Can You Get Cashback with Apple Pay?

Michael Kay

person holding black android smartphone

Yes, you can get cash back with Apple Pay if you use an Apple Card with Apple Pay at participating merchants. Apple pay has different criteria to qualify you for cash back, but if you follow the rules and shop at an applicable merchant you can definitely benefit from money back on your purchases. Apple Pay is a safer way to pay that helps you avoid touching buttons or exchanging cash. And with every qualified purchase you make using your Apple Card with Apple Pay, you get 2%-3% Daily Cash back.

You can earn 3% Daily Cash back on purchases made at Apple and select merchants. There’s no limit to how much Daily Cash you can earn. 

Here are some merchants that offer 3% Daily Cash back when you use Apple Card with Apple Pay:

  • Ace Hardware: Shop at participating Ace Hardware stores, on acehardware.com, or use the Ace Hardware app
  • Duane Reade: Shop at Duane Reade stores in New York and New Jersey
  • Exxon and Mobil gas stations: Get 3% Daily Cash back on fuel, convenience store, and car wash purchases at the pump using the Exxon Mobil Rewards+ app 

You can send your Daily Cash to Apple Cash or have it automatically deposited into Savings.

Using Apple Pay for Cashback

Apple Pay is a safe and easy way to pay for things. But can you use it to get cashback, like you do with a debit card? It’s not as simple as you might think.

How Cashback Works with Apple Pay

To get cashback with Apple Pay, you need to meet a few conditions:

  1. The store must allow cashback with debit cards. Not all stores offer this option, so it’s important to check beforehand.
  2. Your Apple Pay wallet must be linked to a debit card. You can’t get cashback if you’re only using a credit card in Apple Pay.
  3. The payment terminal must support cashback with Apple Pay. Some older terminals might not have this feature.

Where Can You Get Cashback with Apple Pay?

Many stores that offer cashback with debit cards also allow it with Apple Pay. Some of the most common places include:

  • Grocery stores: Many major grocery chains let you get cashback when you pay with Apple Pay.
  • Drugstores: Some drugstores also offer cashback with Apple Pay.
  • Big-box retailers: Stores like Walmart and Target often allow cashback with Apple Pay.

How to Get Cashback with Apple Pay

The process is simple:

  1. Tell the cashier you want cashback. Let them know how much you’d like to get back.
  2. Hold your phone near the payment terminal. Make sure you’re using the debit card you want to get cashback from.
  3. Follow the prompts on the screen. You might need to enter your PIN or use Touch ID/Face ID.
  4. Collect your cashback. The cashier will give you the cash along with your receipt.

Tips for Getting Cashback with Apple Pay

  • Ask the cashier before you start the transaction. This way, they can make sure the terminal is set up for cashback.
  • Check your balance before you request cashback. Make sure you have enough money in your account to cover the purchase and the cashback amount.
  • Keep your receipt. This is your proof of purchase and cashback.

Alternatives to Cashback with Apple Pay

If you can’t get cashback with Apple Pay, there are other options:

  • Use an ATM: This is the most common way to get cash.
  • Ask for cash back at a bank: Some banks will give you cash back if you show them your debit card.
  • Use a cashback app: Some apps offer cashback on purchases made at certain stores.

Comparing Cashback Options

OptionProsCons
Apple Pay cashbackConvenient, no extra feesNot available at all stores, limited to debit cards
ATMWidely availableMight have fees, not always convenient
Bank cashbackNo feesNot available at all banks, might require a minimum purchase
Cashback appCan earn rewards on purchasesLimited to certain stores, might require a minimum purchase

Remember, the best way to get cashback is to choose the option that’s most convenient and cost-effective for you.

Can You Get Cashback with Apple Pay?

StoreCan you get cashback?Notes
Retail storesIt dependsLook for the Apple Pay logo and ask the cashier if they offer cashback with Apple Pay. Some stores may require using a specific debit card linked to your Apple Pay account.
Grocery storesIt dependsSome grocery stores like Hannaford’s allow cashback with Apple Pay, while others like Walmart and Kroger do not.
Gas stationsIt dependsSome gas stations offer cashback with Apple Pay, but it’s not universally available. Check with the specific station before using Apple Pay.
RestaurantsIt dependsSimilar to retail stores, it’s best to ask the restaurant directly if they offer cashback with Apple Pay.
Online storesNoCashback typically comes from credit card rewards programs, and Apple Pay itself doesn’t offer those. However, some credit cards offer bonus rewards when used with Apple Pay, which could be considered a form of “cashback.”

Understanding Apple Pay Cashback

With Apple Pay, users get the convenience of digital payments and can earn cashback rewards on their purchases. This benefit hinges on the type of card used with Apple Pay and the stores where it’s accepted.

How Apple Pay Cashback Works

  • Apple Pay with Apple Card:
    • 3% Daily Cash on Apple products or at partner stores.
    • 2% Daily Cash for other purchases through Apple Pay.
    • 1% Daily Cash when using the Apple Card as a physical card.

Other credit and debit cards may offer cashback rewards as well. However, the rate and specifics will depend on the card issuer’s terms.

Eligible Apple Pay Devices

For those looking to earn cashback through Apple Pay, they must have an eligible device:

  • iPhone models are equipped with the necessary technology to handle Apple Pay transactions.
  • Apple Watch can also be used for this form of payment.
  • Additionally, certain models of the iPad and Mac allow for Apple Pay usage but are generally more limited to online and in-app purchases.

From grocery stores to clothing outlets, a growing number of merchants accept Apple Pay, which when combined with a cashback card, can benefit the consumer’s spending habits.

Maximizing Cashback with Apple Pay

To earn the most cash back with Apple Pay, it’s important to select the best credit cards and shop strategically. Taking advantage of Apple Card benefits can also boost your rewards.

Choosing the Right Credit Cards

Choosing a credit card that offers generous cashback rewards is essential. Look for cards from issuers like Chase, American Express, and Capital One that offer higher cash back percentages, especially in categories where you frequently spend. For example, some cards may offer:

  • 3% cash back at grocery stores
  • 2% cash back at restaurants
  • Increased rewards at select retailers or partner stores

Additionally, some credit cards are tailored to improve your credit score while maximizing rewards.

Strategic Shopping with Apple Pay

Using Apple Pay with your credit cards during strategic shopping can amplify your cash back:

  1. Grocery Stores: Use cards offering higher cash back on groceries.
  2. Restaurants: If dining out, select a card that rewards you with extra cash back.
  3. Retailers and Partner Stores: Keep an eye out for retailers that have special offers when you use Apple Pay.

Remember, Apple Pay is just a conduit between your credit card and the wallet.

Apple Card Specific Benefits

If you have an Apple Card, take advantage of the specific perks it offers:

  • Daily Cash rewards on every purchase, which include:
    • 3% cash back at Apple and select merchants when using Apple Pay
    • 2% cash back on all other purchases via Apple Pay
    • 1% cash back on purchases made with the physical card

Rewards go directly into your Apple wallet and can be used immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

As consumers increasingly use Apple Pay for transactions, questions about receiving cash back with this payment method are common. Below are some answers to the most frequent inquiries on this topic.

Which stores allow me to receive cash back when using Apple Pay?

Many stores that accept Apple Pay also offer cash back during transactions. These include grocery stores, pharmacies, and some retail chains. It’s best to check with individual stores, as policies might differ.

Is it possible to obtain cash back directly at the register when paying with Apple Pay?

Yes, it is possible to get cash back at the register with Apple Pay just like you would with a debit card, provided the store’s policy allows for it and you are using a supported card.

How can I withdraw cash from an ATM using Apple Pay?

Select ATMs with contactless symbols allow you to withdraw cash using Apple Pay. Bring your iPhone or Apple Watch near the contactless reader, authenticate with Face ID, Touch ID, or your passcode, and follow the prompts to withdraw cash.

Are there specific policies for cash back with Apple Pay at retailers like Walmart or Target?

Retailers such as Walmart and Target may have specific policies regarding cash back with Apple Pay. Typically, if the store offers cash back on card transactions, the same would apply to Apple Pay if you’re using a debit card within the wallet.

Does Apple Pay support cash back transactions at convenience stores like 7-11?

Yes, convenience stores that accept Apple Pay and offer cash back on transactions typically extend this service to Apple Pay users as well.

What is the process for receiving money back from transactions using Apple Pay?

To receive money back on transactions using Apple Pay, you’ll need to use a cash back credit card or debit card within the Apple Wallet. The cash back is then processed in the same manner as it would be for a physical card transaction.