During the holiday time, we’re all shopping a lot in-person or online, and most of us are using credit or debit cards for convenience. If you're one of the many who prefer to use cards to pay, there are a host of reasons why storing your cards digitally in your phone’s mobile wallet increases efficiency and security, especially during the busy holiday season.

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• Learn more about the benefits of Mobile Wallets
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Transcript:

Welcome to Money Tip Tuesday from the Making Money Personal podcast.

If you have a smartphone, you can use its mobile wallet feature to shop smarter and safer this year.

Here are a few reasons to load payment cards to your phone’s mobile wallet to use at your next check out.

Reason 1: Your transactions are secure.

When you set up your mobile wallet, your card details are protected by a PIN, fingerprint, or password, so only you can access them in the app.

When you pay, your phone uses near-field communication to connect with the terminal. This process encrypts your data and keeps your information safe.

Your credit card number is replaced with a random digital ID, called a token, so your actual card number isn’t shared when you pay.

If you’ve been unsure about paying with your phone because of security, rest assured that extra steps are in place to keep your transactions safe.

Reason 2: It’s more sanitary than using cash or cards.

Cash can carry a lot of germs since it passes through many hands. With everyone more aware of germs and viruses these days, especially during cold and flu season, using your mobile wallet means you don’t have to handle cash that’s been everywhere.

Reason 3: It’s much easier.

It can be frustrating to dig through your wallet or purse for a card. With a mobile wallet, you just open the app, pick your card, and hold your phone near the terminal. Since you’re often already holding your phone, you’re ready to pay right away.

Reason 4: It’s helpful if you forget your wallet.

Have you ever left your wallet at home or in the car? It doesn’t happen often, but it can. If your cards are in your mobile wallet, you have a backup if you forget your wallet or purse. Even if you don’t use it often, it’s worth setting up just in case you ever need it.

Mobile wallets are a great alternative to traditional wallets and can make shopping easier and more convenient.

Now might be a good time to give it a try if you haven’t already.

If you have other tips or topics you want us to talk about, email us at tcupodcast@trianglecu.org. Don’t forget to like and follow our Making Money Personal Facebook page, and check out our sponsor, Triangle Credit Union, on Instagram and LinkedIn to share your thoughts.

Thanks for listening to today's Money Tip Tuesday. Check out our other tips and episodes on the Making Money Personal podcast.

Have a great day!