Shopping online is super convenient, especially when you can do it from your couch! If you receive food assistance, you might be wondering if you can use your SNAP benefits (that’s what food stamps are officially called) to buy groceries on Walmart’s website or app. The good news is, yes, you often can! This guide will walk you through how it works and help you understand everything you need to know about paying with EBT at Walmart online.
Can I Use Food Stamps to Buy Groceries on Walmart Online?
The answer to this is a resounding yes! **You can absolutely use your EBT card to pay for eligible food items on Walmart’s website or app.** Walmart has made it easy to shop online using your benefits. Just like you use your EBT card in the store, you can use it online to purchase groceries.
Setting Up Your Walmart Account for EBT Payments
Before you start shopping, you’ll need to link your EBT card to your Walmart account. This is a simple process, but it’s important to get it right so your payment goes through smoothly. Don’t worry, it’s not complicated!
First, go to Walmart’s website or open the Walmart app. If you don’t have an account, you’ll need to create one. Once you’re logged in, go to your account settings. Look for a section labeled “Payment Methods” or something similar. This is where you’ll add your EBT card information.
You’ll be prompted to enter your EBT card number, expiration date, and the cardholder’s name. Remember that the cardholder’s name must match the name on the EBT card. You’ll also need to enter your billing address, which is usually the address associated with your EBT account. Double-check that you’ve entered everything correctly, as any errors could prevent your payment from going through.
After you’ve entered your EBT card details, Walmart might require you to verify your card. This might involve entering a security code or verifying your identity. Once your card is linked, you’re all set to start shopping for groceries online! You should also note:
- You can add multiple EBT cards to your account.
- If you have a problem, contact Walmart support.
Finding SNAP-Eligible Items
Not everything you see on Walmart’s website is eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. Only certain food items qualify, just like in the physical store. This means you can’t use your EBT card to buy things like alcohol, tobacco, or pet food.
Walmart makes it easy to identify which items are SNAP-eligible. When you’re browsing the website or app, look for a special indicator, such as a badge or a label, that says “SNAP Eligible” or “EBT Eligible.” This will show up next to items that can be purchased with your EBT card.
To further assist your shopping experience, you can filter your search results to show only SNAP-eligible items. This is a convenient way to quickly find what you’re looking for without having to sort through items you can’t purchase. Many online grocery sites allow you to filter by dietary needs and restrictions too.
Here’s a quick breakdown of what’s generally eligible:
- Fruits and vegetables
- Meat, poultry, and fish
- Dairy products
- Breads and cereals
- Other food items (snacks, etc.)
Placing Your Walmart Online Order
Once you’ve found the items you want and added them to your cart, it’s time to place your order! The process is very similar to how you would order anything else online.
Go to your virtual shopping cart and review the items to make sure you have everything you need. Pay attention to the quantities and prices, as well as the subtotal. Make sure your SNAP-eligible items are the ones in your cart!
When you’re ready to check out, select your preferred delivery or pickup method. Walmart offers a few different options, including delivery to your home and curbside pickup at your local store. Keep in mind that not all payment methods are available for all options.
During the checkout process, you’ll be asked to select your payment method. Choose your EBT card as the payment option for eligible items. For items not covered by EBT, you’ll need to use a different payment method, such as a credit or debit card. If the total amount exceeds your EBT balance, you can split the payment between your EBT card and another payment method. Make sure to review your order carefully before confirming it.
Understanding Delivery and Pickup Options
Walmart offers different ways to receive your groceries, and the availability of these options can vary based on your location. Understanding how delivery and pickup work with EBT payments is key.
With home delivery, your groceries are brought directly to your doorstep. This is great for convenience, but it’s important to know that there might be a delivery fee. Make sure you factor this cost into your budget. Sometimes delivery fees can be waived with a Walmart+ membership.
Curbside pickup lets you order online and pick up your groceries at a Walmart store. This is often a free option, making it a cost-effective choice. When you arrive at the store, you simply call to let them know you’re there, and an employee will bring your order out to your car.
Depending on your location, the delivery and pickup options might differ. Here is a comparison:
| Option | EBT Payment | Additional Costs |
|---|---|---|
| Delivery | Usually Accepted | Delivery Fee |
| Pickup | Always Accepted | None (usually) |
Paying the Remaining Balance with Another Payment Method
If your total grocery bill exceeds the balance on your EBT card, you’ll need to pay the difference with another payment method. This is common since EBT benefits often have a monthly limit.
During the checkout process, Walmart will automatically recognize that your EBT card has insufficient funds. You’ll then be prompted to select a second payment method to cover the remaining balance. This can be a credit card, debit card, or even cash if you choose to pick up your order in person.
When splitting payments, make sure you’re clear about which items you want to pay for with your EBT card and which ones you want to pay for with your other payment method. Walmart’s system will usually guide you through the process step-by-step.
If you are concerned about staying within your budget, keep track of your EBT balance. You can often check your balance online, via a phone app, or by calling the EBT customer service number. This will help you plan your shopping and make sure you don’t overspend.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Sometimes, you might encounter issues while paying with your EBT card on Walmart’s website or app. Don’t worry, here’s how to address some common problems.
One common issue is that your EBT card might be declined. This can happen for several reasons, such as insufficient funds, an expired card, or incorrect card information. Always double-check your card details and account balance before attempting to make a purchase. If your card is repeatedly declined, contact your local EBT office or Walmart customer service for assistance.
Another potential issue is that your SNAP-eligible items might not be properly identified. In this case, double-check your cart to ensure that only eligible items are included. Contact Walmart customer service for clarification if you’re unsure about an item’s eligibility.
If you have problems related to the split-payment process, take your time to look over your card information again. If you have troubles, consider these points:
- Check that you have funds available.
- Verify that you are using the right card.
- Contact customer service for help.
Using your EBT card to pay for groceries on Walmart online can make shopping much easier and more convenient. By following these steps, you can order your groceries from the comfort of your own home, saving time and energy! Just remember to check for SNAP-eligible items, add your EBT card to your account, and choose the payment option that suits your needs. Happy shopping!