There’s a quick win for making payments more efficient and boosting resident engagement sitting inside all of our pockets (or a purse, or plugged into a charger!). Once considered a novelty, mobile payment wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay are a familiar way for residents to make payments and boost agency revenues. 

Before we cover the potential of mobile wallets, let’s quickly understand what Apple Pay and Google Pay actually are.

Refresher: What’s a mobile wallet?

Mobile wallets allow residents to link their credit or debit cards to their devices, such as smartphones and smartwatches. With a simple tap, people can make contactless payments online, in-app, and in person. Mobile wallets can also store information such as identification cards, tickets, and park passes.

Key facts about Apple Pay and Google Pay

• Apple and Google Pay are “mobile wallets.” They have become household names in the realm of digital payments, offering anyone with a smartphone secure and convenient ways to make transactions.

• As their namesakes imply, Apple Pay is owned by Apple and works with devices such as iPhones, and Apple Watches. Google Pay is owned by Google (Alphabet), and is primarily used on Android devices but works across platforms.

Governments can tap into the widespread use and familiarity of these mobile wallet giants to redefine the way residents interact with public services, particularly in the realm of online payments. 

What makes mobile wallet payments more efficient? 

Let’s explore how wallets can drive government efficiencies and elevate the digital experience for residents.

• Faster checkout process
  With more intuitive user experiences, residents can easily navigate online payments for government services. Whether it’s tax payments, permit renewals, or utility bills, the integration of mobile wallet technology simplifies and accelerates the entire process.
  
• Instant confirmation and record-keeping
  Mobile wallets offer real-time confirmation of online transactions, providing residents with immediate peace of mind. Additionally, the digital nature of these transactions facilitates efficient record-keeping for both residents and government agencies.

Do mobile wallets boost resident engagement?

Nearly half of Americans have used a mobile wallet at least once in the past three months — and they’re the fastest-growing form of online payment in the U.S.

Integrating with widely adopted platforms like Apple and Google Pay leverages the familiarity residents already have with these technologies, making the transition to online government payments smoother and more intuitive.

Simple, quick digital payments

Most people with a smartphone know how to use a mobile wallet, ensuring that residents of all technological backgrounds can easily navigate government services.

Enhanced security for online transactions

Mobile wallets provide a secure environment for online payments, utilizing advanced encryption and authentication methods (such as face and fingerprint ID). The enhanced security instills confidence in residents, encouraging them to engage in online transactions with peace of mind. Over half of consumers feel more secure when making purchases with a mobile wallet.

Setting your agency up for success with payment flexibility

PayIt enables a consistent and easy payment experience for both web and mobile. By offering a wide range of payment solutions, including popular mobile wallet platforms like Apply Pay, PayIt is making it easy for residents to access and transact with their government online.

Interested in learning more about quick wins for your agency? Download the PayIt Digital Adoption Guide.