Apple Pay is a mobile payment service that allows users to make purchases using compatible Apple devices like iPhones, iPads, Apple Watches and Macs. It provides a convenient and secure way to pay by tapping your device at checkout instead of swiping a card. With Apple Pay’s growing popularity, more and more businesses are accepting it as a payment method. In this article, we’ll explore if IHOP, the popular breakfast chain, takes Apple Pay.
Does IHOP Accept Apple Pay?
Yes, IHOP does accept Apple Pay as a payment method. Customers can use Apple Pay on their iPhone, Apple Watch, iPad or Mac to make orders and payments at participating IHOP locations.
To use Apple Pay at IHOP, simply hold your compatible Apple device near the store’s contactless payment terminal during checkout. A gentle vibration and beep will confirm your payment has been accepted. You don’t need to open any apps, show any cards or sign any receipts to complete the transaction.
How To Use Apple Pay at IHOP
Using Apple Pay at IHOP is very quick and easy:
- When you’re ready to pay, let your server know you’d like to use Apple Pay.
- When they bring the checkout terminal to your table, double click the side button on your iPhone X or later or Apple Watch. On earlier iPhones, hold your finger on the Touch ID.
- Hold the top of your iPhone or Apple Watch within a few centimeters of the contactless reader on the terminal till you feel a vibration and hear a beep.
- The payment will process instantly without signatures, PINs or anything else needed. You’ll see a checkmark on your device screen confirming payment.
- For split payments, you can use multiple Apple Pay devices separately on the same terminal.
That’s it – you’ve just paid your IHOP bill with Apple Pay! It’s the most seamless dining experience you’ll have.
Compatible Apple Devices
Here are the Apple devices compatible with making Apple Pay payments at IHOP:
- iPhone 6 and newer models
- Apple Watch all models
- iPad Pro, iPad Air 2, iPad mini 3 and newer
- Macs with Touch ID
As long as your device has Touch ID, Face ID or has been paired to an Apple Watch, you can use it for Apple Pay. Make sure you’re running the latest iOS, watchOS or macOS for the best experience.
Transaction Limits
Apple Pay doesn’t have any specified transaction limits. The contactless transaction limits applied by your bank or credit card will determine what purchase amounts are accepted via Apple Pay.
Most banks have a limit ranging between $100-$200 per transaction. However, some banks don’t enforce any limits at all. Check with your credit card company to confirm their policy.
You can still use Apple Pay at IHOP even if your bill exceeds your bank’s limit. The transaction will process partially through Apple Pay, then require a second form of payment like chip or swipe for the remaining amount.
Security
Apple Pay provides enhanced security and keeps your card details private. Instead of your actual card number, Apple assigns a unique Device Account Number to your device that’s encrypted and securely stored in the Secure Element chip.
This means your real card number is never shared with merchants or stored on Apple servers. Additionally, Apple Pay transactions require biometric authentication through Face ID, Touch ID or passcode, or double click on Apple Watch. This adds an extra layer of security beyond using the physical card alone.
So you can confidently use Apple Pay at IHOP knowing your payment details and identity are secure.
Apple Pay Promotions at IHOP
IHOP frequently offers exclusive promotions for customers who pay using Apple Pay:
- Limited-time discounts – Periodically IHOP provides $1-$2 off your order when you use Apple Pay. The discount is automatically applied at checkout.
- Special holiday offers – During holidays like Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, etc. IHOP gives Apple Pay users coupon codes for free pancakes, free delivery and other seasonal deals.
- Points/rewards bonuses – MyHOP members can earn extra rewards points on Apple Pay purchases. This allows you to redeem free meals faster.
- Free add-ons – Occasionally you’ll get complimentary sides like bacon or fruit with any Apple Pay order over a minimum amount.
- BOGO deals – IHOP often runs “buy one get one free” specials exclusive to Apple Pay, like BOGO pancakes, entrees, drinks, etc.
Make sure to follow IHOP on social media or sign up for their emails to stay on top of the latest Apple Pay promotions. Taking advantage of these deals makes your IHOP trip even more affordable.
Locations Accepting Apple Pay
As of 2023, most corporate and franchise IHOP locations accept Apple Pay, with a few exceptions. Over 1,600 IHOP restaurants nationwide welcome Apple Pay payments.
You can check if a specific IHOP spot takes Apple Pay by calling them directly or looking for contactless payment symbols at the entrance and checkout counters. All newly opened IHOPs will have Apple Pay activated.
Some locations may currently be cash only or have technical limitations that prevent Apple Pay acceptance. But IHOP is quickly rolling out contactless payments chainwide to meet customer demand, with most stores coming on board.
To find a IHOP near you that you know accepts Apple Pay, use the store locator tool on their website. Make sure to filter or select locations with Apple Pay available.
You can also check out the list of major metro areas where most IHOPs now take Apple Pay:
- New York City
- Los Angeles
- Chicago
- Houston
- Phoenix
- Philadelphia
- San Antonio
- San Diego
- Dallas
- San Jose
And the list keeps growing as more stores introduce contactless payments. So Apple Pay is accessible at IHOP spots across the country.
International Availability
Internationally, Apple Pay acceptance at IHOP varies:
- Canada – Most IHOPs in Canada accept Apple Pay nationwide. Over 95% of stores now take it.
- Mexico – Select IHOP locations in Mexico City, Guadalajara, Cancún and Monterrey have Apple Pay. Coverage is currently limited.
- Middle East – IHOP has Apple Pay enabled in the UAE and Bahrain. Saudi Arabia locations are still cash only.
- Asia – Apple Pay is not widely supported yet at IHOPs in Japan, Thailand, Indonesia or the Philippines. Cash and local mobile wallets are preferred.
Check individual restaurant pages online to see if your nearest international IHOP lists Apple Pay as a payment option. More locations worldwide are expected to adopt it over time.
Using Apple Pay for To-Go & Delivery Orders
You can use Apple Pay conveniently when ordering takeout or delivery from IHOP too:
In-App Payments
- IHOP App – The official IHOP app lets you order pickup or delivery and pay seamlessly using Apple Pay as your payment method.
- Delivery Apps – Major third party apps like DoorDash, UberEats, Grub Hub, etc. also accept Apple Pay for IHOP orders.
For in-app payments, simply select Apple Pay at checkout after building your order. Then authenticate with Face ID/Touch ID on your iPhone/iPad.
Pickup Orders
To pay with Apple Pay for pickup orders placed online or by phone, follow the regular payment process at the restaurant when you arrive to collect your food.
Let the staff know you’d like to use Apple Pay and hover your iPhone/Watch over the terminal as if making a regular in-store purchase.
Delivery Orders
For IHOP deliveries paid with Apple Pay placed via the IHOP app or third party apps, no additional action is needed when your order arrives. The transaction is already completed fully through the app.
Just remember to provide a good tip for your delivery driver! This can conveniently be done in the app as well.
So Apple Pay makes taking your IHOP favorites to go or getting delivery super smooth. You don’t need to worry about having your physical cards or cash ready when your order arrives.
Tipping With Apple Pay
Adding tips when paying your IHOP bill with Apple Pay is easy:
- For in-restaurant payments, simply add a tip to your total bill amount when tapping your iPhone on the checkout terminal. Select percentages by tapping multiple times (15%, 20%, 25%, etc.) or input a custom tip amount on the keypad.
- For in-app payments, you can include a tip while placing your order and pay everything together with one Apple Pay transaction.
- For delivery orders, add your tip in the IHOP app or delivery app when ordering. The tip amount will be included with your Apple Pay payment.
- You can also tip after the fact by making an additional Apple Pay transaction within 24 hours if you want to adjust the tip or didn’t get a chance to tip earlier.
Apple Pay makes tipping your IHOP server or delivery driver seamless. There’s no need to scramble for cash or do mental math calculating percentages at the end of your meal.
Order Ahead With Apple Pay
IHOP offers an Order Ahead feature through their app that lets you order and pre-pay your food ahead of time with Apple Pay. Here’s how it works:
- Open the IHOP app and build your order as you normally would.
- Select the Order Ahead option which allows pre-payment.
- Choose Apple Pay as your payment method and check out.
- Authenticate with Face ID/Touch ID. Your order total including tip will be immediately charged.
- Arrive at IHOP within your scheduled pickup time frame and skip the line to collect your food!
Order Ahead is available for takeout or dine-in orders. All you have to do is walk in and grab your freshly prepared meal off the counter. It’s as easy as that when you pay in advance with Apple Pay.
Apple Pay Facilitates a Seamless Dining Experience at IHOP
Using Apple Pay at IHOP provides multiple benefits that make your dining experience smooth and hassle-free:
- Fast checkout – Apple Pay is incredibly quick, allowing customers to get in and out faster. No more waiting as each card is swiped and signed for.
- Convenience – With just your iPhone or Apple Watch, you don’t need to grab your physical wallet or even take it out. Everything gets paid for with a simple tap.
- Security – Apple Pay offers best-in-class security and encryption to keep your data safe and private. IHOP staff never see any of your actual card details.
- Rewards integration – Apple Pay transactions seamlessly sync with rewards programs like MyHOP for earning points and free food faster.
- Accessibility – Apple Pay is easy for all ages and abilities. Tapping your device is simpler than dealing with pens, signatures, PIN pads and receipts.
- Contactless – In a post-pandemic world, consumers prefer contactless interactions whenever possible. Apple Pay allows that.
Using Apple Pay at IHOP makes paying for your pancakes pleasant again!
Loyalty Cards and App Integration
Apple Pay integrates beautifully with the IHOP app and MyHOP loyalty program:
- You can store your MyHOP rewards card in the Wallet app and have it automatically applied when paying with Apple Pay. This earns you points towards free meals and other rewards.
- When opening the IHOP app, it will prompt to autofill your Wallet-stored MyHOP card so you don’t have to enter it manually.
- Ordering ahead in the IHOP app lets you collect points on top of getting food quickly. Redeem points immediately if you have enough for a reward.
- Receiving push notifications through the IHOP app provides alerts on loyalty program updates, new member offers, bonus point promotions and more.
- If you forget your physical MyHOP card, all your loyalty info is stored digitally for easy access when paying with Apple Pay.
Loyalty programs and smartphone apps offer even more conveniences when paired with Apple Pay. IHOP makes it easy to integrate them all in their mobile experience.
Apple Pay Evolves Payment Experiences
Using Apple Pay at IHOP provides a payment experience that meets the needs of modern consumers:
- Cashless – Carrying cash is decreasing globally, especially after the pandemic. Apple Pay fits today’s cashless, cardless society.
- Contactless – Touchless payments are the future as consumers seek hygienic, contactless interactions. Apple Pay enables that.
- Frictionless – Shoppers expect seamless experiences with minimal steps. Apple Pay delivers exactly that.
- Digital-first – Mobile and digital payments are now preferred, especially by younger generations. Apple Pay suits their digital lifestyles.
- High-tech – Customers are drawn to innovative tech and want to use it throughout their daily journeys. Apple Pay satisfies this demand.
- Secure – Cybercrime is rampant, so security matters more than ever. Apple Pay’s safety features provide confidence.
With consumer expectations evolving swiftly, Apple Pay gives IHOP a payment method that aligns with where the world is headed. IHOP’s Apple Pay acceptance shows their commitment to meet customer needs now and in the future.
Apple Pay Support Reflects IHOP’s Values
IHOP’s choice to accept Apple Pay reflects the values central to their brand:
Convenience – By accepting Apple Pay, IHOP makes payments incredibly quick and convenient for customers.
Innovation – Integrating cutting-edge tech like Apple Pay shows IHOP’s spirit of innovation.
Service – Enabling Apple Pay is driven by IHOP’s commitment to deliver excellent guest service.
Value – Allowing mobile payments provides value by giving budget-friendly options like Apple Pay discounts.
Community – IHOP builds community by meeting customers where they are, including payment preferences.
Choice – Giving customers Apple Pay choice empowers people to pay how they want.
Experience – Apple Pay optimizes the dining experience from ordering to payment.
IHOP continues serving up joy since 1958 by embracing innovations like Apple Pay that make guests’ lives easier. It’s part of their recipe for success.
Is Apple Pay Worth It at IHOP?
Using Apple Pay at IHOP is absolutely worth it for several reasons:
- It’s incredibly fast – you can get in and out in seconds!
- It’s extremely convenient with no cards to pull out and no receipts to sign.
- You can take advantage of Apple Pay discounts and rewards for extra savings.
- Order Ahead lets you skip lines when picking up food you pre-ordered and paid for with Apple Pay.
- It secures your data far more than swiping plastic cards.
- There’s seamless integration with the IHOP app and loyalty program.
- Apple Pay enables a smoother dining experience overall.
- It helps you avoid touching germ-prone PIN pads.
For the ease, speed, security and perks it provides, Apple Pay is a definite value-add to the IHOP customer journey. Using it makes great sense!
Frequently Asked Questions About Apple Pay at IHOP
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Does every IHOP location take Apple Pay?
Most do, but not all yet. Newer locations all accept it. Some older ones may still need hardware upgrades. Call ahead to double check your nearest IHOP has Apple Pay set up.
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Can I use Apple Pay for dine-in, takeout and delivery orders?
Yes, you can use Apple Pay for dine-in payments, takeout counters, in the IHOP app and through delivery apps like DoorDash. Any way you enjoy IHOP, you can pay with Apple Pay!
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Do I earn MyHOP rewards points when paying with Apple Pay?
Absolutely! MyHOP points will automatically apply when you add your loyalty card to Apple Pay. You earn the same rewards on Apple Pay purchases as on physical card payments.
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Are there any fees to use Apple Pay at IHOP?
Nope, there are absolutely no extra fees or charges to use Apple Pay versus other payment methods at IHOP.
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How do I add the IHOP app offer to my Apple Pay?
Open the offer in the IHOP app, tap “Add to Apple Wallet”, then pay for your order with that Apple Pay offer activated. Discounts will automatically apply.
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Is Apple Pay secure to use at IHOP?
Very secure – much more than paying with your actual credit or debit card! Apple Pay utilizes unique transaction codes and encryption so your card details stay private.
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What do I do if Apple Pay won’t work at IHOP?
Make sure you have an active internet connection and that your cards added to Apple Pay have not expired. If it still doesn’t work, payment terminals may be down. Have another payment method ready just in case.
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Does Apple Pay work on all debit and credit cards?
Apple Pay works with most major card issuers like Visa, Mastercard, Amex and Discover. Check with your bank to confirm your card’s eligibility.
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How old do I need to be to use Apple Pay at IHOP?
There are no age limits to use Apple Pay. As long as you have an eligible device set up with an accepted card or Apple Cash, kids and adults alike can use it.
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How do I check previous IHOP transactions made with Apple Pay?
Open the Wallet app, tap your Apple Pay card, then scroll down on your recent transactions to see payment details. Or check bank statements – Apple Pay purchases appear like regular card payments there.
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Why should I use Apple Pay instead of swiping my physical card at IHOP?
It’s faster, more secure, lets you take advantage of mobile-exclusive deals and integrates seamlessly with apps and loyalty programs.