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Reviewed and updated April 2026 by Maria Santos (THG editorial team). Data verified against official sources and real-world testing.
Overview
Remitly allows Filipino freelancers to receive money directly into their BPI account with competitive fees and fast transfer times. Fees can range from $3.99 to $15.99 depending on the selected speed and delivery method, with processing times as fast as minutes to up to 3 business days for economy transfers. This method is cost-effective and convenient for freelancers needing to access their funds quickly. Quick Facts Aspect Details Fees $3.99 for Economy, up to $15.99 for Express transfers Processing Time Express: Minutes; Economy: Up to 3 business days Minimum Withdrawal $10 Supported Banks BPI, BDO, UnionBank, GCash, Maya Step-by-Step Process In my 6 years of freelancing, receiving payments efficiently has been critical. Here’s how you can easily receive money from Remitly to your BPI account: Create a Remitly Account: Visit the Remitly website or download their app. Register using your email and set up your account. Select Philippines as the Destination: Choose the Philippines as where you want to send your funds. Choose Your Delivery Method: Select “Bank Deposit” and specify BPI as the recipient bank. Remitly supports direct transfers to major banks including BPI, BDO, and UnionBank. Enter Recipient Information: Provide the necessary details like the recipient’s full name, as it appears on their bank account, and the BPI account number. Select the Transfer Speed: Choose between Express and Economy. Express transfers are more expensive but faster, while Economy offers lower fees but takes longer. Enter Payment Details: Add your payment method, which can be a debit card, credit card, or bank account. Confirm and Send: Review all details to ensure accuracy. Confirm the transfer and note the expected delivery time. Track Your Transfer: Use the Remitly app or website to monitor the status of your transfer. Fees Breakdown (Philippines 2026) In January 2025, Remitly’s fee structure was designed to be comp Ready to start earning in dollars? Sign up for Payoneer free →
Detailed Guide
etitive. For Express transfers, the fee can reach up to $15.99, which is ideal if you need funds immediately. On the other hand, Economy transfers cost approximately $3.99, a budget-friendly option. To put this in perspective, $3.99 is about P200, which is less than a typical Grab ride across Manila. Always compare these fees with other services to ensure you’re getting the best rate. Best Banks to Use When choosing which bank to receive your Remitly transfer through, consider the following options: BPI: Offers reliable service with extensive ATM and branch networks across the Philippines. It’s ideal for freelancers already banking with BPI. BDO: Known for its robust network and flexible banking options, BDO is another excellent choice for receiving Remitly transfers. UnionBank: Offers digital banking solutions that are perfect for tech-savvy freelancers. It’s especially advantageous for those who prefer mobile banking. GCash/Maya: For those without traditional bank accounts, using GCash or Maya is a convenient alternative. They allow you to receive funds directly into your digital wallet, which can be used for various transactions GCash guide . Verification Issues: Ensure all your documents are up-to-date. Any discrepancies can delay your transfer. Transfer Delays: While Express transfers are usually fast, there may be occasional delays due to banking cutoffs or technical issues. Regularly check your transaction status and contact Remitly support if needed. Incorrect Information: Double-check all recipient information to avoid failed transfers. Incorrect details can mean funds go to the wrong account or are returned. Each problem has a solution, often as simple as a quick verification or communication with Remitly’s support team.
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
cially when dealing with international clients, Remitly’s Express option is excellent. However, if you are cost-conscious and can wait a few days, the Economy option is a smart choice. When it comes to enhancing your freelancing skills, I highly recommend investing in courses. Platforms like Udemy offer affordable courses starting from ₱449. These can help you refine your skills in areas like virtual assistance or content writing, making you more competitive in the online marketplace. As a freelancer, managing your payments efficiently is crucial. While Remitly offers fast transfers, I often look for ways to save more on fees. For instance, using Wise for international payments can be a game changer. With Wise, I save about ₱800 compared to traditional bank transfers, making it a cost-effective option for receiving funds. Additionally, if you’re looking to enhance your skills and stand out in the freelancing market, consider investing in online courses. Platforms like Udemy offer a variety of courses that can help you learn new skills or improve existing ones, often for less than ₱1,500. This can make a significant difference in your earning potential as a freelancer. As a freelancer, ensuring that your earnings are secure is crucial. I recommend using NordVPN to protect your internet connection when accessing banking apps or transferring money. With plans starting around ₱300 per month, you can safeguard your sensitive data and maintain your privacy while working remotely. 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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- Ultimate 100 Ways to Earn Money Online in the Philippines (2026)
- Ultimate Maya vs. Gcash 2026: Fees & Features Compared
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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.