To use Apple Pay on an iPhone 15, first add a card in the Wallet app by tapping the + button. To pay in a store, double-click the side button, look at your iPhone to confirm with Face ID, then hold the top of the iPhone near the card reader until you see Done and a checkmark.
Applies to: iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, and 15 Pro Max. Checked against Apple Support on October 10, 2026.
Step 1: Add a card to Wallet
- Open the Wallet app and tap the + (Add) button.
- Tap Debit or Credit Card, then Continue.
- Hold the card in the camera frame to scan it, or tap Enter Card Details Manually.
- Enter the security code and accept your bank’s terms.
- Verify the card with your bank, usually by a text message code or the bank’s app.
You can also add a card from Settings > Wallet & Apple Pay > Add Card. Apple Pay needs a passcode on your iPhone, so set one up first if you haven’t.
Step 2: Pay in a store
- Double-click the side button on the right of the iPhone.
- Glance at the screen to authenticate with Face ID, or enter your passcode.
- Hold the top of the iPhone near the contactless reader.
- Wait for Done and a checkmark on the screen.
Look for the contactless symbol or the Apple Pay logo at the checkout. You don’t need to unlock the iPhone or open an app first.
Pay with a different card
After you double-click the side button, tap your default card to see your other cards, then tap the one you want and authenticate as usual.
To change which card comes up first, open Wallet, touch and hold a card, and drag it to the front. Or go to Settings > Wallet & Apple Pay > Default Card.
Pay in apps and on websites
- At checkout, choose Apple Pay or tap the Buy with Apple Pay button.
- Check the card, shipping address, and contact details shown.
- Double-click the side button and confirm with Face ID.
This works in Safari and in apps that support Apple Pay. You don’t need to type in card numbers.
Use Express Transit
In cities that support it, you can pay for public transport without Face ID. Go to Settings > Wallet & Apple Pay > Express Transit Card, pick a card, then hold the top of the iPhone near the gate reader.
See your purchases
Open Wallet and tap a card to see its recent Apple Pay transactions. For some cards, Wallet shows the full card history from your bank. Your bank statement remains the official record.
Remove a card
- Open Wallet and tap the card.
- Tap the More button (three dots), then Card Details.
- Scroll down and tap Remove This Card.
Removing a card from Apple Pay doesn’t cancel the card itself. It only stops you paying with it from your iPhone.
Send money with Apple Cash
In the US, you can also send and receive money with Apple Cash. Set it up in Wallet, then send money in a Messages conversation by tapping the + button and choosing Apple Cash. Apple Cash isn’t available in every country.
Pay with an Apple Watch too
If you have an Apple Watch paired with your iPhone 15 (see how to connect an Apple Watch to an iPhone 15), open the Watch app on the iPhone, tap Wallet & Apple Pay, and add your cards there as well. To pay, double-click the watch’s side button and hold the watch face near the reader.
Is Apple Pay safe?
- Your card number isn’t stored on your iPhone or given to the shop. Each card gets a separate device account number instead.
- Each payment needs Face ID or your passcode.
- If your iPhone is lost, mark it as lost in Find My. This suspends Apple Pay until you sign in again. See how to turn off Find My iPhone 15 for more about Find My.
If Apple Pay doesn’t work
- Double-clicking the side button does nothing: Go to Settings > Wallet & Apple Pay and turn on Double-Click Side Button.
- The card can’t be added: Your bank or card type may not support Apple Pay, or Apple Pay may not be available in your country. Check with your bank.
- The reader doesn’t respond: Hold the top edge of the iPhone, where the NFC antenna is, close to the reader for a few seconds. Remove a thick metal case if you use one.
- Face ID fails: Tap Pay with Passcode and enter your passcode.
- “Payment not completed”: The shop’s terminal may not accept contactless payments over a certain amount, or your bank declined it. Try another card or contact the bank.
- Apple Pay disappeared: Signing out of your Apple Account or removing your passcode removes your cards. Add them again.
Frequently asked questions
Does Apple Pay cost anything?
No. Apple doesn’t charge you to use Apple Pay. Your normal card terms apply.
Do I need an internet connection?
Not to pay in a store. You need a connection to add a card and for online purchases.
Can I use Apple Pay without Face ID?
Yes. You can confirm payments with your passcode instead.
How many cards can I add?
Up to 16 on newer iPhones, depending on your region.
New to the iPhone 15? See how to set up a new iPhone 15.
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.