When planning a shopping trip to Sam’s Club, it’s essential to know the available payment methods. If you’re an Apple Pay user, you might wonder, “Does Sam’s Club accept Apple Pay?” Unfortunately, the answer is no; Sam’s Club does not accept Apple Pay. However, there are various payment options and workarounds that you can utilize to make your shopping experience smoother. In this article, we will delve into the reasons behind this policy, the alternatives available, and some tips to enhance your shopping experience at Sam’s Club.
Payment Methods Accepted at Sam’s Club
Sam’s Club offers a variety of payment methods to accommodate its diverse customer base. These include:
- Credit Cards: Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and American Express.
- Debit Cards: Linked to major banks.
- Cash and Checks: Traditional payment methods.
- Gift Cards: Sam’s Club and Walmart gift cards.
- SNAP/EBT: For eligible food items under the SNAP program.
These options ensure that most customers can find a suitable method to pay for their purchases, whether in-store or online.
Why Doesn’t Sam’s Club Accept Apple Pay?
The primary reason Sam’s Club does not accept Apple Pay is its focus on promoting its own mobile payment solution, the Sam’s Club app. This app includes a feature called “Scan & Go,” which allows customers to scan items as they shop and pay directly through the app. This method streamlines the shopping process, helping avoid long checkout lines.
Additionally, Sam’s Club is owned by Walmart, which also does not accept Apple Pay. Walmart has developed its own mobile payment system, Walmart Pay, to retain control over transaction data and reduce reliance on third-party payment services like Apple Pay.
The Role of Walmart Pay
Walmart Pay is Walmart’s proprietary mobile payment service, which integrates seamlessly with the Walmart app. It allows users to store their payment information and make purchases using their smartphones. This system benefits Walmart by keeping customers within its ecosystem and reducing transaction fees associated with third-party payment services.
Although Sam’s Club does not use Walmart Pay, the decision to avoid Apple Pay aligns with Walmart’s overall strategy of promoting its payment solutions over those of competitors.
Digital Payment Alternatives at Sam’s Club
While Sam’s Club does not accept Apple Pay, there are other digital payment options available to customers. The primary alternative is the Sam’s Club app, which offers a convenient and efficient way to shop.
Sam’s Club Scan & Go Feature
The Scan & Go feature in the Sam’s Club app is designed to enhance the shopping experience by allowing customers to:
- Scan Items: As you add items to your cart, you can scan each barcode using your smartphone.
- Pay Through the App: Once you’ve finished shopping, you can complete your payment directly through the app without waiting in line.
- Show Your Digital Receipt: Before leaving the store, present your digital receipt to the attendant at the exit.
This feature simplifies the checkout process and is a significant advantage for frequent Sam’s Club shoppers.
How to Use Scan & Go
To use the Scan & Go feature, follow these steps:
- Download the Sam’s Club App: Available for both iOS and Android devices.
- Sign In: Enter your membership details.
- Scan Items: Use your phone’s camera to scan the barcodes of the items you’re purchasing.
- Check Out: When you’re ready to check out, complete the payment through the app.
- Exit: Show your digital receipt to the attendant as you leave.
Workarounds to Use Apple Pay at Sam’s Club
Although Sam’s Club does not accept Apple Pay directly, you can use Apple Pay for your Sam’s Club purchases through Instacart, a third-party delivery service. This workaround allows you to shop at Sam’s Club and pay using Apple Pay.
Using Instacart to Shop at Sam’s Club
Instacart partners with Sam’s Club to provide delivery and pickup options. To use Apple Pay via Instacart, follow these steps:
- Download the Instacart App: Available for both iOS and Android devices.
- Create an Account: Sign up or log in if you already have an account.
- Select Sam’s Club: Choose Sam’s Club as your store.
- Add Items to Your Cart: Browse and add items to your cart.
- Proceed to Checkout: At checkout, select Apple Pay as your payment method.
- Complete Your Purchase: Follow the prompts to finalize your order.
Limitations of Using Apple Pay via Instacart
While using Instacart is a viable workaround, there are some limitations:
- Gas Stations: You cannot use Apple Pay at Sam’s Club fuel stations.
- Membership Benefits: Some in-store membership benefits might not apply when shopping through Instacart.
- Product Availability: Not all items available in-store may be listed on Instacart.
Benefits and Drawbacks of Using the Sam’s Club App
Benefits
- Efficiency: Bypass checkout lines with the Scan & Go feature.
- Personalized Experience: Access to personalized recommendations and exclusive offers.
- Membership Management: Manage your membership details and renewals through the app.
Drawbacks
- Limited Payment Options: Cannot use Apple Pay or other digital wallets.
- Learning Curve: New users may need time to get accustomed to the app.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sam’s Club and Apple Pay
Can I Pay with My Phone at Sam’s Club?
Yes, you can pay with your phone using the Sam’s Club app and its Scan & Go feature. However, you cannot use mobile payment wallets like Apple Pay or Google Pay directly.
Does Sam’s Club Accept Contactless Payments?
Sam’s Club accepts contactless payments through its Scan & Go feature in the Sam’s Club app. This method functions similarly to standard contactless payment systems.
Can You Buy Gas with Apple Pay at Sam’s Club?
No, Sam’s Club does not accept Apple Pay at its gas stations. You can use the Sam’s Club app for other purchases but not for fuel.
Which Other Stores Accept Apple Pay?
If you prefer using Apple Pay, many other retailers accept it, including:
- Best Buy
- Bloomingdale’s
- Chevron
- Disney
- Dunkin Donuts
- GameStop
- Jamba Juice
- Kohl’s
- McDonald’s
- Office Depot
- Petco
- Staples
- KFC
- Trader Joe’s
- Walgreens
- Safeway
- Costco
- Whole Foods
- CVS
- Target
- 7-11
Future of Digital Payments at Sam’s Club
As technology continues to evolve, there is always a possibility that Sam’s Club may reconsider its stance on Apple Pay. However, for now, the company remains focused on promoting its own app and payment solutions. Shoppers looking for the convenience of mobile payments can still enjoy a streamlined shopping experience through the Sam’s Club app and the Scan & Go feature.
The Bottom Lines
While Sam’s Club does not accept Apple Pay, it offers various other payment options and a robust app to enhance the shopping experience. By utilizing the Sam’s Club app or third-party services like Instacart, you can still enjoy the benefits of digital payments. Whether you choose to use the Scan & Go feature or find alternative stores that accept Apple Pay, there are plenty of ways to make your shopping experience efficient and convenient.
