GCash expands USD payout solutions for freelancers with launch of GCash Virtual US Account

Editor’s note: This press release is sponsored by GCash and was handled by BrandRap, the sales and marketing arm of Rappler. No member of the news and editorial team participated in the publishing of this piece.

GCash, together with global payments technology firm Meridian, has unveiled the new GCash Virtual US Account, an in-app feature that allows users to receive USD directly into their e-wallets without extra deductions and hidden fees.

The capability is powered by Meridian Payments US¹, the partner service provider of GCash, which provides the users with a unique routing and account number that enables direct deposits from US employers and platforms, an option traditionally available only through dollar accounts in banks. Once received into their GCash Virtual US Account, users can convert their USD funds into PHP at competitive exchange rates.

This marks a significant expansion of the cross-border payment capabilities of GCash. By providing users with their own ACH and wire details, the Virtual US Account unlocks a direct route for receiving USD transfers without relying on third-party channels.

Powering cross-border payments for Filipino freelancers

The new GCash Virtual US Account is designed to help freelancers and gig workers who receive USD payments from clients abroad, who frequently lose a portion of their earnings to costly transfer fees charged by banks and other payment platforms.

There are over 5 million freelancers in the Philippines, including 2.2 million who work with international clients in creative, tech, and service industries. Efficient payments are critical to their income stability, but traditional channels often involve high fees and multiple steps that delay access to their money. Platforms also auto-convert USD at less favorable forex rates.

The GCash Virtual US Account streamlines this process by enabling direct transfers of USD into GCash with no additional fees. Users also have full control over conversion, allowing them to choose when to convert USD to PHP based on live forex rates.

GCash strengthens its role in the digital economy

Through its partnership with Meridian Payments US, GCash expands its global financial services, supporting the growing number of Filipinos who earn from participating in the digital economy.

According to Paul Albano, GCash International general manager, “The new Virtual US Account strengthens our international offerings and reinforces GCash’s role as a key financial platform for Filipinos earning overseas. By giving users direct access to USD through globally compliant infrastructure, we are closing long-standing gaps in cross-border income flows.”

Verified GCash users can now activate the feature on the GCash app in three easy steps: 

1. Open the GCash app – Tap US Accounts in the Explore the App section 
2. Tap Continue and verify your information 
3. Complete your account creation 

Once activated, users can start immediately receiving their USD payments or remittances, view live forex rates, and withdraw funds to their e-wallet for their everyday transactions. Download the GCash app today to get started. – Rappler.com

¹ GCash Virtual US Accounts are issued and maintained by Meridian Payments US under a “for benefit of” arrangement. These are not bank accounts and do not qualify as deposits; hence, they are not covered by any deposit insurance schemes.