Important First Note: Terminology Clarification
What you're asking about is commonly known as "Funding" or "Topping Up" your dollar account, not an "endorsement." An endorsement in banking usually refers to signing the back of a check.
City Bank Visa card 2025:
This process involves using the Philippine Peso (PHP) credit limit on your local Citibank Visa Card to purchase US Dollars (USD) that are then credited to your dollar account.
Method 1: Online via Citibank Online / Citi Mobile® App (Recommended)
This is the fastest, most convenient, and available 24/7. The interface in 2025 will likely be very similar to the current one, perhaps with minor visual updates.
Prerequisites:
An active Citibank Philippines Visa Credit or Debit Card.
An enrolled Citibank Philippines Dollar Account (e.g., Citi Dollar Account, Citi Priority, etc.) in your Citibank Online profile.
Sufficient available PHP credit limit on your card.
Step-by-Step Guide:
Log In: Access your account through the Citi Mobile® App or the Citibank Online website (www.citibank.com.ph).
Navigate to Transfers: Look for a menu option labeled "Transfer," "Move Money," or "Payments & Transfers."
Select "Fund Dollar Account": Within the transfer menu, you should see a specific option like "Fund/Reload Dollar Account from Credit Card" or "Credit Card to Dollar Account." Click on it.
Choose Accounts:
From (Source): Select your Citibank Peso Visa Credit Card.
To (Destination): Select your Citibank Dollar Account.
Enter Amount: Key in the amount you wish to fund.
You will typically enter the amount in US Dollars (USD).
The system will automatically display the equivalent amount in Philippine Pesos (PHP) based on Citibank's prevailing exchange rate. This rate will be shown clearly before you confirm.
Review the Transaction:
Carefully check the exchange rate, the final PHP amount that will be charged to your card, and any associated fees.
Citibank often offers zero fees for funding your own dollar account with your own Citibank credit card, but always verify this.
Confirm and Authorize: Once you confirm all details, you will be prompted to enter a One-Time PIN (OTP) sent to your registered mobile number for security. Enter the OTP to complete the transaction.
Processing Time: The dollars are usually credited to your account instantly or within a few minutes.
Method 2: Via Citibank Customer Service Hotline
If you are not comfortable with online banking or encounter issues, you can call their customer service.
Call the Citibank Hotline: Dial (02) 8995 9999 from Metro Manila or 1-800-10-995-9999 toll-free for Globe/TM subscribers.
Verify Your Identity: You will need to go through a security verification process. Have your card and account details ready.
Request the Transaction: Clearly state that you want to "fund your Citibank Dollar Account using your Citibank Peso Visa Card."
Provide Details: The phone banker will ask for:
Your credit card number.
Your dollar account number.
The amount in USD you wish to fund.
Confirm Rates and Fees: The representative will inform you of the current exchange rate and any applicable fees. Ask for this information explicitly.
Authorize the Transaction: The representative will process the transaction, and you may receive an OTP or be asked to confirm details for security.
Method 3: Visiting a Citibank Branch (Least Common)
While possible, visiting a branch is generally unnecessary for this specific transaction, as it's designed for self-service. However, if you need assistance, you can go to any Citibank branch.
Bring your Citibank Visa Card and a valid ID.
Inform the teller or a banking representative that you want to fund your dollar account using your peso credit card.
They will assist you in filling out a form and processing the transaction.
Key Considerations for 2025
Exchange Rate: This is the most critical factor. Citibank will use their own prevailing exchange rate at the time of the transaction. This rate is typically very competitive but may include a small margin. Always check the rate shown online or quoted by the agent before confirming.
Transaction Fees: As of now, Citibank does not charge a processing fee for funding your own dollar account with your own Citibank card. However, policies can change. Always confirm if there are any fees before proceeding in 2025.
Credit Card Cash Advance: It is crucial that this transaction is processed as a "Purchase" (funding) and NOT as a "Cash Advance." A cash advance would incur immediate interest charges and fees. The official "Fund Dollar Account" feature through Citibank's channels is treated as a purchase.
Credit Limit: The PHP amount will be deducted from your card's available credit limit.
Text Confirmation: You will receive an SMS confirmation for both the debit from your credit card and the credit to your dollar account.
