Apple Pay, Apple’s mobile payment and digital wallet service, has gained widespread popularity for its ease of use and enhanced security features. However, the question on many shoppers’ minds is: “Does Walmart take Apple Pay?” In this article, we will explore the current status of Apple Pay at Walmart and alternative payment options available to customers.
Benefits of using Apple Pay
Why even use Apple Pay in the first place?
- Go cash and card-less
- Secure online payments
- Millions of stores accept it
- Easy online checkouts
- One-click payments
- Easy to send and receive funds
The Apple Pay and Walmart Connection
As of my last knowledge update in September 2021, Walmart did not officially accept Apple Pay for in-store purchases. Walmart has its own mobile payment system called Walmart Pay, which is designed to streamline the shopping experience for its customers. This means that if you’re shopping at a physical Walmart store, you would typically use Walmart Pay to make contactless payments.
Walmart Pay vs. Apple Pay
- Walmart Pay: Walmart Pay is Walmart’s proprietary mobile payment platform. To use it, you need to download the Walmart app and link your preferred payment method, such as a credit card or debit card. You can then use the app to make payments at the checkout by scanning a QR code displayed on the payment terminal.
- Apple Pay: Apple Pay, on the other hand, is available on Apple devices like iPhones, iPads, and Apple Watches. Users can add their credit or debit cards to the Apple Wallet app and make secure contactless payments by holding their device near the payment terminal and authenticating the transaction with Face ID, Touch ID, or a passcode.
Using Apple Pay at Walmart
While Walmart’s official policy regarding Apple Pay may not have changed as of my last update, some users have reported successful use of Apple Pay at select Walmart locations. This could be due to various factors, such as individual store policies, regional differences, or changes in payment processing systems.
If you prefer to use Apple Pay at Walmart, you can follow these steps:
- Check for Apple Pay: When you’re at a Walmart store, look for the Apple Pay logo or any contactless payment symbols at the checkout counter. If you see them, it’s a good indication that Apple Pay may be accepted.
- Ask a Walmart Associate: If you’re unsure, don’t hesitate to ask a Walmart store associate or cashier if they accept Apple Pay. They can provide you with the most up-to-date information regarding accepted payment methods.
- Try Apple Pay at Checkout: If you have Apple Pay set up on your Apple device, you can attempt to use it at checkout. If the payment terminal supports Apple Pay, you should see the option to use it during the payment process.
Does Walmart take Apple Pay?
Unfortunately, the answer is no. Whether you’re going through self-checkout or meeting your cashier buddy for the day, you can’t use Apple Pay.
Despite the popularity and convenience of Apple Pay, Walmart has not implemented Apple Pay at its registers. Instead, Walmart encourages customers to download the Walmart app to use its own touchless mobile payment option, Walmart Pay. Customers can also become a Walmart Plus member, which enables them to use a cell phone to scan items as they shop in-store and have a contact-free checkout. Walmart also accepts all major credit cards.
Reasons why Walmart doesn’t accept Apple Pay
While Walmart Pay is certainly the main reason, there are a few more to consider:
- Processing fees
- Inability to use data based off your purchases (for ads and recommendations)
Conclusion
In summary, while Walmart traditionally did not accept Apple Pay, it’s always a good idea to check the specific Walmart store you plan to visit for the most accurate and current information regarding their accepted payment methods. Walmart Pay remains the primary mobile payment method promoted by the retailer. However, the digital payment landscape is continually evolving, so it’s possible that Walmart’s payment policies may change in the future to accommodate popular payment options like Apple Pay.