Yes, Wendy’s accepts Apple Pay at most locations, in-store, drive-thru, and on their mobile app.
To know how it works and when it may not, keep reading.
Does Wendy’s Accept Apple Pay in 2025?
Yes, Wendy’s accepts Apple Pay in most cases. Here’s where it works:
- In-store at most company-owned and updated franchise locations
- Drive-thru, depending on the terminal and staff training
- Wendy’s App, which now supports Apple Pay for orders and pickups
Some older locations may not have Apple Pay terminals. But Wendy’s is moving fast to support mobile payments everywhere.
How to Use Apple Pay at Wendy’s
In-Store Payments
- Open your Apple Wallet
- Hold your iPhone or Apple Watch near the payment terminal
- Confirm payment using Face ID or Touch ID
Most Wendy’s stores use NFC readers, so the process is quick and contactless.
Drive-Thru Payments
Yes, many Wendy’s locations allow Apple Pay in the drive-thru.
Just let the staff know you’re paying with Apple Pay. They may bring out a handheld reader, or you may tap your phone near the drive-thru window.
Note: Not all drive-thrus have the same tech, so this may vary.
Through the Wendy’s App
The Wendy’s app fully supports Apple Pay.
Here’s how to use it:
- Open the app and place your order
- At checkout, tap Apple Pay
- Confirm with Face ID or Touch ID
- Pick up your food in-store, curbside, or drive-thru
Bonus: You earn Wendy’s Rewards when using the app.
What Real Customers Say
We checked Reddit, Google reviews, and forums. Here’s the summary:
- Many say Apple Pay works perfectly inside the store
- A few say drive-thru staff aren’t always trained
- Some locations don’t have NFC readers yet, especially older franchises
- App payments with Apple Pay are fast and reliable
“Apple Pay worked at my local Wendy’s, both in-store and drive-thru. The app was smooth too.”
— @TheRealAlex, Reddit user
What If Apple Pay Doesn’t Work?
Here are reasons why it may not work:
- Older stores without NFC terminals
- Staff not trained to use contactless methods
- System updates or reader issues
What you can do:
- Use a debit or credit card
- Pay with Wendy’s gift cards
- Try Google Pay or another mobile wallet
Check in advance: Use the Wendy’s app or call the location directly.
Benefits of Using Apple Pay at Wendy’s
- Fast and secure — no cards to swipe or cash to carry
- Contactless — perfect for health and hygiene
- Earn rewards — when paying through the Wendy’s app
- Easy tracking — check receipts in your Wallet app
- Better speed at drive-thru (when supported)
How Wendy’s Compares to Other Fast Food Chains
Here’s how Wendy’s stacks up:
Fast Food Chain | Apple Pay Accepted? | Drive-Thru Compatible? |
Wendy’s | Yes (most locations + app) | Yes (varies by location) |
McDonald’s | Yes | Yes |
Chick-fil-A | Yes | Yes |
Taco Bell | Yes | Yes |
Burger King | No (some apps only) | No |
Tips for Smooth Mobile Payments
- Make sure the terminal supports NFC
- Hold your phone steady near the reader
- Open your Wallet app before approaching the cashier
- Use Apple Pay inside the Wendy’s app for bonus rewards
- Always have a backup card linked to your Apple Wallet
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Apple Pay at Wendy’s in the drive-thru?
Yes, if the location has updated terminals.
Does Wendy’s app accept Apple Pay?
Yes. It works during checkout inside the app.
What devices support Apple Pay?
iPhone 6 or newer, Apple Watch, and newer iPads and Macs.
Is Apple Pay safe to use at restaurants?
Yes. It uses secure tokens and doesn’t share your card number.
Do I get rewards when I pay with Apple Pay?
Yes, if you pay through the Wendy’s app while logged into your account.
Final Verdict
Wendy’s does support Apple Pay at most locations and through its app.
It’s fast, secure, and earns you rewards when used in the app.
If you’re unsure about your nearest store, call ahead or use the Wendy’s app to check.