Shoppers expect quick and secure payment options. Many stores now accept contactless payments, making checkout faster. Apple Pay is a top choice for iPhone users. But does Walmart accept Apple Pay? Let’s break it down.
Can You Use Apple Pay at Walmart?
No, Walmart does not take Apple Pay. Customers cannot use iPhones or Apple Watches to pay directly at checkout. Walmart has not upgraded its payment terminals to support Apple’s tap-to-pay system.
Instead, Walmart promotes its own mobile payment solution—Walmart Pay. Unlike Apple Pay, Walmart Pay works inside the Walmart app. Customers link credit, debit, or gift cards to the app and scan a QR code at checkout to pay.
Why Doesn’t Walmart Accept Apple Pay?
Walmart avoids Apple Pay for business reasons. The store wants control over payment processing. Apple Pay routes transactions through Apple’s system, adding processing fees. Walmart bypasses those fees by using Walmart Pay.
Another reason is customer data. When shoppers use Apple Pay, Apple handles transaction details. Walmart prefers to keep full control over data, which helps with marketing and loyalty programs.
Retailers also negotiate transaction fees with banks. By pushing Walmart Pay, Walmart has more leverage in those discussions. Lower fees mean more savings, which can be passed to customers.
How to Pay with Your iPhone at Walmart
Even though Apple Pay doesn’t work, iPhone users have options:
- Walmart Pay – Open the Walmart app, scan the QR code at checkout, and complete payment.
- Credit or Debit Cards – Use a physical Visa, Mastercard, American Express, or Discover card.
- Gift Cards – Walmart gift cards work both in-store and online.
- Cash – Traditional but still accepted everywhere.
- Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) – Services like Affirm let customers split payments over time.
Walmart Pay is the closest alternative to Apple Pay. The main difference? Instead of tapping a phone on the terminal, users scan a QR code in the app.
Does Walmart Take Apple Pay at Self-Checkout?
No, Walmart does not accept Apple Pay at self-checkout. Customers must use Walmart Pay or another payment method.
Self-checkout kiosks display a QR code for Walmart Pay users. Shoppers who prefer Apple Pay need to use a card or cash instead. Until Walmart updates its system, contactless payments outside Walmart Pay won’t work.
Can You Use Apple Pay for Walmart Online Orders?
No, Walmart’s website and app do not support Apple Pay. Customers must enter card details manually or use Walmart Pay for digital purchases.
Walmart’s online payment options include:
- Credit or Debit Cards – Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover
- Walmart Pay – Linked through the Walmart app
- Gift Cards – Walmart-issued gift cards
- PayPal – Available for online orders
- Affirm – Buy now, pay later for eligible purchases
Apple Pay remains unavailable for Walmart’s online and in-store transactions. Walmart Pay is the company’s only mobile payment option.
Will Walmart Accept Apple Pay in the Future?
Walmart has not announced plans to accept Apple Pay. Since Walmart Pay integrates with its existing app, the company sees no need to switch. Unless customer demand or industry trends force a change, Apple Pay likely won’t appear at Walmart checkout lanes.
Stores that accept Apple Pay often upgrade their systems for a better customer experience. Walmart already has self-checkout and Scan & Go options, which help speed up shopping. For now, Walmart Pay remains its preferred method.
Should You Use Walmart Pay Instead?
For frequent Walmart shoppers, Walmart Pay is a useful tool. It offers:
- Faster Checkout – No need to swipe or insert a card.
- Digital Receipts – Transactions are stored in the app.
- Gift Card Integration – Apply balances automatically.
- Secure Transactions – No card details exposed at checkout.
Apple Pay users may not like scanning a QR code instead of tapping a phone. But for those who shop at Walmart often, Walmart Pay offers a smooth experience.
Alternatives to Walmart for Apple Pay Users
If Apple Pay is a must, consider other retailers. Many stores accept it, including:
- Target – Apple Pay works at checkout and in the Target app.
- CVS – Accepts Apple Pay at stores nationwide.
- Best Buy – Supports Apple Pay for in-store and online purchases.
- Walgreens – Contactless payments available in stores.
- Whole Foods – Owned by Amazon, but fully supports Apple Pay.
For those who prefer Apple Pay, shopping at these stores may be a better option.
The Bottom Line
Walmart does not accept Apple Pay. The company promotes Walmart Pay instead, which works through the Walmart app. While some customers prefer contactless payments, Walmart sticks to its own system for lower fees and better data control.
Apple Pay users can still shop at Walmart, but they need a different payment method. Credit cards, debit cards, and Walmart Pay remain the best choices for quick checkout. If Walmart ever changes its policy, shoppers will likely hear about it first through official announcements.
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