Many people wonder if they can store and use a McDonald’s gift card directly in the McDonald’s app. No — McDonald’s does not currently allow customers to add a gift card to the app for mobile orders. Instead, gift cards (called Arch Cards) can only be used in person at the counter, drive-thru, or self-service kiosks at participating locations.
While you can’t link a gift card to the app, you can still use it as payment by swiping or scanning the card at the restaurant. This means you’ll need to carry the physical card with you, but it can still be used until the balance runs out.
Knowing the limitations of McDonald’s gift cards can help you plan how to use them. If you primarily order ahead on the app, you’ll need another form of payment. If you buy in-store, kiosks and cashiers generally accept Arch Cards without issue.
Can You Add Gift Cards to the McDonald’s App?
Short answer: No.
As of now, McDonald’s does not allow you to add Arch Cards® (McDonald’s gift cards) or any other gift cards to the McDonald’s mobile app.
What Payment Methods Work in the App?
When ordering through the McDonald’s app, you can pay with:
- Credit and Debit Cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover)
- Apple Pay
- PayPal
- Venmo
How Can You Use a McDonald’s Gift Card?
Even though you can’t load gift cards into the app, you can still use them:
- In-store at the counter
- At the drive-thru
- At kiosks inside participating restaurants
So if you want to use a McDonald’s gift card, you’ll need to swipe or scan it at the restaurant rather than through the app
Does McDonald’s Accept Apple Pay?
Yes, McDonald’s accepts Apple Pay at nearly all of its locations. You can use it:
- In-store at the counter or self-service kiosks
- At the drive-thru by holding your iPhone or Apple Watch near the contactless reader
- In the McDonald’s app by selecting Apple Pay at checkout
Apple Pay works the same way as it does anywhere else — just authenticate with Face ID, Touch ID, or your passcode, and hold your device near the reader for a quick, secure payment
Key Takeaways
- You cannot add a McDonald’s gift card to the McDonald’s app
- Gift cards (Arch Cards) must be used in person at the restaurant
- They are accepted at counters, drive-thrus, and most self-service kiosks
Frequently Asked Questions
McDonald’s gift cards, also called Arch Cards, can be used in several ways depending on the location and ordering method. They work for in-person purchases but are not integrated with the McDonald’s app or most third-party delivery apps.
How do I use a McDonald’s gift card online?
McDonald’s does not currently allow customers to enter a gift card number directly for online or in-app payment. A gift card can only be used at the restaurant by scanning or swiping it at the counter, drive-thru, or kiosk. For mobile orders, another payment method is required.
Is it possible to add a McDonald’s gift card to Apple Wallet?
No. McDonald’s gift cards cannot be stored in Apple Wallet as a digital payment method. They must be used as physical cards at the time of payment.
Can McDonald’s gift cards be used for orders on DoorDash?
DoorDash does not accept McDonald’s gift cards as a payment method. Customers must use DoorDash gift cards or another accepted form of payment when ordering through the DoorDash app or website.
What are the steps to activate a McDonald’s gift card?
Arch Cards purchased in-store are usually activated at the register during purchase. For cards bought online or from third-party retailers, activation happens at checkout. If a card does not work, the customer should return to the place of purchase with the receipt.
How can I check my Arch Card balance?
Customers can check their balance by calling the number on the back of the card or visiting the McDonald’s Arch Card balance page online. Some locations can also check the balance at the register.
Are McDonald’s gift cards accepted at self-service kiosks?
Yes, most McDonald’s locations with self-service kiosks accept Arch Cards. The customer can swipe the card or scan it at the payment terminal when prompted. Availability may vary by location, so checking with staff is recommended.
