Google Pay lets you pay in stores with your phone, and online with the Google Pay button at checkout. In the US the old standalone Google Pay app was retired in June 2024; tap-to-pay now lives in the Google Wallet app on Android, while Google Pay remains the name of the payment service online. Here is how to set it up and use it.
Quick Answer
Install or open Google Wallet on your Android phone, add a card, set up a screen lock, then unlock the phone and hold it near the contactless reader to pay. Online, choose Google Pay at checkout.
How to Use Google Pay
- Open the Google Wallet app (install it from the Play Store if needed).
- Tap Add to Wallet, then Payment card, and scan or type your card details.
- Verify the card with your bank if asked.
- Make sure NFC is on (Settings, Connected devices, Connection preferences) and a screen lock is set.
- In a store, unlock your phone and hold the back near the contactless reader until you see a check mark.
- Online, choose the Google Pay button at checkout and pick your card.
Google Pay and Google Wallet
| Task | Where |
|---|---|
| Tap to pay in stores (Android) | Google Wallet app |
| Pay online or in apps | Google Pay button at checkout |
| Store tickets, passes, IDs | Google Wallet |
| Send money to friends (US) | No longer supported in the Google Pay app |
| iPhone | Google Pay works online in Chrome and apps; tap-to-pay uses the iPhone’s own wallet |
Troubleshooting
- Payment not going through: make sure NFC is on and the phone is unlocked.
- Card will not add: not all banks support Google Wallet. Check with your bank.
- Wrong card charged: set a default card in Google Wallet.
- More: using Google Pay on iPhone and how to turn off Google Pay on Android.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Google Pay free?
Yes, for shoppers. Your card’s normal terms apply.
Is it safe?
Google Wallet uses a virtual card number, so stores do not see your real card number.
Can I still send money with Google Pay?
Peer-to-peer payments in the US ended with the old app. Other countries may differ.
Does it work on a smartwatch?
Yes, on supported Wear OS watches.
Summary
- Open Google Wallet.
- Add a card.
- Turn on NFC and a screen lock.
- Unlock and hold near the reader.
- Use the Google Pay button online.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.