get the GCash Mastercard?
Here is a simple guide how to apply for it using the app.
1. On the app Dashboard, click on “Show More”.
2. Scroll at the bottom and select “Payment Solutions”.
3. Locate GCash Mastercard and enter your mobile number and the amount of Php150.
4. Now open your browser and go to MC Store. Fill up all the necessary details.
5. Review and accept the T&C and submit.
Expect to receive your GCash Mastercard within 10 days. I applied for mine last May 7 and received it May 17th. The instructions on how to verify and link the Mastercard to its app is printed inside the envelope it came in with. From there, you are just a few clicks away to enjoy the benefits of your new Mastercard. There is also a list of partner outlets where you can cash-in or deposit funds to your account. In case you encounter any issue with the app, your account or your Mastercard, you can visit the GCash Help Center for assistance.
Other Features
Besides all of the features I enjoy from using the app, I have joined the GCash Forest too. It is a new feature which will allow you to collect energy from your app friends and receive energy by walking, and from using the features and services of the app. And as soon as you have reached a certain number of energy, a tree will be planted to help with the restoration of the Philippine forests.
Donations for the ABS-CBN Lingkod Kapamilya Foundation, Inc. in their Pantawid Ng Pag-Ibig campaign, are also accepted. All you have to do is scan their QR code to donate. It is helping by donating from the comfort of your homes using this amazing app.
Just to share, I have bought vitamins and other essentials online using this app. Paid our internet and electricity bills, and insurance premiums as well. All I needed was internet connectivity and few clicks to complete the transactions. I was able to comply with the Enhanced Community Quarantine to responsibly stay at home, but was able to also get all that we need and paid our dues in such an ease.
From all these benefits and ease, in the midst of this pandemic, why not download and use the app now for your transactions? If you already have the app, get yourself fully verified and apply for the GCash Mastercard. In that way, if you really need to go outside for important stuff that are not available online, bring your Mastercard with you. And your Quarantine Pass too!