Most common payment methods in Ecuador

Cheryl Moderator

17201POSTS

last month

Hello everyone,

Moving to Ecuador, even simple things like paying for groceries or a coffee can feel different. In order to help fellow expats and soon-to-be expats better prepare for their daily transactions, we invite you to share your insights and experience:

What are the most common payment methods today in Ecuador: cash, debit/credit cards, bank transfers, mobile apps or digital wallets?

Is contactless payment (card, phone, smartwatch or via QR code) common and widely accepted?

Is there a popular local payment app that everyone uses?

How safe and secure do you feel using digital payments in Ecuador?

Do you still need to carry cash for small shops, markets, taxis or administrative services?

Are there any particularities in payment habits or methods in Ecuador that surprised you?

Thank you for your contribution,

Cheryl
Expat.com Team

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edoconnor New member

9POSTS

last month

@Cheryl

We use mostly cash and an occasional credit card for larger purchases......period. Yes, one should carry cash in small denominations. The only monetary surprises we have experienced in 14 years is that dollar coins are used instead of dollar bills and that small merchants usually can't make change if anything larger than a $10 bill is used. Don't have to worry about apps or digital anything since I don't have a 'smart' phone, 'smart' watch, 'smart' glasses, 'smart' shoes or 'smart' underwear.