How To Pay With Apple Pay On Amazon? The Definitive Guide
You can’t directly pay with Apple Pay on the Amazon website or app. This guide outlines workarounds and explains how to pay with Apple Pay on Amazon indirectly using accepted payment methods and Amazon Balance.
Understanding the Current Limitation
Amazon, as a major competitor to Apple, does not directly integrate Apple Pay as a payment option on its website or mobile applications. This is primarily due to business and competitive considerations. While convenient, Apple Pay’s direct integration with Amazon is unlikely in the near future.
Indirect Methods for Using Apple Pay on Amazon
Despite the direct limitation, there are a few workarounds to effectively use your Apple Pay funds for Amazon purchases:
- Using Your Apple Cash: If you have funds in your Apple Cash account, you can transfer them to your bank account or debit card that is already linked to your Amazon account.
- Amazon Gift Cards: Purchase Amazon gift cards using Apple Pay and then redeem them in your Amazon account. This is perhaps the most common and reliable method.
- Apple Card as Payment Method: If you have an Apple Card, you can add it as a standard credit card to your Amazon account and pay directly. This effectively leverages Apple’s financial services.
- Third-Party Payment Processors: While less common and potentially riskier, some third-party services might offer a way to bridge Apple Pay and Amazon payments. Exercise extreme caution when considering these options. Thoroughly research the service’s legitimacy and security before using it.
Buying Amazon Gift Cards with Apple Pay
This is the safest and most straightforward method:
- Identify Retailers: Find retailers (online or physical stores) that sell Amazon gift cards and accept Apple Pay. Popular options include:
- Grocery stores like Whole Foods and Trader Joe’s.
- Drugstores like Walgreens and CVS.
- Electronics stores like Best Buy.
- Online platforms that sell digital gift cards.
- Purchase the Gift Card: At the retailer, select the desired Amazon gift card value. When prompted for payment, choose Apple Pay.
- Redeem on Amazon: Log in to your Amazon account, go to “Your Account,” then “Gift Cards,” and finally “Redeem a Gift Card.” Enter the gift card code. The amount will be added to your Amazon Balance.
- Use Your Amazon Balance: During checkout, your Amazon Balance will be automatically applied to your purchase.
Using Apple Card as Your Amazon Payment Method
If you are an Apple Card holder, adding it to Amazon is simple:
- Get Your Card Details: Open the Wallet app on your iPhone or iPad. Select your Apple Card. Tap the three dots in the upper right corner, then tap “Card Information.”
- Add to Amazon: Log in to your Amazon account. Go to “Your Account,” then “Payment Options.” Select “Add a credit or debit card.”
- Enter Details: Enter your Apple Card number, expiration date, and CVV code.
- Use Your Apple Card: During checkout, select your Apple Card as your payment method.
Security Considerations
Whenever using workarounds, prioritize security:
- Use Reputable Retailers: Only purchase Amazon gift cards from trusted retailers.
- Secure Wi-Fi: Avoid using public Wi-Fi networks when making online purchases.
- Monitor Your Accounts: Regularly check your Apple Pay and Amazon accounts for unauthorized activity.
| Method | Ease of Use | Security | Cost | Limitations |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apple Cash Transfer | Moderate | High | None | Requires a linked bank account |
| Amazon Gift Card Purchase | Easy | High | None | Requires a physical or online retailer |
| Apple Card Direct Payment | Easy | High | None | Requires an Apple Card |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use Apple Pay directly at Amazon checkout?
No, Amazon does not currently accept Apple Pay as a direct payment method. You need to use the indirect methods described above.
Why doesn’t Amazon accept Apple Pay?
This is primarily due to competitive reasons. Amazon has its own payment ecosystem and may not want to directly support a competitor’s payment service.
Is it safe to buy Amazon gift cards with Apple Pay?
Yes, as long as you purchase gift cards from reputable retailers. Be wary of third-party sellers offering deals that seem too good to be true.
What if my Amazon gift card purchased with Apple Pay is not working?
Contact Amazon customer support immediately. They can investigate the issue and help you redeem the gift card. Keep your purchase receipt as proof.
Can I add my Apple Cash balance to my Amazon account directly?
No, you cannot directly add your Apple Cash balance to your Amazon account. You must transfer it to a linked bank account and then use that bank account as a payment method on Amazon.
Are there any fees associated with using Apple Pay to buy Amazon gift cards?
No, Apple Pay itself does not charge any fees. However, some retailers may have their own fees for certain payment methods, so it’s always a good idea to check before you purchase.
Will Amazon ever accept Apple Pay directly?
It’s difficult to predict the future. Given the current competitive landscape, direct Apple Pay integration is unlikely in the near term, but market conditions could change.
Is it possible to get cash back on Amazon purchases made using Apple Pay?
This depends on the payment method you use with Apple Pay. If you’re using an Apple Card, you’ll receive cash back on your purchases, as per Apple Card’s reward program. If using another card, check its specific terms.
Can I use Apple Pay on the Amazon mobile app?
No, Apple Pay is not a direct option on the Amazon mobile app either. The same indirect methods apply.
What are the alternatives to Apple Pay for paying on Amazon?
Amazon accepts a variety of payment methods, including credit cards, debit cards, Amazon Store Cards, and Amazon Balance.
Is it legal to use Apple Pay indirectly to pay on Amazon?
Yes, using gift cards or adding your Apple Card is perfectly legal. The limitations are simply due to Amazon’s chosen payment policies.
What happens if I return an item I bought on Amazon using a gift card purchased with Apple Pay?
The refund will be credited to your Amazon Balance. You can then use that balance for future purchases. If you prefer, you can contact Amazon customer service to inquire about other refund options.