Apple Pay has become one of the most popular digital payment methods, offering users a secure and convenient way to make purchases both in-store and online. As more retailers embrace contactless payments, many consumers are asking, what stores take Apple Pay? This guide provides a detailed look at the retail stores, restaurants, online platforms, and other businesses that accept Apple Pay as a payment method.
What Is Apple Pay and How Does It Work?
Apple Pay is a mobile payment and digital wallet service developed by Apple. It allows users to make payments using their iPhone, Apple Watch, iPad, or Mac. By securely storing credit and debit card information, Apple Pay enables contactless transactions through Near Field Communication (NFC) technology.
Benefits of Using Apple Pay
- Security: Uses Face ID, Touch ID, or passcode for authentication.
- Convenience: No need to carry physical cards or cash.
- Speed: Transactions are completed in seconds.
- Privacy: Apple does not store transaction details.
What Stores Take Apple Pay in the United States?
If you’re wondering, what stores take Apple Pay, here is a categorized list of major retailers that support this payment method:
Grocery Stores and Supermarkets
- Whole Foods Market
- Trader Joe’s
- Safeway
- Kroger (varies by location)
- Aldi
- Meijer
- Publix
Convenience Stores and Gas Stations
- 7-Eleven
- Chevron
- ExxonMobil
- Shell
- Speedway
- Wawa
- Circle K
Department Stores and Big-Box Retailers
- Target
- Walmart (only via Walmart Pay, not direct Apple Pay)
- Costco
- Best Buy
- Macy’s
- JCPenney
- Kohl’s
- Nordstrom
- Bloomingdale’s
Pharmacies and Drugstores
- CVS Pharmacy
- Walgreens
- Rite Aid
Restaurants and Fast Food Chains
- McDonald’s
- Starbucks
- Chick-fil-A
- Taco Bell
- Subway
- Dunkin’
- Panera Bread
- Chipotle
- KFC
- Domino’s
- Pizza Hut
Retail Clothing and Footwear Stores
- Nike
- Adidas
- H&M
- Forever 21
- American Eagle
- Levi’s
- Urban Outfitters
Electronics and Tech Stores
- Apple Store
- Best Buy
- Staples
- Office Depot
Furniture and Home Improvement Stores
- IKEA
- Lowe’s
- The Home Depot
- Bed Bath & Beyond
- Crate & Barrel
What Stores Take Apple Pay Online?
In addition to physical stores, many online retailers accept Apple Pay, making checkout faster and more secure.
Popular Online Stores That Accept Apple Pay
- Amazon (for specific purchases)
- eBay (for certain sellers)
- Target
- Best Buy
- Etsy
- Wayfair
- Nike
- Sephora
- Uber Eats
- Instacart
- DoorDash
When shopping online, look for the Apple Pay logo at checkout to determine if the store supports it.
What Stores Take Apple Pay for In-App Purchases?
Many apps integrate Apple Pay for seamless transactions. Popular apps that accept Apple Pay include:
- Uber and Lyft (for ride-sharing)
- Starbucks (for ordering ahead)
- Airbnb (for booking stays)
- Ticketmaster (for event tickets)
- Fandango (for movie tickets)
How to Find Out if a Store Takes Apple Pay
If you’re unsure whether a store accepts Apple Pay, here are some ways to check:
- Look for the Apple Pay Logo at the checkout terminal.
- Use Apple Maps – Open Apple Maps, search for the store, and check under “Useful to Know” to see if Apple Pay is listed.
- Ask a Store Employee – They can confirm whether Apple Pay is accepted.
International Stores That Accept Apple Pay
Apple Pay is widely accepted in several countries, including Canada, the UK, Australia, Germany, France, and Japan. Most global retail chains that support Apple Pay in the U.S. also accept it internationally.
What Stores Do Not Take Apple Pay?
While Apple Pay is widely accepted, some major retailers still do not support it. These include:
- Walmart (only via Walmart Pay)
- Sam’s Club
- Home Depot (limited acceptance)
- Kroger (select locations only)
Conclusion
Apple Pay continues to grow in popularity, making shopping more convenient and secure for millions of users. If you’re wondering, what stores take Apple Pay, the answer includes thousands of grocery stores, department stores, restaurants, and online retailers. As more businesses integrate contactless payment options, Apple Pay is expected to become even more widely accepted in the future.
By using Apple Pay, consumers can enjoy a seamless and secure payment experience while reducing their reliance on physical wallets. Always check store policies before shopping to ensure Apple Pay is available at your preferred locations.
