Phillip Heilman

Tap, Pay, Go: Why Digital Wallets are a Smarter, Safer Way to Pay

Published June 10, 2025
Close up image of a woman's hand using tap-to-pay on her phone on a mobile card reader.

You’re standing in the checkout line at the grocery store when it hits you: Your wallet is still sitting on your kitchen counter. It’s a situation many of us have faced, but it doesn’t have to stress you out.

With a few taps on your phone near the terminal, you can be out the door and on your way with your groceries. That’s the power of a digital wallet.

Across the country, more and more consumers are utilizing digital wallets, which store a secure, digital version of your credit or debit card in your mobile device’s wallet app. In fact, they are the fastest-growing payment method in the U.S., with 48% of consumers reporting that they had used one within the past 90 days, according to J.D. Power data. This data also reveals that overall customer satisfaction with digital wallets continues to increase.

Convenience is a major benefit of using a digital wallet, but digital wallets also offer greater security and additional benefits. If you haven’t added your VyStar credit or debit card to your digital wallet yet, here are a few reasons why you should consider it.

1. Built-in security at every step

Unlike a physical card that can be lost or stolen, mobile wallet payments use tokenization. This means your actual card number and personal information are never stored or shared during a transaction. Instead, a virtual card number is created for use only with your mobile wallet and device. Additionally, mobile wallets require biometric authentication like Face ID or a fingerprint recognition before completing a purchase, adding a second layer of protection. In other words: It’s like having a security team in your pocket.

2. Speed and convenience

Forget fumbling for your wallet at checkout. Whether you’re grabbing coffee or paying at the gas pump, your digital wallet is ready to go with just a tap. Many websites and apps now accept digital wallet payments, too. It’s perfect for busy moments — or when your hands are full.

3. One wallet, all your cards

Mobile wallets can store multiple debit and credit cards, boarding passes, event tickets and more. That means you can easily switch between your VyStar credit card and debit card as needed. And if you ever misplace your phone, you can remotely lock or erase your mobile wallet from another device to keep your information secure.

4. Earn rewards while you tap

Every time you use your VyStar Visa® Signature credit card through your mobile wallet, you earn rewards just like you would with your physical card. So, whether you're paying for groceries or booking a last-minute weekend getaway, you’re getting rewarded for it.

Ready to Add Your VyStar Card?

Adding your VyStar credit or debit card to your mobile wallet is quick and easy.

1. Find your digital wallet

Find the wallet app on your smartphone. Most smartphones come with a wallet app already installed. VyStar supports Apple Pay©, Samsung Pay©, Google Pay© and Garmin Pay©.

2. Add your card

Enter your credit or debit card information into the app. You can store multiple cards and set your default payment method to your VyStar card.

3. Use your digital wallet

Use your digital wallet to make contactless payments in-store or save time at checkout when shopping online or in-app without repeated card entry with your digital wallet.

Use a digital wallet and enjoy a smarter, faster and more secure way to pay. All with added peace of mind wherever life takes you.

The content provided in this blog consists of the opinions and ideas of the author alone and should be used for informational purposes only. VyStar Credit Union disclaims any liability for decisions you make based on the information provided.