If you’re wondering whether Walmart accepts EBT you’ll be glad to know you have landed on the right page. Having an EBT card gives access to those on a low income to nutritious foods allowing families to live a full and healthy life.
So does Walmart accept EBT? Read on to find out more.
Does Walmart Accept EBT?
The answer is yes, Walmart does accept EBT at every store that sells food. Customers can purchase SNAP-eligible items using their EBT cards.
According to the U.S Department of Agriculture, EBT has been the sole payment method for those in receipt of SNAP benefits since June 2004. EBT cards can be used in all 50 states.
What Does SNAP-eligible mean?
SNAP benefits, otherwise known as food stamps, can be used to purchase a variety of food and drinks. Certain items such as alcohol, tobacco products, and household items cannot be purchased using SNAP.
So what exactly can you purchase using an EBT card in Walmart? Take a look at our list below.
- Dairy products (milk, yogurt, cheese)
- Red meat (mince meat, steak)
- Soft drinks (Pepsi, Sprite)
- Breads
- Cereals and grains
- Energy Drinks (Red Bull)
- Desserts
- Fruits and Vegetables
- Poultry and other meat products (chicken, ham, turkey)
- Cold sandwiches
- Salads
Foods and items that cannot be purchased using SNAP benefits on an EBT card are as follows:
- Hot food that is prepared upon purchase
- Non-food items (pet food, cleaning products, medicine)
- Alcohol
- Tobacco products
Why Can’t I Purchase Hot Food Using EBT?
SNAP benefits were created for those earning low to no income at all. Otherwise known as food stamps, SNAP benefits provide access to a variety of foods so that struggling families and individuals can lead a healthy lifestyle.
SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assist Program) benefits cannot be used to purchase hot food and it’s easy to see why. When we purchase hot food that is ready to eat immediately, it’s usually unhealthy. This kind of defeats the object of what SNAP benefits are for.
On the other hand, many fast-food restaurants do accept EBT. But don’t get too excited, because you can still only purchase cold foods. Take Subway for example, while you may not be able to buy a 12-inch meatball sub, you can purchase cookies, potato chips, and soft drinks.
Do All Walmart Stores Accept EBT?
Every Walmart store accepts EBT as a form of payment in-store. The following states accept EBT in-store but not online:
- Alaska
- Arkansas
- Louisiana
- Maine
- Montana
However, customers can always order for pickup and pay using EBT in-store when they arrive to collect.
Can I Use EBT At Walmart Online?
Yes, apart from those mentioned above, Walmart accepts online payments from EBT cardholders across 44 states.
Paying online using EBT is simple, just follow our handy guide below.
Using EBT For Walmart Online: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step #1
Firstly, you will need to register for an account if you do not already have one. This is very simple and requires some personal details including your name, address, etc.
Step #2
Once you are satisfied with the details you have entered, you will need to add a payment method. In this case, you will be adding your EBT card details.
Step #3
There will be an option to ‘Add A Card’ under the ‘Payment Method’ tab. You will then need to add the details of your EBT card before clicking ‘Save Card’.
Step #4
You’re all set! Now you can add items to your basket and pay using your saved EBT card details.
Remember: Your EBT card is for EBT-eligible items only. So when it’s time to complete the transaction, the cart will show you the difference between items that are not covered using EBT.
You may need to pay for items that cannot be purchased using an EBT card. In this case, there will be an option to split the payment so that you can complete the transaction using a regular debit or credit card.
Using EBT On The Walmart App
Downloading the Walmart app to use on your mobile phone is handy if you need to do a grocery shop on the go.
Using EBT on the Walmart app couldn’t be easier, and it works in a similar way to traditional online shopping. Simply add your items to the cart and select ‘EBT Card’ in the payment section. Et voila!
Can I Use EBT At The Self Checkout?
Yes! Walmart accepts EBT as a form of payment through self-checkouts. Once you have scanned your food items, simply select ‘EBT’ as the method of payment and follow the on-screen instructions.
Can I Get A Refund Using My EBT Card?
Yes! However, a refund can only be transferred back onto the EBT card and not in cash form.
I Have Lost My EBT Card. What Can I Do?
Unfortunately, if your EBT card is stolen or gets lost, you will need to apply for a replacement card. This also means you will be unable to use any funds that are linked to the card until you receive a new one.
Can I Use A Damaged EBT Card?
If your EBT card is damaged, you should report it and wait for a replacement. However, if you arrive at a Walmart checkout to find your card is damaged, a Walmart team member will be able to type in the details of your card manually.
What Other Stores Accept EBT?
EBT cards are accepted in a wide range of stores across the US including Trader Joe’s, Costco, Target, and Krogers. EBT is accepted in-store, for curbside pickups, and online. However, the rules often change depending on which state you are located.
The Final Say
Walmart does accept EBT in-store and (mostly) online. EBT cards can be used to purchase a variety of food products sold in Walmart. There are restrictions on what you can and can’t buy using an EBT card which we have covered in this article.
If you have any problems using your EBT card at a Walmart store, speak to a Walmart team member or contact your government website.
