Generally, EBT is accepted as a form of payment at most grocery stores across the US. Whether you pay for your groceries at checkout with a cashier or a self-checkout, EBT is pretty much accepted everywhere.
But what about grocery stores that accept EBT online? And where can you find them?
Luckily for you, we have all the answers right here. So keep reading to find out more about grocery stores that accept EBT online.
Grocery Stores That Accept EBT Online
Shopping online for groceries was deemed a luxury when first introduced to shoppers. However, over the last couple of years, it has become an essential part of life that is not only convenient but a safer way to purchase food for the family.
Therefore, it only seems fair for grocery stores to accept EBT in their online stores. It is worth noting, however, that not all grocery stores accept EBT online or even in-store.
The acceptance of EBT does not necessarily mean your items will be delivered to your home address either. Some grocery stores may offer curbside pick up where you can pay using your EBT card when you arrive at the store.
Below we have compiled a list of grocery stores that do accept EBT online.
- Aldi
- Costco
- Kroger
- Safeway
- Sam’s Club
- Target
- Walmart
- Wholefoods Market
While there are many more stores that accept EBT online, the ones we have listed above are generally the most popular.
Ordering Groceries Online With An EBT Card
Ordering groceries online with an EBT card is pretty simple and is used to pay for groceries as you would with a regular debit or credit card. Most online stores will ask customers to input payment details when they are ready to check out. This is where you will be able to select ‘EBT’ as a form of payment.
From here, you will need to input certain details from your card into the online app or website in order to complete the transaction.
Can I Order A Home Delivery Using EBT Online?
If the grocery store of your choice has a delivery service – not all of them do – then they will more than likely accept EBT for home delivery.
Many online stores are partnered up with delivery services such as Instacart which may not accept EBT online but will accept SNAP cash upon delivery.
It is worth noting that EBT will only be accepted for SNAP-eligible items. Customers must also have an alternative payment method for any groceries that do not fall under SNAP guidelines and delivery charges etc.
Snap-Eligible Items Using EBT Online
Take a look at our list below to familiarise yourself with items that are eligible under SNAP guidelines. These items can be purchased using an EBT card both in-store and online.
- Dairy products (milk, cheese, yogurt)
- Red meat (mince, steak)
- Fruit
- Vegetables
- Other meats (poultry, ham, pork)
- Soft drinks (Pepsi, Sprite)
- Energy drinks (Red Bull)
- Potato chips
- Desserts (cookies, ice cream)
Items that cannot be purchased using an EBT card are as follows:
- Hot food that is to be eaten upon purchase
- Hot drinks (coffees, teas)
- Tobacco products
- Alcohol
- Medicines
- Cleaning products
Does Aldi Accept EBT Online?
Aldi has over 2000 stores in the US alone, many of which accept EBT as a form of payment.
Using SNAP benefits online was approved by the USDA back in 2019 and is available in 48 states. Therefore, to use Aldi’s online grocery service, you must place your order at an Aldi store that resides in a state which participates in the SNAP online program.
Does Costco Accept EBT Online?
While EBT is accepted in-store at all 558 Costco stores across the US, it is unfortunately not accepted online. However, Costco does not currently provide a home delivery service.
Does Walmart Accept EBT Online?
Walmart accepts EBT both in-store, at the self-checkout, and online. That doesn’t necessarily mean home delivery is included. Most Walmart stores provide a curbside pickup service which means you may still need to swipe your EBT card in-store upon arrival.
Walmart accepts EBT as a form of payment across all 50 states both in-store and online. To find out whether your local Walmart offers a home delivery service, you can visit their website or call the store to speak to a team member.
How Will I Know If I Am Eligible For A Home Delivery?
To find out if your local grocery store can deliver to your home address, you will need to visit the retailer’s website.
There should be an option on the website where you can type in your ZIP code. This will provide information as to whether or not the retailer can deliver to your home address.
Using EBT Online: Is It Secure?
Using your EBT card online still requires users to enter their four-digit PIN (Personal Identification Number). This may seem daunting, particularly if you are new to shopping for groceries online.
Currently, there are two companies that use a PCI-compliant method that is used to encrypt PIN entry. Therefore, grocery stores that participate in the SNAP online program, must use one of these companies to provide security for users.
If you feel unsure about entering your details online, a good rule of thumb is to check for the padlock in the search bar. This gives a good indication that the site is authentic and safe to use.
Conclusion
Online grocery deliveries are now more popular than ever and something that many stores participate in. Using EBT for online grocery shopping is widely accepted across 48 states.
Be careful though, online grocery shopping doesn’t necessarily mean there is a home delivery service. Some grocery stores will accept EBT as payment for a curbside pickup upon arrival. Others accept SNAP cash upon delivery.
We hope this article has been helpful and if you are ever unsure, contact your local grocery store for more information.
References Stores Accepting SNAP Online | Food and Nutrition Service (usda.gov)
