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How to Add a Card to Apple Pay and Use It

Tap a step to see how to set up and use Apple Pay.

  1. Open the "Wallet" app

    Launch the built-in Wallet app on your iPhone.

  2. Tap the "+" icon to add a card

    Tap the "+" icon in the top corner and choose "Debit or Credit Card".

  3. Scan your card with the camera or enter it manually

    Hold your card up to the camera to auto-fill its details, then fill in anything else that is needed.

  4. Complete verification with your card issuer

    Finish whatever verification your bank sends (a text message, an in-app confirmation, etc.) to complete setup.

  5. Why this is useful

    Once set up, you can pay just by holding your iPhone or Apple Watch near a payment terminal, without pulling out your physical card.

For paying without carrying a physical wallet

Once a card is added, checking out is as simple as holding your iPhone or Apple Watch near the terminal β€” no more digging through your wallet for the right card.

Not every terminal supports it yet

Apple Pay only works at terminals with contactless (NFC) payment support, and plenty of smaller or older card readers still do not have it, so it is worth checking before you rely on it as your only way to pay.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use Apple Pay absolutely anywhere?

Only at stores with an NFC-capable payment terminal β€” many smaller shops or older terminals still do not support contactless payment, so it is worth having a backup card or cash on hand.

Is my card information safe if I lose my iPhone?

Yes β€” your actual card number is never stored on the device; Apple Pay uses a substitute device number instead. If your phone is lost, you can also remotely suspend payments through Apple's Find My service.