Food stamps, officially known as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), can be a big help for families who need a little extra assistance with their groceries. If you’re new to SNAP or just want to know how to use it at Walmart, you’ve come to the right place. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from the basics of using your benefits to some helpful tips for a smoother shopping trip. Let’s get started!
What Exactly Can I Buy With Food Stamps at Walmart?
So, what can you actually buy with your SNAP benefits at Walmart? It’s pretty straightforward: SNAP is designed to help you purchase groceries.
You can use your EBT card to buy things like fruits, vegetables, meat, poultry, fish, dairy products, bread, cereals, and even seeds and plants to grow your own food. Basically, anything that’s meant for you to eat or grow for food is usually covered.
However, there are some limitations. For instance, SNAP doesn’t cover things like alcohol, tobacco products, pet food, paper products, or household supplies. Remember to check the labels before you get to the checkout, and if you’re not sure, just ask a Walmart employee for assistance.
Keep in mind that hot food items are also usually not allowed. This means a rotisserie chicken that is already cooked is not allowed. However, a whole chicken that is not cooked would be allowed.
Finding SNAP-Eligible Items at Walmart
Walmart makes it pretty easy to find items you can buy with your EBT card. Look for products with a clearly marked price tag, as these are generally acceptable. In-store, you’ll also likely see signs indicating which aisles or sections carry eligible items, particularly produce, dairy, and meat.
Here’s how to spot them:
- Price tags: Most items eligible for SNAP will have a standard price tag, clearly showing the cost.
- Signage: Keep an eye out for signs that indicate eligible sections, such as produce and dairy.
- Check the item descriptions: Be sure to double check the items you’re buying.
If you are unsure about an item, don’t be afraid to ask a Walmart employee for help. They are trained to help you and can clarify whether a specific product is SNAP-eligible.
Also, remember that some Walmart locations have dedicated SNAP kiosks or areas where you can learn more about the program and find out which items are allowed.
Paying With Your EBT Card at the Checkout
Using your EBT card at Walmart is similar to using a debit card. Once you’ve gathered all your groceries, head to the checkout lane. You can use either a self-checkout or a regular checkout lane, whatever you prefer!
Here’s what to do:
- When you’re ready to pay, tell the cashier or select “EBT” on the self-checkout machine.
- You’ll then be prompted to swipe your EBT card through the card reader.
- Enter your PIN (Personal Identification Number) when prompted. This is the four-digit number you created when you got your EBT card.
The amount of your SNAP benefits used will be deducted from your EBT card, and any remaining balance, such as if you are buying something that isn’t SNAP-eligible, can be paid with cash, a debit card, or a credit card. Be sure to keep your receipt to track your purchases and remaining balance!
Online Grocery Shopping with SNAP at Walmart
Good news! You can now use your SNAP benefits to shop for groceries online at Walmart. This can be super convenient, especially if you have a busy schedule or prefer to shop from the comfort of your home.
Here’s a quick rundown of how it works:
- Create an Account: If you don’t already have one, create a Walmart.com account.
- Link Your EBT Card: Go to your account settings and add your EBT card as a payment method.
- Shop for Groceries: Browse the online store and add eligible items to your cart.
- Choose Delivery or Pickup: You can choose to have your groceries delivered to your home or pick them up at the store.
Note: Walmart does charge a small fee for delivery or pickup. Be aware of this when planning your order. SNAP benefits can only be used for eligible food items, and the delivery fee has to be paid separately. When you are paying for delivery or pickup, you will pay that separately with cash or a debit/credit card.
Keep in mind that online shopping availability may vary by location.
Tips for Maximizing Your SNAP Benefits at Walmart
Want to make the most of your SNAP benefits at Walmart? Here are a few tips to help you stretch your budget and get the most out of your shopping trip.
Here are some things you can do:
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Plan Your Meals | Create a grocery list based on a weekly meal plan to avoid impulse buys. |
| Compare Prices | Look for the best deals, compare prices between different brands, and look for sales and discounts. |
| Buy in Bulk (When Possible) | Larger packages of certain items like rice, beans, and frozen fruits and vegetables can often be cheaper per serving. |
| Shop the “Reduced” Section | Check out the reduced-price section of the store for items that are close to their expiration date. |
Another tip is to always compare unit prices. The unit price tells you the cost per ounce, pound, or other unit of measure. This is super helpful when deciding which brand or size is the best deal.
Also, be sure to take advantage of any promotions or discounts Walmart offers, such as “rollback” prices or coupons.
Dealing with Problems and Getting Help
Sometimes, things don’t go exactly as planned. What if your EBT card is declined, or you have questions about a purchase? Don’t worry; there are ways to get help.
Here are some potential problems and what you can do:
- Card Declined: Make sure you have enough balance and that you’re entering your PIN correctly. Contact the EBT customer service number on the back of your card if there’s a problem.
- Discrepancies on Receipts: If you think there’s an error on your receipt, go to the customer service desk and explain the problem.
- Questions About Eligible Items: Ask a Walmart employee to clarify what’s allowed and what’s not.
- Report Fraud: If you suspect someone has stolen your EBT card, report it immediately.
Walmart employees are generally helpful and can assist you with any issues. Also, your local Department of Social Services or SNAP office can provide additional support, guidance, and answer any questions.
You can also go on the Walmart website and go to the customer service section.
Conclusion
Using your SNAP benefits at Walmart is a straightforward process designed to make shopping easier for you. By understanding what you can buy, how to pay, and how to make the most of your benefits, you can shop efficiently and stretch your budget further. Remember to always keep your receipts and stay organized so you can track your spending and remaining balance. Happy shopping!