What Can You Buy With EBT At Walmart?

Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) is an electronic system that allows Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) participants to pay for food using SNAP benefits. Walmart, as a major retailer, accepts EBT payments for eligible grocery items, providing a convenient and accessible platform for recipients to use their benefits through both in-store purchases and online shopping where eligible.

This blog provides a comprehensive guide to what SNAP participants can buy with EBT at Walmart, both in-store and online. Understanding the rules, eligible items, and limitations is crucial for making the most out of SNAP benefits. 

What Can You Buy With EBT At Walmart?

Walmart stands as a major retailer accepting EBT for eligible purchases under the guidelines provided by the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Shoppers can use their benefits for a variety of food products while being mindful of federal restrictions on certain items.

Items You Can Purchase With EBT At Walmart

EBT cardholders may purchase the following items at Walmart:

• Fruits and Vegetables: Any fresh, canned, or frozen options.

• Meat and Poultry: Includes various cuts of chicken, pork, beef, and other meats.

• Fish and Seafood: Options encompass canned fish, fresh seafood, and frozen selections.

• Dairy Products: Includes milk, cheese, butter, and yogurt.

• Breads and Cereals: Covers a range of whole grain and enriched breads and cereals.

• Snack Items: Such as chips, nuts, and pretzels, within the realm of qualifying food products.

• Non-Alcoholic Beverages: Coffee, tea, juice, and soda are typically allowable.

• Seeds and Plants: Those that produce food for the household to eat.

This is not an exhaustive list, and shoppers should verify eligibility at the point of purchase.

Prohibited Purchases And Limitations

There are restrictions on what cannot be bought with EBT at Walmart, which include:

• Alcohol and Tobacco: These are strictly not allowed.

• Non-Food Items: Hygiene products, pet foods, cleaning supplies, and paper products are ineligible.

• Hot Prepared Foods: Items that are hot at the point of sale are typically not eligible.

• Vitamins and Supplements: If the item has a Supplement Facts label, it is not part of the program.

EBT benefits are designed exclusively for food items meant to be prepared and eaten at home. Any non-food product or food not for home consumption does not qualify.^[1]

Using EBT Online At Walmart

Shopping with Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits at Walmart have extended to the online realm, providing a convenient solution for beneficiaries to purchase groceries.

Online Shopping With SNAP EBT

Eligible individuals can link their Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cards to their Walmart account to shop online. The SNAP EBT cards work similarly to a debit card, allowing purchasers to buy grocery items that fit SNAP guidelines.^[2] This encompasses a range of products, from dairy and eggs to nutritious food for low-income families. However, it's important to note that non-food items, alcohol, and live plants for gardening are not purchasable with SNAP benefits.

Delivery And Service Options

Walmart offers multiple options to use SNAP benefits, including both grocery delivery and grocery pickup service. While delivery fees may apply, EBT users are often able to waive these charges through promotions and offers. It’s crucial to consistently check your balance and understand the fees associated, as these can affect your available income for essentials such as rent and other necessities.

Payment Process And Additional Savings

During checkout, SNAP recipients will select their EBT card as the payment method and must enter their PIN to ensure a secure transaction. Walmart also provides more ways to save for EBT shoppers by allowing the use of EBT cash benefits for eligible items. This includes certain products that do not fall under SNAP yet are essential, enabling beneficiaries to fully use their funds. For a secure and fraud-free experience, trained Walmart associates guide customers through the online payment process.

Remember, while shopping with EBT online at Walmart is convenient, every transaction must comply with the rules for SNAP online purchases established by the USDA and state agencies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any unexpected items that can be purchased with SNAP benefits at Walmart?

Yes, shoppers may find items marked as "EBT eligible" at Walmart that they might not expect, such as certain snack foods, seeds, and plants that produce food for the household.

Does Walmart allow the use of EBT cards at their self-checkout stations?

Walmart permits the use of EBT cards at self-checkout stations. Customers simply scan their items, then select the EBT payment option and follow the prompts to complete the transaction.

How do I utilize an EBT card for in-store purchases at Walmart?

To utilize an EBT card for in-store purchases at Walmart, customers should swipe their card at the payment terminal, enter their PIN, and approve the amount deducted for the eligible items.

Walmart's Acceptance Of EBT Cards

Walmart's acceptance of EBT cards offers a convenient shopping experience for SNAP participants, enabling them to purchase a wide range of food items while adhering to federal guidelines. From fresh produce to essential dairy products and the option to shop online, Walmart caters to the needs of EBT cardholders effectively. It’s important for beneficiaries to stay informed about eligible items and limitations to make the most of their SNAP benefits. Whether shopping in-store or online, Walmart provides a seamless and inclusive shopping experience for those utilizing EBT, ensuring that nutritional needs are met in a user-friendly and accessible manner.

Find out if Walmart accepts food stamps in our detailed guide. Learn more by visiting Gov Relations and exploring our comprehensive resources.