Navigating the world of food assistance programs can feel tricky. One common question for those using SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits is whether they can use their EBT card to buy groceries online. Specifically, lots of people want to know, can I buy groceries at Walmart with my SNAP card online? Let’s break it down and figure out how this works, especially for those who find shopping in stores challenging.
Yes, You Can Use SNAP at Walmart Online
So, the big question: Yes, you can absolutely use your SNAP benefits to purchase groceries online at Walmart. Walmart has made it easier for SNAP recipients to shop online for their groceries, offering a convenient way to get food without having to visit a physical store. This can be a huge help for people who might have trouble getting to the store, have mobility issues, or just prefer the ease of online shopping.

How to Get Started with Walmart Online Grocery Shopping
Getting started is pretty simple. First, you need to have a Walmart.com account. If you don’t already have one, you can create one for free. Then, you will need to link your EBT card to your Walmart account. This allows Walmart to identify you as a SNAP recipient and process your payment accordingly. You can find the instructions for linking your EBT card directly on the Walmart website or app.
Next, choose your items! Browse through the Walmart website or app, and add the groceries you want to buy to your online cart. Remember, your SNAP benefits can be used to purchase eligible food items, just like in a physical store. Here are some examples:
- Fruits and Vegetables
- Meat, poultry, and fish
- Dairy Products
- Breads and cereals
- Non-alcoholic beverages
Before checking out, you’ll need to choose a pickup or delivery option. Walmart offers both. Once you’ve selected your delivery or pickup, you will be asked to select your payment method. You can then use your EBT card at checkout to pay for the SNAP-eligible items in your cart. Note that you can use other forms of payment for any non-SNAP eligible items.
Finally, you can choose a pickup time or have your groceries delivered to your door. Remember that delivery usually comes with a fee, and that fee can’t be paid with SNAP benefits. Be sure to consider these extra fees before you make your purchase.
What Items Are Eligible for SNAP at Walmart Online?
Knowing what you can and can’t buy with SNAP is important. Generally, the same rules apply online as they do in a physical Walmart store. SNAP covers most food items.
Here’s a simple guide. Remember, this is just a general guide, and items can vary by location. Be sure to check your state’s SNAP guidelines and Walmart’s online listings for specific eligibility information:
- Eligible:
- Fruits and Vegetables
- Meat, poultry, and fish
- Dairy products
- Breads and cereals
- Non-alcoholic beverages
- Seeds and plants to grow food
The items that are not eligible are pretty much the same as in a physical store. Ineligible items will have to be purchased with a different payment method. Be sure to separate the SNAP-eligible items from the non-eligible ones so you don’t run into problems at checkout.
It’s essential to keep in mind that rules can change, so it’s always a good idea to stay updated. You can check the USDA website for the most up-to-date information on SNAP eligibility and restrictions.
Understanding Pickup and Delivery Options
Walmart offers two main ways to get your online grocery order: pickup and delivery. Both have their own benefits, so choosing the best option depends on your needs.
With pickup, you place your order online and select a time to pick it up at your local Walmart store. It’s free, which means you don’t have to worry about any extra charges. You simply drive to the store, park in a designated area, and a Walmart employee will bring your order to your car. This option is great if you have transportation and want to save on delivery fees.
Delivery brings your groceries straight to your door. Delivery fees apply, and they cannot be paid for using SNAP benefits. This option is ideal if you can’t get to the store or prefer the convenience of home delivery. Also, Walmart offers some special deals. Be sure to compare the options, and consider what will work best for your situation.
Here’s a quick comparison:
Option | Cost | Benefits | Drawbacks |
---|---|---|---|
Pickup | Free | No extra cost, Convenient | Requires Transportation, Requires Leaving Home |
Delivery | Fee Applies | Convenient | Fees, Non-SNAP-eligible |
Walmart also offers different levels of delivery services, so check out the website and decide what’s best for you!
Paying for Your Order: Splitting Payment Between SNAP and Other Methods
When you checkout, you might need to use multiple payment methods if your order contains both SNAP-eligible and non-eligible items. Walmart makes it easy to split your payment.
When you get to the payment section, you’ll first enter your EBT card details. The system will automatically deduct the cost of the eligible items from your SNAP balance. Anything that is not covered by SNAP (like diapers, pet food, or household items) will need to be paid for with a different method, such as a credit or debit card.
Here is how to split your payment:
- Add all your items to your cart
- Proceed to checkout
- Select EBT as your payment method
- The system will calculate the SNAP-eligible amount.
- Enter your EBT card details.
- Choose your other payment method.
Make sure you have enough funds on both your EBT card and your other payment method to cover the total cost of your order. If you don’t have enough money, you won’t be able to complete your purchase.
Troubleshooting Common Issues with SNAP Online Purchases
Sometimes, things don’t go perfectly. Here’s how to fix common problems that might pop up when using your SNAP card online at Walmart.
If your EBT card is declined, first check that you have enough money on your card. You can also check your card balance through the EBT website, or by calling the number on the back of your card. Also, be sure you’ve entered the correct card number and expiration date. Finally, confirm that the items in your cart are SNAP-eligible.
If you run into trouble with your order, contact Walmart customer service. They can help with payment issues, order adjustments, or anything else. Many Walmart stores have a dedicated team to assist with online grocery orders. You can find contact information on Walmart’s website or app. Be sure to have your order number ready when you call.
- Problem: EBT Card Declined
- Solution: Verify funds and card details.
- Problem: Missing Items
- Solution: Contact Customer Service.
- Problem: Incorrect Charges
- Solution: Contact Customer Service.
Remember to keep records of your online orders, including the items you purchased and the amounts you paid. This can be helpful if you need to reference your purchase later on.
Making the Most of Your Online SNAP Shopping Experience
To have a smooth online shopping experience, plan ahead. Make a shopping list before you start, and double-check your cart before you check out. This helps to avoid any surprises when you pay.
Take advantage of the tools Walmart offers. You can save items to a list for future purchases. There is also the option to view past orders. This can make repeat shopping super fast.
Keep an eye out for deals and discounts. Walmart often has sales and promotions on groceries, and you can save even more money by using coupons or promotional codes. Be aware of the weekly ads.
- Plan Ahead: Make a List
- Use the Tools: Save Items
- Check for Deals: Weekly Ads
- Review: Double-Check Your Cart
By following these tips, you can make the most of your online SNAP shopping experience at Walmart and get the groceries you need efficiently and conveniently.
Conclusion
In short, yes! You absolutely can buy groceries at Walmart with your SNAP card online. Walmart’s online grocery shopping platform provides a convenient and accessible way for SNAP recipients to get the food they need. By understanding the process, knowing what’s eligible, and taking advantage of the available options, you can streamline your grocery shopping and focus on what matters most. Always remember to stay informed about any changes to SNAP policies and Walmart’s online services to make the most of this helpful resource.