Remitly to BDO 2026

Reviewed and updated April 2026 by Maria Santos (THG editorial team). Data verified against official sources and real-world testing.

In the digital age, freelancing has become a viable career option for many Filipinos. With the rise of platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and OnlineJobs.ph, Filipino freelancers can connect with international clients who seek their skills and talents. However, one of the most critical aspects of freelancing is managing payments efficiently. This is where services like Remitly come into play, especially for those who prefer receiving payments directly into their bank accounts, such as BDO. Remitly is a financial service that specializes in international money transfers, allowing freelancers in the Philippines to receive payments quickly and at competitive fees. For freelancers who are looking for a reliable way to manage their earnings from abroad, understanding how Remitly works with BDO can help them streamline their financial processes. By utilizing this service, freelancers can ensure that they receive their hard-earned money with ease and convenience. In this article, we will explore the features of Remitly, how it integrates with BDO, and provide actionable tips for Filipino freelancers to maximize their earnings and manage their finances efficiently. We will also share common mistakes to avoid and the best practices for receiving payments from international clients.

Understanding Remitly and BDO

Remitly is designed to facilitate quick and affordable international money transfers. For many Filipino freelancers, receiving payments from clients based in countries like the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom can be daunting due to various factors such as high fees and long processing times. However, with Remitly, these challenges are significantly reduced.

How Remitly Works

Easy Registration: Signing up for Remitly is straightforward. Users need to create an account using their email address and phone number.Select Transfer Options: Remitly offers two main service options: Economy (lower fees, longer deli Ready to start earning in dollars? Sign up for Payoneer free →

Detailed Guide

very times) and Express (higher fees, faster delivery). Filipino freelancers can choose based on their urgency and budget. Payment Methods: Clients cansend moneyusing various methods, including credit and debit cards or bank transfers, making it convenient for them and ensuring that freelancers can receive payments through their preferred channels.

Integration with BDO

Banco de Oro (BDO) is one of the largest banks in the Philippines, widely trusted by freelancers for its reliable services. When using Remitly, freelancers can easily link their BDO accounts to receive funds directly. Here are some key points about this integration: Quick Transfers: Funds sent through Remitly usually arrive in BDO accounts within minutes to a few hours, depending on the service chosen.Competitive Fees: Fees start at $3.99, making it an affordable option for freelancers who frequently receive international payments.Convenient Withdrawals: Once the funds are in their BDO accounts, freelancers can withdraw cash or use their debit cards for purchases, making it easy to access their earnings.

Payment Methods for Filipino Freelancers

While Remitly and BDO provide an excellent option for receiving payments, it’s essential to be aware of other payment methods available to Filipino freelancers. Here are some popular options: Payoneer: This platform allows freelancers to receive payments from various international clients and withdraw funds to their local bank accounts. Payoneer is often favored for its global reach and low fees.Maya: Formerly known as Paymaya, this digital wallet service is becoming increasingly popular for receiving payments, allowing users to transact online and in-store easily.GCash: Similar to Maya, GCash provides a convenient mobile wallet solution that allows freelancers to receive payments, pay bills, and make purchases. By understanding and utilizing these payment methods, freelancers can ensure they have multiple options for receiving their earnings, allowing them to choose the most convenient and cost-effective solution.

Step-by-Step Guide to Receiving Payments via Remitly to BDO

To leverage the benefits of receiving payments through Remitly to your BDO account, follow these steps: Create a Remitly Account: Visit the Remitly website or download the app. Sign up using your email address and phone number. Provide Your Details: Fill in the required information, including your full name, address, and BDO account details. Ensure that the name on your Remitly account matches the name on your BDO account to avoid any issues. Choose the Transfer Method: Inform your client to select either the Economy or Express transfer option, depending on how quickly they want to send the money. Share Remitly Information: Provide your client with your Remitly account information, so they can easily send the payment directly to your BDO account. Track the Transfer:

Key Points for Filipino Freelancers

Create strong profiles on Upwork or Fiverr - Set up Payoneer for receiving USD payments - Consider BIR registration for tax compliance - Use Maya or GCash for quick peso withdrawals - Explore alternatives to OFW work

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Pro Tips

Once the client initiates the transfer, you can track its status through your Remitly account. You will receive notifications once the funds are sent and when they arrive in your BDO account. For freelancers looking to enhance their skills and improve their services, I highly recommend taking some online courses. Platforms like Udemy offer courses starting from ₱449 that can help you learn new freelancing skills, which can ultimately lead to higher earnings and more clients. As a freelancer, managing your payments efficiently is essential for your success. In my experience, using Wise for international payments has been a game-changer. With Wise, you can save up to ₱800 compared to traditional bank transfers, allowing you to receive your hard-earned money more affordably. In addition to managing your payments, it’s also essential to protect your online activities. As a freelancer, your work often involves sensitive client data. Using a VPN like NordVPN can provide an extra layer of security while working remotely. I highly recommend using NordVPN for safe browsing, especially when connected to public Wi-Fi networks. As a freelancer, ensuring that your payments are received efficiently is crucial, and that’s where services like Wise come in handy. With transfer fees often lower than 1% and competitive exchange rates, using Wise for international transfers can help you keep more of your hard-earned money. Withdraw Your Funds: After receiving the payment, you can withdraw the money from your BDO account using your debit card or by visiting a BDO branch.

Tips for Filipino Freelancers

Stay Informed About Fees: Always check the fees associated with each payment method. This will help you avoid surprises and maximize your earnings.Register with BIR: If you haven’t already, ensure you are registered with the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) in the Philippines. This is crucial for tax compliance and helps you avoid legal issues in the future.Maintain Accurate Records: Keep track of your transactions, including invoices and payment receipts. This practice will simplify your accounting process and make it easier when filing taxes.Diversify Your Payment Options: Don’t rely on just one payment method. By diversifying, you can minimize risks and ensure smoother transactions.Communicate with Clients: Be clear with your clients about payment methods you accept and any potential delays. Good communication builds trust and can lead to more work opportunities.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Ignoring Fees: Some freelancers overlook the fees associated with different payment methods, which can eat into their earnings. Always factor in these costs when deciding how to receive payments.Not Checking Transfer Times: Different services have varying processing times. Make sure you inform your clients about how long it typically takes to receive payments.Neglecting Tax Obligations: Failing to register with the BIR or keeping proper records can lead to legal issues in the future. Be proactive about your tax responsibilities.Using Incorrect Account Information: Ensure that you provide accurate details when linking your BDO account to Remitly. Mistakes can lead to delays or lost funds.Overlooking Currency Conversion Rates: If clients send payments in a different currency, be aware of conversion rates and how they might impact your earnings.

Conclusion

For Filipino freelancers, receiving payments from international clients has become simpler and more efficient, thanks to services like Remitly and the reliability of banks like BDO. By understanding how these systems work together, freelancers can optimize their payment processes, save on fees, and access their hard-earned money quickly. In a competitive freelance market, every peso counts. Therefore, it’s essential to stay informed, diversify your payment methods, and maintain clear communication with clients. By avoiding common pitfalls and adhering to best practices, you can ensure a steady flow of income while focusing on delivering high-quality work to your clients. Pro Tip: Most successful Filipino freelancers use Payoneer to receive payments and transfer to Maya or GCash for instant access to their earnings in Philippine Peso.

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Sources & further reading

For more depth on these topics, these authoritative sources are worth bookmarking:

HBR Remote Work Research — authoritative reference.
World Bank Digital Development — authoritative reference.
MIT Technology Review — authoritative reference. Last verified April 2026.