As contactless payments become the norm, customers wonder: Does CVS accept Apple Pay in 2025? The answer is yes, though there are some details to note. This primer explains how CVS treats Apple Pay, including supported devices, making a payment using the service at the store and at the pharmacy, and where Apple Pay isn’t accepted.
What Is Apple Pay and How Does It Work?
Apple Pay is Apple’s digital wallet, allowing for secure, touch-free payments through your iPhone, Apple Watch, iPad, or Mac. Rather than swiping a card, you put your Apple device near a contactless terminal and verify the transaction using Face ID, Touch ID, or a passcode.
Why Apple Pay Is Popular:
- Uses tokenized transactions, for enhanced security.
- Removes the requirement to carry physical cards.
- Works with many popular retailers and apps.
Once set up in your Wallet app, it is one of the easiest ways to pay in physical stores, online, or in apps though CVS currently does not allow it in their own mobile app.
Does CVS Accept Apple Pay in 2025?
Yes, CVS accepts Apple Pay at all physical store locations with NFC-enabled terminals. It started supporting Apple Pay in 2018, and it remains available in 2025 for in-store purchases, including at pharmacy counters and self-checkout machines.
However, It does not accept Apple Pay in its official mobile app or website. This is crucial to keep in mind if you’re ordering prescription refills or using curbside pickup online.
How to Use Apple Pay at CVS
Paying with Pay at CVS is straightforward and swift.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Open Apple Wallet by double-pressing the side button on your iPhone or Apple Watch.
- Select the card you wish to use, if you have more than one card.
- Authenticate using Face ID, Touch ID, or passcode.
- Hold the device against the contactless payment reader.
- Wait for the sound of a beep or the checkmark to verify payment.
It is supported at regular checkout counters, pharmacy windows, and self-checkout kiosks in most CVS stores.
Does CVS Pharmacy Take Apple Pay for Prescriptions?
Yes, the pharmacy accepts Apple Pay when making in-store payments. Whether you are picking up a prescription, buying over-the-counter medication, or talking with a pharmacist, you can pay using your Apple device.
However, Apple Pay is not available for:
- Online prescription payments using the CVS app
- Orders placed through the CVS.com website
For orders for delivery or curbside pickup, you must utilize a debit/credit card, a CVS gift card, or CVS Pay via the app.
Does CVS Have Tap to Pay?
Yes, CVS has tap-to-pay systems at most registers. These terminals support diverse NFC-based payment methods such as:
- Apple Pay
- Google Pay
- Samsung Pay
- Tap-enabled credit/debit cards
The contactless symbol (wave-like icon) at the register indicates where to hold your device.
Can You Utilize Apple Pay at CVS Self-Checkout?
Yes, most self-checkout kiosks accept Apple Pay in 2025. If you see the NFC logo on the card reader, you’re ready to go.
Pro Tip:
- Make sure to scan your ExtraCare rewards card as you complete the transaction to receive loyalty points.
Alternative Digital Payment Methods at CVS
CVS offers a range of payment options, old and new. Here’s the breakdown:
Digital Wallets:
- Apple Pay (in-store only)
- Google Pay
- Samsung Pay
- PayPal (via CVS app)
Traditional Methods:
- Credit/Debit Cards (Visa, Mastercard, Discover, AmEx)
- Cash
- EBT Cards (select locations)
- CVS Gift Cards
- Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) and Health Savings Accounts (HSA)
Does CVS Cash Checks?
No, CVS does not cash checks in any of its stores. It is not a check-cashing store and does not provide any bank services. Nevertheless, CVS does sell:
- Prepaid debit cards (like NetSpend or Green Dot)
- Money order services via MoneyGram (at some locations)
To deposit checks, attempt Walmart, Kroger, or local check-cashing establishments.
CVS App Limitations: Apple Pay Not Supported
While CVS supports digital transactions, it is not integrated into the CVS mobile app. Instead, the app utilizes CVS Pay, a proprietary system technology that stores your card and ExtraCare details for rapid payments.
If you prefer Apple Pay, you’ll need to pay in person at a store and cannot use it for:
- Online orders
- App-based curbside pickup
- CVS telehealth services
Benefits of Using Apple Pay at CVS
Apple Pay offers several advantages, especially for frequent the shoppers:
Why Use Apple Pay at CVS?
- Fast checkout: No need to swipe or enter PINs
- Extra security: Each payment uses tokenized card info
- Reduces physical contact with terminals
- Works with most iPhones and Apple Watches
CVS’s wide support of NFC terminals makes the shopping experience smoother, especially for customers focused on hygiene, speed, and privacy.
Apple Pay vs CVS Pay: What’s the Difference?
Feature | Apple Pay | CVS Pay |
In-store use | Yes | Yes |
CVS app use | No | Yes |
Compatible devices | Apple only | Any smartphone |
Loyalty integration | Manual scan required | Automatic with app |
Third-party wallet | Yes | No (CVS-specific only) |
CVS Pay is the only method that integrates directly with ExtraCare rewards within the app, while Apple Pay is better for general contactless convenience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does every CVS location accept Apple Pay?
Most CVS retail locations accept Apple Pay, but it’s wise to check for the contactless symbol before assuming.
Is Apple Pay available at the pharmacy counter?
Yes, the Pharmacy counters accept Apple Pay for both prescriptions and retail purchases.
Can I use Apple Pay on the CVS website or app?
No, Apple Pay is not currently supported for app or website purchases.
Is using Apple Pay at CVS safe?
Yes. Apple Pay uses secure encryption and biometric authentication for all transactions.
Do I need to enable anything to use Apple Pay at CVS?
No special settings are required—just ensure your Wallet is set up and the card is verified.
Can I use Apple Pay with ExtraCare discounts?
Yes, but you must scan your ExtraCare card or app before paying with Apple Pay.
Does CVS accept other mobile payments?
Yes, Google Pay and Samsung Pay are also supported in-store.
