Amazon Cash Provides Another Way to Pay

The online retailer wanted to give those without credit cards a payment option.

April 05, 2017

SEATTLE – For those who either don’t have debit or credit cards or prefer not to use them online, Amazon.com has a new way to shop: Amazon Cash. The new payment method gives shoppers a special barcode, which can be redeemed at participating brick-and-mortar stores, PC Magazine reports.

Customers show the barcode to the cashier, then load the card by using cash, much like loading a prepaid debit card. Now through May 31, Amazon has a $10 free digital credit incentive to customers adding at least $50 to their Amazon balance.

“It’s simple, quick and there are no fees,” the company stated. “Your Amazon Balance can be used to shop for millions of eligible physical products and digital content.”

Customers can add funds to their Amazon Cash at thousands of convenience stores, supermarkets and drugstores across the United States, including Kum & Go, Sheetz and Speedway. Amazon plans on adding more retailers to support Amazon Cash soon.

Previously, shoppers who didn’t have (or didn’t want to use) a credit or debit card had to buy Amazon gift cards or prepaid cards to shop online. Amazon Cash eliminates that need and shoppers have access to funds loaded onto the account immediately. The Amazon Cash barcode is designed to be reused, unlike the one-time use gift or prepaid cards.

Amazon also plans to open a convenience store concept, and recently started offering a grocery pickup service to Amazon Prime members in Seattle.

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