You’re standing in line at Walmart.
The cashier finishes scanning your items. You pull out your phone, open Apple Pay or Google Pay, and get ready to tap.
Nothing happens.
Seriously?
It’s a frustrating moment that catches a lot of shoppers by surprise.
Yeh. I’ve been there, done that! Arrgh!
Most major retailers now accept tap-to-pay options like Apple Pay and Google Pay, but Walmart has to have its own system. Walmart Pay.
Yes, that means another app on your phone.
What? Why Doesn’t Walmart Take Apple Pay or Google Pay?
Walmart decided a long time ago not to support the NFC technology used by Apple Pay, Google Pay, and other tap-to-pay wallets.
Instead, the company built Walmart Pay directly into the Walmart app and wants customers to use that system instead.
Whether consumers like that approach is another question entirely, but if you want to pay with your phone at Walmart, Walmart Pay is how you’ll have to do it.
How is Walmart Pay Different?
Walmart Pay is a mobile payment feature built into the Walmart app.
Rather than tapping your phone against the payment terminal, Walmart Pay uses a QR code. You scan the code displayed at the register, and the app processes your payment using a card you’ve already saved.
It works with most major credit cards, debit cards, and Walmart gift cards.
How to Set Up Walmart Pay
If you’re willing to give it a try, setup only takes a few minutes:
- Download the Walmart app.
- Sign in or create a Walmart account.
- Open the app and look for Walmart Pay.
- Add a credit card, debit card, or other supported payment method.
- Save your information.
That’s it. Once your payment method is added, you’re ready to use Walmart Pay in stores.
How to Use Walmart Pay at Checkout
When it’s time to pay:
- Open the Walmart app.
- Tap Walmart Pay.
- Point your phone’s camera at the QR code displayed on the checkout screen.
- Wait for confirmation.
The payment is processed automatically, and you’re done.
Are There Any Benefits?
If you’re already annoyed that you had to install another app, you’re probably wondering whether there’s any upside.
There are a few.
Digital Receipts
One of the most useful features is that Walmart Pay automatically stores your receipts in the Walmart app.
That can make returns easier and saves you from stuffing paper receipts into your wallet, car console, or junk drawer.
Gift Cards and Payment Methods in One Place
If you use Walmart gift cards, Walmart Pay can make them easier to manage. You can also switch between different payment methods without digging through your wallet.
Faster Checkout
Once everything is set up, many shoppers find scanning the QR code fairly quick and convenient.
Is Walmart Pay Safe?
Walmart Pay uses encrypted payment processing, and your card information isn’t displayed to the cashier or transmitted as a visible card number during checkout.
As with any payment app, you should still protect your phone with a passcode, fingerprint, or facial recognition.
