If you are a BPI user, you probably noticed that cashing in to GCash is no longer as straightforward (or as free) as it used to be. Between Instapay fees and GCash cash-in charges, maliit man per transaction, they add up over time.
The good news? There is a working workaround right now.
As of this writing, you can cash in to GCash for free by using the BPI Vybe app as a middle step. No Instapay fee. No GCash cash-in fee.
I have personally tested this method, and yes, it works.
The BPI → Vybe → GCash Method (At a Glance)
Here is the simple flow:
BPI Savings Account → Vybe Wallet → GCash
Total transfer fee: ₱0
This works because topping up your Vybe wallet from BPI is free, and sending money from Vybe to GCash is also free (for now).
Why This Works
BPI quietly positioned Vybe as more than just a rewards app. It functions as an e-wallet that can:
- Receive money from your BPI account for free
- Send money to other banks and e-wallets
While BPI removed or charged fees for direct GCash loading, Vybe transfers remain free, which makes it an effective bridge between BPI and GCash.
This is not heavily advertised, which is why many users are still paying unnecessary transfer fees.
Step-by-Step: How to Cash In to GCash for Free Using Vybe
Step 1: Install and Set Up the Vybe App
Download the Vybe by BPI app from the App Store or Google Play.
Sign in using your BPI account details and make sure your BPI savings account is linked to Vybe.
Step 2: Top Up Your Vybe Wallet from BPI
Inside the Vybe app:
- Tap Cash In / Add Money
- Choose BPI Account as the source
- Enter the amount
- Confirm the transaction
There is no fee when transferring from BPI to Vybe.
Step 3: Send Money from Vybe to GCash
Once the funds are in your Vybe wallet:
- Tap Send Money
- Choose GCash as the destination
- Enter the recipient’s GCash mobile number
- Enter the amount
- Confirm
The amount should reflect in GCash almost instantly.
Fee Comparison: Direct vs Vybe Method
| Method | Fees |
|---|---|
| BPI app → GCash (direct cash-in) | With fee |
| BPI → GCash via Instapay | ₱10–₱25 |
| BPI → Vybe → GCash | ₱0 |
If you regularly move money between BPI and GCash, this difference matters.
Things You Should Know Before Using This Method
Before you fully rely on this workaround, keep these in mind:
- This method is not officially promoted by BPI as a GCash cash-in feature
- Transfer policies and fees can change anytime
- Vybe may have daily or monthly limits depending on account verification
- During peak hours, rare delays may happen (though most transfers are instant)
In short, use it while it’s available — but do not assume it will be permanent.
Is This Safe and Legit?
Yes. You are not bypassing any system or violating any rules.
You are simply:
- Moving money from your own BPI account
- Into BPI’s own wallet (Vybe)
- Then sending it to another e-wallet
Everything happens within official apps.
Blogger’s Corner
This is one of those rare cases where a bank-created app accidentally becomes a fee-avoidance tool.
If you are someone who uses GCash almost daily, this small workaround can save you hundreds of pesos per year in transfer fees.
Just remember: when banks quietly leave doors open, they can quietly close them too.
Use it wisely — and while it still works.