How to Use a Digital Wallet Online

Set up a digital wallet on your phone and use it to pay at stores and online checkout pages.

Steps

  1. 1

    Open your phone's wallet app.

    iPhone users use the Wallet app and Android users use Google Wallet.

  2. 2

    Add a credit or debit card

    by tapping the plus sign or "Add Card." Follow the prompts to enter your card details.

  3. 3

    Verify your card with your bank.

    Your bank sends a code to your phone or email to confirm the card belongs to you.

  4. 4

    Pay in stores

    by holding your phone near the payment terminal. Your phone confirms the payment with Face ID, Touch ID, or a PIN.

  5. 5

    Pay online

    by selecting the digital wallet option at checkout. You approve the purchase with your phone's security method.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a digital wallet safer than a physical card?Show
Yes, digital wallets use tokenization. The store never sees your real card number, which reduces the risk of fraud.
Does every store accept digital wallet payments?Show
Most modern payment terminals accept digital wallets. Look for the contactless payment icon at the checkout counter.
Can I use a digital wallet on my computer?Show
Some websites let you pay with Apple Pay or Google Pay on a computer. You approve the payment using your phone or watch.
What if I lose my phone?Show
Your digital wallet is protected by your passcode, Face ID, or fingerprint. You can also remotely lock or erase your phone.

Written by the HowToDoStuff.online editorial team. Last updated .