If you're receiving food assistance benefits through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), you might wonder if you can use your EBT (Electronic Benefits Transfer) card at Walmart. After all, Walmart is one of the largest retailers in the country, and they sell groceries, household items, and other essentials you might need.
So, does Walmart accept EBT? The answer is yes; Walmart does accept EBT. However, there are some important things to remember if you plan to use your EBT card at Walmart.
In this article, we'll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about using EBT at Walmart. Read on for tips on using your EBT card wisely and maximizing your benefits.
How to Use EBT at Walmart
Using your EBT card at Walmart is easy, but there are a few steps you'll need to follow to make sure your transaction goes smoothly.
- Check if Walmart accepts EBT in your state:
While Walmart does accept EBT at all of its locations, not all states allow for EBT transactions at retailers other than grocery stores. Check with your local SNAP office to see if your state allows EBT transactions at Walmart.
- Identify eligible items
EBT benefits can only be used to purchase certain items, such as food and beverages intended for human consumption, seeds and plants that produce food for household consumption, and some personal hygiene items. You cannot use EBT to purchase tobacco products, alcohol, pet food, or non-food items such as household cleaning supplies.
- Shop for eligible items
Once you've identified which items to purchase with your EBT card, you can begin shopping. Simply select the eligible items you want to purchase and place them in your cart.
- Pay with your EBT card
When you're ready to check out, let the cashier know you'll pay with EBT. You'll be asked to swipe your EBT card through the card reader, enter your PIN, and select the number of benefits you want to use for your purchase.
- Pay any remaining balance
If your purchase exceeds your EBT balance, you'll need to pay the remaining balance with another form of payment, such as cash, a credit card, or a debit card.
Can You Use EBT for Online Walmart Purchases?
Yes, you can use your EBT card for online Walmart purchases in some states. Walmart's online grocery pickup and delivery service, Walmart Grocery, accepts EBT for eligible items in some areas.
To use your EBT card for Walmart Grocery purchases, you'll need to select the "EBT card" option during checkout and enter your EBT card information. You'll then need to provide a secondary payment method for any non-EBT-eligible items or fees.
However, not all states allow online EBT transactions at retailers other than grocery stores. Check with your local SNAP office to see if your state allows EBT transactions for online Walmart purchases.
EBT Restrictions at Walmart
While Walmart does accept EBT, there are some restrictions and limitations to keep in mind. Here are some of the most important ones:
You cannot use EBT to purchase non-food items
EBT benefits can only be used to purchase food items intended for human consumption and personal hygiene items. You cannot use EBT to purchase non-food items such as cleaning supplies, toiletries, or pet food. You cannot use EBT for online purchases in all states: While Walmart does accept EBT for online grocery purchases in some areas, not all states allow for online EBT transactions at retailers other than grocery stores.
You cannot use EBT for delivery or pickup fees
If you use your EBT card for Walmart Grocery purchases, you'll still need to pay any delivery or pickup fees with a secondary payment method.
You cannot use EBT for hot foods
EBT benefits cannot be used to purchase hot foods meant to be consumed on the premises, such as prepared meals or food from a deli.
You cannot use EBT for fast food
While some states allow EBT transactions at certain restaurants, EBT benefits cannot be used to purchase fast food at Walmart or any other retailer.
Tips for Using Your EBT Card at Walmart
Here are some tips to help you make the most of your EBT benefits when shopping at Walmart:
- Plan your purchases ahead of time: Since EBT benefits can only be used for certain items, it's a good idea to plan your purchases to ensure you're getting the most out of your benefits. Consider making a shopping list before you go to the store.
- Shop for bulk items: Walmart offers bulk items, such as rice, beans, and pasta, which can be a cost-effective way to stretch your EBT benefits.
- Look for sales and discounts: Walmart often offers sales and discounts on eligible food items, so keep an eye out for these deals to stretch your EBT benefits even further.
- Use coupons: You can save even more money on eligible food items at Walmart. Just make sure that the coupons you use are for eligible items and that they don't exceed the item's value.
- Check your EBT balance regularly: To avoid running out of benefits at the checkout, check your EBT balance regularly. To accomplish this task, you have two options: either dial the customer service number printed on the back of your EBT card, or access your account balance through the internet.
FAQs
- Can I use my EBT card at any Walmart store?
Yes, you can use your EBT card at any Walmart store that accepts EBT. However, not all states allow for EBT transactions at retailers other than grocery stores, so check with your local SNAP office to see if your state allows EBT transactions at Walmart.
- What items can I purchase with my EBT card at Walmart?
You can use your EBT card to purchase food and beverages intended for human consumption, seeds and plants that produce food for household consumption, and some personal hygiene items. You cannot use EBT to purchase tobacco products, alcohol, pet food, or non-food items such as household cleaning supplies.
- Can I use my EBT card for online Walmart purchases?
Yes, you can use your EBT card for online Walmart purchases in some states. Walmart's online grocery pickup and delivery service, called Walmart Grocery, accepts EBT for eligible items in some areas. However, not all states allow for online EBT transactions at retailers other than grocery stores, so check with your local SNAP office to see if your state allows EBT transactions for online Walmart purchases.
In conclusion, Walmart does accept EBT, and it's a convenient way to use your food assistance benefits for groceries and other eligible items. However, there are some restrictions and limitations to keep in mind, so it's important to know what you can and cannot purchase with your EBT card. By following these tips and guidelines, you can use your EBT benefits wisely and get the most out of your shopping experience at Walmart.
