How To Set Up Contactless Payment On Your Phone
Tips for a better understanding of your options
As a result of the pandemic, many consumers are looking for ways to decrease their contact with others to maintain their health and safety. This is why contactless payment options have surged in popularity. If you have never used contactless payments, you might be wondering what options are available to you and how you can easily add them to your mobile devices. Here’s what you need to know about contactless payments.
What are contactless payments?
Contactless payments are secure payments made with a buyer’s smartphone or credit card that do not require touching a payment machine. Through radio-frequency identification (RFID) in a buyer’s smartphone or credit card, payment machines can process payments without physical contact.
Contactless credit cards
The most popular type of contactless payment is a credit card. Most new credit cards have RFID installed, enabling contactless payments without requiring additional steps from the buyer. Note that contactless payments only work when the card reader is equipped with this feature.
Smartphone users can also add their credit cards to payment apps like Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, or Google Pay. After uploading credit card information, users can make payments by opening the app and holding their phones near the payment terminal to complete the transaction.
Store mobile apps
Some stores offer mobile apps that support contactless payments, such as Walmart, gas stations, and more. Customers can make payments using their accounts within these apps.
To use a store app, users create an account and upload credit card information. At checkout or the gas pump, the app can geo-locate, prompt users to scan a QR code or enter a PIN, and process payments. A receipt is typically uploaded into the app after the transaction.
Examples of stores with contactless payment apps include Walmart, Pret A Manger, Dunkin' Donuts, Starbucks, Wawa, Shell, and more.
E-gift cards
Third-party apps like Ibotta and United Airlines’ MileagePlus X allow users to purchase e-gift cards with credit cards and use them to make payments in-store.
For instance, a user might purchase a Bed Bath & Beyond gift card via Ibotta, then use the app to enter the purchase amount and generate a QR code or barcode for scanning at the register. These apps often provide loyalty rewards, enabling users to earn points both within the app and from their credit card provider.
The takeaway
Contactless payments are a safe and convenient way to make transactions without using cash or touching payment terminals. These methods are quick, easy, and help minimize the spread of germs. Additionally, many contactless payment options offer rewards, making them a practical choice for frequent use.