Does McDonald’s Take American Express?
American Express is one of the biggest payment options. Its cards are up there in popularity with Mastercard, Visa, and Discover.
They are accepted at almost all diners, grocery stores, clothing retailers, etc. But some popular chains may not accept this option.
That leads us to one of the biggest dinner chains in the world, McDonald’s. It has a long list of accepted payment methods. But does McDonald’s take American Express?
Let’s find out!
Does McDonald’s Take American Express?
Yes, McDonald’s does take American Express as of 2022. All you need is a registered card, and you can use it as a payment method in almost all locations.
American Express cards are accepted at almost all restaurant chains. You can use them at McDonald’s, Wendy’s, Burger King, Chick-fil-A, Subway, and Taco Bell. Simply select this option during checkout.
Not only does it work in all McDonald’s locations, but American Express cards can be used online too.

How to Use American Express at McDonald’s?
I found American Express to be one of the easiest payment methods to use at McDonald’s. Simply present it during checkout and tap it on the reader.
Paying with an American Express card is the same as any other card. Follow these steps to use this payment option at McDonald’s:
- Carry a registered card with you to a McDonald’s location or drive-thru.
- Tap the card on the reader during checkout or insert it into the reader.
- You will be prompted when the payment is made.
Note that some McDonald’s locations do not have advanced card readers. Depending on the machine, you have to insert, tap, or swipe it. The cashier can point you in the right direction about this matter.
Does McDonald’s Drive-Thru Take American Express?
Yes, American Express cards can be used at all McDonald’s drive-thrus.
Today, all McDonald’s drive-thrus are equipped with advanced POS systems. They can take all cards, including American Express. Using it is the same as in-store purchasing.
Usually, card readers are placed at the windows. You can use your American Express card after receiving your order at a McDonald’s drive-thru.
Does Mcdonald’s Take Amex in Canada?
Yes, American Express is accepted at McDonald’s in Canada.
American Express is just as popular in Canada as in the US. It is available in a wide range of diners, including McDonald’s, Oliver & Bonacini, Burger King, and Starbucks.
According to a survey by American Express, over 90,000 retailers accepted Amex in Canada in 2019. One can expect the numbers to only go up with the years.
What Other Fast Food Accepts American Express?
McDonald’s, Casey’s, Wendy’s, Burger King, Subway, Chick-fil-A, Nando’s, and TGI Fridays are some fast food places that accept American Express.
Almost every fast food eaterie will take American Express. You can reach out to a specific restaurant beforehand for confirmation.
Any place that takes credit or debit cards will also accept American Express.
Here is a detailed list of all fast food places accepting American Express, excluding the names mentioned above:
- Domino’s
- Applebee’s
- Cracker Barrel
- Buffalo Wild Wings
- Five Guys
- Arby’s
- In-N-Out
- Five Guys
- Chili’s
- Dunkin’
- Chipotle
- Panera Bread
- Sonic
- Papa John’s
- Whataburger
- Starbucks
- QDOBA Mexican Eats
- Jack in the Box
- Panda Express
- Taco Bell
- Olive Garden
What McDonald’s Locations Take Amex?
McDonald’s accepts Amex in all of its locations. That’s because they are all equipped with card readers.
Paying with a card is a standard payment method. You will find it accepted at all McDonald’s locations. All of its eateries in the UK, US, and Canada will allow American Express cards.
Plus, you can also confirm by contacting your nearest McDonald’s location. It will give you a clear idea of which payment option to choose.
What Items Can You Buy With Amex from McDonald’s?
You can buy all items using Amex from McDonald’s. That includes all the burgers, bagels, desserts, and beverages.
American Express and McDonald’s partnered up in 2014. They launched a program that allows customers to use Amex points at the fast-food chain.
This program’s main goal was to collect donations for the Ronal McDonald House Charities. You can buy all items from a McDonald’s location using an American Express card.
Are There Any Fees for Using American Express at McDonald’s?
Luckily, there are no fees for using American Express at McDonald’s.
And that can be considered a huge benefit for Amex card holders. You do not have to worry about paying additional charges at McDonald’s. Simply pay for the total order amount and enjoy your happy meal.
Can I Get a Refund Through American Express from McDonald’s?
Yes, you can get a refund through American Express from McDonald’s.
A powerful feature of Amex is that it allows online refunds. You can get the amount back to your card. However, the merchant plays an integral role in this part.
For instance, McDonald’s has no firm policy regarding refunds or returns. They do it as a courtesy. So, you have to present a valid reason for a refund. Only then can you receive your money back in your account.
Final Thoughts
I have been using an American Express card at McDonald’s and have never faced any inconveniences. It works flawlessly and has no security issues.
However, its applications can be limited in some eateries. You can still use it at all McDonald’s locations, drive-thrus, and online on the application.
Another benefit of American Express is that it is quick. Simply tap or swipe it on the reader, and your payment will be confirmed within seconds.

I'm Annie Rondeau, a writer and content creator for QueryBoomer, where I specialize in providing insightful reviews about brands, stores, products, and retailers. Whether you're searching for information on the latest trends, products, or companies, my articles are the go-to resource for accurate and reliable information. I hope you find my content helpful in your quest for information about brands and products.