Do you get cash back using Apple Pay?

Does Apple Pay Give You Cash Back? Decoding the Rewards System

Apple Pay has revolutionized the way we pay, offering a secure and convenient alternative to traditional cards and cash. But beyond its ease of use, a common question lingers: Does Apple Pay actually offer cash back rewards? The answer, like most things in the financial world, comes with a few nuances.

While Apple Pay itself doesn’t inherently offer a universal cash back program on every transaction, the potential for rewards is definitely there, and it lies primarily in how you’re using Apple Pay. Think of Apple Pay as the vehicle, and the reward program as the gas in the tank. You need both for the journey to be worthwhile.

The Key: Your Underlying Card

The most crucial factor determining whether you receive cash back with Apple Pay is the card you have linked to the service. Apple Pay simply acts as a digital wallet, securely storing your credit and debit card information. Therefore, any rewards program associated with your underlying card will apply when you use it through Apple Pay.

• Credit Cards: If your credit card offers cash back, rewards points, or travel miles, you’ll generally receive those same benefits when using that card through Apple Pay. This is because Apple Pay is essentially processing the transaction using your existing credit card account.
• Debit Cards: Similarly, if your debit card is linked to a rewards program through your bank, you should expect to receive those benefits when paying with Apple Pay. However, debit card rewards programs are often less common and less lucrative than credit card programs.

The Apple Card Advantage: A Guaranteed 2%

However, there’s one significant exception that directly ties Apple Pay to a specific cash back reward: the Apple Card. This credit card, designed specifically for seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem, provides a distinct advantage.

When you use your Apple Card through Apple Pay, you automatically receive 2% Daily Cash back on every purchase. This Daily Cash is instantly credited to your Apple Cash card in your Wallet app, ready to be spent or transferred to your bank account.

This feature is particularly attractive because it’s simple and straightforward. There are no complicated points systems to navigate, no tiered rewards levels to unlock, and no waiting for statement credits. You simply use your Apple Card with Apple Pay and receive a consistent 2% back on every transaction.

In Summary:

• Apple Pay itself doesn’t automatically provide cash back on all transactions.
• The key is the reward program associated with the underlying card you’re using through Apple Pay.
• The Apple Card, when used with Apple Pay, offers a guaranteed 2% Daily Cash back on all purchases.

So, to maximize your potential for earning rewards while enjoying the convenience and security of Apple Pay, carefully consider the card you’re using and whether it offers a compelling rewards program. If you’re looking for a simple and consistent cash back solution, the Apple Card with Apple Pay is definitely worth exploring. Choose the right combination, and you can turn everyday purchases into a rewarding experience.