Does Walgreens Take Apple Pay in 2024? The Complete Guide

ByCharles Scott Last Update on

As a retail analyst with over a decade covering consumer payments, I can definitively say yes – Walgreens has fully embraced Apple Pay. All 8,979+ Walgreens locations now accept Apple Pay for most everyday purchases directly from an iPhone, Apple Watch, iPad, or Mac.

In my view, Apple Pay is absolutely the most seamless and secure way for Walgreens shoppers to checkout on the go in 2024. With widespread acceptance and perks like 3% cashback with Apple Card, there‘s really no reason not to pay with your device if you‘re an Apple user.

Below I‘ll share tips to master Walgreens Apple Pay purchases this year, along with up-to-date store restrictions, Balance Rewards integration, online payment, and real cost savings analysis.

Exact Purchases You Can‘t Make with Apple Pay at Walgreens

While adoption is extensive, there are still select Walgreens purchases that require standard payment methods in 2024 according to company policy:

  • Money orders – Cash only
  • Event ticket purchases – Credit/debit card only
  • Photo print orders – Store pickup requires non-Apple Pay option
  • Western Union money transfers – Cannot use Apple Pay

Outside of these exceptions, my advice is you should feel free to use Apple Pay freely at Walgreens for quick, secure checkout with your iPhone, Apple Watch, iPad or Mac.

Step-By-Step Guide to Checkout with Apple Pay In-Store

I‘ll walk through the exact process to use Apple Pay at Walgreens brick-and-mortar locations with an iPhone or Apple Watch:

  1. Add credit/debit cards to Apple Pay – Ensure desired payment cards are already added to the Wallet app
  2. Bring device near terminal – Hold your iPhone or Apple Watch to the contactless reader
  3. Authorize with biometrics – Double click side button on Apple Watch, or use Face/Touch ID on iPhone
  4. Wait for vibration/beep – Your phone will vibrate and reader will beep when finished
  5. Check receipt – Payment details are viewable in Wallet app history

The great thing about Apple Pay is speed and convenience compared to fumbling through your wallet for a card. Payments take seconds once set up.

Integrating Walgreens Balance Rewards into Apple Pay

One underrated feature I recommend all loyalty members set up is adding your myWalgreens Balance Rewards card directly into Apple Pay via the iPhone Wallet app:

  1. Open the Walgreens mobile app
  2. Navigate to your Balance Rewards membership card
  3. Tap "Add to Apple Wallet" to sync to Wallet
  4. Shop and pay normally with Apple Pay to earn points

Adding your Balance Rewards ensures you always get credit for purchases towards free products and savings when using Apple devices to pay. It‘s seamless once loaded.

Paying Online at Walgreens.com with Apple Pay

Beyond in-store, Apple Pay is also accepted directly on Walgreens.com for convenience:

  • Eligible online purchases – Prescriptions, general merchandise
  • Ineligible purchases – Photo print orders only

To pay online with Apple Pay:

  1. Add item to cart
  2. Proceed to checkout
  3. Select "Apple Pay" option
  4. Authorize with Face/Touch ID on iPhone/iPad or side button click on Apple Watch
  5. Confirm shipping
  6. Done!

Super simple and speedy online checkout mirroring the app. Love it.

Cost Savings Analysis – 3% Back with Apple Card

Savvy users combining Apple Pay with Apple Card qualify for unlimited 3% Daily Cash back on all Walgreens purchases, which can seriously add up over a year. Let‘s analyze potential savings.

Average Annual Cost for Walgreens Shopper: $500/year at Walgreens (conservative)

Annual Cash Back Earned

  • With No Rewards Card: $0
  • With Apple Card via Apple Pay: $15 back per year (3% of $500)

Benefits of 3% Walgreens Cashback

That $15 cash may cover a couple of household essential purchases like milk, eggs, razors or cleaning products from store shelves. Nothing life changing but still meaningful savings directly back in your wallet.

Conclusion: Apple Pay is the Ideal Payment Process for Walgreens

Based on 2023 store acceptance policies, online payment capability, deep Balance Rewards integration, and strong Apple Card perks, Apple Pay checks all boxes as the premier, future-focused payment method for Walgreens shoppers.

If you‘re an Apple user who frequents Walgreens for quick everyday shopping or prescription needs, there‘s truly no better checkout experience than tapping to pay with Apple devices via Apple Pay. Seamless transactions under 3 seconds backed by bank-grade security? Yes please.

I hope this comprehensive analysis of "Does Walgreens Take Apple Pay in 2024?" was helpful as your definitive guide. Let me know if any other questions!

Charles Scott is a dynamic professional whose academic and career achievements demonstrate a strong commitment to excellence in the retail and consumer service industry. Graduating with an MBA from New York University in 2013, Charles has built a diverse and impressive career portfolio. He has held significant roles as a manager, advisor, and marketer, showcasing his multifaceted skills and deep understanding of the industry.

Beyond his direct professional engagements, Charles has made a notable mark as the head writer and founder of ExpertBeacon.com. This platform stands as a testament to his dedication to consumer empowerment and education. ExpertBeacon.com is a resource designed to assist consumers in addressing their persistent questions about products, services, and companies. Under Charles's leadership, the site provides in-depth, well-researched, and accurate information, all structured in easy-to-follow guides and articles. His work here not only highlights his expertise in the field but also his commitment to providing valuable, actionable information to the public.

Charles's approach is centered on a keen understanding of consumer needs and market dynamics, making him a respected voice in the industry. His contributions through ExpertBeacon.com and his professional roles reflect a blend of strategic thinking, practical knowledge, and a genuine desire to enhance consumer experiences in the retail and consumer service sectors.

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