Contactless Payments
What are contactless payments and how do they work?
Contactless payments let you pay for goods and services by holding your card, phone or wearable device near a payment terminal without inserting your card or entering your PIN. Most retailers in Ireland accept contactless payments, and most Irish banks issue cards with this feature.
You may need to activate contactless by completing a PIN transaction, and from time to time you may be asked to enter your PIN for security. Card payments have a €50 limit per transaction, but this limit does not apply when using a digital wallet. This page explains how contactless payments work and how to use them safely.
How do contactless payments work?
- Hold your card near the machine until it beeps – this confirms the payment.
- This is often called “tapping” your card.
- If your card has the contactless symbol, it supports this feature.
Are contactless payments cheaper?
Yes, there is usually no charge or a very small charge for contactless payments.
- It’s a good way to avoid bank fees for small purchases.
Do all banks in Ireland offer contactless cards?
Almost all banks and providers in Ireland issue debit cards with the contactless feature.
- You may need to activate the feature by completing a PIN transaction first.
- Occasionally, you’ll be asked to enter your PIN for added security.
What should you watch out for when using contactless?
- Always check the amount before tapping.
- Never give your card to someone else to make a payment.
- Make sure you have enough money in your account to avoid getting overdrawn. Please visit overdrafts for more.
What is a digital wallet?
A digital wallet is an app on your device that stores your card details and lets you make contactless payments using your phone or smartwatch/smart glasses. Instead of tapping your card, you tap your phone or device. You may need to unlock your device or enter a password to activate the payment.
