Find out how to add your thimbl credit card to Google Pay

What is Google Pay and how does it work?
The thimbl guide to Google Pay explores some commonly asked questions and explains how you can add your thimbl credit card to your Google Pay account.

What is Google Pay?

Google Pay is a payment system that securely stores your chosen payment methods on your phone, much like a digital wallet.
Think of it as a contactless payment but using your phone rather than your physical debit or credit card.

How does Google Pay work?

Now that we’ve discussed what it is, you might be wondering ‘how do I use Google Pay?’.

Setting up Google Pay is straightforward; you’ll first need to create a Google account if you don’t have one already. Next, you’ll need to download the app to your phone. The final step is adding your payment details, whether that’s a debit card, credit card, or PayPal account.

Once your payment details have been added to the app, you can use Google Pay online or in-store wherever you see the Google Pay logo. To make a payment in-store, simply unlock your phone and hold it to the card reader as you would a physical debit or credit card.

Is using Google Pay a good idea?

It’s really up to you whether you choose to use Google Pay.
You might consider using Google Pay for ease and convenience. If you’ve forgotten your wallet or would just rather not take it out with you, Google Pay allows you to make a payment without the use of a physical card.
Google Pay’s enhanced security – which we’ll talk about in more detail further down the page – also makes it a safe way to spend.

It’s important to be aware that Google Pay is not accepted as a payment method everywhere, so it might be an idea to have a backup payment option, just in case.
It’s also worth noting that not every bank supports the use of Google Pay, so depending on who you bank with, you might not be able to link up your credit or debit card.

Is there a monthly fee for Google Pay?

No, you will not be charged a monthly fee – or any other type of fee - to use Google Pay, and the app is also free to download.
Standard card fees may apply in line with your card’s terms and conditions.

Is there a limit on how much I can spend using Google Pay?

‘What is the spending limit on Google Pay?’ is a frequently asked question.
While there’s no limit on how much money you can spend using Google Pay, it’s worth bearing in mind that some retailers and banks may set restrictions.

As a side note, you should never spend more money than you need to, and if using a credit card, it’s important to stay well inside your credit limit.

Is there a contactless limit for Google Pay?

As discussed in the section above, there is no limit on payments made with Google Pay, but payments could be capped at a certain amount by the retailer. For example, some retailers may have a £100 contactless spending limit in place, meaning you could be unable to use Google Pay to make transactions over this amount. This isn’t always the case, however, and it will largely depend on the retailer as well as the payment terminal they’re using.

Is Google Pay safe?

There are various measures and features in place to ensure your financial and personal information is protected when using Google Pay.
According to Google Pay, your information will be shielded with ‘multiple layers of security using one of the world’s most advanced security infrastructures’.

You can choose to make your account safer by adding a PIN, fingerprint, or pattern, which must be entered before a payment is made.
In addition to this, if your phone is lost or stolen, you can lock your device, log out of your Google account, or erase your data using the Google Find My Device feature.

Which banks support Google Pay in the UK?

A large number of UK banks support Google Pay, including:

• Barclays
• HSBC
• Lloyds
• Monzo
• NatWest
• Santander

You can find a full list of banks compatible with Google Pay here.

Is Google Pay the same as Google Wallet?

In January 2018, Android Pay and Google Wallet merged and rebranded to Google Pay. Google Wallet is still a feature of Google Pay, but the two offer different services.

Google Wallet is a virtual space for you to store your debit, credit, and loyalty cards, while Google Pay is a virtual payment system.

What’s the difference between Google Pay and Apple Pay?

Google Pay and Apple Pay are similar in the service they offer; however, the main difference is their device compatibility. Put simply, Google Pay is compatible with Android devices, while Apple Pay is designed for Apple devices.

Can I add my thimbl Credit Builder Credit Card to Google Pay?

Yes, the thimbl Credit Builder Credit Card can be added to your Google Wallet and is available to use with Google Pay.
Please note that the thimbl Credit Card is not compatible with Samsung Wallet.

The thimbl Credit Builder Credit Card

If you have bad or limited credit history, the thimbl credit card could help.*
When used alongside other credit-building methods, such as paying your bills on time and registering to vote, a credit builder credit card could help your journey towards a healthier credit position.

Use your credit builder credit card to cover the cost of an affordable and necessary purchase and then make at least the minimum repayment amount due each month. If you want to avoid paying interest and your financial situation allows it, you might consider repaying your balance in full.

The thimbl Credit Builder Credit Card comes with a manageable initial credit limit between £200 and £2,000.

Check your eligibility for a thimbl credit card

You can check your eligibility for a thimbl credit card if you:

• Are between the ages of 18 and 70;
• Are a UK resident with at least 1 year's UK address history; 
• Have a monthly net income of at least £800;
• Have an active credit account that has been open for a minimum of 12 months; and
• Do not already hold a Zable credit card.

Lendable Ltd is unable to consider applications from anyone who has declared bankruptcy or is in an Individual Voluntary Arrangement (IVA).

The thimbl credit card is powered by Zable. Zable is a trading style of Lendable Ltd. If you choose to make a full application, a creditworthiness assessment will be carried out by Zable. This will consist of a hard search and a further check powered by Open Banking. A hard search will remain on your credit file for up to 12 months, and multiple hard searches within a short period of time could have a negative impact on your credit score. Any credit obtained upon successful application will be provided by Lendable Ltd.

*To be eligible to apply for the thimbl Credit Builder Credit Card, you must have had an active credit account that has been open for a minimum of 12 months.