When I first heard about Apple Pay being accepted in stores, my biggest question was whether CVS, my go-to pharmacy for prescriptions and everyday essentials, supported it. As someone who loves quick and contactless checkouts, I decided to find out if CVS really accepts Apple Pay and how you can use it to make shopping smoother.
This guide will walk you through CVS’s Apple Pay policy, how it works in stores and online, its benefits, and what other payment options CVS customers can use.
Does CVS Accept Apple Pay?
Yes, CVS does accept Apple Pay in most locations across the United States. I’ve personally used it at multiple CVS stores, and it works flawlessly. Simply hold your iPhone or Apple Watch near the contactless reader and authenticate with Face ID, Touch ID, or your passcode.
That said, it’s best to confirm with your local CVS store because acceptance may vary in some locations, especially those inside larger retailers like Target, which may run on different payment systems.
Why CVS Adopted Apple Pay
CVS officially rolled out Apple Pay acceptance around 2018 after years of holding back due to competing mobile payment systems. The shift happened as customer demand for contactless, secure, and fast checkout grew.
Apple Pay uses tokenization, generating a unique code for each transaction instead of sharing your card number. This protects sensitive card data and makes transactions more secure. CVS’s adoption of Apple Pay also helped it keep pace with competitors like Walgreens, which had already embraced the payment method.
How to Use Apple Pay at CVS
Using Apple Pay at CVS is quick and simple:
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Set Up Your Wallet App – Add a debit or credit card to your Apple Wallet. Most major banks, including Chase, Citi, Wells Fargo, and Bank of America, are supported.
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At Checkout – Look for the contactless payment symbol on the CVS terminal.
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On iPhone: Double-click the side button, authenticate, and hold near the reader.
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On Apple Watch: Double-click the side button and place your watch near the reader.
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Online or App Purchases – Some transactions on CVS.com and the CVS app also allow Apple Pay at checkout, especially for prescriptions and select items. Availability, however, can vary.
Benefits of Using Apple Pay at CVS
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Faster Checkout: Tap and go in seconds, no swiping or signing required.
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Security: Card details are never shared with CVS. Instead, Apple Pay uses encryption and authentication to keep transactions safe.
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Contactless Convenience: Perfect for reducing contact with surfaces.
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Rewards Integration: Earn CVS ExtraCare points the same way you would with a physical card.
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Digital Tracking: Purchases are recorded in your Wallet app, making budgeting easier.
Other Payment Methods CVS Accepts
In addition to Apple Pay, CVS also accepts:
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Cash, debit, and major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Discover, Amex)
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Google Pay and Samsung Pay
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PayPal and Venmo (online and app)
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Contactless credit/debit cards with the NFC symbol
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CVS ExtraCare-linked payments for seamless rewards
Tips for Smooth Apple Pay Checkout at CVS
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Make sure your device is charged before shopping.
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Have Apple Pay ready when you reach the cashier to avoid delays.
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Keep a backup card or cash in case of rare technical issues.
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Confirm acceptance at smaller or partnered CVS locations (like those inside Target).
FAQs About Apple Pay at CVS
Q: Does CVS accept Apple Pay for prescriptions?
Yes, Apple Pay works for prescription pickups at most CVS pharmacies.
Q: Do I earn CVS ExtraCare rewards with Apple Pay?
Yes. Just link your ExtraCare account or scan your card/app.
Q: Does CVS accept Apple Pay online?
Yes, but only for select purchases on CVS.com and the CVS app. Some services, like photo printing or deliveries, may require a card instead.
Q: Is Apple Pay safe to use at CVS?
Absolutely. With tokenization and Face ID/Touch ID authentication, it’s one of the most secure ways to pay.
Q: Can I return an item bought with Apple Pay at CVS?
Yes, returns are processed the same as with cards. Simply provide your receipt or let the cashier look up the transaction through your Apple Pay device.
So, does CVS take Apple Pay? Yes, CVS accepts Apple Pay in most stores, making checkout fast, secure, and contactless. You’ll still earn ExtraCare rewards, and you can use it both in-store and, in some cases, online.
If you want a hassle-free way to shop at CVS without fumbling for cash or cards, Apple Pay is one of the best options. Next time you head to CVS for prescriptions or essentials, give it a try, you might never go back to traditional checkout again.
