QR Code for Payment: Road to a Cashless Society

A QR code for payment is like a shortcut to convenience. Just scan, tap, and the payment is done. No need for cash, no fumbling with change, and definitely no “oops, left my wallet at home” moments.

Whether you are grabbing coffee, splitting a bill, or paying for groceries, this codes is making transactions smoother than ever.

And it is not just a trend; it is the future. Experts say that by this year, up to 30% of all smartphone users will pay via QR codes, and 67% of respondents to a MobileIron survey said QR codes make life easier in a contactless world.

Businesses love it, and customers find it easy. Let’s be honest: Who enjoys fumbling for cash?

As more stores and services go digital, having a reliable QR code system is just brilliant and necessary. And if you are looking for the best QR code generator, you are already on the right track.

How does a QR code for payment work?

Unlike linear barcodes, which people can only scan from paper with a laser barcode scanner, QR codes can be scanned in both print and digital displays using only a smartphone device.

Consequently, QR codes are easily accessible and can be found in various online retailers and apps.

As long as your iPhone or Android smartphone runs the newest iOS or Android software, you can read QR codes directly from the primary camera app.

Open the camera and point it at the QR code. Your phone will recognize it, and a push notification will appear, prompting you to tap it to complete the procedure.

People can make QR payments in a variety of ways:

Payments between apps

You and the recipient can both open the required apps. Then, you can use your app to scan the recipient’s unique QR code style displayed in their app.

You confirm the payment amount and press to complete the transaction.

Other payment apps like Alipay and Clover are good examples. Customers scan a dynamically generated QR code to activate the transaction QR code payment method.

It’s a well-liked point-of-sale system that combines stylish POS hardware with straightforward payment processing into a single package.

Smartphone scanning the QR code of the business

Open the QR code payment app that you want to use.

Then, scan the code at the checkout counter, on individual products, on the website, or on a printed bill, and, if necessary, confirm the pricing before pressing to complete the transaction.

You will almost always have to insert your credit card information to pay. If the app is store-specific, you may offer discounts and reward points through it.

Retailers scanning a QR code on the user’s phone screen

Once the total transaction amount is confirmed in the retailer’s POS system at checkout, you can access some of the necessary company or payment apps enabling QR code transactions.

A unique QR code displayed by the app identifies your card information.

How do I create a QR code for a payment?

Creating a QR code for payments using QR TIGER is a straightforward process. You can generate a PayPal, Venmo, or cryptocurrency QR code to allow customers to make payments quickly. Here's how:

Step 1: Visit a QR code maker

Go to the QR TIGER website.

Step 2: Choose a QR code solution (URL or Smart URL)

Select the URL QR code option to link to any payment platform. Choose between a static QR code (fixed URL) or a dynamic QR code (editable and trackable).

Select the Smart URL option to create a Dynamic QR code that redirects to different payment methods based on specific rules.

Step 3: Enter your payment URL

Enter multiple payment URLs such as:

• PayPal link (https://www.paypal.me/yourusername)
• Venmo link (https://venmo.com/yourusername)
• UPI link (upi://pay?pa=yourUPIID@bank&pn=YourName)
• Cryptocurrency wallet link (e.g., Bitcoin or Ethereum address)

Configure conditions for the Smart URL, such as:

Location-based redirection: Show different payment methods for users from different regions or countries.

Device-based redirection: Send mobile users to a mobile-friendly payment page and desktop users to a different one.

Time-based redirection: Offer different payment methods during certain hours or days.

Language-based redirection: Display payment methods and instructions in the user's preferred language based on their browser or location.

Step 4: Generate the QR code

Click “Generate QR Code” to create your custom payment QR code.

Step 5: Customize your QR code (Optional)

Change the color, add a logo, or use a frame to make it more appealing.

Ensure the design aligns with your brand for better recognition.

Step 6: Test the QR code

Before using it, scan it with a mobile device to verify that it directs to the correct payment link and to ensure that the payment URL redirects correctly based on the set conditions.

Step 7: Download and use the QR code

Once satisfied, choose a file format (PNG, SVG, PDF, or EPS), then click “Download.” You can print it or integrate it into digital platforms like websites, invoices, or receipts.

The rise of QR codes as a payment tool during the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic

Many people wonder what comes next — or if we even need something to replace a reincarnated piece of “outdated” character recognition equipment that appeared as a champion during the pandemic.

While vaccine passports and other applications for QR codes are investigated, the quick-service restaurant and larger dining sectors continue to be the most affected.

Quick-service Restaurant Magazine, a restaurant news portal, recently claimed that:

“Industry experts had been wondering for months leading into summer 2021, when prevalent vaccinations were expected to drive a resurgence in on-premises dining, what the fate of all those QR codes would be.

But it quickly became clear that QR codes, a somewhat forced adaptation during the pandemic, had enough benefits for both restaurants and customers that they are here to stay.”

In addition, retailers and restaurants used QR codes for digital menus and contactless payment alternatives to reduce physical contact between staff and customers during the COVID-19 pandemic.

In recent years, prominent payment providers such as PayPal have begun to use QR codes at the point of sale as a touch-free, cash-free payment option.

Moreover, according to the latest QR code payment statistics, the global spending on QR code payments will exceed $3 trillion by 2025, up from $2.4 trillion last year.

The increased focus on enhancing financial inclusion in developing nations and giving alternatives to traditional payment methods will fuel the 25% increase.

QR code payment grows 50% more globally — expect an $8 trillion value by 2029

New findings from Juniper Research tell us that QR code payment is already a norm.

The implementation of national QR code schemes and standardization of Account-to-Account (A2A) transactions via QR codes shows that they are the most accessible solution for businesses and consumers.

Its global value is expected to grow 50% more, reaching up to $8 trillion in the next four years.

Two ways how QR codes for payment work

We can use QR codes for various things, but how are they employed in payments? Are they significant?

It’s a contactless payment mechanism that allows consumers to pay simply by scanning a QR code with their smartphone.

Here are examples of how to make payments with QR codes:

App-to-app payment method

With the utilization of QR codes, online payment or e-payment systems such as PayPal implement different initiatives to enhance the way business is done online by incorporating QR codes, enabling cashless and contactless activities to be even more fascinating.

PayPal altered its online payment processing pricing a few years ago, affecting both new and existing merchants.

PayPal Zettle, PayPal’s mobile POS app, may be used to accept in-person PayPal and Venmo QR code payments at your business.

Because it immediately syncs with your business PayPal account, PayPal Zettle is a terrific mobile POS for PayPal merchants who also sell in person.

You don’t have to be a PayPal seller to take advantage of PayPal Zettle; it's a convenient and user-friendly POS.

It’s also free to use, with no monthly software fees; all transactions, including credit card and QR code payments, are charged a flat 2.7% fee.

“Zettle by PayPal is a Swedish financial technology company founded by Jacob de Geer and Magnus Nilsson in April and is now owned by PayPal.”

URL QR Code for payment

Businesses can use payment links to sell a product or service, establish a subscription, or receive donations.

When a payment link is embedded in a URL QR code, it can be utilized as a gateway to contactless payment.

For example, you can create your own PayPal.Me link with your selected username, which you can send to your consumers by email, text message, or embed on your website and social media platforms.

You can then turn in your Paypal.Me link into a contactless payment Paypal QR code that will allow your customers to pay you via scanning the QR code.

Donation Point Go was also intended to make receiving donations faster and easier.

It uses QR code technology to provide immediate access to the online donation campaign for potential donors.

Real-life examples of a QR code being used as a payment method

Walmart Pay

One of the largest retailers was an early adopter of self-checkout technology, and they’ve been cranking it up ever since.

Customers can now scan and pack their goods at one of the store’s self-service registers, then pay by scanning the QR code provided with their smartphone using the Walmart barcode scanner at checkout and the Walmart Pay app.

Walmart also prints QR codes on receipts that price-match your purchases with those of other local companies, generating a cashback-like amount that may be redeemed at Walmart later for the thrifty shopper.

Customers can save 5% on purchases using their Capital OneTM Walmart RewardsTM card, which connects the QR code payment option to Walmart’s larger omnichannel strategy.

Donation Point Go

Donation Point Go was designed to make receiving donations faster and easier. It uses QR code technology to provide immediate access to an online donation campaign for potential donors.

The unique QR code can be added to various materials, including mailers, posters, tickets, newspapers, magazines, and billboards.

When donors come across your campaign, they can scan the QR code with their smartphone to be redirected to a webpage customized for their needs.

With just one tap, donors can make a payment using their credit card or e-wallet directly from their phone.

No additional apps are needed, and it works on all modern devices.

Amazon Go

Amazon Go is a convenience store business owned and operated by Amazon in the United States and the United Kingdom.

They employed QR codes to allow clients to get their purchases in-store without having to wait in long lineups.

Users can compare items and read reviews with a simple scan using their smartphone's QR code scanner.

Benefits of QR code for payment for a cashless transaction

You can make payments safer by using QR codes

During the COVID-19 pandemic, everyone was concerned about their safety.

By avoiding touch, QR codes help to protect customers and employees. Buyers can scan a code and pay their bills instantly from mobile devices.

Staff at restaurants and stores no longer have to handle credit cards or cash, and servers will receive contactless tips from customers.

It can be displayed in online settings like livestream, social media, and websites

People may now find QR codes almost anywhere. They can be uploaded to the Internet, flashed during a livestream, shared on social media, and even displayed on websites!

That being said, QR codes are adaptable because they may be used for various purposes other than payments.

Can be placed on print materials

Use QR codes in print adverts to run a successful printed marketing campaign.

Incorporating a QR code into your printed campaign will give the audience more information and exciting marketing materials.

QR codes were created as a digital tool to embed information and were generated using an online QR code generator.

Moreover, QR codes can be utilized for contactless payments, allowing scanners to order and pay using the QR code on your printed materials.

How to scan a QR code

A QR code can be scanned in various ways. Below are some instructions on how to scan QR codes:

QR codes can be scanned using your Android device

QR codes are typically used to browse a website to learn more about a specific subject.

To access the linked content, users need to scan QR code on Android devices support, using either a built-in scanner or a QR code reader app.

Android devices usually include a built-in Android QR code scanner. Android versions 8 and 9 can scan QR codes without using an app.

On the other hand, some earlier Android versions have yet to receive the most current update.

To see if your smartphone device can scan QR codes natively, follow these steps:

1. Open your camera program.
2. For 2–3 seconds, point it at the QR code.
3. Click the notification that displays to view the content.

If nothing else works, check the camera settings to see whether QR code scanning is possible. If you don’t see one, your Android phone doesn’t have a QR code option.

As a result, you’ll have to use third-party apps to read or decode QR codes.

If your Android device has a QR code scanner, pointing the camera at the code will cause a pop-up notification to appear on the screen.

By clicking on a QR code, you can view its contents.

QR codes can be scanned on iOS devices as well

QR codes can be scanned on iOS devices as well. iPhone users’ curiosity is piqued as new iOS versions are released to keep up with technological advancements. QR codes are printed and seen everywhere, continuing to gain popularity.

Since iOS 11 introduced numerous improvements, QR code scanning has been a built-in feature, and it remains available in the latest iOS versions. If you're wondering how to scan a QR code on an iPhone, follow these simple steps:

1. Open the iOS Camera app.
2. Point the rear camera at the QR code.
3. A notification will appear once scanning is complete—usually redirecting you to a link in Safari.

If you have trouble scanning, go to the Settings app and ensure QR Code scanning is enabled. With this built-in feature, iPhone users can quickly access information by scanning QR codes effortlessly.

QR code applications such as QR TIGER

While having a built-in QR code scanner is useful, not having one doesn’t mean you’re out of options. You can scan a QR code on Android without an app using built-in camera features on most devices.

If your phone lacks this function, you can always download third-party software to read QR codes on iOS or Android. QR TIGER’s scanner, for instance, is available for both platforms.

Applications with QR code readers

There are other applications that can also be used to scan a QR code, such as:

• LinkedIn
• Instagram
• Pinterest
• Snapchat
• Google Lens

Note: While these apps can scan QR codes, they are primarily designed for platform-specific codes. For general QR code scanning, Google Lens offers more versatility.

The future of mobile payments with QR codes

QR code for payment makes paying as easy as taking a photo. No more carrying cash, swiping cards, or waiting for change.

Just scan, pay, and you’re done. It is simple, fast, and works almost anywhere. You can use it at your favorite coffee shop or even for online shopping.

More people are now choosing cashless payments, making QR codes a must-have. Whether you own a small business or just want an easy way to pay, a QR code can save you time and effort.

And if you need the best QR code generator to create one, you are already in the right place!

FAQ

Can you link a QR code to a bank account?

Yes, you can link a QR code to your bank account. Simply create an EPC QR Code with your bank account details and share it, making it easier for others to send you bank transfers.

Can I create a QR code to get paid?

Yes, you can create a QR code to receive payments. Simply use a digital payment platform like PayPal, Venmo, or Cash App to generate a payment link, then create a QR code that directs to your account.

Which QR code is best for payment?

For payment, dynamic QR codes are typically the best choice. They allow for easy updates and tracking, making them ideal for ongoing transactions. Static QR codes are better suited for one-time payments, as their information cannot be changed once created.