Hey everyone! Have you ever wondered how you can use your food stamps, also known as SNAP benefits, to order groceries online from Walmart? It’s super convenient, especially if you can’t easily get to a store. This guide will walk you through the steps, explain some important things to know, and help you navigate the process of paying with your EBT card on Walmart.com. Let’s get started!
Is It Possible to Use SNAP on Walmart Online?
Yes, you absolutely can use your SNAP benefits to pay for groceries on Walmart.com. Walmart has made it easy to shop online and use your EBT card, making it accessible for those who rely on food assistance programs. This is a big win for accessibility and convenience.
Setting Up Your Walmart Account for SNAP
Before you can start shopping, you need to make sure your Walmart account is set up correctly. If you don’t have an account, you’ll need to create one first. It’s a quick process and requires your basic information.
Here’s how to get your account ready for SNAP payments:
- Go to Walmart.com and log in or create a new account.
- In your account settings, find the payment options section.
- You should see an option to add your EBT card.
Adding your EBT card is essential; it’s how Walmart knows to deduct from your SNAP benefits balance during checkout. Make sure you have your EBT card ready when setting up your account!
Once your EBT card is added, you’ll typically be prompted to enter your card number, expiration date, and the name on the card. Double-check that you have all the information correct to avoid any issues later. Once you submit this information, your card should be saved to your account.
This is a necessary step to be able to make the purchase online. After this, you are ready to begin shopping!
Choosing SNAP-Eligible Items
Now, for the shopping!
Not all items on Walmart.com are eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. To make sure you’re choosing the right items, look for clear indicators on the product pages.
Pay attention to the labels on the website. Look for a little tag or icon that says “SNAP Eligible” or something similar. This indicates the food item is approved for purchase with your food stamps.
Here’s a general guide of what is usually allowed, and what is not:
- Eligible: Fruits, vegetables, meat, poultry, fish, dairy products, bread, cereals, snacks, and non-alcoholic beverages.
- Ineligible: Alcoholic beverages, tobacco products, pet food, vitamins, medicines, and household supplies.
Stick to groceries. You should be able to select almost all of your grocery needs with your SNAP benefits, as long as you stick to the eligible categories.
Placing Your Order and Checking Out
Alright, time to order your groceries!
Once you’ve filled your cart with SNAP-eligible items, head to the checkout. You’ll see all the items in your cart. Review the items and make sure everything is correct.
During checkout, you’ll select your payment methods. Look for the option to use your EBT card. The website should have a specific button to choose that payment option.
Next, you will want to use your EBT card for the SNAP-eligible items, and then any other card for anything else. Be aware of splitting your payments. Make sure you are only paying for eligible items with your EBT card. Some items will not be covered. Here is a small example of what to expect at the checkout:
| Item | SNAP Eligible? | Payment Method |
|---|---|---|
| Apples | Yes | EBT |
| Soda | No | Other Card |
Be aware that depending on the Walmart, you may have delivery fees and other service charges. These are not covered by SNAP benefits. You may need to pay with another card or payment option if you don’t have enough EBT funds to cover your purchase.
Delivery and Pickup Options
How will you get your groceries?
Walmart offers several ways to get your groceries: delivery or pickup. The option you choose will depend on what’s available in your area and your personal preferences.
Delivery is when Walmart brings your groceries right to your doorstep. You’ll choose a delivery time slot during checkout. Keep in mind that delivery fees may apply and are usually not covered by SNAP. Verify if the fee is covered by SNAP in your local area.
Pickup, sometimes called “curbside pickup,” allows you to order online and then pick up your groceries at a Walmart store. This is a popular option because it’s often free. When you arrive at the store, you’ll park in a designated pickup area, and a Walmart employee will bring your order to your car.
Consider if you are able to drive to a store to pick up your order. Walmart does offer many convenient ways to get your groceries!
Checking Your EBT Balance and Troubleshooting
Keeping Track of Your Funds
It’s always a good idea to keep track of your EBT balance. This way, you know how much you have available to spend and avoid any surprises at checkout.
You can usually check your balance in a few ways:
- Online: Many states have websites or apps where you can check your EBT balance.
- By Phone: Call the customer service number on the back of your EBT card.
- In Person: Visit a local grocery store or retailer that accepts EBT and ask the cashier to check your balance.
If you encounter any problems during checkout, such as your EBT card not being accepted, here are some troubleshooting tips: Make sure you have enough funds in your EBT account, ensure you’ve correctly entered your EBT card details, and verify that you’re only purchasing SNAP-eligible items. If you continue to have problems, contact Walmart customer service or your state’s EBT program.
If you do run into issues, contact your local Walmart store, or use the help option on the website.
Conclusion
Using food stamps on Walmart.com is a convenient and accessible way to shop for groceries. By following these steps, you can easily set up your account, choose eligible items, and pay with your EBT card. Remember to always check your balance and troubleshoot any issues that may arise. Enjoy the convenience of online grocery shopping!