Does CVS Accept Afterpay? Your Comprehensive Guide

**The short answer is no, CVS *currently does not directly accept Afterpay* as a payment method in its physical stores or online.** While this might be disappointing for Afterpay enthusiasts, there are still alternative ways to leverage buy now, pay later (BNPL) options or utilize strategies to manage your healthcare and everyday purchases at CVS.

Why CVS Doesn’t Accept Afterpay (And What You Can Do About It)

CVS, a giant in the retail pharmacy and healthcare space, strategically chooses its payment partners based on a variety of factors. These include transaction fees, integration complexity, customer demand, and their overall alignment with CVS’s business goals. While Afterpay has gained significant traction in the retail sector, CVS has seemingly prioritized other payment solutions. This could be due to existing partnerships with other financial institutions, a focus on their own loyalty programs like ExtraCare, or simply a decision to avoid the added complexities of integrating yet another payment platform.

Don’t despair! There are still several paths you can take to manage your purchases at CVS:

• Explore Alternative BNPL Options: Several other BNPL providers are available, like Klarna, Affirm, and PayPal’s “Pay in 4.” Check if CVS accepts any of these options, particularly through PayPal at checkout.
• Use a Credit Card with BNPL Features: Some credit cards now offer BNPL features directly. This allows you to make a purchase on your credit card and then split the payments into installments through the card issuer’s app or website.
• CVS ExtraCare Program: This loyalty program provides significant savings through personalized coupons, rewards, and exclusive deals. Maximize your ExtraCare benefits to reduce your overall spending.
• Consider a Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA): If you’re purchasing eligible healthcare products, using funds from your HSA or FSA can be a tax-advantaged way to pay.
• Gift Cards: Purchase a CVS gift card using Afterpay elsewhere and then use the gift card for your purchases at CVS. This workaround lets you indirectly use Afterpay for CVS transactions.
• Keep an Eye on CVS Announcements: Payment options are subject to change. Stay updated on any potential future partnerships or integrations that CVS might announce.

Maximizing Your Savings at CVS: Beyond Afterpay

Even without Afterpay, there are numerous ways to stretch your budget and save money at CVS. Here are some strategies to implement:

• Clip Digital Coupons: The CVS app is a treasure trove of digital coupons. Browse and clip relevant coupons before you shop to automatically apply discounts at checkout.
• Sign Up for Email Alerts: Receive exclusive promotions, discounts, and personalized deals directly in your inbox.
• Take Advantage of Weekly Ads: Browse the weekly CVS ad to identify sales, promotions, and buy-one-get-one (BOGO) deals on essential items.
• Utilize ExtraBucks Rewards: Earn ExtraBucks rewards on qualifying purchases and redeem them on future transactions.
• Combine Coupons and Rewards: Strategically combine manufacturer coupons, CVS coupons, and ExtraBucks rewards to maximize your savings on each purchase.
• Join CarePass: For a monthly or annual fee, CarePass offers benefits like free delivery, discounts on CVS-branded products, and a monthly ExtraBucks reward, making it a worthwhile investment for frequent CVS shoppers.
• Consider Generic Brands: Opt for CVS Health brand products, which are often significantly cheaper than name-brand equivalents and offer comparable quality.
• Price Match (Select Locations): Some CVS stores offer price matching on certain items. Check with your local store to see if they participate in this program.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About CVS and Payment Options

Here are some frequently asked questions to provide more clarity about payment options at CVS and alternative ways to manage your spending:

Does CVS Accept PayPal?

Yes, CVS typically accepts PayPal for online purchases and, in some locations, for in-store purchases. Check with your local store to confirm in-store PayPal acceptance. This opens the door to potentially using PayPal’s “Pay in 4” option if available to you within your PayPal account.

Does CVS Accept Klarna?

No, CVS does not currently accept Klarna as a direct payment method in its stores or online.

Does CVS Accept Apple Pay?

Yes, CVS accepts Apple Pay at its physical stores. This provides a convenient and contactless payment option for iPhone and Apple Watch users.

Does CVS Accept Google Pay?

Yes, CVS accepts Google Pay at its physical stores, offering a similar contactless payment experience for Android users.

Does CVS Accept Samsung Pay?

Yes, CVS accepts Samsung Pay at its physical stores, making it a viable contactless payment option for Samsung device users.

Can I Use a CVS Gift Card Online?

Yes, you can use CVS gift cards for online purchases at CVS.com. Simply enter the gift card number and PIN at checkout.

Can I Pay with a Credit Card at CVS?

Yes, CVS accepts most major credit cards, including Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover.

Does CVS Offer Any In-House Financing Options?

No, CVS does not currently offer any in-house financing options or payment plans directly through CVS.

What is the CVS ExtraCare Program?

The CVS ExtraCare Program is a free loyalty program that rewards customers with personalized coupons, ExtraBucks rewards, and exclusive deals. It’s a valuable tool for saving money on your CVS purchases.

How Do I Sign Up for the CVS ExtraCare Program?

You can sign up for the CVS ExtraCare Program online at CVS.com, through the CVS app, or at any CVS store.

What are ExtraBucks Rewards?

ExtraBucks Rewards are like store credit that you earn on qualifying purchases at CVS. You can redeem them on future purchases to save money.

Can I Use Expired CVS Coupons?

Generally, expired CVS coupons cannot be used. However, it’s worth checking with a store associate, as they may occasionally make exceptions, especially if the expiration date is recent. However, don’t expect this to be a regular occurence.

The Bottom Line: Navigating Payment Options at CVS

While CVS might not directly accept Afterpay at this time, there are still numerous ways to save money, manage your spending, and find alternative BNPL solutions to meet your needs. By leveraging the CVS ExtraCare program, utilizing available payment options, and staying informed about potential changes, you can confidently navigate your purchases at CVS and maximize your savings. Keep exploring alternative BNPL providers or credit card features that offer installment payment options for a similar benefit as Afterpay. Remember to always prioritize responsible spending and choose the payment method that best aligns with your financial goals.