If you have a smartphone, you can use its mobile wallet feature to shop smarter and safer this year. 

Here are a few reasons to load payment cards to your phone’s mobile wallet to use at your next checkout. 

Reason 1: Your transactions are secure. 

When you set up your mobile wallet, your card details are protected by a PIN, biometric (fingerprint or face ID), or password, so only you can access them in the app. 

When you pay, your phone uses near-field communication to connect with the terminal. This process encrypts your data and keeps your information safe. 

Your credit card number is replaced with a random digital ID, called a token, so your actual card number isn’t shared when you pay. 

If you’ve been unsure about paying with your phone because of security, rest assured that extra steps are in place to keep your transactions safe.

Reason 2: It’s more sanitary than using cash or cards. 

Cash can carry a lot of germs since it passes through many hands. With everyone more aware of germs and viruses these days, especially during cold and flu season, using your mobile wallet means you don’t have to handle cash that’s been everywhere. 

Reason 3: It’s much easier. 

It can be frustrating to dig through your wallet or purse for a card. With a mobile wallet, you just open the app, pick your card, and hold your phone near the terminal. Since you’re often already holding your phone, you’re ready to pay right away. 

Reason 4: It’s helpful if you forget your wallet. 

Have you ever left your wallet at home or in the car? It doesn’t happen often, but it can. If your cards are in your mobile wallet, you have a backup if you forget your wallet or purse. Even if you don’t use it often, it’s worth setting up just in case you ever need it. 

Mobile wallets are a great alternative to traditional wallets, making shopping easier and more convenient. 

Now might be a good time to give it a try if you haven’t already.