Get Out Your Wallet: Gen Z Debit Payment Preferences 

Generation Z—those born from 1997 to 2012—is coming of age and moving steadily toward greater financial maturity. Members of this generation differ from their elders in significant ways, including a strong preference for debit and digital payments, a greater propensity for saving, and an approach to shopping that is heavily influenced by social media and a desire to shop with merchants that align with their values. 

This Javelin Strategy & Research report delves into the characteristics of this generation and what drives the payment behaviors of its members. Generation Zers live digitally and expect to be able to shop according to that lifestyle, with digital payments that are at the ready when the moment to buy arrives. As Gen Zers age, some of their habits will no doubt change, but the digital-first approach is hard-wired into them. 

Key questions discussed in this report:

• How does Gen Z prefer to pay today? 
• How will Gen Z’s payment preferences change? 
• How do Gen Z’s shopping behaviors affect payment innovation?

Companies Mentioned:

Annie E. Casey Foundation, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Google, Gen Z Planet, KRON4 News, Bank of America Institute, Pew Research, YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat,