Shopping for groceries can be a hassle, especially when you’re trying to stick to a budget. Online grocery shopping services like Instacart have made it easier to get your food delivered right to your door. But what about using your EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer) card, also known as food stamps? If you have an EBT card, you probably want to know: **Does Walmart accept EBT on Instacart?** Let’s dive in and get some answers!
The Quick Answer: Yes and No
So, can you use your EBT card when you order Walmart groceries through Instacart? **Sometimes yes, sometimes no.** It’s a bit tricky, so let’s break it down. Walmart has partnered with Instacart, but the way EBT is handled can vary. Depending on your state and the specific Walmart store, there are different rules.
EBT at Walmart: The Basics
Walmart itself accepts EBT cards in-store. This is the standard, and it’s how many people pay for their groceries. But when you switch to online shopping with Instacart, it’s not always as straightforward. The Instacart platform has its own system for processing payments, which is why EBT rules can be different. You have to make sure the stores you are shopping from follow the same guidelines. EBT is designed to help people buy groceries and is usually for food items.
Here’s a simple breakdown of how EBT cards generally work:
- Your EBT card functions like a debit card, but specifically for food purchases.
- The amount on your card is determined by your government assistance program.
- You can use your card to purchase eligible food items.
- Non-food items, like paper towels or cleaning supplies, can’t be purchased with EBT.
However, using EBT on Instacart requires you to check the eligibility. Not all locations follow the same rules.
How to Check if Your Walmart Accepts EBT on Instacart
Before you start filling up your Instacart cart, it’s important to know if you can actually pay with your EBT card. The best way to find out is to check directly with Instacart and Walmart. Both companies usually have clear instructions on their websites or apps. Another place to check is the customer service section of the companies websites. Often, you can find the answer by searching their FAQs.
Here are some steps you can take:
- Open the Instacart app or website.
- Enter your address to find your local Walmart store.
- Look for a specific mention of EBT payment options during checkout.
- If you’re unsure, contact Instacart customer support.
If you’re still unsure, you can also call your local Walmart store directly to ask about EBT and Instacart. They should be able to give you the most up-to-date information.
The Two-Step Payment Process: How it Often Works
Often, if Walmart on Instacart *does* accept EBT, the payment process might be a little different. This is because Instacart needs to separate the EBT-eligible items from any non-eligible items you might be purchasing. The steps are designed to meet EBT regulations. Non-food items must be paid for with a separate method like a credit or debit card.
Here’s a common scenario:
- You add your groceries to your Instacart cart.
- At checkout, you select “EBT” as your payment method.
- You’ll likely need to split your order. You will be prompted to put all the EBT-approved items together.
- You’ll enter your EBT card details for the food items.
Your non-food items and delivery or service fees will need to be paid for with a different card. Instacart needs to do this to be sure that the EBT money is only used for eligible food.
Dealing with Delivery and Service Fees
Delivery and service fees are something to keep in mind when you use Instacart. These fees are not typically covered by EBT. This means you’ll need to pay for these extra charges with a credit or debit card. Instacart allows you to pay for the groceries with your EBT card and then charges the other items or fees to the other card.
Here’s a quick look at some common fees:
| Fee | Covered by EBT? |
|---|---|
| Delivery Fee | No |
| Service Fee | No |
| Tip (optional) | No |
Make sure you factor these extra costs into your budget when you’re planning your order. Sometimes, you might be able to find a cheaper delivery option or even pick up your groceries yourself at the store (if your local Walmart allows it), which eliminates the delivery fee.
Finding EBT-Eligible Items on Instacart
Instacart usually makes it easy to identify which items are eligible for EBT. You’ll often see a special tag or label on the product page. This helps you ensure that you’re adding the right things to your cart when using your EBT card. Always double-check before you finalize your purchase.
Some examples of what you can typically buy with EBT include:
- Fruits and vegetables
- Meat, poultry, and fish
- Dairy products
- Breads and cereals
Remember, non-food items (like paper towels, cleaning supplies, or pet food) cannot be purchased with your EBT card. Also, prepared foods, like hot meals, are often excluded.
Tips for a Smooth EBT Instacart Experience
To avoid any problems and make the process easier, keep these tips in mind:
- Check the Specific Walmart: Not all stores offer EBT with Instacart, so confirm before you shop.
- Separate Your Orders: You may need to split your order into EBT-eligible and non-EBT items.
- Understand the Fees: Remember you’ll need a separate payment method for delivery and service fees.
- Keep an Eye on the Balance: Check your EBT balance before ordering to avoid any payment issues.
- Contact Customer Support: If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to Instacart or Walmart customer support.
Being prepared can save you time and frustration.
Conclusion
So, **Does Walmart accept EBT on Instacart?** The answer, as we’ve seen, is a bit complex. It depends on the specific Walmart store and the way they’ve set up their Instacart partnership. By checking the Instacart app or website, contacting the store, and understanding the payment process, you can figure out whether you can use your EBT card for online grocery shopping. Knowing the rules and preparing for the payment steps helps ensure that you can get your groceries delivered conveniently while staying within your budget.