The McDonald’s app has quickly become a favorite tool for fast food enthusiasts looking to enjoy convenient ordering, exclusive deals, and loyalty rewards. For many users, the convenience of the app extends to utilizing gift cards as a form of payment. But can you actually add a McDonald’s gift card to the app? This question often arises for those wanting to streamline their transactions. Here’s what you need to know about managing gift cards with the McDonald’s app.
Understanding the McDonald’s App Payment Options
The McDonald’s app is user-friendly and allows for a variety of payment methods, including credit and debit cards, mobile wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay, and more. However, when it comes to gift cards, the situation becomes slightly more nuanced. The app itself does not have a dedicated feature to let users store and manage McDonald’s gift cards directly. Instead, it operates through a workaround that involves linking your gift card as a payment method.
To do this, users can input their McDonald’s Arch Card (the official term for McDonald’s gift cards) details in the app’s payment section. Much like adding a debit or credit card, the gift card can be saved as a payment option. Keep in mind, however, that the Arch Card must have a sufficient balance to cover purchases, which the app will automatically verify during the payment process.
Steps to Use Your McDonald’s Gift Card in the App
Adding a McDonald’s gift card as a payment method involves only a few simple steps:
- Open the app: Download and log in to the McDonald’s app if you haven’t already.
- Navigate to Payment Options: Under the “My Account” tab, find the payment settings and select “Add Payment Method.”
- Enter your gift card information: Input the 16-digit number from your McDonald’s Arch Card, along with the associated PIN if required.
- Save the card: Confirm the details and save the card to make it available for future purchases.
Once linked as a payment method, the balance on your gift card will be used to cover your orders until it is fully depleted.
Pros and Cons of Using Gift Cards in the App
While it is possible to use McDonald’s gift cards in the app, there are both advantages and limitations:
- Advantages:
Gift cards are a great way to budget your spending and make convenient, no-hassle payments directly through the app. - Limitations:
The app doesn’t allow users to check their gift card balance, so you’ll need to monitor it separately by visiting the official McDonald’s website or in-store. Additionally, combining a gift card with another payment method for split payments may not always be supported.
Can Gift Cards Earn Loyalty Points?
One common query among app users is whether using a gift card still qualifies for earning McDonald’s loyalty points. Thankfully, it does! Any purchase made through the McDonald’s app, including those paid for with an Arch Card, is eligible to earn points under the MyMcDonald’s Rewards program. Just make sure you’re logged into your account and scanning your QR code or placing the order via the app to earn points.
What to Do If You Encounter Issues?
As with any technology, issues can occasionally arise when trying to use a gift card in the app. If your gift card isn’t being accepted, double-check the card’s balance and the information you’ve entered. If problems persist, contact McDonald’s customer support or visit a local restaurant to address the issue directly. Additionally, keeping your app updated to the latest version can help prevent technical hiccups.
FAQ
- Can you add gift cards directly to the McDonald’s app?
No, but you can add them as a payment method by entering the card details in the payment settings. - Can you check the balance of a gift card in the McDonald’s app?
No, the app does not allow you to check gift card balances. You’ll need to check the balance on McDonald’s website or in-store. - Do gift card purchases qualify for McDonald’s Rewards points?
Yes, purchases made with a gift card in the app will earn rewards points as long as you’re logged into your account. - Is it possible to split payments between a gift card and another payment method?
Not typically, as the app generally uses one payment method per transaction.
By understanding how to navigate the McDonald’s app and manage gift cards effectively, you can enhance your fast food experience while enjoying the perks of digital convenience.