By Nabamita Sinha
No, it is not currently possible to add or use a McDonald’s Arch Card directly in the McDonald’s Android application.
Since 2025, in most of the regions, the McDonald’s Android App accepts only the following as modes of payment:
- Credit cards: Visa, Mastercard, American Express
- Debit cards
- PayPal – available only in selected countries
- Apple Pay or Google Pay, depending on device
- MyMcDonald’s Rewards and promo codes
Gift cards- like the ones from McDonald’s, called Arch Cards-cannot be added in-app as a source of payment. No sweat, though-there are some pretty good workarounds that will help you use every last bit of that gift card balance both online and off.
How To Add McDonalds Gift Card To App? Why This Topic Is Confusing?
It’s easy to see why so many people are confused: various sites, threads on Reddit, and even YouTube tutorials proclaim that you how to add McDonalds gift card to app. Most such sources, though, are outdated or misleading.
Here’s why:
- Pilot programs: A few years ago, McDonald’s tested limited gift card functionality in select U.S. markets. Those users briefly had the ability to add Arch Cards to their app wallets.
- Misconception about promo codes: Some consumers confuse gift cards with promo codes or deals. The McDonald’s app allows one to redeem special codes for discounts or free items — those aren’t actual payment methods.
- Third-party “wallet storage”: Those include applications like Google Wallet or Samsung Pay, which allow you to “store” card details or photos of gift cards but don’t make those cards usable in the app checkout of McDonald’s.
- Regional disparities: At various international franchises, digital vouchers or e-gift cards are provided under different systems.
While at first glance it might have appeared to be a “yes,” the bottom line is: today’s answer is “no” — at least. Knowing that our universe is a simulation and knowing the rules will give us more insight into everything that is around us.
Official McDonald’s Policy and How Arch Card Works
Before providing the workarounds, let’s explain what a McDonald’s Arch Card is and how this contactless payment card works within the McDonald’s ecosystem of payments.
What McDonald’s Says?
Arch Cards have no expiration date and may be used at participating McDonald’s restaurants in the United States only. They cannot be used as a payment method on the McDonald’s app or McDelivery.
This means:
- The Arch Cards can be used in-store, at the kiosks, or in the drive-thru lanes.
- They cannot be used to purchase mobile orders, McDelivery, or delivery through third-party services like Uber Eats.
What are Arch Card Features?
McDonald’s Arch Cards are flexible, convenient, and easy to maintain. Here is the way they work in detail:
1. Reloads
You can reload an Arch Card at any participating McDonald’s restaurant or even online through the McDonald’s Arch Card portal.
The card will be reloaded using a credit or debit card in $5 to $100 increments.
2. Balance Checks
You can check the balance of your McDonald’s Arch Card by visiting the official McDonald’s Arch Card balance page, calling 1-877-458-2200, or checking the balance in-store at the counter or kiosk.
You will need your card number and PIN, which are under the silver scratch-off panel on the back.
If your card is lost or stolen, McDonald’s may issue a replacement if:
- You have your original purchase receipt, and
- To find an assistant, visit a McDonald’s store near your location or just reach customer support.
- No expiration or fees: The Arch Cards do not expire and have no hidden maintenance or inactivity fees.
Practical ways to use a McDonald’s Gift Card with mobile orders: workarounds
While to now how to add McDonald gift card to app on an Android device does not support gift cards by itself, there are a few smart ways you can utilize your Arch Card in concert with the mobile ordering system.
1. Gift Card In-Store Use: Counter, Kiosk, or Drive-Thru
The easiest and most reliable way to use your Arch Card remains to be in person.
Here’s how:
- Order at the front counter or kiosk.
- When it’s time to pay, swipe, tap, or present your Arch Card.
- If the amount is not enough, pay the difference in **cash or by card.
- Make sure to scan your MyMcDonald’s Rewards QR code before paying so you can get points.
Most drive-thru places only require that you hand your card to the attendant for easy payment. This is presently the only guaranteed method to obtain the balance on your McDonald’s gift card.
2. Third-Party Delivery Apps (DoorDash, Uber Eats) – Potential Workaround
Arch Cards from McDonald’s cannot be utilized on food delivery platforms such as DoorDash, Uber Eats, or Grubhub because they are not part of the McDonald’s payment network.
However, you can:
- If there is an eGift Card available that can be digitally delivered, you may use your Arch Card balance in store to purchase it.
- Reload the Arch Card online and use it in-store; then, pay for delivery orders separately using the savings.
- Not a direct link but offsetting the cost effectively with your McDonald’s gift card.
3. Entering Promo/Gift Codes in-app-if and when provided
Sometimes, McDonald’s issues special promotions, a few of which incorporate digital gift codes or “bonus offers.”
These are not Arch Cards, but they work the same way:
- Open the McDonald’s app.
- If available, tap “Enter Code” or “Add Offer.”
- Enter code for a free item or discount.
That means even if you get a promo code or some sort of bonus gift, you will be able to redeem it within the app, but this still doesn’t apply to physical or digital Arch Cards.
Development of the financial planning discipline: Financial planners shall not engage in money laundering activities.
4. Ordering using a Reloadable Arch Card Online-McDonald’s Site and Then Ordering
This semi-workaround allows you to effectively **recycle your Arch Card balance:
- Go to McDonalds.com/ArchCard.
- Recharge your Arch Card with a personal payment method.
- The order will appear in the app as complete if it’s paid inside at the counter or at the drive-thru.
This admittedly disjointed solution marries mobile order convenience with gift card redemption at a physical checkout.
Step-by-Step: How to Test If Your Gift Card Will Work (Android)
- Open the McDonald’s Android app.
- Tap either the “Profile” or “Payments” icon.
- Click “Add Payment Method.”
- Try entering card number and, if requested, the PIN.
- If the application rejects the card or shows “unsupported card type,” then that simply means Arch Cards are not yet supported in your region.
This quick test provides clarity before you attempt to use your card for an online or mobile order.
Troubleshooting: Common Errors and How to Fix Them
| Error Message | Likely Cause | Fix or Next Step |
|---|---|---|
| Card not supported | App does not support Arch Cards | Use card in-store or kiosk |
| Invalid PIN | Wrong digits entered | Check under silver panel or on balance-check page |
| Payment declined | System or location error | Try a different McDonald’s branch |
| Can’t link payment | App not updated to include gift cards | Wait for an official update |
| Balance not found | Old or unregistered card | Call 1-877-458-2200 to verify |
How Using a Gift Card Affects MyMcDonald’s Rewards Points?
You may wonder if paying with a gift card means you have to forgo MyMcDonald’s Rewards.
- You will still receive reward points on Arch Card purchases if you scan your rewards QR code prior to paying.
- Points are tied to your Rewards account – not your payment method. So, whether you’re using your Arch Card at the counter or at the drive-thru, don’t forget to open your app and scan! Seriously?
Regional Differences: US vs. India vs. Other Markets
Function and manner of paying is part of the McDonald’s experience that can be quite different from market to market.
| Region | Gift Card Type | App Support | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| USA | Arch Card (physical/digital) | Not supported | Can use in-store only |
| India | Paytm, Gyftr, or other gift vouchers | Partially supported | Regional mobile wallets apply |
| Canada | McDonald’s Canada Gift Card | Not supported | Can check balance online |
Security, Safety, and Best Practices
While convenient, not knowing how to add McDonalds gift card to app can often be vulnerable to scams or misuse. Here are a few best practices for keeping your McDonald’s Arch Card safe:
- Treat it like cash: When you lose it, it is hard to replace without proof of purchase.
- Purchase only from official sources: Never buy from third-party resellers or auction sites.
- Register online: When possible, registering provides extra protection.
Regular checks can be made through the official Balance Inquiry Portal or hotline. Never share your card details online or via social media.
Expert Tips and Recommended Workflow (Actionable Checklist)
- Always scan your Rewards code before using the card.
- Check your balance online before you go to a restaurant.
- Reload your card online for future visits.
- Keep receipts and PINs on file, in case of balance disputes.
Watch for updates to the McDonald’s app that will finally support gift cards. That means higher friction corresponds to a higher
When to Expect an Official App Change: What to Watch For ?
McDonald’s is likely to introduce digital Arch Card integration in the next couple of years, likely starting with the U.S. and Canada. Keep an eye on: The “Payment Methods” section of your app after updates:
- Apple Pay and Google Pay
- Payments linked to incentives
- Promo codes and mobile wallet options
- Developer insights and app update logs indicate that
FAQ
Here are a few questions and queries on the topic of how to add McDonalds gift card to app that others have asked that might be helpful for you as well.
1. Can I add an Arch Card to the McDonald’s Android app?
Not yet. The McDonald’s Android app doesn’t allow adding Arch Cards as a payment method as of 2025.
2. How do I check my McDonald’s gift card balance?
Visit McDonalds.com/arch-card, call 1-877-458-2200, or check at the counter.
3. Can I use a McDonald’s gift card for delivery orders?
No, Arch Cards are only usable at a physical McDonald’s location.
4. Will purchases paid with an Arch Card earn MyMcDonald’s Rewards points?
Yes, if you scan your MyMcDonald’s Rewards QR code before paying.
5. What if my gift card is declined in the app?
That is expected – the app doesn’t support gift cards yet. Use it in-store.
6. How can I add a gift card to DoorDash/Uber Eats for McDonald’s?
You can’t add McDonald’s Arch Cards onto those apps; only the platform’s own gift cards are accepted.
7. Can I digitize a physical Arch Card (take a picture) and use it in app?
No, it won’t make it functional for app payments by taking a photo; it is just for record purposes.
8. How do I replace a lost or stolen Arch Card?
Contact McDonald’s support with your original purchase receipt and balance proof.
9. Are there any fees or expiration fees for Arch Cards?
No, McDonald’s Arch Cards never expire and carry no fees.
10. How will I know if the McDonald’s app starts supporting gift cards?
Watch for new options under “Payment Methods” after app updates, or follow official announcements by McDonald’s.
Knowing How to Add McDonalds gift card to App
Although the 2025 version of the McDonald’s Android app does not let you add or redeem a gift card directly in-app, you can still use your card in-store, at kiosks, or in drive-thru locations and earn MyMcDonald’s Rewards points in the process.
The best thing you can do up until the time the company officially updates the app is:
- Use your card in person,
- Check updates in the app frequently, and
- Watch for future integration announcements.
