Learning how to use tap to pay on iPhone makes your checkout experience faster and more convenient. Hold your device near the reader to complete a purchase in seconds, with no physical wallet needed.
With an estimated 65.6 million users in the U.S., the rapid Apple Pay adoption in the U.S. shows people trust this secure technology. Your card details are always protected, making it a safe way to pay.
How to set up tap to pay on your iPhone
You can add a payment method to your Apple Wallet in just a few steps.
Add your credit or debit card to Apple Wallet
- Open the Wallet app on your iPhone.
- Tap the plus sign (+) in the upper-right corner of the screen.
- Select Debit or Credit Card to begin adding your card.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to enter your card information. You can either use your camera to scan the card or enter the details manually.
- Wait for your bank to verify your information. Once approved, your card is ready to use.
Set your default payment method
To set your card as the default, open the Wallet app. Touch and hold the card you want to use, then drag it to the front of your other cards. This card will now appear first when you pay.
How to pay in a store with your iPhone
When you're ready to check out, paying with your iPhone only takes a moment.
For an iPhone with Face ID
- Double-click the side button on the right side of your iPhone.
- Glance at your screen to authenticate the payment with Face ID.
- Hold the top of your iPhone near the contactless reader until you see Done and a checkmark on the screen.
For an iPhone with Touch ID
- Rest your finger on the Touch ID sensor without pressing it.
- Hold the top of your iPhone near the contactless reader.
- Keep it in place until you see Done and a checkmark appear on the screen, confirming the payment.
How to use a different card at checkout
When your default card appears on the screen, tap on it. Your other cards appear. Select the one you want to use and then authenticate the payment as you normally would.
Where can you use Apple Pay?
You can use Apple Pay at millions of locations, including stores, websites, and inside apps.
Look for the contactless payment symbol
To pay in stores, look for the contactless symbol on the card reader. It has four curved lines, like a sideways Wi-Fi symbol. You can also find it displayed on store doors or at checkout counters.
Use Apple Pay for online and in-app purchases
For online or in-app purchases, select the Apple Pay option at checkout. You can complete your order without entering any card information, which makes the process faster and keeps your financial details private.
Is paying with your phone safe?
Yes, paying with your phone is extremely secure. It uses multiple layers of protection that often make it safer than using a physical card.
How tokenization protects your card details
Apple Pay uses a technology called tokenization to protect your information. Your actual card number is replaced with a unique digital code, or token, that is stored securely on your device.
When you pay, only this token is shared with the merchant, so your card details remain private. This process is a core part of Mastercard’s overview of network tokenization.
What to do if tap to pay isn't working
If your tap to pay doesn't work at checkout, a few quick checks can often resolve the issue.
Check if NFC is enabled on your device
Tap to pay uses Near Field Communication (NFC) technology to work. On all compatible iPhones, NFC for payments is enabled automatically and does not have a setting that you can turn off. Your device is always ready.
Troubleshooting a failed transaction
If your payment doesn't go through, follow these simple steps to resolve the issue.
- Hold your iPhone near the reader again. Make sure the top of your device is positioned close to the contactless symbol.
- Ask the cashier if the payment terminal is working correctly and accepts Apple Pay.
- Try selecting a different card from your Wallet, as your default card may have a transaction limit or an issue.
- If the problem persists, contact your bank or card issuer, as there may be an issue with your account.
Prepare your business to accept tap to pay
Using an iPhone to pay is fast and secure. As this guide shows, customers can complete purchases in seconds, with their data protected by tokenization. This convenience is now an expectation.
As a business, you must accept tap to pay to meet demand. A 2023 Visa study found 65% of consumers would switch to a new business that offered contactless payment options, making it essential for growth.
JIM's modern card readers make this simple. Offer a seamless checkout experience and never miss a sale again. Discover the payment solutions designed to grow your business.
