The threshold for contactless card payments has risen today.
British shoppers will now be able to pay for up to £45 worth of goods without entering their pin.
The change eliminates the need to touch the card reader to make many more payments - which could help reduce the spread of the germs which cause Covid-19, The Liverpool Echo reports.
Speaking ahead of the changes, Andrew Cregan, head of payments policy for the BRC, said: "The last contactless limit increase to £30 took two years to implement but, given the extraordinary circumstances we face today, this new £45 limit will be rolled-out from next week.
"Some shops will take longer to make the necessary changes, given the strain they’re under. In the meantime, most customers can continue to make contactless payments for higher amounts using their smart phone."
The increase was already been considered, as contactless payments have been becoming more and more popular ever since 'tap and go' cards were first released for payments of just £10 or less back in 2007. This was increased to £15 in 2010, £20 in 2012 and to £30 in 2015.
The changes won't be in place in your local stores immediately, although is has been reported that Morrisons will be among the first to introduce the new limit, with the grocer phasing it in by Friday, April 3.
Shoppers are now being urged to use contactless wherever possible when paying for their shopping, as it reduces the risk of transferring coronavirus germs on hard surfaces.
Speaking to the Telegraph, a World Health Organization spokesperson said: "We know that money changes hands frequently and can pick up all sorts of bacteria and viruses.
"We would advise people to wash their hands after handling banknotes, and avoid touching their face.
"When possible it would also be advisable to use contactless payments to reduce the risk of transmission."
However, some experts have warned that the changes must not leave behind those who still rely on cash.
Gareth Shaw, head of money at Which?, said: "Raising the contactless card limit will be helpful for those shoppers and retailers who may want to handle less cash during the coronavirus crisis, but it's also vital that vulnerable consumers do not end up without a way to pay for essential products and services.
"Both the Government and retailers need to find a way to ensure that the millions of people who rely on cash, and may not have a bank card, can still pay for the basics they need during this difficult time."
