Paying for a taxi with cash used to be the norm, but today’s riders have more flexible, secure, and convenient options. Whether you’re looking to skip the ATM stop, avoid handling bills, or streamline receipts, going cashless is easier than ever—and in many cases, smarter.
Here are the best ways to pay for your next taxi ride without pulling out your wallet.
- Credit and Debit Cards
Most licensed taxi services across the U.S.—especially in major cities like New York, Chicago, and San Francisco—are required to accept credit and debit cards. In cities regulated by agencies like the New York City Taxi & Limousine Commission, all yellow cabs are equipped with card readers.
Benefits:
- Generates a digital receipt instantly.
- Offers fraud protection and rewards points.
- Speeds up the payment process.
- Digital Wallets (Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay)
Many taxis now support contactless payments via NFC, which means you can tap your phone to pay using mobile wallets like Apple Pay.
Why riders like it:
- Contactless and secure.
- Easy to use with a smartphone or smartwatch.
- Works with your existing bank cards.
- Taxi-Specific Mobile Apps
Apps like Curb and Arro let you digitally hail a cab and pay directly through the app. Some even store ride history and allow tipping.
Highlights:
- Book and pay within the same platform.
- Link to business profiles for work-related rides.
- Avoid card handling or paying in-vehicle.
- Prepaid Taxi Gift Cards
If you’re budgeting ahead or want to avoid linking a bank account, prepaid ride credits are a solid alternative. With apps like Fluz, you can earn cashback with a Lyft gift card or get rewards with an Uber gift card—redeemable directly in-app for your ride.
Advantages:
- No need to share card info in public.
- Lets you track spending in advance.
- Potential cashback rewards on purchase.
To find out which ride services offer instant gift card delivery and cashback, visit the Fluz home page.
- Business Travel Platforms and Expense Tools
For frequent flyers or business travelers, platforms like Concur or Expensify often integrate with rideshare accounts or taxi receipt uploads, automating expense tracking and reimbursement.
Conveniences:
- Syncs payments to company accounts.
- Reduces manual entry of taxi receipts.
- Some employers preload ride credits for team members.
- Third-Party Rewards or Cashback Apps
While not always direct payment methods, some rewards programs let you earn points or cashback when you book or pay for transportation through partner apps. Be sure to check platforms like Rakuten or Ibotta for potential offers tied to ride payments.
Final Thoughts
From contactless cards to prepaid ride credits, cashless taxi payments have never been more accessible or rewarding. Whether you’re a daily commuter or an occasional traveler, using the right digital payment method can make your trip smoother—and in some cases, more cost-effective.
