Google Pay allows Android phones, tablets or digital watches to make tap-to-pay purchases. Near field communication (NFC) allows the Android device to transfer the credit card information over to a point of sale system, making transactions fast and easy. By saving your cards to your Google Account, you’ll receive the same rewards and discounts when you use Google Pay as you would with a normal credit card. Google Pay also offers peer-to-peer and online payment services. The following are the stores, apps, sites, and transit systems that accept Google Pay:
Which Retailer In The US Accepts Google Pay In 2024?
A store that accepts Apple Pay or Samsung Pay will also accept Google Pay. You might notice the Apple Pay symbol on store entrances, but it’s often used as a general term for all mobile payments. Apple Pay and Google Pay use the same NFC technology, allowing tap-and-pay transactions.
However, it’s worth noting that not all big names in the US have adopted mobile payments. Some smaller businesses haven’t made the switch, primarily due to the costs associated with NFC terminals provided by banks, which can eat into their profits.
You can use Google Pay to buy goods or services at the following retailers:
- ACME Markets
- Aeropostale
- American Eagle Outfitters
- B&H Photo Video Pro Audio
- Barneys New York
- Bashas’
- Best Buy
- BevMo!
- BiLo
- BJ’s Wholesale Club
- Bloomingdale’s
- Champs
- Chevron
- Chick-fil-A
- Coca Cola
- The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf
- Crate & Barrel
- Cub
- Disney Store
- Duane Reade
- Dunkin Donuts
- Express
- Farm Fresh
- Firehouse Subs
- Food Maxx
- Foot Locker
- FootAction
- The Fresh Market
- Fuddruckers
- GameStop
- Giant
- Giant Eagle
- Harveys Pharmacy
- Hornbacher’s
- House of Hoops
- Jamba Juice
- Jersey Mike’s
- jetBlue
- Jewel Osco
- KFC
- Kohl’s
- Lady Foot Locker
- LEGO
- Lin’s
- Luby’s
- Lucky
- Macy’s
- McDonald’s
- Meijer
- Nike
- Office Depot/OfficeMax
- Panera
- Peet’s Coffee
- Pep Boys
- Petco
- Pepsi
- Philz Coffee
- Raley’s
- Rubio’s
- Save Mart
- Schnucks
- Sephora
- Shaw’s
- Shop n Save
- Shoppers
- Six: 02
- Sprouts
- Staples
- Star Market
- Stater Bros.
- Stop & Shop
- Subway
- SuperValu
- Texaco
- Trader Joe’s
- Ulta Beauty
- United Supermarkets
- Unleashed
- Walgreens
- Walt Disney World
- Wegmans
- White Castle
- Whole Foods
- Winn Dixie
The following apps and websites accept Google Pay:
- 1-800-flowers
- Airbnb
- Caviar
- Doordash
- Fandango
- Groupon
- Hotel Tonight
- Houzz
- Instacart
- Kayak
- Starbucks
- Wish
The following transit systems accept Google Pay:
- CTA and Pace Chicago metropolitan area
- Las Vegas Monorail
- Miami-Dade County Transit
- MTA Metro-North and Long Island railroads New York metropolitan area
- Portland Hop Fastpass
What Is Google Pay?
Google Pay is a digital payment service by Google that allows users to make purchases using their Android devices at physical stores and on compatible websites and apps, including the Google Play Store. In 2023, Google Pay is the most trusted mobile payment app with 25.2 million users in the US alone.
To use it, people connect their credit or debit cards to Google Pay. This linked card is then used for both in-person and online transactions. For payments at stores using Android devices, Google Pay employs NFC to communicate with payment terminals. Additionally, when users are logged into their Google account on the Chrome browser, they can use Google Pay on websites offering this payment option.
How Google Pay Works?
To start using Google Pay, download the Google Pay app and link it with your preferred payment method, such as a credit or debit card. While many banks, credit unions, and other financial services support Google Pay, confirming if your specific card is compatible is essential.
Once set up, Google Pay allows you to make online and in-store payments. For in-person transactions, tap your phone on the payment terminal, similar to a contactless card. When shopping online, choosing the Google Pay option at checkout streamlines the process by automatically filling in your payment and shipping details, eliminating the need for manual entry each time you make a purchase.
Safety Features of Google Pay
When transacting with Google Pay, it uses a special encrypted number instead of revealing your credit card details. This adds an extra layer of security.
Plus, if you ever lose your device, you can use Google’s Find My Device feature to erase any important data remotely. For added security, you also have the option to log into your Google Pay account from another device and remove any linked cards or bank accounts.
Understanding Google Pay Fees
Google itself doesn’t impose any fees when you use Google Pay for tap-and-pay or online transactions. However, it’s essential to note that your card issuer might have charges associated with your purchases.
- Transaction Charges:
While Google Pay doesn’t have transaction fees, any fees applicable to your physical card usage still stand. For instance, standard interest charges and penalty fees may apply if you use a credit card via Google Pay and don’t clear your bill on time.
However, Google Pay is rolling out some additional “convenience fees” for some specific transactions. As of 2023, the stance Google has around the charges by its application is unclear. Apart from this, there are no charges currently charged by the application Google Pay.
- Credit Card Linked With Google Pay:
When you link a credit card to Google Pay, remember that your credit card company might charge the merchant a fee of up to 4%.
Some merchants may then pass this fee to you, adding it to other transaction charges. This could mean you end up paying as much as 6% extra for your purchase. To avoid unexpected costs, asking merchants about fees before using Google Pay is a good idea. A linked debit card or bank account can help sidestep these higher charges.
- Using Google Pay Abroad:
If you use Google Pay while traveling or making purchases in a foreign currency, be aware of potential fees from your bank or card provider.
These include foreign fees, typically around 3%, applied to non-USD transactions. Remember that these fees can vary based on the specific card you have linked to Google Pay.
Conclusion
In 2023, Google Pay emerged as a versatile digital payment solution, trusted by millions in the US. Offering convenience across various platforms—from retail giants like Costco and Macy’s to popular apps like Airbnb and Doordash—it simplifies transactions with robust safety measures.
While it generally doesn’t impose fees, users should consider potential card issuer charges and international transaction fees. Overall, Google Pay is a reliable tool for seamless and secure payments across various outlets.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where can I use Google Pay for transactions?
Absolutely! You can use Google Pay or Google Wallet wherever you spot those handy contactless or Google Pay symbols. Keep an eye out for them on the payment terminal screen or cash register during checkout.
Q: Can I use Google Pay for purchases at Walmart in 2023?
Currently, Walmart doesn’t accept Google Pay as a payment method. It’s always good to check for your preferred stores’ most current payment options.
Q: How do I get started with Google Pay?
Setting up Google Pay is a breeze. Locate the app on your phone, and if it’s not already there, just grab it from Google Play. Add your card linked to your Google account by confirming a few details. You can even snap a picture to add a new card. Once everything’s set, unlock your phone, tap, and you’re ready!
Q: Is Google Pay secure?
Absolutely! Google Pay offers enhanced security compared to traditional magnetic-stripe cards. It’s not just convenient; it’s also swift. Unlike chip card transactions that may take a bit, contactless payments with Google Pay process in a flash. Plus, you get a handy payment confirmation on your phone, making it easy to spot any fishy activity. In case of loss or theft, you can lock your device using Android Device Manager, securing your info.
Q: Can Google Pay be used for payments at Target?
Yes, you sure can! Target happily accepts any contactless payment, be it contactless credit/debit cards or digital mobile wallets. Simply tap your contactless card or mobile device over the payment terminal and follow the prompts on the reader screen.
Q: Does Walgreens support Google Pay?
Absolutely! Walgreens is all in for contactless payments. Whether tap-to-pay credit cards, Apple Pay, or Google Pay, they’ve got you covered. Just wave your contactless card or mobile device over the payment terminal and follow the prompts on the reader screen.
If you’d like to learn more about how to use Apple and Google pay click the link here!
