Can You Pay With Zip in Store?

Zip, formerly known as QuadPay, is a financial service that allows consumers to divide purchase costs into manageable installments. This “Buy Now, Pay Later” (BNPL) model offers flexibility, allowing shoppers to acquire items immediately and spread payments, typically without interest if payments are made on time. While many users are familiar with its online application, Zip also provides options for in-store purchases.

Setting Up for In-Store Payments

To use Zip for in-store transactions, download the official Zip mobile application to a smartphone. After installing the app, users must create and verify a Zip account, which typically requires providing personal information and instant approval. This initial setup establishes the user’s spending power, an estimate of the amount that can be financed.

A payment method, such as a debit or credit card, must be securely linked to the Zip account. This linked card serves as the source for automatic repayment of the installments. For in-store purchases, Zip generates a one-time use virtual card, which functions like a regular Visa card. This virtual card contains essential details such as a card number, expiration date, and a security code (CVV), necessary for completing a transaction.

Making an In-Store Purchase with Zip

When ready to make an in-store purchase, open the Zip app and navigate to the in-store payment section. The app will prompt for the exact purchase amount, including any taxes, to create a “purchase request.” This step is crucial as it determines the funds loaded onto the one-time virtual card for the transaction.

After confirming the amount, the Zip app generates the virtual card details. Users can often add this virtual card to their digital wallets, such as Apple Pay or Google Pay, for a contactless payment experience at checkout. If a merchant does not support digital wallet payments, the app displays the virtual card’s number, expiration date, and CVV for manual entry into the point-of-sale system. The virtual card acts as the payment method, and the first installment is typically due at the time of purchase.

Managing Your Zip Payments

After an in-store purchase, the Zip app serves as the central hub for managing the repayment plan. Users can view a detailed payment schedule for each transaction, typically four equal installments over six weeks. Payments are generally set up for automatic deductions from the linked debit or credit card.

Users can also make manual payments within the app or pay off their balance early without penalty. The app provides notifications and reminders for upcoming payment dates. Failing to make a payment on time can result in late fees, which generally range around $7, though specific amounts can vary. A dishonor fee, typically about $5, may apply if a scheduled payment fails due to insufficient funds. Consistent missed payments can lead to an account being put on hold, preventing new purchases, and may affect future creditworthiness.