Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards distribute funds from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to qualified individuals and families. These cards function like debit cards, allowing users to buy food at approved retail outlets according to SNAP guidelines. Funds are loaded onto these cards for use across a broad network of stores. Millions of Americans receive SNAP benefits each year. The program is managed at the state level and regulated by the Department of Agriculture. Here is a list of major retailers that accept SNAP and EBT.

Understanding What Is EBT and SNAP Benefits

Source: USDA – Online SNAP and P-EBT redemptions totaled $9.7 billion in the first two years of the pandemic

EBT stands for Electronic Benefit Transfer, and it is the method the government uses to distribute what is commonly referred to as food stamps. Over 40 million people with incomes below the federal poverty line receive SNAP benefits.

Previously, financial assistance was provided through physical stamps until the 1990s, when the program was renamed the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP.

The government issues a pre-loaded debit card to eligible recipients based on their needs—similar to a gift card. Once recipients obtain the card, they can use it at any authorized SNAP retailer, but restrictions apply to the items that can be purchased.

These benefit cards are replenished monthly and allow the purchase of food items at retail stores and farmers’ markets. However, SNAP benefits cannot be used to buy alcoholic beverages, cigarettes, or supplements. They are intended for essential food purchases only.

Where Can You Use Your EBT Card?

You can use your EBT card at many places, provided they are approved to participate in the SNAP. The main considerations for using your EBT card include:

• Store Participation: To receive EBT payments, stores must be SNAP registered. You can use the SNAP Retailer Locator tool to locate participating retailers. This tool gives you information and directions and allows you to search for nearby SNAP-authorized merchants by address, city, state, or zip code.
• Item Eligibility: SNAP payments are limited to what can be purchased. Generally, basic foods, including fruits, vegetables, poultry, meat, dairy products, cereals, and breads, are eligible. Tobacco, alcohol, prescription drugs, vitamins, hot foods, supplements, and non-food products, including pet food, cleaning supplies, and cosmetics, are not eligible.

Additionally, your EBT card can be used online at select retailers participating in the SNAP Online Purchasing Pilot. This program includes major retailers such as Walmart and Amazon and specific grocery stores depending on the state. To shop online, you must securely enter your card information and PIN to complete your purchase.

What Are the Retailers That Accept SNAP and EBT Payments?

SNAP EBT cards are accepted at nearly 250,000 retailers across the United States, including major chains and independent stores. The Department of Agriculture only provides a complete list of all participating stores. However, most grocery outlets, from small family-run shops to large wholesale clubs and extensive supermarkets, are part of the SNAP program. Below is a sample of major grocery retailers that accept SNAP EBT cards:

For a more comprehensive list, visit the SNAP Retailer Locator provided by the US Department of Agriculture. This tool allows users to find nearby stores authorized to accept SNAP by entering an address, city, state, or zip code.

Online Stores That Accept EBT Payments

The availability of online shopping with SNAP Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) has increased, making it easier for recipients to buy groceries online. Major stores such as Amazon, Target, and Walmart have modified their services to accept EBT payments for online grocery purchases.

Amazon allows EBT through two main avenues. SNAP EBT can be used to purchase a variety of shelf-stable and non-perishable pantry necessities from Amazon.com’s Grocery and Gourmet Food area. “SNAP EBT Eligible” clearly labels items that qualify for EBT payment. While non-Prime members can receive free delivery on orders costing $35 or more, Prime members receive free shipping on orders of any quantity. A shipping cost will apply to orders under $35, and SNAP EBT cannot be used to pay for it; alternative payment arrangements must be made.

Also, Amazon Fresh offers a shopping experience similar to a traditional grocery store but only available in select U.S. cities. It includes a variety of perishable items like vegetables, fruits, meats, and dairy products, which can be delivered within a one to two-hour window. For Amazon Fresh, delivery fees range from $6.95 to $9.95 for orders under $100. However, both pickup and delivery orders over $100 are free for those with an EBT card or Amazon Prime membership.

Target accepts EBT for online purchases through Target.com, using the Shipt delivery service. EBT can be used like a regular bank card at checkout, with free Drive Up or Order Pickup options. A delivery fee is applied for same-day delivery unless the customer is a Shipt member and spends more than $35.

Walmart allows the use of SNAP EBT for online orders nationwide. Customers can opt for grocery delivery or pickup through the Walmart app or website, with free pickup available for orders over $35. Delivery fees depend on the selected delivery option and must be paid with non-EBT funds.

ALDI, known for its budget-friendly grocery offerings, permits EBT for in-store and online grocery pickups and deliveries nationwide.

Furthermore, DoorDash is a new entrant that has partnered with several grocery stores to facilitate EBT payments. Customers can use EBT to purchase groceries from various stores via DoorDash, including Aldi, which offers budget-friendly options at over 2,200 locations across 38 states.

Additionally, nearly 900 Safeway locations and 380 Albertsons stores nationwide are part of this initiative, providing a wide range of grocery essentials. Meijer, a regional chain in the Midwest, is also included and known for its competitive prices and diverse product selection.

Additional grocery chains that accept EBT for online orders include:

• Albertsons
• H-E-B
• Hy-Vee
• Kroger
• Safeway
• Stop & Shop
• ShopRite

Instacart, a delivery service, collaborates with various supermarkets such as ALDI, Price Rite, and Stop & Shop to accept EBT in all 50 states and offer reduced membership fees for EBT users.

However, not all major wholesale clubs support online EBT payments. Costco and Sam’s Club accept EBT for in-store purchases and at their warehouse locations but do not offer online EBT transactions. Sam’s Club does allow EBT with its Scan & Go service.

As the trend towards online shopping continues, these services ensure that those using SNAP benefits have crucial access to food, catering to different needs and preferences effectively.

What Are the Restaurants Accepting SNAP and EBT Payments?

SNAP beneficiaries can use their EBT cards at specific restaurants in some states through the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP). Currently, the states participating in RMP include California, Arizona, Maryland, Illinois, Michigan, Massachusetts, Virginia, and Rhode Island. However, it’s important to note that not all restaurants in these states accept SNAP.

Before visiting, it’s advisable to contact the restaurant to confirm if they accept the EBT card. Below is a list of some restaurants that accept SNAP, although availability might differ by location:

Always verify with the individual location to ensure they participate in the program.

Conclusion

SNAP and EBT programs are vital in providing nutritional support to millions of Americans. The extensive network of retailers, from large chains like Walmart and Amazon to smaller independent shops and farmers’ markets, ensures broad accessibility for recipients. Moreover, expanding online purchasing options with major retailers enhances convenience, allowing beneficiaries to shop for essential food items from home.

Including select restaurants in some states further supports those with limited access to cooking facilities. As these programs evolve, they remain crucial in addressing food insecurity and promoting healthy eating habits among low-income individuals and families.

Frequently Asked Questions