How to Use a Virtual Card in Store
Unlock seamless in-store payments with your virtual card. This guide provides practical steps for preparing, using, and troubleshooting digital transactions at physical stores.
A virtual card is a digital payment method without a physical plastic card. It provides a unique card number, expiration date, and security code, accessed through an app or online portal. This article guides you on using your virtual card for purchases in brick-and-mortar stores, streamlining your in-store shopping experience.
Preparing Your Virtual Card for In-Store Transactions
To use your virtual card in a physical store, integrate it into a mobile wallet application like Apple Pay, Google Pay, or Samsung Pay. These apps serve as secure digital containers for your payment information. Begin by opening your chosen mobile wallet app and locating the “add a card” option.
You will then enter the virtual card details: full card number, expiration date, and card verification value (CVV). These details are found within your virtual card provider’s app or online portal. Your bank or card issuer may require additional verification to authorize the card’s addition. Completing these steps ensures your virtual card is securely stored and accessible on your mobile device for in-store purchases.
Completing Your Purchase In-Store
Once your virtual card is linked to your mobile wallet, you will use your mobile device for contactless payment at the checkout counter, often called tap-to-pay. Hold your smartphone or smartwatch near the payment terminal displaying the contactless payment symbol.
The mobile wallet app will prompt you to authenticate the transaction using facial recognition (Face ID), fingerprint scanning, or a personal identification number (PIN). After authentication, the payment processes, and you receive confirmation. If contactless payment is unavailable, you may need to manually provide your virtual card details to the cashier or input them into the terminal. Access the full card number, expiration date, and CVV from your virtual card provider’s app as needed.
Addressing Common Situations
Some stores may not handle mobile payments or prefer traditional card swipes. In such cases, inquire about manual entry options or consider an alternative payment method. Confirm payment acceptance methods before initiating a transaction.
For returns and refunds, the process mirrors that of a physical card, with the refund credited back to the original virtual card. Refund appearance time varies, typically from a few business days to a week. Confirm the transaction amount on the terminal screen before authorizing payment for a secure experience. Keep your mobile device secure with strong authentication methods to safeguard payment information during in-store use.