Taiwan Mobile Payment Guide 2025: LINE Pay vs. JKOPay

Understand in Seconds! What’s the Difference Between Electronic Payment, Mobile Payment, and Third-Party Payment?

Before diving into the comparison, let’s take a minute to clarify a few commonly confused terms so you can become the go-to payment expert in your circle!

❖ Electronic Payment:
Think of it as a “digital wallet”. It’s more than just a payment tool,  it also allows you to store funds and transfer money, functioning like a bank account on the internet. Transactions between users happen directly within the system. JKOPay and iPASS MONEY are examples of this type.

❖ Mobile Payment:
This is a broader concept referring to the act of “making payments using your phone”. Your phone becomes your credit card or wallet. It simply acts as a payment “carrier”, linking your credit card or bank account to the payment terminal. Apple Pay and Google Pay are typical examples, and LINE Pay also falls under this category.

❖ Third-Party Payment:
This emerged in the e-commerce era and mainly acts as a trusted intermediary between buyers and sellers. When you make an online purchase, your payment first goes to the third-party platform, which then transfers the money to the seller after you confirm receipt. It mainly handles “collection and payment services” but does not support storing or transferring funds. Examples include Green World FinTech and NewebPay.

A Quick Visual Guide to Their Relationship and Key Players

Simply put, their relationship looks like this:

• Electronic payment is a “qualification”, offering the most comprehensive functions (store value, transfer, pay).
• Mobile payment is a “method”, referring to any form of payment made via phone.
• An app can be both an electronic and a mobile payment platform (e.g., JKOPay).
• An app can also be purely mobile payment, relying on linked credit cards (e.g., LINE Pay).

2025 Taiwan’s Top 6 Mobile Payment Apps: Comprehensive Comparison

Now let’s have an exciting showdown to see what unique strengths each of these six major players brings to the market!

LINE Pay: The Social Payment King with the Widest Coverage 👑

As Taiwan’s leading communication app, LINE Pay leverages its massive user base to achieve near-ubiquitous presence. From department stores and restaurant chains to neighborhood drink shops, you can find it almost everywhere.

• Advantages:
  • ✅ Unmatched coverage: Over 500,000 partner merchants, it’s hard to find a place that doesn’t accept it.
  • ✅ Powerful LINE POINTS ecosystem: Rewards are straightforward; 1 point equals 1 dollar, making redemption extremely convenient.
  • ✅ Seamless social integration: You can transfer money or send red packets directly within LINE chats, super convenient.
• Disadvantages:
  • ❌ Limited functionality: Focused mainly on payments, with fewer bill payment and lifestyle features compared to competitors.
  • ❌ Points expiration: LINE POINTS are valid for 180 days, so you need to keep track of the expiry date.
• Best for: Those who value ultimate convenience, don’t want to think about where they can use it, and are heavy LINE users.

JKOPay: Feature-Rich with Strong Merchant Loyalty 🏙️

JKOPay is a pioneer in Taiwan’s electronic payment scene, known for its extensive functionality and deep partnerships with local merchants, especially in the food and retail sectors. It has become the go-to choice for many food lovers.

• Advantages：
  • ✅ Most comprehensive features: Covers payments, transfers, bill payments, ride-hailing, food ordering, and more, a true one-stop service.
  • ✅ Unlimited JKO Coin rewards: When linked to designated bank accounts or used with JKO co-branded cards, rewards are direct and easy to redeem.
  • ✅ Frequent merchant promotions: Regularly offers high cashback campaigns for specific stores or shopping districts.
• Disadvantages:
  • ❌ Information-heavy interface: New users may need some time to get familiar with all the features.
  • ❌ Some high-reward campaigns require registration: Great deals often need manual enrollment, which can sometimes be forgotten.
• Best for: Those who love exploring food spots, value diverse lifestyle services, and prefer managing everything through one app.

PX Pay Plus: The Dark Horse Driven by PX Mart 🛒

Launched by retail giant PX Mart, PX Pay Plus made a strong debut with impressive momentum. It not only integrates the original PX Pay system but also actively expands its reach beyond PX Mart stores, showing clear ambitions for broader market influence.

• Advantages:
  • ✅ Strongest PX Mart rewards: Offers exceptionally high reward rates for purchases at PX Mart, making it a favorite among household shoppers.
  • ✅ Rapid network expansion: Quickly integrates with major retail chains through strong partnerships.
  • ✅ Flexible use of PX points: Earned points can be redeemed not only at PX Mart but also at other participating merchants.
• Disadvantages:
  • ❌ Ecosystem still developing: Compared to the first two apps, its partner network and feature diversity are still catching up.
  • ❌ Limited appeal to non-PX Mart users: Its main advantage remains centered around PX Mart spending.
• Best for: Frequent PX Mart shoppers, household purchasers, and consumers who are highly loyal to the PX rewards system.

iPASS MONEY (formerly LINE Pay Money): The E-Wallet Integrating Transportation and Daily Life 🚆

Spun off from the LINE Pay ecosystem and deeply integrated with the iPASS card system, iPASS MONEY holds an irreplaceable advantage in transportation payments, making it an essential tool for commuters.

• Advantages:
  • ✅ Leader in transportation payments: Seamlessly integrates with QR code ticketing for easy access to MRT, buses, and light rail.
  • ✅ Comprehensive bill payment options: Covers nearly everything from utilities, parking fees, and health insurance to taxes.
  • ✅ No withdrawal fees for profit-sharing accounts: A major benefit for users who need to withdraw funds regularly.
• Disadvantages:
  • ❌ Fewer promotional campaigns: Since separating from LINE Pay, large-scale marketing activities have become less frequent.
  • ❌ Brand recognition adjustment: Users need some time to adapt to its differentiation from LINE Pay.
• Best for: Daily commuters and efficiency-minded users who prefer handling all their bills directly on their phones.

Taiwan Pay: Government-Backed Powerhouse for Bills and Taxes 

Launched under the leadership of the government and “jointly operated” by state-owned banks, Taiwan Pay holds unmatched advantages when it comes to bill and tax payments, making it a must-have tool during every tax season.

• Advantages:
  • ✅ Widest coverage for bills and taxes: Supports the broadest range of tax types and public utility payments, often with fee waivers or cashback offers.
  • ✅ High debit card compatibility: Allows linking multiple banks’ debit cards, making it usable even without a credit card.
  • ✅ Frequent government promotions: Regularly partners with public campaigns such as night market vouchers and stimulus programs.
• Disadvantages:
  • ❌ Traditional interface design: The user experience of the app still has room for improvement compared with competitors.
  • ❌ Limited merchant network: Outside of selected partner stores, its general retail coverage is not as extensive as LINE Pay or JKOPay.
• Best for: Citizens who file taxes annually, students or freelancers without credit cards, and budget-conscious users who value savings.

EasyWallet: The Best Companion for Commuters 🚌

Backed by the EasyCard Corporation, EasyWallet also holds a strong position in the transportation sector. Its “auto top-up” feature has become a favorite among busy users, ensuring you never have to worry about running out of balance on your EasyCard again.

• Advantages：
  • ✅ Integrated EasyCard management: Allows users to check balances, view transaction history, and enable auto top-up directly in the app.
  • ✅ Convenient TPASS monthly pass purchases: The go-to payment tool for buying the Executive Yuan’s TPASS commuter pass.
  • ✅ High rewards at select merchants: Frequent cashback promotions at designated stores such as beverage shops and convenience stores.
•  ​​Disadvantages ：
  • ❌ Late entry into e-payment services: Still expanding its network of payment locations and range of supported features.
  • ❌ Brand identity closely tied to EasyCard: Some users may only associate it with transportation-related payments.
• Best for: Heavy EasyCard users, TPASS monthly pass holders, and office workers who can’t go a day without a cup of bubble tea.

How to Choose a Payment App? The Ultimate Showdown Across Four Key Dimensions

After analyzing the unique features of each app, let’s compare them across the four most important factors that users care about most. This head-to-head showdown will help you instantly identify which one is your “perfect match” payment app!

Merchant Coverage: Who Is the True King of Payments?

The most direct measure of how convenient a payment app is comes down to one simple question “Can I use it everywhere?” Below is a summary of how the six major payment apps perform across key consumer spending scenarios.

🏆 Champion of This Round: LINE Pay. The undisputed leader in merchant coverage, accepted almost everywhere without obstacles.

Credit Card Rewards: Which Card Offers the Highest Cashback When Linked?

The essence of mobile payment lies in the “double rewards”! In addition to the cashback from the payment app itself, linking the right credit card can further maximize your returns. To learn more about maximizing rewards, check out our in-depth analysis on forex rebates, the topic differs, but the logic of maximizing cashback is exactly the same.

Here are some of the most popular credit cards in 2025 for use with mobile payments:

• Fubon J Card (JU Card): Known for high cashback on Japan and Korea travel, it also performs well when linked with selected mobile payment apps in Taiwan, typically offering over 3%.
• Taishin @GoGo Card: Provides up to 3.8% cashback on designated mobile payments such as LINE Pay and PX Pay, making it a go-to choice for many users.
• HSBC Cash Reward Card: Earns 3% cashback on designated platforms (including JKOPay), and rewards can double to 6% once spending thresholds are met, highly rewarding potential.
• Bank SinoPac SPORT Card: Combines fitness and payment benefits. After meeting activity requirements, linking it to Apple Pay or Google Pay contactless payments can earn up to 7% cashback.

💡 Expert Tip: Credit card promotions change frequently. Always check the latest announcements before making a purchase and be mindful of cashback limits to ensure you’re earning smartly.

Bill Payment Convenience: Pay Utilities, Taxes, and Parking Fees with One Tap

Say goodbye to the days of running to convenience stores with paper bills! Using mobile apps for bill payments not only saves time but often lets you earn rewards along the way.

🏆 Champion of This Round: Taiwan Pay and iPASS MONEY. Taiwan Pay is unmatched in public utility and tax payments, while iPASS MONEY follows closely behind with equally comprehensive coverage.

Exclusive Features and Ecosystem: Transfers, Red Packets, and Points Economy Comparison

Mobile payment is no longer just about paying, it has become an integral part of daily life. Each app has developed its own unique ecosystem to keep users engaged.

• LINE Pay: The strongest in social finance. You can transfer money, split bills, and even send fun red packets directly in chat. The LINE POINTS ecosystem is deeply integrated across shopping, travel, and ride-hailing services.
• JKOPay: The most comprehensive lifestyle service platform. Beyond payments, it integrates food ordering, delivery, ride-hailing, insurance, and more, aiming to build a “JKOPay universe” that covers all your daily needs.
• JKOPay: The most comprehensive lifestyle service platform. Beyond payments, it integrates food ordering, delivery, ride-hailing, insurance, and more, aiming to build a “JKOPay universe” that covers all your daily needs.

🏆 Champion of This Round: Too close to call. LINE Pay excels in social interaction, JKOPay leads in service integration, and PX Pay Plus shows immense potential in retail expansion.

Conclusion: How to Choose the Mobile Payment App That Fits You Best

After going through all this analysis, have you found your direction? In truth, choosing a payment app is like picking a trusted partner; there’s no absolute best, only what suits you most. Here are our final recommendations:

• If you are the type who prioritizes efficiency and maximum convenience, the “versatile” kind:
  Choose LINE Pay. Its unmatched merchant coverage lets you pay almost anywhere without thinking twice, and the LINE POINTS rewards are simple and easy to use.
• If you’re someone who loves exploring good food and lifestyle, a true “all-around player”:
  JKOPay will be your best companion. With abundant merchant offers and all-in-one lifestyle services, it perfectly caters to your diverse needs.
• If you’re a budget-conscious “household shopping expert”:
  You must try PX Pay Plus. Its exceptional cashback for PX Mart purchases will help you save significantly on everyday family expenses.
• If you’re a “commuter” relying on public transport:
  Go for iPASS MONEY or EasyWallet. Both make handling your daily rides effortless, so you’ll never worry about forgetting your card again.
• If you’re a responsible, “tax-paying citizen”:
  Taiwan Pay is your best ally during tax season and bill payment days. Take advantage of its government-backed fee waivers and offer to save even more.

Of course, the smartest approach is to “adapt to each situation”, keep two or three main payment apps on your phone and switch between them based on the store and available promotions. Start now, download the payment apps that fit you best, and enjoy the convenience and valuable rewards of a cashless lifestyle!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Which payment app has the largest user base?

A: According to the latest statistics from the Financial Supervisory Commission (FSC), as of early 2025, the total number of electronic payment account users in Taiwan has exceeded 30 million. Currently, the top three in user count are iPASS MONEY, JKOPay, and PX Pay Plus. However, in terms of overall “mobile payment” reach, LINE Pay remains the market leader thanks to its massive social user base.

Q2: What is the transaction fee for merchants to accept mobile payments?

A: This is a very practical concern for merchants. Generally, the service fee charged by payment providers ranges from 1.5% to 3.0%. The exact rate depends on factors such as the merchant’s turnover, industry type, and chosen payment plan. Large retail chains usually have stronger bargaining power and therefore enjoy lower rates, while small independent vendors may face slightly higher fees. This is also one of the main reasons why some food stalls still prefer to accept cash only.

Q3: Can I use Taiwan’s mobile payment apps when traveling abroad (such as in Japan or Korea)?

A: Yes, but not all payment apps support this feature. Currently, the most active players in cross-border expansion are LINE Pay and JKOPay. Through partnerships with local payment providers (such as PayPay in Japan and Naver Pay in Korea), you can simply show your LINE Pay or JKOPay barcode at participating merchants overseas, and the system will automatically convert the exchange rate and deduct the amount from your linked account or credit card, saving you the hassle of currency exchange and handling change. If you plan to make overseas purchases, you can refer to our guide “2025 Binance Deposit Tutorial” Credit Card Top-Up, P2P Trading, and Full Withdrawal Guide for Taiwan which explains the concept of overseas transaction fees to help you choose a suitable credit card.

Q4: Is mobile payment safe? Could my account be hacked or misused?

A: Mobile payment is generally more secure than using a physical credit card. Each transaction requires authentication through your phone, whether by fingerprint, facial recognition, or password, adding an extra layer of biometric protection. In addition, payment barcodes are automatically refreshed every few minutes, making them extremely difficult to steal or reuse even if captured by screenshot. As long as you keep your phone secure and set up proper unlocking methods, using mobile payment is very safe.

Q5: Is the money in an electronic payment account as secure as a bank deposit?

A: Yes. According to Taiwan’s “Act Governing Electronic Payment Institutions”, all funds stored in users’ electronic payment accounts must be deposited into a “dedicated escrow account” provided by a bank. These funds are legally protected and cannot be misappropriated by the payment institution. This means that even if the payment provider were to go bankrupt, your money would remain safe, similar to how bank deposits are protected under the deposit insurance system.