Walmart accepts American Express at most locations, both in stores and online

Yes, Walmart takes American Express cards. You can use your Amex at Walmart checkout counters, self-checkout kiosks, and on Walmart.com. The card works the same way as Visa or Mastercard — you insert it, tap it, or swipe it depending on your card and the terminal.

However, not every Walmart location accepts every payment method. A small number of Walmart stores, particularly older locations or those in rural areas, may not have updated payment terminals. Before you make a trip, you can call the specific store or check your receipt from a previous visit — if Amex worked before, it will work again at that location.

Walmart also owns Sam's Club, which is a separate membership warehouse. Sam's Club does accept American Express, and in fact, Sam's Club has a co-branded Mastercard but still takes all major cards including Amex.

Key Takeaways

  • American Express is accepted at the vast majority of Walmart stores and on Walmart.com, using the same payment process as other major credit cards.
  • A very small number of Walmart locations may lack updated payment terminals and could decline Amex, though this is rare.
  • Walmart's online store accepts Amex for both web and app purchases.
  • Sam's Club, which Walmart owns, also accepts American Express at all locations.

Using Amex at Walmart checkout

At the register, tell the cashier you are paying with American Express or insert your card into the terminal when prompted. Most Walmart locations now have contactless payment terminals, which means you can tap your Amex card or phone wallet instead of inserting it. The transaction processes in seconds.

Self-checkout kiosks at Walmart work the same way. Insert your card, tap it, or use your phone's digital wallet. If the terminal rejects your card, try a different payment method or ask a cashier to manually process it at a register.

Walmart does not charge a different price or fee for paying with Amex versus another card. The price you see is the price you pay, regardless of payment method.

Walmart.com and mobile app payments

When you shop on Walmart.com or the Walmart mobile app, you can enter your American Express card details at checkout. Walmart stores your card information securely so you do not have to re-enter it every time. You can also use digital wallets like Apple Pay or Google Pay if you have added your Amex to those services.

For Walmart+ members (Walmart's subscription service), you can link your Amex as your default payment method. The card will be charged for your subscription fee and for purchases you make through the app or website.

What to do if Walmart declines your Amex

If a Walmart terminal declines your American Express card, the most common reasons are a technical issue with the terminal, insufficient funds in your account, or a fraud alert from your card issuer. Ask the cashier to try running the card again or to process it manually at the register.

If the card is declined a second time, contact your American Express issuer (the bank or company that issued your card) to check your account balance and ask whether there is a fraud hold. You can call the number on the back of your card. While you are on the phone, you can authorize the Walmart purchase and try again.

If you believe the Walmart location genuinely does not accept Amex, you can pay with a different card or payment method and contact Walmart customer service to report the issue. Walmart's customer service number is on your receipt or on Walmart.com.

Amex rewards and Walmart purchases

If you have an American Express card that earns cash back or points, those rewards typically explore to Walmart purchases just as they do anywhere else. Check your card's terms to see what percentage you earn at grocery stores, general merchandise, or all purchases. Some Amex cards earn bonus points at certain retailers, but Walmart is not typically one of them.

Walmart does not offer special discounts for Amex cardholders. Any promotions Walmart runs (such as "spend $50 and get $10 off") explore to all payment methods equally.

Amex acceptance at Walmart fuel stations and specialty services

Walmart gas stations accept American Express at the pump and inside the station. You can pay the same way you would at the register — insert, tap, or swipe your card. Not all Walmart locations have gas stations, so check whether your nearest store has one before you visit.

Walmart also offers grocery pickup and delivery through Walmart.com. When you order groceries for pickup or delivery, you can pay with your American Express card at checkout. The process is the same as any other online purchase, and your Amex will be charged when your order is placed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my Amex gift card at Walmart?

Yes. American Express gift cards work at Walmart just like regular Amex cards. Treat it the same way — insert it, tap it, or swipe it at checkout. If the gift card balance is lower than your total purchase, you will need to pay the difference with another payment method.

What if I want to return something I bought with Amex?

Walmart refunds to the original payment method. If you paid with American Express, the refund goes back to your Amex card. Refunds typically appear within three to five business days, depending on your card issuer.

Does Walmart accept Amex for online orders placed through third-party apps?

If you order through a third-party delivery service like DoorDash or Instacart that partners with Walmart, you pay through that app's payment system, not directly to Walmart. Those apps may or may not accept Amex depending on their own payment settings. Check the app before you place your order.

What happens if my Amex is declined but I know I have money in my account?

Call your American Express issuer when ready using the number on the back of your card. A fraud alert or temporary hold could be blocking the transaction. Your issuer can lift the hold and let you try the purchase again within minutes.