Why Your Bonus Matters More Than You Think
The holidays always feel a little brighter once the 13th-month pay arrives. Suddenly, the wish lists look doable, travel plans seem within reach, and those long-delayed upgrades feel justified. But before we slip into full spending mode, it helps to think of the bonus not just as extra money but as an opportunity. In the Philippines where holiday expenses pile up fast, your bonus can become the boost that sets you up for a stronger, more confident financial year ahead.
This guide shares how you can stretch that bonus wisely with help from Maya, the country’s top digital bank and fintech ecosystem.
Give Your Bonus a Mission
Instead of treating the bonus like surprise money, think of it as a tool. A simple budgeting framework can help you stay in control while still enjoying the season.
Try the 50-30-20 split:
- 50 percent for bills and must-pay responsibilities
- 30 percent for guilt-free holiday treats and experiences
- 20 percent for savings or investments
When it’s time to spend, make every swipe intentional. Paying with Maya this Christmas gives you and your chosen referral a chance to become TWINYONARYOS, with each pair winning ₱1 million. Using Maya Easy Credit earns you 5 times more entries, and referring friends through your Maya @username gives you 10 times more entries per successful referral.
Grow Your Money with Maya Savings and Personal Goals
Many Filipinos lose track of their bonuses because everything gets lumped into one account. Avoid the “where-did-it-go” moment by giving your money a proper home.
Start with Maya Savings
Maya Savings offers up to 15 percent interest per year, credited daily, so your balance grows right before your eyes. Even placing a portion of your bonus here puts you in a better position for 2026.
Structure Your Plans with Personal Goals
For organized savers, Maya Personal Goals is your best friend. You can create up to five separate goal-based accounts, all earning a base 4 percent interest. Your rate increases every ₱20,000 deposited, reaching up to 8 percent per year for deposits up to ₱100,000.
Use it for:
- Emergencies
- Travel plans
- Home upgrades
- Big purchases
- Long-term dreams
There are no lock-ins, just pure flexibility and faster growth.
For Predictable Growth: Time Deposit Plus
If you prefer steady, guaranteed returns, Time Deposit Plus gives you options to lock in your money for 3, 6, or 12 months with rates of up to 6 percent per year on deposits up to ₱1 million per account. With up to five accounts, that’s a total of ₱5 million earning interest.
Unlike traditional time deposits, you can add funds anytime, even after hitting your target making it perfect for goal-setters who want discipline without rigid rules.
Build Your Financial Safety Net
Unexpected events happen like hospital bills, repairs, emergencies, you name it. Your bonus is the ideal starter fund for unexpected expenses.
Use Maya Savings to grow your emergency fund or dedicate a Personal Goal purely for emergencies. If a situation demands more than what you’ve saved, Maya Easy Credit provides instant access to funds with no paperwork or collateral, letting you handle surprises without draining your savings.
Start 2026 with Confidence
Your 13th-month pay can be more than a holiday spending spree. With Maya’s savings tools, flexible financial products, and exciting holiday promos, you can end the year stronger and begin 2026 with better financial habits. Whether you are rebuilding, starting fresh, or leveling up your money game, your bonus can be the turning point.
Give your money purpose and let Maya help you grow it.