Publix is shutting down its in-app payment feature on March 19, 2024

Publix Super Market will stop accepting payments through its mobile app starting March 19. If you currently use the Publix app to pay for groceries at checkout, you will need to switch to a different payment method after that date. The company has not announced a replacement digital payment feature, so you'll be using your physical card, mobile wallet, or another payment method instead.

This change affects only the in-app payment tool built into the Publix app itself. You can still use your phone to pay at checkout through Apple Pay, Google Pay, or Samsung Pay if your phone supports those services — those are separate from the Publix app and will continue to work.

Key Takeaways

  • The Publix app's built-in payment feature stops working on March 19, so you need to choose a different way to pay before that date.
  • Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay will still work at Publix checkout even after the app feature shuts down.
  • You can continue using your physical debit or credit card, or any other payment method Publix accepts.
  • Your Publix account, digital coupons, and loyalty rewards will not be affected — only the in-app payment tool is being removed.

What payment methods still work at Publix after March 19

You have several options for paying at Publix checkout after the in-app payment feature ends. Physical debit cards and credit cards work as they always have. If you want to pay with your phone, use Apple Pay, Google Pay, or Samsung Pay instead — these are mobile wallet services that work at any store that accepts contactless payments, not just Publix.

Publix also accepts cash, checks, and gift cards. If you use a Publix gift card, you can still load it through the app or buy one in-store. Your Publix loyalty account and digital coupons remain active and will work with any of these payment methods.

How to set up Apple Pay, Google Pay, or Samsung Pay before March 19

If you want to pay with your phone at Publix after March 19, you'll need to set up a mobile wallet. The process takes about five minutes and requires your debit or credit card information.

For Apple Pay: Open the Wallet app on your iPhone or Apple Watch. Tap the plus sign to add a card. Follow the prompts to enter your card details. Apple will verify the card with your bank, usually within seconds. Once verified, you can hold your phone or watch near the contactless reader at checkout.

For Google Pay: Open the Google Pay app on your Android phone. Tap the plus sign or "Add payment method." Enter your card information. Google will verify it with your bank. After verification, tap your phone to the contactless reader at checkout.

For Samsung Pay: Open the Samsung Pay app on your Samsung phone. Tap the plus sign. Enter your card details. Samsung will verify the card. At checkout, open the app and hold your phone near the reader.

All three services work at Publix locations that have contactless payment readers, which most stores have had since 2020. If you're unsure whether your local Publix has this technology, you can call the store or ask a cashier.

What happens to your Publix account and rewards

Removing the in-app payment feature does not affect your Publix account, digital coupons, or loyalty rewards. You can still open the Publix app to browse coupons, check prices, find recipes, or view your rewards balance. The app itself is not going away — only the payment tool inside it.

When you check out, you can still scan your phone's barcode or give your phone number to earn rewards points, even if you're paying with a physical card or mobile wallet. Your account history and rewards will continue to accumulate normally.

Why Publix is discontinuing the in-app payment feature

Publix has not publicly stated a reason for removing the in-app payment tool. The company may be consolidating payment options, reducing app complexity, or shifting focus to other features. Mobile wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay have become the standard way to pay with a phone at most retailers, so Publix may be directing customers toward those instead.

The decision does not reflect a problem with the feature itself — it's a business choice to simplify the app and payment experience.

Timeline and what to do now

The in-app payment feature will stop working on March 19. You don't need to do anything when ready, but it's worth setting up a mobile wallet or confirming your preferred payment method before that date so you're not caught off guard at checkout.

If you use the in-app payment feature regularly, test your backup payment method at a Publix store before March 19. This gives you time to troubleshoot if something doesn't work. If you have questions about the change, you can contact Publix customer service through the app or call your local store.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will my Publix digital coupons still work after March 19?

Yes. Digital coupons are part of your Publix account, not the payment feature. You can continue loading coupons to your account and using them at checkout with any payment method.

Can I still earn rewards points after the in-app payment feature ends?

Yes. You earn rewards by scanning your barcode or giving your phone number at checkout. This has nothing to do with how you pay, so you'll continue earning points with any payment method.

What if I don't have a smartphone or don't want to use mobile pay?

You can use your physical debit or credit card, cash, or a Publix gift card. The in-app payment feature was optional, and Publix accepts many payment methods at every checkout.

Does this change affect Publix delivery or online orders?

Publix has not stated whether the change affects online shopping or delivery services. Contact Publix directly or check the app for details about how to pay for online orders after March 19.

Can I still use the Publix app after March 19?

Yes. The app will continue to work for browsing coupons, checking prices, viewing your account, and earning rewards. Only the in-app payment tool is being removed.